By Kevin Shannahan
The Tri-State Federation of the Ladies’ Bass Angler Association held their championship on Sibley Lake Saturday, August 10. Five boats took to the the lake for a day of fishing competition before returning for the weigh-in. The ladies qualified for the championship tournament based on their performance throughout the season.
This event follows the first tournament held in our parish by the LBAA held on the Cane River last month. The Tri-State Federation is comprised of female bass anglers from Louisiana, Texas and Mississippi. The LBAA offers the only all female professional bass fishing tour in the country. Sibley Lake offered a different and challenging fishing environment as well as opportunities to visit our well known attractions and restaurants when not on the water.
Torica Whitty brought in the first place finish with Renee Key Johnston coming in second. Kay Lowe brought home Angler of the Year with Debbie Oswalt chosen as Co-Angler of the Year. The tournament organizers also presented various prizes and Certificates of Appreciation, including one to the Natchitoches Parish Journal. Gabriele Trevino of New Braunfels, Texas was the angler who made the longest trip to compete.
The Natchitoches Parish Journal wishes to extend a warm welcome and best wishes to the women of the LBAA. We also wish every success to Torica Whitty as she goes on the the LBAA Championship at Caddo Lake. We trust they enjoyed their visit to our city and parish and are looking forward to their upcoming tournament on the Cane slated for February. Any ladies interested in this fun organization of fishing and sisterhood is welcome to contact them at tristatefederation@gmail.com to find out how to join.
The Natchitoches Parish Journal is donating the event photography. The anglers and their families are welcome to download any they wish.
