The Smithville Basssmasters recently held the 8th annual Daniel Palmer Memorial Classic on Smithville Lake. The event honors Army specialist Daniel Palmer, the son of former Smithville Bassmasters club president John Shields.
A field of more than 25 boats took part in the charity event.
“It’s great that we have this kind of support,” Smithville Bassmaster tournament director Tom Carlin said. “This tournament just keeps growing and growing and that is awesome.”
Ryan Dickson and his grandfather, Tom Gunn, took home almost $700 in cash and prizes. The two hit the five-fish limit at 17.62 pounds and had the ‘big bass’ of 5.97 pounds.
Bob Kitterman and Andy Bissett took second place with a total of 17.61 pounds, while Don Hesier and Gary Martin took third with 14.58 pounds.
The tournament raised more than $1,500 for Fishing for Freedom Foundation, a non-profit that helps U.S. veterans enjoy fishing and the outdoors. The money will go to cover expenses for the foundation’s annual tournament that is an all-expenses paid trip for returning veterans.
Tom Gunn and Ryan Dickson