Tourney brings fisherman to area despite poor fishing conditions

Seven inches of rain two days before the 10th annual Crappie USA Tournament at Lake Talquin Jan. 23 led to fewer participants in tournament than in years past. In 2009, more than 50 boats entered the tournament, while only 28 entered this year.

Alice Du Pont

Billy Williams, left, and Danny Cannon came in first in the semi-pro category during the crappie tournament at Lake Talquin.

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"It was a combination of the economy and bad weather. I entered this year but because the fishing is so poor, I didn't even bring my boat out," said Ed Allen, a Lake Talquin resident.

A cold and misty morning gave way to a beautiful afternoon in time for the 3 p.m. weigh-in. More than $4,200 was the payout this year.

Billy Williams of Cochran, Ga. and Danny Cannon of Toomboro, Ga. won first place in the semi-pro division, taking home $1,350 between them.

 The day's Big Fish was caught by Williams and earned him an extra $250.

Robert Sellers of Joilet, Ga. and Tommy Ryals of Danville, Ga. came in second in  the semi-pro category.

In the amateur category, Fred Walker and Rick Howard walked away with the top catch. They caught eight crappie using a long line troller near Iron Curtain.

Jared Leverette and John Staton of Quincy came in third.