St. Croix Bassmaster Southern Open presented by Mossy Oak Fishing points leader Joey Cifuentes III is off to a good start on the first day at Lake Hartwell.
Fishing shallow pockets, the Arkansas native landed four fish in the first hour and a half, including a bass that was at least 3 pounds that entered the boat at 8 a.m.
Bouncing back and forth between pockets was the deal for Cifuentes this morning. Several casts sent little pods of baitfish scurrying away from the bank.
With 380 points, Cifuentes entered this tournament tied with Brandon Lester for the points lead. If he continues to upgraded throughout the day, the Berkley pro will have a really good shot at qualifying for the 2023 Elite Series.
Cifuentes nearly won the first Southern Open at the Kissimmee Chain, put Lester rallied on the final day to take the victory. He followed that with a 20th place finish at Cherokee Lake.