Bill Perkins of Rochester, N.Y. probably had a lot of texts, emails and DMs this morning. Not unusual for an angler entering Day 1 of the event he won a year earlier, but that’s only part of it.
Today is Perkins’ birthday and while friends and family are sending those well wishes, he’ll be sending his best offerings to Lake Oneida’s smallmouth — all in hopes of repeating the victory he earned at last year’s event.
Making is Bassmaster Opens debut, Perkins claimed a wire-to-wire victory with a 3-day winning total of 52 pounds, 3 ounces.
Another trophy would certainly make a fine birthday gift, but Perkins has 221 competitors seeking that prize. Last year, Perkins began with a 1-ounce lead on the first day of competition. It will be interesting to see what margin today’s leader can establish.