The offseason is a double-edged sword for me. On one hand, it offers time to reset, refine my skills and prepare for the grueling schedule ahead. On the other, it can feel like an eternity because I thrive on the thrill of competition and the adrenaline that comes with it. I often find myself struggling to balance staying grounded while keeping my mind sharp for what lies ahead.
Last year was nothing short of extraordinary. It’s still surreal to think about the three Top 10 finishes, a solid run at winning the Classic, earning a Century Club belt and finishing in the top 20 in the Bassmaster Angler of the Year standings. Those achievements weren’t just milestones; they were affirmations that years of hard work, long days on the water and countless hours of studying the sport were paying off. But as fulfilling as my rookie season was, the offseason has a way of humbling me.
The hardest part of this downtime is the quiet. Without the constant buzz of competition, I’m left with my thoughts, which often drift toward what’s to come. There are moments of excitement, but there’s also a fair share of anxiety. What if I don’t make the Classic? What if I bomb the first tournament? These questions can gnaw at me if I let them. Staying sane during this period means channeling those thoughts into productive energy.
One way I do that is by focusing on preparation. I’ve been diving deep into every aspect of my game, from building new partnerships, speaking at conventions and shows, refining my techniques, upgrading my equipment, focusing on strengthening my body and extensively researching lakes. I try to keep busy to cope with the slight anxiety and stress the next season brings. Yet, in all this preparation, I’ve realized how easy it is to lose sight of the present moment. My anxiousness to start the new year sometimes pulls me away from fully enjoying each day.
Many anglers don’t talk about this, but I promise you I am not the only one who deals with these offseason thoughts. For me, it’s a work in progress. There is a fine line between enjoying the offseason and preparing for the year to come. I constantly have to remind myself the time between seasons is as much a part of my life as the competition itself. It’s a chance to recharge, reconnect and remind myself why I fell in love with this sport in the first place. I tend to lose sight of my love for the sport during times when I get stressed about it.
Ultimately, my sophomore season is about proving that last year wasn’t a fluke. It’s about continuing to show that I belong among the best in the world and continuing to chase my dreams. The offseason might be tough, but it’s also a reminder of how much I love what I get to do for a living. We as anglers can’t forget how lucky we truly are.
The St. Johns River tournament is right around the corner, and I’m fired up to get on the road. But first, I’ve got a couple of dinners planned with my girlfriend, a chance to unwind and enjoy these final moments of calm before the storm.