While we can’t predict what Alabama’s Tripp Noojin will bring to the scales, there’s no question what he took into Day 1 of the 2024 St. Croix Bassmaster Open at Lake Eufaula presented by SEVIIN — a new lease on life.
Prior to Wednesday’s tournament registration, Noojin joined fellow Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Elite Qualifier pro Blake Smith in the waters of Lake Eufaula, where Smith baptized his fellow competitor. Noojin’s public profession of faith was the product of an angler-focused effort he named Mission Culture Inc.
Based in Lakeland, Fla., Smith founded this non-profit organization for the purpose of providing non-denominational ministry and outreach for traveling anglers. Scheduled to coincide with Opens events, activities include:
Legacy Night: Professional anglers gather at a local churches and address fans with fishing topics and personal testimonies.
FOCAS: After tournament registration, Smith leads a Fellowship of Christian Anglers Society meeting with personal testimonies, a Bible study and prayer time.
Sunday Morning Fishing Church: The weekend prior to an Open event, Smith or a guest speaker presents a traditional sermon before anglers start practice.
Bible Study: Smith organizes hour-long breakfast or lunch meetings on the last day of practice to help anglers grow their biblical knowledge.
Smith said he bases his efforts on what’s known as The Great Commission — Christ’s final instructions to his disciples — found in the New Testament book of Matthew, chapter 28, verses 16-20.
Verse 19, in particular, guided Wednesday’s event: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
For information on Smith’s ministry, visit www.missionculture.org.
