Folsom’s Own Overcomes Challenges to Claim First-Ever BAM Title
For Western anglers and their fans, the BAM Pro Tour Championship at the California Delta was an event for the record books—and with a youthful tenacity and some carful strategic adaptability Luke Johns, a young angler from Folsom, Calif., became the first inaugural Bass Boat Technologies BAM Pro Tour Champion. In an event that reset scores for Championship Sunday, John’s performance stood out not just for his victory, but for the skill and adaptability he showcased throughout the day. Outperforming the Runner-up Zack Thompson of Alameda, Calif by 1.6 pounds on the Final day.
A Humble Victory Amid Tough Conditions
Johns didn’t anticipate that his five-fish limit totaling 16.42 pounds would secure him the top spot. His cautious outlook turned into surprise and joy as he held steady in first place while other top competitors struggled to find sizable catches in the Delta’s unique tidal waters. “I kind of wrote it off,” Johns shared, noting that he originally thought he’d only manage a 3rd or 4th place finish in a group that include the likes of Zac Thompson, Ish Monroe and Ken Mah. But a change in both strategy and weather ultimately delivered a victory he hadn’t expected.
From Lake Almanor to Championship Glory
For Sierra Rec Magazine readers who’ve been following the BAM Trail, this win felt particularly satisfying. Earlier this year at Lake Almanor, Johns fought to secure a top-ten finish despite a frustrating boat breakdown that forced him to borrow another to complete the three-day event. His resilience there foreshadowed what was to come: despite challenges throughout the season, he claimed three top-10 finishes in the year’s second half, a strong setup for the season’s thrilling end in Oakley.
Tactical Decisions That Paid Off
After starting Championship Sunday with a modest nine-pound limit, Johns landed a 4.5-pound bass near a retaining wall in a slough—a fish that would prove pivotal. As the wind picked up, he adapted again, switching to a ChatterBait and scoring another 4.25-pound catch that ultimately sealed his victory.
“That was the fish that put me over the top,” he explained, referring to it as his final “kicker” fish. Utilizing Garmin LiveScope technology, he was able to precisely locate fish under bait balls and near structural grass lines, allowing him to make the critical catch that pushed him past his competitors.
Powerful Gear and the Right Bait
For anglers looking to replicate Johns’s success, it’s worth noting his carefully selected gear. The ChatterBait and Yamamoto Senko—paired with a specialized Daiwa Tatula Elite rod and reel setup—allowed him to make those precise casts that paid off when it mattered most. Combined with braided and abrasion-resistant lines, his setup ensured he was ready for the challenging Delta environment, where conditions can change in an instant.
Looking Ahead to 2025
With his BAM Pro Tour Championship win, Johns not only takes home the title but also a prize package worth over $65,000, including a fully rigged Bass Cat Boat. He’s also earned his spot in the prestigious 2025 BAM Super 60, the season’s grand finale.
Reflecting on his win, Johns expressed excitement for what the future holds: “Being able to fish a high-level tournament on the West Coast without having to travel to the East Coast is phenomenal.” For those who watched his journey, his resilience and adaptability have made him a Western angling hero and a name to watch in the upcoming season.
The Final Leaderboard and What’s Next
As BAM looks to the future, this historic inaugural championship serves as a reminder of the opportunities and excitement Western anglers can experience close to home. With more competitive events, environmentally conscious fishing, and a committed community, BAM’s Pro Tour will continue to foster the talent and passion of anglers like Luke Johns.
