Juniors Brendon Brones and Dakota Posey recently qualified for the Bass Master HS National Championship to be held in August. Normally, they do not know until the end of the school year if they will qualify but because they placed high enough at the recent qualifier meet, they know now that they are able to compete.

This will be the first time the duo competes at this championship together as partners, but for Posey, this will be his second time attending. Two years ago as a freshman, Posey placed 15th against more than 350 boats. According to Posey, he feels better prepared and more experienced this go around.

“I’ve learned that sometimes you got to go through the valley to get to the hilltop,” Posey said. “Two years ago, I got 15th in nationals and then had my worst season last year. It taught me a lot but it feels good to be on the hill top again and get a second chance at a national championship.”

For Posey, the main difference this year is the fact that he has a new partner to compete at this event with him, who everyone refers to as “Brones.” According to Brones, he looks forward to this tournament because it is the best experience when it comes to fishing. The championship receives lots of recognition, helps students get noticed by colleges, and gives them the chance to make a name for themselves.

“This is what we want to do with our lives,” Brones said. “This tournament will hopefully have all the colleges looking at us for our future.”

This is not just a hobby for Posey and Brones, but plans for their future. Posey has been fishing for as long as he can remember. The most rewarding part for him is all the hard work paying off and, above all, getting to spend time with his dad. For Brones, bass fishing has changed his life. He said that many people have questioned his decision to continue with fishing instead of other activities but their disapproval means little to him.

“I’ve been looked down on by some people for doing what I love to do over other stuff,” Brones said. “They ask ‘Was it worth it?’ and I tell them yes it is. This is what I love to do and if you don’t like it, I’ll have to tell you that I’m sorry. But this is my dream.”