The Austin, TX based Kayak Angler’s Tournament Series just wrapped up its second event on Houston County this weekend. Fighting through the cold and the wind, angler Matt Moccia fought off 100 other anglers to land first place with a 99.50″ stringer.
The great turnout wasn’t the only good news for the KATS series this week.
KATS also announced a Midwest Series based out of Michigan.
In its 10th year anniversary series, Texas’ largest freshwater kayak fishing tournament made an important step towards becoming a National organization by expanding to the Midwest states, based out of Michigan.
With the recent merger of specialty outdoor gear retailers, Summit Sports and Austin Canoe and Kayak, it was an obvious step in the right direction to expand the Texas based series to the Michigan area. While there are many miles between the two, many anglers are excited to share this common organization and the future opportunities surrounding competition between the two or on a national circuit.
“Growing KATS out of Texas has always been a goal for us and with this new merger the opportunity presented itself for a successful foothold outside of our usual market.” said Program Director, Kristian Kolflat.
While the overall theme of KATS Texas will be used in the midwest, some adjustments will be made to accommodate the different region and anglers.
Additional info can be found at http://fishkats.com/midwestannouncement/
KATS will be announcing a Railblaza Sponsored Program in which the top 35(classic Competitors) will have a chance at $20,000 for landing a state record and $5000 for landing a new water body record on the 3rd Classic Elite event (location to be announced soon). This will be by weight and a certified scale is required.
News of a Kistler Rods Sponsorship and Contingency program should also be announced by the end of February.
KATS’ third event will be on Fayette February 20th. Be sure to register ahead of time at fishkats.com