The 2019 Bassmaster High School Team Tournament saw Michigan bass anglers compete against the best from across the United States. However, not everyone made it to the top 3 spots. Instead, 13 young anglers were selected nationwide for the prestigious Tri Nations Bass Fishing Tournament in South Africa.

The Zeeland Fish Hawx

• Colten Dickerson, a 19-year-old from Zeeland, was chosen as the only fisherman from Michigan to represent the team.
• He started fishing at a young age and joined the Zeeland Fish Hawx in middle school.
• Dickerson’s love for fishing was ignited by his experiences with his grandfather and father as a child.

The Zeeland Fish Hawx is a Michigan Bass Nation team that competes in big tournaments. Dickerson began his professional fishing journey as a member of this team and has since done well, even during his high school years.

Education and Future Plans

1. Colten Dickerson is set to attend Southwestern Michigan College on a full-ride scholarship, pursuing a degree in mechatronics and robotics.
2. He hopes to use this degree to compete in college events and further his fishing career.
3. Dickerson believes that having a degree will not only improve his chances of success but also provide a solid foundation for his future.

Selection for the USA Bass Team

“The coach ended up contacting me, which was kind of a surprise. He was looking to fill six vacant spots of 13 total guys, 13 total high schoolers from across the United States to go and compete in South Africa,” said Dickerson.

Loskop Dam in South Africa is said to be the location of the Tri Nations Bass Fishing Tournament. The next world record largemouth is rumored to be sitting in that dam, making it a highly anticipated competition.

Support and Expenses

• A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to help cover Dickerson’s expenses.
• The majority of the funds raised will go towards paying airfare to South Africa.
• Dickerson emphasizes the importance of parental support and sponsorship in helping him achieve his goals.

Philosophy and Inspiration

“If you just keep doing your best and you keep showing up, keep putting in work, the karma does come around, and that applies to fishing, that applies to life,” said Dickerson.

This Zeeland teen is set to compete in the Tri Nations Bass Fishing Tournament in South Africa this December, representing Team USA and showcasing his skills as a young angler. With his passion for fishing and his drive to succeed, Dickerson is an inspiration to many.