Seems he has dropped off in the last 2-3 years and can't get back. Is he now past his prime? I have to say, Aaron Martens has won me over and I would very much like to see him win a classic, but I would also like to see KVD dominate again for a season.

Ray Hanselman. He is the Man

I don't believe there is a prime in bass fishing. This isn't football or basketball where you hit a certain age and can no longer compete. 60yr olds can go up against 25yr olds. He'll get his groove back.

I disagree, its harder to fish on your feet all day long when you are 60 compared to 25. Heck I'm 35 and its hard on my back to fish 2 days in a row.

When a pro reaches the top like KVD did, there are so many demands on their time by sponsors that they no longer have time to concentrate on the tournament trail. But don't feel bad for him, he is making a lot of money.

yea, but you are starting to break down and get "old" coach

He may have taken some time he usually dedicates to being the best angler to spend time with his family and teenage children.

Just a thought

KVD still looks good on Major League Fishing!

Several theories I have.

1. Yes, his kids are getting older and I'm sure his time with them is more valuable as they plays sports & such.

2. Are the days of power fishing winding down? Many tournaments are being won with odd ball techniques. Long lining, drop shotting and sissy lures.

Or are the elites just no longer going to lakes that fit his power fishing style? I remember him crushing guys on MLF.

Nobody stays on top for long, the history list of the pros is a long one.
I'm glad actually.

Hi Mike!!

RAS

I agree and disagree. Yes it's a sport where we all start the morning with empty livewells and just have to catch fish. However statistics show that the prime time in life to achieve your greatest is between 25-35. Based on completion of college and the drive to achieve before you have a family. As fishermen you have to have a tournament mind set. There are several individuals that can flat out fish, but 4 day tournaments and changing variables it takes a calm mind. You have to make decisions and they have to be correct to come out in the top 10. It takes experience to achieve this mindset. I believe this is why the average age of competitors is decreasing with the new opportunities in highschool/college/ and pro ams. It is a combination between age and the responsabilities associated with it.

Sissy lures put money in the bank...

Not getting the same info from year to year has an impact. Remember each spot on the lake they do well on gets hammered after they leave

yep and he is going to the classic

There's absolutely a prime for bass fishermen, but it has nothing to do with age. It's more to do with conditions setting up to favor their fishing styles over a longer period of time. And being dialed into what you need to do day in and day out to make a check.