Bluegill Anglers Catch Fun and Prizes at Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center

ATHENS, Texas�A father/son team from Athens took first place in the annual Bluegill Family Fishing Tournament at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center in Athens on Saturday, September 26.

First place went to Phil and Colby Albright, who weighed in four bluegills that totaled 2.46 pounds. Their big fish weighed 0.74 pounds, breaking a tie for first place and giving them a top prize package that included fishing tackle, a half-day guided fishing trip with guide Jackie Kennedy, a gift card from Walmart and a one-night stay at the Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites in Athens.

Placing second, also with 2.46 pounds, was the father/daughter team of Eden and Alicia Reynolds of Dallas. They were edged out for first place by a mere one-tenth of a pound, as their big bluegill tipped the scale at 0.64 pounds. They received a prize package of assorted fishing gear, a one-year subscription to Lone Star Outdoor News and a Walmart gift card.

Third place went to the mother/son team of Pam and Zay Ridgle of Brownsboro, who also were awarded fishing gear and a Walmart gift card.

Taking home a trophy for the big fish of the day were Tim and Hunter Lunceford of Athens, who brought in a whopper bluegill that weighed 0.84 pounds.

Sponsors of the event included Jackie Kennedy Fishing Guide, Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites � Athens, Walmart Supercenter of Athens, Bass Pro Shops, Lone Star Outdoor News and Cabela�s.

Will pics be posted on the TPWD site?