A Record-Setting Year at the 6th Annual Brody Bates Youth Redfish Open
The 6th Annual Brody Bates Youth Redfish Open broke participation records and awarded $33,000 in scholarships to student anglers from grades 1–12. Sponsored by Sportsman Boats and others, the event celebrated youth fishing, community, and faith, while supporting the Brody Bates Foundation and providing prizes from top industry brands.
This year's Brody Bates Youth Redfish Open was one for the books. With a record number of participating teams, the sixth annual event showcased just how strong the youth fishing community has become in the Lowcountry. Thanks to the recent expansion of the Student Angler League Tournament Trail (SALTT), more young anglers than ever before were able to take part in this exciting and meaningful competition.
Backed by Sportsman Boats and a generous lineup of sponsors, this year's event awarded an incredible $33,000 in scholarships to student anglers ranging from grades 1 through 12. In addition, a contribution was made to the Brody Bates Foundation, which supports youth who have experienced the heartbreaking loss of a sibling by helping fund their future through scholarships.
The event was more than just a tournament—it was a celebration of community, sportsmanship, and faith. Captain Rayburn Poston, Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) Fishing representative and SALTT director, shared an inspiring message that resonated with anglers and families alike. The weigh-in was led by Captain Jason Burton, owner of Murrells Inlet Fishing Charters, alongside Ryan Marsh, who works with both FCA and SALTT.
An exciting raffle also added to the fun, with $3,000 worth of prizes generously provided by Costa Del Mar, Z-Man, Vudu Baits, Coastal Marine, and Perry’s Bait and Tackle.
Tournament Results
Elementary Division (Grades 1–4)
• 🥇 1st Place – Finn Brown (Charleston) – 2 fish, 5.67 lbs – $5,000
• 🥈 2nd Place – Harry Parnell (Charleston) – 1 fish, 4.10 lbs – $3,000
• 🎣 Big Fish Award – Harry Parnell – 4.10 lbs – $1,000
• 🥉 3rd Place – Russ Glover (Murrells Inlet) – 2 fish, 2.99 lbs – $2,000
Middle School Division (Grades 5–8)
• 🥇 1st Place – Finn Clark (Georgetown) & Rhett Benford (Summerville) – 2 fish, 8.27 lbs – $5,000
•🥈 2nd Place – Ayden Rouhselang (Conway) – 2 fish, 7.53 lbs – $3,000
• 🥉 3rd Place – Cole Steele (Winston-Salem) – 2 fish, 7.30 lbs – $2,000
• 🎣 Big Fish Award – Cole Steele – 4.18 lbs – $1,000
High School Division (Grades 9–12)
• 🥇 1st Place – Elliott Duckworth (James Island) – 2 fish, 7.23 lbs – $5,000
• 🥈 2nd Place – Corbin Todd & Carsten Huggins (Conway) – 2 fish, 6.87 lbs – $3,000
• 🥉 3rd Place – Callie Calhoun & Riley Jordan (Conway) – 2 fish, 6.68 lbs – $2,000
• 🎣 Big Fish Award – Jacob Hardick (Hartsville) – 4.10 lbs – $1,000
This event continues to serve as a reminder of the power of fishing to bring families together, build lasting friendships, and support the next generation. With heartfelt thanks to the sponsors, volunteers, and community leaders who make this tournament possible, we’re already looking forward to next year’s Brody Bates Youth Redfish Open.