Pineville High School juniors Braxton Caldwell and Ryan Evans have qualified for the high school Bassmaster’s Classic tournament to be held on Fort Loudon Lake in late April after finishing the season ranked fifth in the standings.

On hauls comprised completely of bass, the tandem has finished in the top five in multiple tournaments this season, including a third place finish at Fort Loudon Lake out of almost 200 teams.

Being a golfer, Caldwell draws stark contrasts between golfing and fishing.

“With golf, you have a lot more of the game within your control,” said Caldwell. “You know exactly what you’ve got to do — put the ball in the cup. With fishing, there are so many things that come into play that can really cause you some troubles on the water.

“Wind, bait and choppiness of the water are just a few of the factors that play into fishing. Some days, you’re going to have an excellent day, other days you’re not going to have a lot of success, and that just depends on all the variables that go into fishing.”

For Evans, fishing has been a focal point of enjoyment throughout his lifetime.

“I’ve always loved fishing,” said Evans. “I’ve always enjoyed being able to get out on the water. Fishing comes down to just you and what you’re able to do. I’m lucky enough to have a great partner in Braxton, but I’ve always enjoyed the individual aspect of fishing.”

If the tandem continues their success, they’ll be able to further their education as well as fishing careers for free.

“If we win the Bassmaster’s Classic tournament in April, we receive a scholarship to go to college and fish,” said Caldwell and Evans. “It’d be an awesome experience to go to school for free, but also to do something you love — that’d be amazing. We are extremely excited.”