Anglers adjust to format change
Weights are zeroed for start of day three at Wal-Mart FLW Walleye Tour Championship
MOLINE, Ill. – In the four Wal-Mart FLW Walleye Tour qualifying events, the winner was simply determined by the heaviest cumulative weight spanning the four days of competition. In the championship, however, the weights are zeroed after day two, meaning 10th-place pro Aaron McQuoid and first-place pro Rick Olson are on equal footing. While it is a remarkable accomplishment to have made the final cut, the true test for these anglers will come over the next two days.
McQuoid is the obvious beneficiary of the modification. Funny how his opinion on the topic has changed.
“This is the first time the format has actually benefited me,” he said. “Now I actually like it. I like the way it’s a two-day final round. Now we don’t have to beat up our fish just to make it to the final day.”
Day-two leader Olson, despite his obvious disadvantage, maintained a level-headed approach to the situation.
“I like the cut, but in this situation, I would have liked to keep the weight,” Olson said. “If it’s my time, it will happen. I’m sure going to try my best to make it happen.”
Regardless of any rule changes, in order to claim a potential $125,000 payday, these anglers will have to continue to locate eager walleyes.
“With the water cooling down, I would have to think the fishing is going to be better,” McQuoid said. “I think around 21 or 22 pounds will put you in contention. If it’s more than that, I’m not winning.”
Yesterday, Olson alluded to the fact that light winds and stable weather will help his bite. After seeing Friday’s conditions at takeoff he said, “This is exactly what I want; that and a whole bunch of females in my spot.”
The day-three weigh-in will take place today at 5 p.m. Central time at the Wal-Mart store located at 3930 44th Ave. in Moline. The co-angler champion will be crowned at today’s weigh-in based on the day’s heaviest catch. For those who are unable to attend, FLWOutdoors.com will offer live weigh-in results, streaming audio and on-location video via its FLW Live application.
Friday’s conditions:
Sunrise: 6:58 a.m.
Temperature at takeoff: 50 degrees
Expected high temperature: 75 degrees
Water temperature: 68-73 degrees
Wind: SSW at 14 mph
Maximum humidity: 48 percent
Day’s outlook: sunny