Too close to call

Day four of Wal-Mart FLW Walleye Tour Open on Devils Lake promises to be windy, wild

SPIRIT LAKE, N.D. – A quick glance at the current leaderboard reveals a two-man race between leader Kevin Goligowski and Mark Courts. While the two pros are separated by a measly three ounces, several others are within striking distance of an FLW Walleye Tour victory. In fact, only 3 pounds, 9 ounces separates fifth place competitor John Kolinski from Goligowski, proving the tournament is still wide open.

The day-four takeoff was noticeably more windy than day three, a day in which many competitors reported difficulty staying with their pattern. The one angler who is delighted with the windy conditions is Courts.

The Harris, Minn., pro said the wind doesn’t affect his bite which gives him a slight advantage heading out on the final day.

“If I could come in with 24 pounds, I’d feel really confident,” said Courts. “I think there are definitely enough fish left in my spot. Yesterday they showed me that they replenish themselves.”

Goligowski said he’s going right back to what he has been doing the past three days.

“I’m going to go scratch out five more,” he said. “We’re hoping to get our fish early because the wind is increasing as the front comes in. I’d be real happy with 25 pounds today.”

The final weigh-in will take place today at 4 p.m. CT at the Wal-Mart store located on Highway 2 in Devils Lake. The winner in both the Pro Division and Co-angler Division is determined by the heaviest four-day weight.

Saturday’s conditions:

Sunrise: 5:35 a.m.

Temperature at takeoff: 66 degrees

Expected high temperature: 85 degrees

Water temperature: 61-66 degrees

Wind: South at 23 mph

Maximum humidity: 64 percent

Day’s outlook: Scattered thunderstorms