The Amherst Fishing Team just missed top honors, finishing second overall at the annual Waupaca Chain O’ Lake Invite held Jan. 18 on a wonderfully chilly but sunny day typical of winters past.

The Falcons registered 412.75 inches of fish compared to host Waupaca’s 482.25 inches. Last year, the teams swapped positions with the Falcons first and Waupaca second. Although the Falcons led for much of the tournament this year, Waupaca’s advantage in crappies proved to be the difference. These two teams look to be rivals for years to come if this tournament is any indication.

Nine area teams participated with New London finishing in the third position (366.50) followed by Iola Scandinavia (267.75), Hortonville (235.25), and Appleton East (197.25).

Team Amherst did take first in the bass category with three fish totaling 52 inches. Amherst also registered a solid string of ten game fish (northern, walleye, trout) measuring 216.75 inches, second only to New London (223.50).

Waupaca capitalized on crappies, however, out measuring Amherst, 97 inches to 18.50.

It was the third team plaque won by Amherst during the past two winters.

Amherst teams with Kettle Moraine to finish 6th in statewide tournament

A week later, Amherst combined with Kettle Moraine in a statewide North South Tag Team tournament. The two teams battled for the state title for much of the day, leading much of the morning, before finishing in 6th place overall — a notable result considering more than 60 teams participated in the tournament on various lakes and streams throughout Wisconsin.

Amherst and Kettle Moraine combined for 283.50 inches. Prairie Farm finished first in the state with 310 inches followed by Iola Scandanavia in the second position.

It was the highest tag team finish by Amherst since the team’s inception three years ago.