The BAM Trail heads to Potholes Reservoir, and this preview show breaks down what anglers can expect when they launch from Mardon Resort in pursuit of a Mercury-powered Vexus 1880 boat package and championship glory. Join Travis Archer, Bradley Tiller, and Curtis Reno as they discuss current conditions, productive patterns, and the unique opportunities Potholes offers during one of the Northwest’s premier bass fishing events.
The panel covers everything from chatterbait and frog fishing around grass to targeting bass near beaver dams and using Google Earth to locate hidden fish-holding areas before arriving at the lake. They also share valuable advice for co-anglers, including simple but effective Senko presentations that could make the difference between cashing a check and going home empty-handed.
One thing is certain at Potholes: bass can be caught deep or shallow, and anglers will have multiple ways to compete for the win. If you’re fishing the event or simply love bass fishing strategy, this episode is packed with insights that can help you understand one of the West’s most versatile fisheries.
Guests:
• Travis Archer
• Bradley Tiller
• Curtis Reno
In This Episode:
• Current conditions at Potholes Reservoir
• Why Potholes is one of the West’s most versatile bass fisheries
• Chatterbait strategies around grass and emerging vegetation
• Frog fishing opportunities for big bites
• Fishing around beaver dams and overlooked cover
• Using Google Earth to locate productive water before practice
• Finding hidden pockets, channels, and key structure
• Deep versus shallow bass patterns
• Co-angler strategies and why a Senko can be a game changer
• Tournament-winning opportunities across multiple techniques
• What anglers need to do to compete for a Mercury-powered Vexus 1880
Tournament Information:
BAM Trail Mercury / Vexus Boats Pro-Am
Potholes Reservoir – Mardon Resort
June 19-21, 2026
Follow Along:
• Daily livestream coverage
• Live weigh-ins from Mardon Resort
• Tournament updates at BAMTrail.com
• Results, stories, and coverage from Bass Angler Magazine
Presented By:
Mercury Marine, Vexus Boats, Tackle Warehouse, Bass Angler Magazine, BAM Trail