How an Urchin Bait, Standing Timber, and a Winning Strategy Led to a 23-Inch Victory Simon Herr didn't just win the BAM Kayak Tournament of Champions at Lake Shasta—he dominated the competition, finishing more than 23 inches ahead of the field in one of the most impressive performances of the season. In this episode of the BAM Podcast, we sit down with Simon to break down his commanding victory at the September 12–13 championship. From targeting standing timber in Jones Valley to using an unconventional urchin-style bait, Simon reveals the decisions, techniques, and adjustments that helped him separate himself from the competition. While many anglers relied on traditional minnow presentations, Simon took a different approach. Using forward-facing sonar, he located quality bass suspended around standing timber in 20 to 60 feet of water. His slow-falling urchin presentation proved deadly, producing bigger bites while other competitors struggled to keep pace. Simon explains why he targeted specific trees, how he rigged his bait, and why suspended bass were more willing to bite than fish holding deeper. He also shares how he built a 16-inch lead on Day 1 and extended his advantage on Day 2, including two critical fish measuring 18 and 19.5 inches. But there's more to this episode than just tournament tactics. We dive into the growing world of competitive kayak fishing, the advantages and challenges of fishing major reservoirs from a kayak, the debate surrounding forward-facing sonar, and what it takes to compete at a high level on the West Coast. Simon also discusses why he enjoys fishing the BAM Kayak Trail, the importance of professional tournament coverage, and where he sees the sport heading in the future. Whether you're a kayak tournament competitor, a bass boat angler, or simply looking to catch bigger bass, this episode delivers valuable fishing information straight from a championship-winning angler.
SIMON HERR'S DOMINATING PERFORMANCE
Simon captured the BAM Kayak Tournament of Champions title at Lake Shasta with a commanding margin of more than 23 inches over two days. He established a 16-inch lead on the opening day and never looked back, securing his fourth tournament victory of the year.
THE WINNING PATTERN: STANDING TIMBER
Rather than running all over Shasta Lake, Simon concentrated on productive standing timber in the Jones Valley area. Using forward-facing sonar, he identified specific trees with branches still attached and located suspended bass holding around the structure.
THE URCHIN BAIT ADVANTAGE
While much of the field relied on minnow-style presentations, Simon turned to a 13mm urchin-style bait that gave the fish something different to look at. He explains why the presentation worked, how he adjusted for short strikes, and why he believes the technique will remain effective even as more anglers adopt it.
RIGGING AND PRESENTATION SECRETS
Simon shares several important details about his setup, including 20-pound fluorocarbon, a treble-hook configuration, a bobber stop, and nail weights. His slow-falling presentation was particularly effective on suspended bass in 20 to 50 feet of water. He also discusses the importance of natural colors, particularly green pumpkin in clearer water.
DAY 2: CLOSING OUT THE CHAMPIONSHIP
With a substantial lead heading into the final day, Simon made strategic adjustments and explored additional areas around Bridge Bay. Two quality bass measuring 18 and 19.5 inches helped seal the victory.
FORWARD-FACING SONAR AND THE FUTURE OF FISHING
Simon shares his perspective on forward-facing sonar, the growing popularity of urchin-style baits, and how anglers must continue adapting as fishing technology and tournament regulations evolve.
THE GROWTH OF COMPETITIVE KAYAK FISHING
The conversation explores the rising cost of competitive kayak fishing, the challenges of covering large reservoirs, and how organizations like BAM are helping elevate the sport through professional media coverage and tournament opportunities.
Simon also discusses his experiences competing on both the BAM and Yakabass circuits and what it might take to attract 150–200 kayak anglers to a major West Coast championship.
SPONSOR APPRECIATION
Simon recognizes the companies supporting his competitive fishing, including P-Line and First Gen Fishing.
KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE