The water is low, but Riley Harris’ spirits were high when he weighed in an Open record 5-bass limit of 36 pounds, 15 ounces to lead Day 1 of the Turtlebox Bassmaster Open at Sam Rayburn Reservoir presented by Battery Tender.
After an action-packed first round produced a dozen bags over 25 pounds, Harris leads Jace Lindsay by 6-3.
Drought conditions have dropped the Sam Rayburn water level by approximately 9 feet. This decline has left many of the normally productive area drained and unproductive, but Harris said he entered the event comfortable with the situation.
“Honestly, you just have to trust yourself,” said the pro from Orange, Texas. “I’ve fished out here for a long time and I kinda had an idea where they would be. They’ve been there and I’m super thankful to have these fish.”
Tommy Dickerson of Orange is also in the hunt, finishing Day One in 20th place with 22-15.
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