A Sarnia angler is representing the community and the country on the world stage. Team Canada's Jamie Stevenson took part in the Pan-American Kayak Bass Fishing Championship in Cookeville, Tennessee this Spring. Stevenson said she's been fishing with her dad since she was a kid, but only started fishing competitively in 2018. She said her results at some of leading kayak bass fishing tournament trails is what earned her a spot down in Tennessee. "It'd be nice if we came out on top-- I really hope to represent Canada the best I can," said Stevenson. "Of course everyone goes to win, but if not, I'm hoping it's a good learning experience." Stevenson moved to Sarnia nine years ago after being hired by Parkland Farms-- the local farming business is also helping sponsor Stevenson and Team Canada. The 38-year-old native of Merlin, Ontario said being selected to the team is a huge honour. "You know it's one thing to compete against other anglers, but in the kayak fishing world, it's more like comradery. So I know I have the opportunity to learn from the other teams and my teammates to become a better angler, and that's my main goal at this competition." Stevenson's advice for future fishers looking to walk in her boots one day: "practice makes perfect". "Every time I'm on the water, I learn something new whether I'm catching fish or not. So the more time you're out there, and the more practice you give it, the better you're going to do." The event goes May 28 to June 1 on Center Hill Lake. Stevenson said organizers of kayak bass fishing, one of the fastest growing outdoor sports, hope to one day bring the sport to the Olympic stage.
Fisher Jamie Stevenson. (Photo from Stevenson's facebook page)
