JAMESTOWN — North Laurel High School’s fishing duo, Meguire Day and Blaine Smith, etched their names in angling history with a remarkable second-place finish at the Kentucky High School Student Angler Federation State Championship, which was held at Lake Cumberland.
Battling against a field of 203 teams, their impressive haul of 16 pounds and 15 ounces solidified their status as formidable competitors in the realm of high school angling.
“We had a great last hour of the day to cull up to our final weight,” MeGuire Day said.
Behind their success stood the support of the North Laurel High School fishing team, whose dedication and passion helped Meguire and Blaine to finish with an impressive efforts in the tournament.
Under the guidance of their coaches and boat captains, they honed their skills, turning countless hours of practice into a winning formula.
“These guys have competed well since middle school against the best in the state. I am proud of them,” said North Laurel coach Nathan Stewart, reflecting on the journey of MeGuire Day and Blaine. “Hopefully in a few weeks, they can continue their success for the Jaguars at the KHSAA Regional Championship.”
North Laurel had an impressive showing from its middle school fishermen, with Colton Stewart and Ayden Harris reeling in 8 pounds and 12 ounces.
“It was a tough windy day, and for young fishermen with conditions like that, it can be difficult. So I am very proud of everyone who competed,” Stewart said, acknowledging the challenges faced by the younger anglers.
Other members of the North Laurel High School fishing team who competed on Saturday include:
– Nate Smith and Sam Allen with 6 pounds and 10 ounces
– Brayden Howard and Joe Clay Durham with 5 pounds and 11 ounces
– Carson Elza and Nick Davison with 4 pounds and 9 ounces
– Johnny and Nathan Couch with 3 pounds and 11 ounces
– Wesley Oliver and Camden Craig with 1 pound and 7 ounces
“Their contributions to the team’s collective effort further exemplify the depth of talent and camaraderie within the North Laurel fishing program,” Stewart said.