Stop #4 of the Fishers of Men Florida Central Division is officially in the books—and what a weekend it was on the legendary waters of Lake Panasoffkee! This one had it all—faith, fierce competition, unforgettable fellowship, and a little weather drama just to keep things interesting.

The weekend kicked off Friday night at our incredible long-time Ministry Partner, First Baptist Church of Lake Panasoffkee. From the moment anglers walked through the doors, they were welcomed like family by Men’s Ministry Leader Mike Brothers and his amazing team. The aroma of grilled hamburgers, homemade baked beans, and fresh coleslaw filled the air—let’s just say, no one left hungry, and plenty were already talking about coming back just for the cooking!

As plates were filled, so were hearts. Chaplain Joe brought a powerful, timely message on putting on the full Armor of God—fueling everyone spiritually for the battle ahead on the water. After great fellowship, final instructions, and boat numbers handed out, the night closed in prayer—anglers heading out rested, ready, and refocused.

Saturday morning broke with cool 68-degree temps and a quiet overcast sky as teams gathered at Tracy’s Point Fishing Lodge. Livewells were checked, prayers were lifted, and just like that—blast off! The question on everyone’s mind: would defending champs Billy Taylor and Dusty McDevitt go back-to-back… or was a new team about to rise?

As the day unfolded, so did the tension—and the weather. By early afternoon, dark skies rolled in. At 1:45 PM, the storm hit hard, sending anglers racing safely off the water. But the big question remained… who had figured them out before the rain?

Back at weigh-in, the scales told the story.

?? Big Bass honors went to Bill Bauknight and Bryan Deaton with a tank tipping the scales at 7.04 pounds, anchoring a solid 13.79-pound bag.

?? Third place went to the father-son team Dalton Ray and Dana Ray with an impressive 20.54 pounds.

?? Right behind them, Josh Davis and John Brazzell brought in 22.00 pounds even to claim second.

?? But when it came down to it—there was no stopping this duo.

Rising from last year’s second-place finish… dialing in the lake to perfection… the father-son team of Dan Smith and Ben Smith claimed the crown as your Stop #4 Champions with a winning bag of 23.40 pounds! Redemption complete. Champions crowned!

What a weekend—new champions, strengthened friendships, powerful moments in Christ, and yes… some much-needed rain. This is what Fishers of Men is all about.

Now all eyes turn to the grand finale.

The season wraps up June 13th on the Harris Chain out of Buzzard Beach, where Florida Central will combine with Florida North in a final “super-tournament” to close out the season. Will we see a three-peat champion in Florida Central? Or a brand-new name rise to the top?

There’s only one way to find out.

Until then—thank you to God for His continued blessings, to every angler and family who makes this ministry special, and to our incredible partners who keep it all going.

We’ll see you at the finale. ????