Jackson's Noel claims event on Lake of Egypt

Brad Noel of Jackson won the Bass Busters of Southeast Missouri Bass fishing tournament Dec. 12 on Lake of Egypt in Southern Illinois.

Most anglers reported good fishing and large fish during the practice days before the tournament.

Noel focused his efforts on the outside grass lines on the mainlake and in small pockets. He used a green pumpkin Southern Pro Flipping tube exclusively to catch his limit. He found his fish just off the weed edge in 5 to 8 feet of water.

John Ramey of Cape Girardeau took second as well as big bass honors. Ramey also focused on the weed edge but keyed more on the points. He used a crawfish colored 200 Series Crankbait to catch all his fish, including the 5-pounder that took big bass.

Both anglers fished in the colder, 44-degree water away from the power plant. The weather conditions were overcast and cold with a steady north wind at about 10 miles per hour.