iVolunteer Boat Captains Needed for The Woodlands High School Bass Fishing Team

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- For many young anglers, competing in offshore bass fishing is a goal they look forward to throughout their school years. Students in grades 9-12 at The Woodlands High School have the opportunity to turn that dream into reality through the TWHS Bass Fishing Team, which competes in the Texas High School Bass Association (THSBA).

As members of the Bayou City Division, TWHS anglers travel across Texas to compete on some of the state's premier fisheries, including Lake Conroe, Lake Houston, Sam Rayburn Reservoir, Toledo Bend, Lake Palestine, and Lake Somerville. Top-performing teams can advance even farther, competing in Regional and State Championships at destinations such as Lake Tyler and Lake Texoma.

This season was especially successful for The Woodlands High School Bass Fishing Team, with two teams advancing from regional competition at Lake Conroe to the THSBA State Tournament at Lake Texoma. One of those teams also earned a coveted invitation to the Angler of the Year Tournament at Lake Tyler on June 27. The anglers representing TWHS are juniors Robert Phelps and Sanders Pyle, along with sophomores Ryan Seckt and Robert Acker. Their achievements would not have been possible without the dedication of volunteer boat captains who make offshore competition accessible to student anglers.

For junior Robert Phelps, offshore fishing has been a dream since seventh grade, when students can begin competing on the inshore team at McCullough Junior High. Without access to a boat, however, he wasn't sure that dream would become a reality. Thanks to a volunteer boat captain who stepped forward during his freshman year, Robert was able to join the offshore program and has remained a member ever since. This season, he and fishing partner Sanders Pyle finished 8th overall in the Bayou City Division, earning an invitation to the prestigious Angler of the Year Tournament, which brings together the top 10 teams from every THSBA division.

Sophomores Ryan Seckt and Robert Acker have also benefited from the support of a dedicated volunteer captain. Greg Williams has served as a boat captain since his own son participated in the program in 2013. While he enjoys being part of the competitive fishing experience, what means the most to him are the lasting relationships formed along the way. Years after graduation, Greg remains in contact with many former anglers and their families, a testament to the strong bonds built through the program.

Serving as a volunteer boat captain is a significant commitment. Captains provide not only a tournament-ready boat, but also the experience and leadership needed to safely guide student anglers while following all THSBA regulations. Volunteers must be at least 21 years old and commit time to both tournament events and pre-fishing practice days leading up to competitions.

As interest in competitive bass fishing continues to grow, The Woodlands High School Bass Fishing Team hopes to expand its offshore program and create opportunities for more student anglers. Volunteer boat captains play a critical role in making that growth possible. If you own a boat, are at least 21 years old, and would like to help mentor the next generation of anglers, please contact the team at twhsbassclub@gmail.com.

The TWHS Bass Fishing Team is also seeking additional sponsors. Sponsorship support helps fund senior scholarships, angler education programs, and competitive opportunities for student fishermen. Sponsorship levels range from $250 to $5,000 annually, and in-kind sponsorship opportunities are also available. Families interested in supporting the program can participate as Legacy Sponsors. For more information about sponsorships or volunteer opportunities, please contact the club at twhsbassclub@gmail.com