Photo: BassFan Gerald Swindle said he's 'danced' around the top at BASS events, but wants to 'jump over the top' and be the best.

Week 38 ・Gerald Swindle
Near The Top 9/19/2005

Gerald Swindle has been close to a BASS victory numerous times. Most recently he finished 3rd at the Busch Shootout, and earlier this summer he finished 3rd at the Bassmaster Classic. It was close, but no cigar for the former BASS Angler of the Year.

He doesn't let the lack of BASS victories keep him down. He's near the top of his game and he's won an FLW Tour event in the past. So his goal now is to find out what it'll take for him to move into the winner's circle.

Over The Top

While many BassFans would agree that Swindle is one of the best in the business, he feels his finest performances are still in the future.

"Man, I've danced all around 1st place," he said. "I've had good bites, caught lots of fish, but haven't been able to close the deal. I really don't think I've reached my maximum ability at this time.

"In one regard, I'm at the top of this game," he noted. "It's good to be at the top, but I want to jump over the top and be the best."

Spousal Favorite

Swindle was totally pumped up for the Busch Shootout, but the best part of the event for him was the treatment the competitors' wives received.

"This tournament had a real different, laid-back atmosphere," he said. "Sure, anytime $100,000 is on the line you'd better believe the anglers are nervous and ready to go, but it was not as tense as some other events.

"The people who put on this event really catered to the wives of the anglers," he said. "The ladies had a great time. They sacrifice so much throughout the season for us and to have them pampered and treated so well was just terrific."

Angel Anglers

Swindle's group, the Angel Anglers, had a successful drive to bring loads of food and supplies to feed the folks in Long Beach, Miss. who've been devastated by Hurricane Katrina.

"The first deal we put together for the folks in Mississippi was successful," he said. "We've started another, thanks to the help of my friends at Mark's Outdoors in Birmingham, Alabama.

"They held a tournament and we're trying to figure how to get the proceeds to the Fire Department in Long Beach. Those folks lost everything and we want to help them start over.

"Most of the anglers who were involved have reflected on what they experienced," he said. "Once there is more normality down there, I'd like to see if we can get some of the sponsors to send rods, reels, tackle, line, etc. to the Fire Department, since so many of the firefighters are outdoors enthusiasts."

Notable

> Swindle heads to the Lucky Craft writers convention at Lake Guntersville, Ala. this Saturday. "After the Lucky Craft writers convention I'm going to relax," he said. "I need to do some Daddy time and want to also be around the house more. I've not taken a break in about 2 years."