Wicked Cats Guide Service, MAD KATZ and Carolina Squared hosted the first annual “King of Tillery” catfishing tournament on Lake Tillery on May 7 and 8.
The biggest tournament in Lake Tillery history started with 123 teams from multiple states, but could only end with one king. The 2021 “King of Tillery” was Hooking Ain’t Easy with Brandon and Tanner Mcclain of Mint Hill. They are also the Bear Creek Arsenal Big Fish Winner with a 65.8-pound blue, bringing home a grand total of $10K.
Other exciting news from the King of Tillery tournament was that that an all-female team, Dixie Diamonds from Rockingham, finished fifth, bringing home $921. Michelle Miller, Crystal Brigman and Kristie Grooms came together for an amazing finish on Mother’s Day weekend.
Top 5:
1. Hooking Ain’t Easy: Big Fish 65.8; Total 99.6 – $10K
2. Hooking Whiskers: Big Fish 44.6; Total 80.6 – $5,526
3. Hookin Up: Big Fish 34.2; Total 61.4 – $2,700
4. Cats Azz: Total 61.2 – $1,842
5. Dixie Diamonds: Total 59.2 – $921
Kids Winner, $200
Team Mako: Big Fish 26.2; Total 48
Veterans Winner $100
Head Hunters: Big Fish 16.6; Total 26.2
Wicked Cats Guide Service is a local catfishing guide that books trips and competes on the Pee Dee River and Lake Tillery. MAD KATZ is a North Carolina based fishing rod and tackle company with its warehouse located in Rockingham, N.C. Carolina Squared is a consulting and marketing agency based in the Carolinas.
All photos contributed by Chad Suggs.
