The Maine BASS Federation Nation hosted the 2008 Junior Bassmaster State Championship on Highland Lake in Bridgton on July 19. Twenty-four of Maine’s top junior bassmasters competed in two age groups, vying to be crowned state champion. They faced tough fishing conditions as the temperature soared to near 90 degrees under a bright sun during their five-hour tournament.

In the 11-14 division, L/A Junior Bassmasters reigned supreme with Brian Volkernick of Dixfield capturing first place with 10.24 pounds. He also won big-fish honors with a 4.11-pound largemouth. Second place went to defending state champion Nick Deering of Portland with 8.93 pounds, and third place was awarded to Kaitlyn Deering of Portland, who had 5.66 pounds in her first state championship. Fourth through 12th were: Chase Laflamme, 4.34 pounds; Cody Beebe, 4.08 pounds; Alex Williamson, 3.72 pounds; Joel Wells, 2.44 pounds; Christopher Flanagan, 2.23 pounds; Jonathan Curran, 1.09 pounds; Connor Curran, Dylan Putnam, and Hunter Beyea all with 0.00 pounds.

Mainely Bass Jr. Bassmasters reeled in the trophies in the 15-18 division. First place in the 15-18 division was captured by defending state champion Nathan King of Dayton, with 8.47 pounds, followed by Cory Laflamme of East Waterboro with 6.70 pounds. Finishing third with 5.66 pounds was Collin Hart of Lyman, who also had the group’s big fish at 3.07 pounds. Fourth through 12th were: Corey Hart, 3.06 pounds; Curtis Robinson, 2.04 pounds; Truman Salo, 1.06 pounds; Shawn Breton, 0.85 pounds; Dan Roberts, Jeff Maylin, Tommy Puiia, Travis Ruff all with 0.00 lbs.

Brian Volkernick and Nathan King will advance to the 2008 Junior Bassmaster Eastern Divisional Qualifier at Lake Winnipesaukee in Laconia, N.H., on September 19-20. Winners at the Eastern Divisional will advance to the National Championship in November on Milford Lake in Junction City, Kan.