By Sheila Duncan
Reporter
The Choctaw Bass Club is celebrating a decade of dedication to high school fishing, and this year’s team is making waves in a big way! Founded 10 years ago to support local youth in the sport of competitive fishing, the club has proudly qualified a team for the National Championship for nine straight years — and 2025 is shaping up to be one of their most thrilling seasons yet.
Representing the club this year are standout anglers Justin McGee and Andrew Kunz, who dominated the Airport Marine High School Trail by earning Anglers of the Year honors. Not only did they top the points leaderboard, but they also claimed victory at the prestigious Classic Championship Tournament with a two-day total of 42.09 pounds on Lake Guntersville — a massive accomplishment by any measure!
Next stop is Clark’s Hill in Georgia, where the duo will compete at the High School National Championship at the end of July.
This marks Justin’s third consecutive appearance at the national level. A seasoned competitor, he previously fished alongside Sadie Wallace and landed an impressive 14th-place finish last year on Lake Chickamauga. This year, Justin teams up with Andrew Kunz, a dedicated and passionate angler new to the championship scene — but clearly up for the challenge.
“They both are dedicated to this and work hard to be the best” said Russ Wallace, club founder and longtime supporter. “I think these guys have a great opportunity to make it into the top 12 this year and fish on the final day. They came close last year but I think they have a shot at winning it all!”
Backing them on the water is boat captain AJ McGee, Justin’s older brother and a Choctaw Bass Club legend in his own right. AJ represented the club in five consecutive National Championships and now lends his experience and steady hand at the helm to guide the next generation.
It’s truly a family affair, with proud parents Allen and Candi McGee cheering from the shore for both of their sons. Equally proud are Kenny and Danielle Kunz, parents of Andrew, showing their full support as well.
With talent, teamwork, and tenacity on their side, the Choctaw Bass Club is once again proving that big things are possible when community and commitment come together. All eyes are on Georgia this July — let’s go, Justin and Andrew!
