RB Bass would like to welcome John Hampel to the team. Here is some info about John.
“I offer a compelling story of winning in life and on the water, but my story of winning did
not start with the easiest of beginnings. I started fishing with my dad when I was a kid and that evolved in
to club tournaments (Westside Anglers Angler of the Year, 1995). I jumped in to Pro/Ams as a AAA in
Wonbass events and Anglers Choice. I changed directions in life and joined the Nevada Highway Patrol
which sent me in to rural Nevada. With a young family and a new career, tournament angling was put on
hold. I promised myself that I would dive back in when I reached 50. I made it. But there were some BIG
challenges along the way. Single fatherhood, a broken back and financial hardships helped mold me in
to a man that doesn’t give up and came to love our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I’ve rebuilt my life and
married my best friend and woman of my dreams; she’s Gods reward for prayer, faith and perseverance.
Now I’m winning!
Being the son of a Marine, I have proven to myself that I possess the discipline my dad
instilled in me to accomplish anything I set my mind to. As a tournament angler, I’ve started the rise that I
know I’m capable of. In my first Pro/Am fishing in the front, Wonbass Cal Open, I was able to adjust to the
changes and cash a check. I then fished the NewJen Pro/Am series and remained consistent enough to
finish the year in 5th place overall with a 4th place finish in the TOC. I was able to get the win at the Blow
Up on the Delta Topwater Only tournament and a 3rd place finish in the Snag Proof Open. I currently fish
the BBT in the Delta/Wine Region and the Northern Region where I currently work with the organization
to make sure the events go smoothly.
When its not derby time, my wife and I donate our time and resources to C.A.S.T. for Kids
and FISH Ink. Both organizations help children with special needs get the opportunity to spend the day
on the water; fishing or just a boat ride, we wouldn’t miss it! These are the most rewarding days on the
water for us. The smiles and laughs are worth the drive from Nevada to the lakes of Northern California.
I also enjoy giving my time to any youth organization that helps kids find the interest to get outside. Last
summer, I worked with the Wild Sheep Foundation and coordinated other anglers to set up a booth for the
Youth Wildlife Outdoor Experience in Carson City, NV. We spoke to kids and parents about fishing and
even let a few sit in the Phoenix/Mercury, behind the wheel. The Wild Sheep Foundation and participants
really enjoyed what we brought to the event and we were invited to the Sheep Show at the convention
center in Reno in January. Again, I convinced several anglers to get involved. We set up our boats
inside and greeted school kids for 3 days. We taught knot tying, casting and even discussed the different
species of bass that are available in Nevada and California. The director of education has invited me to
speak at next years event in January. I will be in front of several hundred students each day for 2 days
discussing bass fishing and the many opportunities that exist to pursue our sport.
I love fishing! Because unlike other athletic events, fishing offers everyone quick success. One cast can
change a life!” John Hampel
