LHS Fishing team has strong showing at Lake O’ the Pines

By Anthony Collins

LPR Editor

   The Lockhart High School fishing team delivered an impressive showing at the recent tournament on Lake O’ the Pines, competing against a highly competitive field of 145 boats and demonstrating their ability to perform on a big stage.

     Leading the charge for the Lions, Braxton and Mackenzie Mayfield secured a top-10 finish, placing 10th overall with a total catch of 16.71 pounds. Guided by Captain Riley Mienke, the duo capitalized on a productive afternoon bite, landing a group of quality fish that propelled them into the tournament’s upper tier.

     Alex Rocha and Evan Estrada also turned in a strong performance, finishing 30th overall with nearly 11 pounds. Under the direction of Captain Landon Hernandez, the pair maintained a steady pace throughout the day, showcasing the team’s depth in a crowded and talented field.

     Rounding out the effort, Jacob Tippie and Wes Abel, alongside Captain Mathew Miller, battled their way to a 42nd-place finish. Their total of nearly 9 pounds came from just two fish, highlighting both the size of their catch and their determination in challenging conditions.

     Head Coach Hayden Wilson praised the team’s effort and resilience, noting the difficulty of the competition. “I knew it was going to be tough,” Wilson said. “Lake O’ the Pines has been producing a lot of big fish lately, and that proved true this weekend. There were plenty of big bags brought in.”

     Wilson also emphasized the importance of the support system behind the program. “I’m so thankful for our sponsors, captains, administrators, superintendent, and everyone in the business and purchasing offices at both the high school and central office who make this possible,” he said.

     With multiple crews finishing near the top of the standings, Lockhart High School continued to build momentum as a rising force in high school fishing. “I couldn’t be prouder of our teams,” Wilson added. “These student anglers work incredibly hard, and I truly believe I get to coach some of the hardest-working kids in the district.”

   The Lions’ performance at Lake O’ the Pines underscores the program’s continued growth and competitive edge as they make their presence known on the tournament trail.