Most might think it tough to produce a fishing champion in the desert. After all, Nevada is one of the states with the fewest number of fishing holes and one of the last to establish its own state B.A.S.S. federation nation.

But in the last four years, local fishermen have made waves in the fishing world contending against professionals in national tournaments. Spring Valley resident Ben Grande will represent Nevada in October at the B.A.S.S. (Bass Anglers Sportsman Society) National Championship Tournament in Florida.