Smith Lake People: Taylor Parker

The Alabama Bass Trail is headed to Lewis Smith Lake on September 8, 2018. This organization showcases local and national talent on the beloved waters of the state of Alabama.  Hosted by the Walker County Chamber of Commerce, the Alabama Bass Trail Open Tournament is a one-day event which allows teams to complete in a single tournament rather than the tournament series, which is a five-weekend commitment.

A total of 250 amateur boats and 25 pro teams are invited from Bassmaster Elite Series and FLW Tour. With any tournament, anglers make their way to the lake to scope out spots and learn about the lake before the tournament begins. Among the boats on the water this Saturday is our very own Taylor Parker. 

Taylor grew up visiting his grandparents' home on Ryan Creek. He recalls sitting on the dock with his father fishing for stripe fish all night long while joking about the depth of the water below. Taylor attributes his competitive side of fishing to his Dad.  Over the years Taylor’s skill set and knowledge of the sport increased but his goal remained the same – catch more fish than his dad. 

Father, son, grandparents and many other family members of the Parker family made memories on Smith Lake.  The countless summer days, the long hours on the water and the plethora of fishes hooked made a huge impact on Taylor. Unfortunately, a swift downturn in the economy led the family to sell the beloved lake home, leaving a void in Taylor’s heart.  Missing the  deep emerald waters and the sport he loved, Taylor vowed to bring his family back to Smith Lake one day in the future. 

Nearly five years later Taylor is fulfilling his promise. Upon graduation from Riverside Christian Academy in McCalla, Alabama Parker took a job with Motivated Movers. At just 19 years old, he turned his dream of  returning to Smith Lake into reality with the purchase of acreage on the west side of Smith Lake, near the Sipsey River. When Taylor does not have a rod in his hand he and his family can be found spending time on his land.  Family and friends will camp for the weekend, fish and watch sunsets from their pontoon. Taylor and his fiancé, Destiny Whitehorn, plan to marry lakeside on the property after she finishes nursing school. This water loving couple plans to build their family along with their home on the banks of Lewis Smith Lake.

Groomed on Smith Lake and an up and coming professional fisherman Taylor is sponsored by Proficiency Rods, Ardent Reels, Kid Casters, Nichols Lures, JaKKed Baits, Nines Optic Sunglasses, Deadly Strike Custom Baits, Bam Outdoors, and Keep America Fishing! Taylor says he loves all of his sponsors and could not be more excited to work with each of the unique business.  Send him a message, leave a comment, say a prayer – join us as we wish Taylor and everyone fishing Smith this Saturday the best of luck! 

Instagram: @taz_fisherman

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