After winning first place in three out of five fishing tournaments over the last year, Logan, 13, and Kylen, 12, of Oakley, CA, have earned a spot to compete in 2025 Bass Federation (TBF) Junior World Championship.
The competition is at Lake Oahe, Pierre, SD, on July 30-Aug. 1.
Logan said that his father, Beau Joudrey, taught him how to fish when he was just two years old. His partner, Kylen, shares a similar story with his father, Barnaby Cruz, teaching him at five years old.
“It’s what I grew up with, fishing with my dad, and I just like being on the water,” Kylen said.
Kylen (left) and Logan (right) at the Saints North Delta Crusher in April 2025. Photo provided by Amanda Cruz.
Since then, the boys have continued fishing and learning together, but they said that they have faced some challenges along the way.
“It was hard to overcome fishing on a stranger’s boat,” Logan said. “It was a little weird at first just going on random people’s boats and fishing with them, but I got used to it and it’s fun. I get to meet a lot of cool and new people.”
Kylen said that learning the tides, what the bite is, and where they’re at, was the biggest challenge for him.
With the TBF championship being held at the Mississippi River, both of the boys are currently learning new techniques and new baits in preparation.
“I’m excited to fish the Mississippi River and learn all the new techniques,” Logan said.
Despite the challenges they’ve faced and overcame together, Logan and Kylen said that they are also proud of themselves and excited for what’s to come.
“I am most excited about getting to go to the world championship because it’s a once in a lifetime thing,” Kylen said.
Logan said that he is most proud of fishing the BAM tour at a high school level angler, even though he is only in middle school. Kylen said that he is most proud of being able to represent his community.
“I’m proud that we both did really good, and I hope we do good in this tournament,” Kylen said.
Their trip to the championship will begin on July 20 and involves a 3,200-mile round trip for two vehicles, one hauling their fishing boat, and a five-night stay in South Dakota. Ashaleigh Joudrey, Logan’s mother, and Amanda Cruz, Kylen’s mother, have started a fundraiser to help cover travel and lodging expenses.
To support their journey, visit: Donate to Support the next generation of bass fisherman, organized by Ashaleigh Joudrey
