Randy Howell, 40, Bassmasters Pro Angler was born in Rocky Mount in 1973, but moved to Lake Gaston at the age of 11.

His parents purchased and opened what they called Howell’s Timber lodge, located on Big Stone Creek in Littleton on Lake Gaston.

Howell learned of his passion of fishing on lake Gaston, he guided fishing tours from his family’s lodge, fishing when he could and entering tournaments. At the age of 18 he decided to try professional fishing on the Bass Master tour. It wasn't until March 7, 1998, in Huntsville, Ala., that Howell won his first major event. It was later that year, he and his wife Robin moved to Alabama to be more central location for his touring series. Howell just won the 2014 Bassmaster Classic World Champion.