SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL:

Ella Jenkins is just five years old, but her fishing prowess has already paid off as she won the Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association’s inaugural Best Black Belt Fish Photo Contest.

Jenkins showed off a big bass she caught in Crenshaw County and Facebook fans voted her photo the best of all.

Thirty-five people submitted photos of fish they had caught in the 23-county Black Belt to be posted on the ALBBAA Facebook page and more than 1,200 “likes” were registered to determine the winner. Her catch – an almost 8-pound largemouth bass – garnered 247 votes as the best.

“I love to fish at the cabin in Alabama with my Daddy and Papa,” the little angler who lives in Destin, Florida, said.

“I always catch the biggest bass.”

Jenkins will be pursuing those trophy fish now with $100 worth of Strikezone Lure Co. tackle, provided by the Eufaula-based company.

“We are happy with the number of outdoors fans who took part in our contest in its first year,” said Pam Swanner, project director for the Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association. “Thousands of people – like Ella and her family – are drawn to the Black Belt to enjoy our great fishing and hunting and other recreational activities. We’re dedicated to showcasing the region and want to share our natural resources with all outdoor enthusiasts. “

“Strikezone Lure Co. is a great partner for Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association and we are thankful to them for providing our prize for little Ella,” Swanner said.