A familiar face at Lake World is making waves — 13-year-old John McKissick Call recently landed a massive striped bass from the Saluda River, right behind the Saluda River Club.
Standing just 4 feet 10 inches tall himself, John’s impressive catch was nearly his own height. The young angler, who stops by Lake World almost every week, is known for his curiosity, great attitude, and passion for fishing.
“John is an enthusiastic kid who absolutely loves to fish,” said his bonus mom, Erica. “He’s always out at the lake, the pond, or the river — wherever he can cast a line. Whether it’s a bass, a catfish, or a big striper like this one, I couldn’t be more thrilled for his big haul. I’ve got the best fishing buddy around.”
John caught the striper using herring he picked up from Lake World, where staff and local fishermen say he’s always listening, learning, and asking questions.
He’s not just a champ with a rod and reel — John also plays baseball on the Irmo Little League Intermediate team and is heading to California this summer to compete in the Little League World Series. He’s the grandson of legendary Coach John McKissick, who became the winningest high school football coach of all time with 500 career wins at Summerville High School.
Lake World is located near the Dreher Shoals Dam on the Lexington side of Lake Murray. If you stop in, don’t be surprised to see John soaking up fishing tips or sharing stories about his latest catch.
