A limited field showed up the United's season finale on the Hudson.  For the 3rd consecutive year the tournament was won with less than 5 fish, although 5 fish limits were brought to the scales.  With 2-time defending Hudson champ Andrew Bornn out for the season, a new Hudson winner was guaranteed.  Erik Ruckdeschel was just that person.

Not only did Erik win his second tournament in a row and third tournament of the season, but he also captured lunker of the year and Angler of the Year with his victory.  Erik's 4-fish bag went 17.88lbs and was anchored by a 6.44lb football and another 5lb class fish.  Big congratulations to Erik for a huge ending on his terrific season. 

Second place went to John Nowicky, who is no stranger to performing well on the Hudson.  His limit weighed in at 14.54lbs and vaulted him into the Top 6 in the full year standings.  Great job ending the season John!

Third place went to Manny Cruz, who, like Erik, had a terrific season.  Manny's bag tipped the scales at 13.08lbs.

Rounding out the Top 5 were Scott Cocioppo and his non-boater Matthew Striebel with 11.74lbs and 10.36lbs; respectively.

Place Angler  Fish Weight
1 Erik Ruckdeschel   4   17.88
2 John Nowicky   5   14.54
3 Manuel Cruz   5   13.08
4 Scott Cocioppo   5   11.74
5 Matthew Striebel   4   10.36
6 Jon Rosner   4   10.00
7 Guy Giordano   3   8.08
8 Steven Duffe   ?   3.80
9 Brian Hill   2   3.76
10 John Gindhart   1   3.43
11 John Garbarini, Jr.   1   DNW
11 Richard Cattagio   -     -  

Going into the Hudson, 2008 AOY John Garbarini maintained a slim lead over Ruckdeschel and Cruz, however, both trailing anglers vaulted pass John due to their performance.  The year ending Top 6 are as follows (pending official verification).  Congratulations!

Place Angler Drop 3
1 Erik Ruckdeschel  87.87
2 Manuel Cruz  83.66
3 John Garbarini, Jr.  81.14
4 Jon Rosner  65.76
5 Scott Cocioppo  61.86
6 John Nowicky  52.69