Well, we are just two weeks away from the Bassmaster Classic that is going to showcase a great fishery in Southeast Louisiana. There are a couple of ways to put this into perspective for those not familiar with the Classic. For one, I guess you could call it a glitter-boat parade for the Mardi Gras fans or, for the Nascar fans, we could say that it’s like Nascar on the water with all the flash but on a water course. However you look at it, it’s a big money maker for the local economy and big boast for the tourism department.
Trust me: We all know we need positive images for the nation to see, and this is the ticket.
As far as the actual competition, it is a three-day tournament that allows anglers to weigh their five biggest bass caught each day. When the smoke clears and the weights are added up, someone will solidify their place in fishing history and go to the bank $500,000 richer while 49 other anglers will be left to wonder, “What if?”
New Orleans has hosted the Classic three other times, with previous winners being Davy Hite, Kevin Van Dam and Michael Iaconelli. This year, a new champion will be crowned in the New Orleans Arena or the Bee Hive for the basketball fans reading along. The anglers will launch from Bayou Segnette and travel to areas that include Venice, Delacroix and the Bayou Black region.
The fishing is a side note for the spectators; I mean, after all, it’s just not that easy to drive and watch these anglers compete. But you can make the Bassmaster Classic Outdoor Expo in the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. I really don’t care if you like bass fishing, the FREE (minus the parking) show that will be at the convention center is worth it. Manufactures from all over the world will be on hand to show you the newest products and answer any questions you might have.
Besides the companies that will be represented in the show, there will be professional anglers there to demonstrate techniques to put fish in the boat. I mean, where else can you get this type of experience without having to pay for it. When I tell you that B.A.S.S. will put on a first-class operation, you can take my word or just come see it in person. You won’t be disappointed at all.
Plus the fact that we have one Louisiana angler competing for the title makes it even more special, so come down and show Greg Hackney some support.
So in the next couple of weeks, keep an eye on the LouisianaSportsman.com Bassmaster Classic Updates page for information about the Big Show, the anglers, the areas and the techniques that will be working on the Delta.
I’ll highlight anglers that hit homeruns, as well as the ones that zigged when they should have zagged. After all, the most important tournament in these guys’ lives will come down to execution and timing.
So stay tuned. It’s going to be a ride!
