The final day of the 2011 Bassmaster Classic is set to begin on schedule, a departure from the past two days that were delayed due to dense fog at the launch site of Bayou Segnette State Park.
“There’s no fog in sight,” Luling’s Bruce McDonald said while sitting in the boat of competitor Terry Scroggins waiting for the blast-off. “It’s beautiful. It’s completely different than the other days.”
The field was cut to the top 25 after yesterday’s weigh-in, and the final weigh-in is set for the New Orleans Arena. Doors open to the public at 3 p.m.
Michigan’s Kevin VanDam leads the field with a two-day total of 41 pounds, 1 ounce.
In second was Kansas’ Brent Chapman, who made the long run to Venice to bring 20 pounds, 1 ounce of bass to the New Orleans Arena. His two-day total was 38-1.
In third was Alabama’s Aaron Martens with a total of 33-2, in fourth was Idaho Bassmater Federation Nation qualifier Brandon Palaniuk with 32-8 and Arkansas pro Scott Rook rounded out the top five with 31-11.
The only one of the top five anglers not fishing Lake Cataouatche’s Tank Pond is Chapman, who is making the run to Venice.
If VanDam seals the victory today, he will add a fourth Classic crown to his list of accomplishments.
Admission to the weigh-in and the Bassmaster Classic Outdoor Expo (being held at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center) is free.
Regular updates will be posted, along with standings, photos and video interviews, on the dedicated Bassmaster Classic section.