BASSfest is underway in Dayton, Tenn., this week, with an outdoors expo, concerts and the chance to cheer on favorite professional anglers among its many draws. The first-time event combines a top tournament with a free festival expected to reel in thousands of fishing fans.
The main competition will happen on Chickamauga Lake, its first Bassmaster event since 1991. The fishery was recently ranked as No. 7 on Bassmaster Magazine’s 100 Best Bass Lakes list of 2014.
The tournament started Wednesday, June 11, with the full field of 140 competitors. They’ll compete again today, and the Top 50 will qualify for the third round on Chickamauga Lake.
In a twist to the fishing competition, the third Chickamauga round won’t happen the next day. Instead, the 50 pros will appear at the BASSfest expo, conducting free seminars and meeting fans throughout the day Friday, June 13.
Meanwhile, the 90 eliminated anglers will participate in a one-day, second-chance shootout on Nickajack Lake in Chattanooga. The 10 who survive the shootout will rejoin the Top 50 anglers on Saturday, June 14, for the third round on Chickamauga Lake. The Top 12 will advance to the final round on Sunday, June 15, for a shot at the trophy.