The Jackson (Miss.) Clarion-Ledger reported Wednesday that B.A.S.S. is considering Ross Barnett Reservoir as a host venue for a Bassmaster Open in 2015.
Ross Barnett Reservoir last hosted an Open in 2013, but the tournament was overshadowed by the shooting death of Texas angler Jimmy Johnson, who was killed on Oct. 13, 2013 in a hotel parking lot in Jackson after confronting a man who was allegedly breaking into his boat.
"We have Ross Barnett on our radar for a possible tournament in 2015," B.A.S.S. senior tournament manager Chris Bowes told the newspaper. "We plan to finalize that schedule in the next week. From a competition and tournament aspect, it (the 2013 tournament) was a fantastic event and we're looking forward to the opportunity to go back.
"I think most people understand crime is a national issue," Bowes added. "It doesn't have any borders, so to speak. We really don't think it's an issue specific to Jackson, Ridgeland or the area."
Jackson teen Shaun Braun, then 17, was arrested two days after Johnson's death and charged with capital murder. He's been imprisoned ever since. His trial is set to begin Dec. 8.
Johnson's family has also filed a lawsuit against Rishi Hospitality, the parent company of the Motel 6 on I-55 in Jackson.
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