B.A.S.S. today released the schedule for the 2017 Bassmaster Opens, consisting of nine events contested across eight states. Here's a look at each division:
Southern
> Jan. 19-21 -- Harris Chain of Lakes -- Leesburg, Fla.
> April 20-22 -- Lake Chickamauga -- Dayton, Tenn.
> Sept. 28-30 -- Smith Lake -- Jasper, Ala.
Central
> March 2-4 -- Table Rock Lake -- Branson, Mo.
> June 15-17 -- Sabine River -- Orange, Texas
> Oct. 5-7 -- Grand Lake -- Grove, Okla.
Northern
> June 29-July 1 -- Oneida Lake -- Syracuse, N.Y.
> Aug. 3-5 -- James River -- Richmond, Va.
> Sept. 7-9 -- Douglas Lake -- Dandridge, Tenn.
The Opens serve as the primary qualifying route to the Bassmaster Elite Series, as the Top 5 anglers from each division (after excluding any Elite anglers who are already qualified for that tour) receive invitations to compete on B.A.S.S.' top circuit. Also, the winner of each Open will earn a berth in the 2018 Bassmaster Classic, contingent upon competing in the other two events in that division.
The tournaments feature fields of 150-200 pros and the same number of co-anglers for the first 2 days. The field is cut to the Top 12 in each division for the final day, with weigh-ins usually held at a nearby Bass Pro Shops.
Anglers in each Open tournament will compete for a portion of more than $250,000 in cash and prizes, including a boat and motor package. The winning pro gets more than $50,000 in cash and prizes.
“Many of the most competitive Elite Series pros fishing today qualified through the Bassmaster Opens,” said Chris Bowes, Opens tournament director. “There’s not a better way to prove you’re ready to fish on the national stage.”
Deadlines for registration and other details about participation will be posted later this month on Bassmaster.com.
