Sweet Home Alabama
The state of Alabama has hosted the Classic nine times. Counting 2002, Birmingham has hosted the Classic a total of five times, making it the most popular destination of bass fishing's premier event. Competitors in the Birmingham Classics have had two different playing fields - Lay Lake (two times) and Logan Martin (three times). The other four Alabama destinations were Lake Guntersville, Lake Wheeler and the Alabama River (twice).
The Pro's Ride
Of the 52 pros competing in the Classic, 24 of them will find themselves behind the wheel of a Triton TR-21 Limited Edition bass boat (24 others will be driving Skeeters, 4 will drive Bass Cats). Each of these 21-foot, fully loaded Tritons boasts special features: Citgo Bassmaster paint scheme, carpet emblazoned with Classic logo, space age electronic panel, Limited Edition upholstery, jackplate, Hot Foot (foot throttle), and more. The double-axle trailer sports matching fiberglass fenders. Although most of the boats to be used by the competitors were sold prior to the Classic, anyone can buy a Triton with this package. (And it's available in all models from TR-19 to TR-22 with either dual or single consoles.)
History Lesson
The last time B.A.S.S. anglers competed for the championship on Lay Lake (1996), Hot Springs, Ark., pro George Cochran won with a three-day total of 31 pounds, 14 ounces. The 2002 Classic marks Cochran's 19th appearance at the big show. Finishing in second place in 1996 was Davy Hite (30-14). The Prosperity, S.C., pro fishes his 8th Classic this year after winning the 2002 B.A.S.S. Angler of the Year title.
Little Known Fact
This year, Yamaha engines power nearly half of the Classic competitors' boats for the three-day championship. Although most anglers are aware of the high quality motors made by Yamaha, few know that the first product made by the company was a reed organ built in 1887. An upright piano followed in 1890. Yamaha Motor Company did not exist until 1955. In 1960 the company produced its first outboard motor - a 7.5-horsepower model. In 2000, Yamaha sold its 6 millionth outboard - a High Pressure Direction Injection 200 hp V6.
Celebrity Practice
Tuesday, July 23, will mark the first (and only) official practice day for Classic pros. The anglers won't be alone, though. A celebrity will be partnered with a Classic competitor, fishing from the back of the boat for a single fish to weigh in at the end of the day. Topping the celebrity list are Wade Boggs (Red Sox, Yankees, 3000-hit club), Eric Montross (Toronto Raptors), and Pat Verbeek (Detroit Red Wings). The celebrity with the biggest fish wins a check for his/her favorite charity.