ALSIP, Ill. - June 12 - Spectators at Howell's Landing over the weekend got a sneak preview of the upcoming BASS Masters Classic as they watched many of the world's best anglers weigh-in their limits during the second annual B.A.S.S. Media Classic. The event, which was designed to build awareness for next month's bass fishing tournament, coincided with the contenders' final practice day until Classic week.
Pros were granted an extra day of official practice in order to provide media and major sports celebrities a first-hand look at fishing conditions in the Illinois waters which will play host to the 46 Classic contenders July 17-22. According to B.A.S.S. rules, none of the contenders are allowed back on the water until Tuesday, July 18. "We do this to ensure a fair and level field of play," stated National Tournament Director Dewey Kendrick who, with valuable assistance from the Illinois B.A.S.S. Federation, conducted the day-long festivities.
Two-time B.A.S.S. Angler of the Year Gary Klein was paired with veteran Chicago Sun-Times writer Neil Steinberg. The two walked off with the top prize by bagging a limit of five fish weighing in at 14 pounds, 5 ounces.
"I can't wait to return to Chicago to see what these waters will offer during world championship competition," said Klein. "The idea of daily weigh-ins on Soldier Field is sure to attract many new fans to our great sport."
Among the celebrities competing in the B.A.S.S. Media Classic Pro-Am were Detroit Red Wings right winger Pat Verbeek and Chicago Bears wide receiver Marcus Robinson, who sees a comparison between catching touchdown passes and catching fish.
"These guys are highly competitive and are working hard for a living in their sport", said Robinson. "I know they will really like weighing their fish on Soldier Field."