CHANDLER, Ariz., 11/7/02 -- The world champion bass angler is coming to the valley and he'll share his fishing secrets during the Tempe Marine free family boating and fishing exposition Nov. 15-17.
Former Valley resident Jay Yelas is the 2002 BASS Masters Classic Champion and FLW Angler of the Year. Yelas, a Skeeter and Yamaha Pro Team member, leads a cast of the top pro anglers who will be on hand to give tips and answer questions. The event will also feature fishing seminars, prize drawings and huge sales on boats and accessories. Expo hours are from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Tempe Marine is located at 1800 North Arizona Avenue, just south of Warner in Chandler.
In addition, anglers can get a first look at the new Skeeter FX210, the only bass boat designed to handle the Yamaha F225, the world's first V6 four-stroke low-emission outboard motor.
Visitors can stop by the 5,000-gallon "Hawg Tank" for free fishing seminars. Take notes on the latest techniques from Arizona bass pros, including John Murray, Greg Hines, Mark Kile, Rich Tauber and Dalaney Dwyer. Sign the kids up for free fishing classes and then let them cast for prizes at the kids casting contest.
Yelas will be on hand to answer questions and lead demonstrations on Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Making its first western stop, Power America, a traveling display of Bombardier products will be onsite with the latest Bombardier outboards and technology. Visitors will be able to chat with Bombardier engineers, meet an Evinrude Pro Team angler and win prizes. Special displays of the latest fishing tackle, rods, reels, electronics and boating accessories are part of the event. Manufacturers' representatives will be on-hand to answers questions and offer special deals.
Visitors are encouraged to participate in the activities and enter to win free prize-drawings. Donate a can of food and receive extra entries into the drawings. All donations will go to St. Mary's Food Bank.