Collegiate anglers attending the pre tournament banquet for the 2010 BoatU.S. Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship this evening, were treated to a surprise appearance by living legend, Forrest L. Wood.
“While some say that today’s younger generation is losing its connection to the outdoors, these student anglers are definitely not in that category. They are very knowledgeable and greatly appreciative of Mr. Wood’s contributions to the sport of competitive bass fishing,” said Chris Edmonston of BoatU.S.
After receiving product samples and information provided by sponsors of the event, more than 300 student anglers from across the country enjoyed a nice meal at the Hilton Garden Inn & Suites in Lewisville, Texas.
When bass fishing icon and Ranger Boat founder, Forrest L. Wood took the stage, the collegiate anglers were in awe. You could have heard a pin drop as Wood captured and kept the undivided attention of everyone in the room with his interesting and entertaining speech. He also stayed following the event to sign autographs and talk with the anglers one-on one. “I can’t believe he took time out of his busy schedule to speak to us. It really means a lot to have one of the biggest legends of the sport recognize us, “commented Aaron Newsome of Stephen F. Austin State University who provided the opening prayer at the event.
It’s great to see so many outstanding young anglers. Their enthusiasm is contagious and serves as a powerful reminder of how beneficial the sport of fishing is to individuals, families and our society as a whole. Time on the water draws us closer to our roots, helps build a stronger citizenry and provides a lifetime of unforgettable memories. I’m honored to have the opportunity to share in this wonderful event and congratulate all the anglers on their accomplishments,” said Wood.
In addition to all the goodies provided by event sponsors, the anglers also benefited from visiting with numerous top touring professionals including Denny Brauer, Jeff Kriet, Greg Hackney, Kelly Jordon, Mike McClelland, John Crews, Gary Klien and Terry Butcher who provided fishing advice, words of encouragement and product demonstrations.
The tournament will get underway at safe light Thursday morning when the anglers takeoff from Sneaky Pete’s; then return for weigh in beginning at 3:00 pm. This schedule will be repeated on the 28th and the 2010 champions will be crowned as soon as the scales settle on Friday.
Many of the anglers are predicting lower weights this year, including the defending champions from Murray Sate, commenting that the lake is not fishing the same. Brandon Dickenson of the University of North Texas predicted that it will take 28 or 29 pounds to win this year. With temperatures climbing into the 90’s and a lack wind this event may be one of the closet championships in recent history.
