Bassmaster Classic 2011: Calm Before The Storm

The calm before the storm.

Not a meteorological event. Actually, forecasts call for a gentle warming trend, fair skies and steady barometer; even a south wind and a swelling moon to help the rising tide deepen Delta’s waters and, perhaps, grant access to areas that haven’t seen a boat in days. And when they flush back to the Gulf, waters will run strong on the spring tide. Anglers could hardly ask for better fishing conditions.

Yet, Monday-to-Thursday comprise the eye of Huricane Classic. Three intense practice days are over. Ahead lie three days that will change someone’s life.

Most spent Monday working on tackle, repairing boats and visiting kids at Tulane Hospital for Children.

Tuesday is moving day, when all must come from wherever they camped during practice rounds and check-in as official Bassmaster Classic contenders at the official host hotel. Then the official rules meeting this afternoon.

Wednesday provides one more practice peek.

Thursday they entertain us at Media Day – verbally answering questions while mentally lost in the delta’s maze and the deep recesses of their own minds.

Come Friday morning, it’s on.

For real.

3 whirlwind days.

51 of the world’s best.

1 trophy.

The title.

The eternal street cred.

Half-a-million dollars – now.

Full-figured speaking/appearance/endorsement fees – forever.

To win it they’ll scour endless miles of bayou and backwater to bring the biggest bag of bass before crowds of thousands gathered daily at New Orleans Arena and millions more around the world, incuding many right here, at AnglersChannel.com.

Stay with us. We’ll bring you fresh video and blog coverage with a perspective you won’t find anywhere else.

From pracitce reports to the atmosphere of Rue Bourbon to the final weigh in, we will take you to the Big Easy for the big tourney – the 2011 Bassmaster Classic.