DON DUBUC

You have got to believe that each of the 26,000 fishing fans witnessing last months Bassmaster Classic weigh-in could not help but picture themselves in Kevin Van Dams shoes (or boat). They had to be just a little envious watching the new world champion amid the fireworks and in front of ESPN cameras, claim his crown, a $100,000 check and practically a guarantee of becoming pro fishings next millionaire. For most, the dream has passed and they have returned to that unglamorously boring, but necessary real-life job. But there are a few who will pursue that dream and attempt to break into the very tough world of professional bass tournament fishing. That means risking the security of a regular income and everyday family life. The Bassmaster Tournament gr-aveyard is full of bankrupt and divorced wannabe fishermen. Many more fail, than manage to earn a living, much less get rich, winning fishing tournaments. The high cost of boats, trucks fishing gear, entry fees, licenses and cross-country travel expenses, if not time away from home, discourage more than not, from ever making an attempt. They spend the rest of their lives wondering “what could have been?” And for those who do manage to break into the circuit, the odds of making it to the “big show” are about the same as a kid making the NBA all-stars. Roland Martin, Jimmy Houston and Bill Dance got in on the ground floor, but making it today is a different ball game. But pro-fishing hopefuls – do not despair. There is a rare opportunity this fall for locals to cash in on a new pro fishing opportunity. “What were bringing to Louisiana is two, one-day, catch and release, close to home, in-shore saltwater events for men and lady anglers who can catch two redfish using artificial lures,” said Redfish Tour director Grady Warren. The challenge: to catch the two heaviest redfish 16-27 inches, using artificial lures and bring them live to the weigh scales. For starters these two tournaments, one at Lafitte C-Way Marina (Sept. 22), the other at Venice Marina (Nov. 3) will offer $80,000 and $40,000 cash and prizes making them the biggest in-shore saltwater events in the state. For a $500 per two-contestant team entry fee at Lafitte and $375 in Venice, payback will be spread among the top 20 finishers in the limited field of 125 teams. First place at Lafitte will earn a $35,000 value Ranger boat and trailer with a 200 hp Mercury outboard. First place team in Venice earns $15,000 cash. But it is not the tournament payback that makes these events an opportunity to break into pro fishing. The five top teams in each Louisiana tournament qualify to compete in the Redfish Tour Championship Nov. 15-17 in Titusville, Fla. where five teams can qualify to compete the last day on national television to determine the national champion. From there, the sky could be the limit. Sponsorships, product endorsements and paid appearances are sure to follow for the top competitors. This could do for tournament redfishing what has already happened to bass fishing – create a whole new fishing industry with wealthy and famous participants. Planning for expansion of the 2002 Redfish Tour is already underway. So besides the cash entry fees, what else do teams need to qualify? Not much. There are no boat or engine size restrictions. Fishermen will be allowed to enter on a first paid basis. Applications are available at C-Way and Venice Marinas. For more information about the Redfish Tour call 904-733-6678 or access www.RedfishTour.com

T-RIVERS BASS TOURNAMENT

Looking for an open bass tournament? Pick a partner and sign up for the Sept. 9 T-River Open at the Madisonville Boat Launch on Lake Pontchartrain. The weigh-in will be at 2 p.m. at T-Rivers at 1999 Main St. in Madisonville. Entry fee is $100 per two-man team and $10 to enter the big bass pot. For applications and information call director Eddie Ramon at 985-892-0234.

OWENS CLOSES GAP WITH WIN

Danny Owens took advantage of Jake Impastatos hard luck to move to within less than four points of the current Three Rivers Bassmaster lead. Owens took first place at the clubs last Tchefuncte River tournament with a three fish, 4.80 pound stringer increasing his second place overall total to 53.70. Eddie Ramon (3.70) and Glenn Tamberella (2.75) were second and third in that event. Impastato, who failed to catch a keeper, still leads with 57.05 points with four tournaments remaining. Roger Boler (47.05), Tamberella (38.60), Walter Clairain (32.50) and John Gillespie (30.65) hold the other top six positions. DON DUBUC is the outdoors reporter for LObservateur.