The Bassmaster Southern Open kicks off today on Lake Toho. 200 of the top anglers in the country will launch from Big Toho Marina this morning with one goal on their mind-a birth to the 2016 Bassmaster Classic. The winning angler after 3 days of competition will earn the chance to compete in the Bassmaster Classic in 2016.
The full field features pro anglers, such as Gerald Swindle, Terry Segraves, Ish Monroe, and John Cox to name a few. There is no doubt that those anglers would love to step into their 2015 seasons with a Classic birth already secured. There are also grass roots anglers from across the country competing, vying for the opportunity to jumpstart their careers as a professional angler.
2014 Bassmaster Classic Qualifier Rich Howes hopes to make the trip back to the big stage. He qualified via the 2013 Southern Open on Lake Toho, where he earned a nail biting win in overtime. Howes and Daniel Lanier finished in a tie on the 3rd and final day of the event. To break the tie, both anglers were sent out on a 4th day of competition to compete head to head for the title, and the Classic birth. Howes ended up winning the battle, sending him to the 2014 Classic on Lake Guntersville.
Last years Southern Open winner on Lake Toho, and 2015 Bassmaster Classic Qualifier Van Soles, looks to qualify for his 2nd Classic before he even competes in his 1st. (The 2015 Classic is scheduled for February 20-22 on Lake Hartwell in Greenville, SC.)
Without a doubt, all anglers will face an uncharacteristically tough Kissimmee Chain. Ever since Dean Rojas sight fished his way to a record setting 45 pound, 2 ounce 5-bass limit on Lake Toho in January of 2001, there is always the notion that bed fishing will be the biggest factor when big events come to Toho in January. With how the Kissimmee Chain has been producing as of late, don’t be surprised if an offshore bite dominates the standings.
Anglers will be in competition for 3 days. Weigh-in for day’s 1 and 2 will take place at Big Toho Marina, starting at 3:00 p.m. The field of 200 boats will get cut to the Top 12 Pros and Co-anglers after the scales close on day 2. The remaining Top 12 will compete on Saturday. Weigh-in for day 3 will be held at Bass Pro Shops in Orlando, beginning at 4:00 p.m.
Photo: Experience Kissimmee Pro Terry Segraves practices for the Southern Open held on Lake Toho and the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes
