Ain't Life Grand?

So much depends upon this week in Oklahoma for many BASS anglers.

At one point in time, I wished to never return to Grove, Oklahoma. Nothing against the fine people there, who were perfectly cordial, but the 16 degree temperatures at Classic takeoff made for a miserable stay. Then I went to the 2015 iteration at South Carolina’s Lake Hartwell, which by comparison made that Grand Lake event seem like a holiday on Diddy’s yacht in St. Barts.

Jacob Powroznik has already locked down a Classic berth, but he’s yet to clinch the Opens AOY title. Anglers down to about 6th place are still likely in contention for a spot in the Elites. Meanwhile the Central Opens are even closer, with over 20 boaters still having a chance to climb the ladder—some of them Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit or BPT pros. And of course, Keith Combs, currently the first man out of the Classic, may not be fishing it, but he hopes that an already-qualified Elite, or someone who didn’t fish all three Centrals, comes out on top.

Even after it’s all over and the tears (of joy or sadness, both) have dried, then comes the fun part. Those who’ve qualified have to decide whether to put it all on the line next year. I think the days of fishing the Opens to do anything but qualify for the Classic and/or the Elites are over, so ready or not, expect them all to say “yes.”