Classic impact

Hosting the Classic on your home waters is clearly an economic boost to the area.

2005 Bassmaster Classic: Fringe benefits

"It was the landmark accomplishment of my career," said 1991 champion Ken Cook. "It was the achievement that brought me to the top of the mountain professionally and has made a big difference in the rest of my life."

Lake Toho

Central Florida's Lake Tohopekaliga, near Kissimmee, will host the 2006 Bassmaster Classic.

2005 Bassmaster Classic: Federation anglers

Part of the lore and allure of the CITGO Bassmaster Classic has always been the storybook participation of the fishermen who climb through the BASS Federation amateur ranks to earn a shot at winning professional fishing's crowning event.

Bassmaster Classic: Great moments

The Classic is the most prestigious, most watched, most exciting, most heavily anticipated, most publicized and the most lucrative tournament of all. It is simply the most important contest in competitive fishing.

2005 Bassmaster Classic: Clunn comeback

"I wasn't always fishing to win, and that was a direct departure from previous years," Clunn said. "I was going for quality fish instead of using my knowledge, and I just wasn't having fun."

2001 Bassmaster Classic: Chaotic year

"I have been totally shocked at the magnitude of what winning the Classic has meant." VanDam says. "Without a doubt, bass fishing is far more mainstream than ever before."

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