2012 Southern Open #1 Day One launch

BoatUS Angler’s TowBoat U.S. team offers boat towing services for the Bass Pro Shops Southern Open #1.

The TowBoat U.S. boat leads the fleet out onto the Harris Chain of Lakes in Florida.

Boats line the dock awaiting the launch of the first Bass Pro Shops Open of 2012.

Elite Series pro Charlie Hartley preps his gear for the day.

Elite Series pro Terry Scroggins is on hand for the Florida Southern Open.

Fans line the dock as the competitors line up their boats for the Day One launch.

Elite Series pro Ish Monroe prepares for a cool boat ride.

The competitors take off on schedule at 7 a.m. ET.

Anglers take off from Wooton Park in Tavares, Fla.

The anglers and fans were greeted with a beautiful Florida sunrise. 

Co-anglers wait patiently for their boats to arrive. 

Each co-angler is paired with a boater. 

B.A.S.S. officials direct traffic. 

Boats are loaded into the water first thing.

The Bass Pro Shops Southern Open #1 is being hosted by Tavares, Fla. 

Anglers fill the waters of Harris Chain of Lakes.

B.A.S.S. tournament director Chris Bowes makes sure the boats are in order.

Grant Goldbeck prepares to head out to the lake.