Day One launch and registration

It’s Day One of the 2012 Cabela's B.A.S.S. Federation Nation Central Divisional, and the day starts early at the Holiday Inn in Morgan City. Funny thing, though, no one seems to be tired.

At 5 a.m., the roads are mostly empty save for the competitors on their way to the ramp. The light traffic makes for a quick trip.

The parking lot is crowded but everyone seems to know his job and so things go along smoothly. 

Charlie Harrington (Missouri) and his partner take advantage of a little down-time and complete a few last minute preparations.

Everything goes along without a hitch with experienced anglers and a “no sweat” attitude.

B.A.S.S. launch headquarters is a lonely place when the only thing on every angler’s mind is catching a heavy stringer of bass.

And in the middle of it all is a fellow who just wants to go crabbin’.

It’s impossible not to appreciate the beauty of several dozen bass boats sitting in the dark with their running lights on.

This crabber looked over the field of bass boats and headed out full bore for his water.

The longest part of the morning is waiting to hear, “Boat No. 1!”

Scott Buxton (Louisiana) offers an early morning prayer for those wishing to participate. It’s a part of his ministry that he takes seriously.

It doesn’t matter how many times you’ve heard it, our national anthem will still give you goose bumps. Go America!

The tournament is finally underway.

B.A.S.S. tournament staffer Lisa Talmadge quizzes every boater to make sure they know when their check-in time is. And every boater got the answer right.

Sometimes looking the part is half the battle.

The last boat is finally underway. Now it’s all about what happens in the next eight hours.

For part of the B.A.S.S. staff, it’s time to pack up a few things, eat a quick breakfast, maybe take a short nap and then get ready for the afternoon weigh-in.

Fed Nation Central Divisional qualifiers make last minute adjustments on Tuesday in preparation for the 2012 Cabela's B.A.S.S. Federation Nation Central Divisional kick off on Wednesday.

Dylan Hays from Arkansas gets clarification on the tournament rules as he makes his way through registration on Tuesday afternoon. 

The Kansas State Team

The Louisiana State Team was treated to new jerseys for this event on their home state waters. This is but one of their new designs.

The Arkansas State Team

The Missouri State Team

Essential equipment for any Federation Nation angler — a hat, a drink insulator and a copy of the rules.

Texas angler Sterlyn Wood proudly displays his new hat and jersey. He wasn’t sure if they would help him catch more fish but he was confident they wouldn’t hurt his chances.

The Oklahoma State Team

The Texas State Team

The Mississippi State Team

The Nebraska State Team

The Louisiana State Team

Young Arkansas competitor Clayton Robbins claims his share of dinner.

There was no shortage of enthusiasm come supper time at this registration; and for good reason, the food was delicious.