In addition to the slower current in the river, another tournament also being held on the river had attracted much more fishing traffic, especially in key locations.
Before the takeoff on Saturday morning, ESPNOutdoors.com and CollegeBass.com chased down the final five and asked them one question: What would it mean for you to win the national championship today?
"Fortunately, er, unfortunately, I'm an inch taller than him," said the diminuitive Weldon, who helped the Crimson Tide to a 9-pound, 6-ounce first day. "He's my mentor. I just wanted to make him proud."