We’ve heard this question from a few fans this week: What happens if Mike McClelland or Jesse Wiggins make the Classic Bracket tournament? Both won Opens this year and qualify for the GEICO Bassmaster Classic if they fish all three tournaments in that division. Wiggins is 39th in Toyota Angler of the Year points, and McClelland is 48th. The answer, from tournament director Trip Weldon, is Wiggins and McClelland would not be required to fish the Classic Bracket event. Both intend to compete in the final Opens of their divisions and have paid their entry fees. If they compete in those Opens, they will be qualified for the Classic. If an extreme unforeseen situation — as determined by the tournament director — prevents either from fishing the Open, he will be excused and will be able to compete in the Classic.
If an angler opts out of the Classic Bracket tournament the spot will go to the next eligible angler.