Day 1 begins on Lake Norman

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It's pre-dawn at Blythe Landing on Lake Norman, and hundreds of angler have gathered to compete in the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Eastern Open.
It’s pre-dawn at Blythe Landing on Lake Norman, and hundreds of angler have gathered to compete in the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Eastern Open.
This rule was followed by all present.
This rule was followed by all present.
Nick Denhan says goodbye to his family before beginning his day on the water.
Nick Denhan says goodbye to his family before beginning his day on the water.
It's time for last minute preparations.
It’s time for last minute preparations.
And studying maps.
And studying maps.
And optimism. Everyone is in first place right now.
And optimism. Everyone is in first place right now.
Soon the sun will rise and the boats can leave the dock.
Soon the sun will rise and the boats can leave the dock.
Just 25 minutes from now...
Just 25 minutes from now…
Rich Howes is ready to go.
Rich Howes is ready to go.
A crescent moon hangs over the anglers.
A crescent moon hangs over the anglers.
B.A.S.S. photographer Andy Crawford waits with his boat driver, who happens to be Ronnie Moore's dad, Ron Moore.
B.A.S.S. photographer Andy Crawford waits with his boat driver, who happens to be Ronnie Moore’s dad, Ron Moore.
Former Elite and Opens winner Charlie Hartley is ready for his day.
Former Elite and Opens winner Charlie Hartley is ready for his day.
Time for a prayer and the national anthem. Daniel Wicker said the invocation.
Time for a prayer and the national anthem. Daniel Wicker said the invocation.
And then it's time to go.
And then it’s time to go.
Blythe Landing will be the site of the weigh-ins for the first two days.
Blythe Landing will be the site of the weigh-ins for the first two days.
Plenty of seating available!
Plenty of seating available!