Livewell inspections can sometime reveal secrets.
Photo: Shaye Baker
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Inside this box are telltale signs of what the fish are really after. Those are shad and crawfish.
Photo: Shaye Baker
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Joseph Brantley provides proof of boat insurance as part of the takeoff process. Brantley is third with 25 pounds, 12 ounces.
Photo: Shaye Baker
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Leader James Watson takes a phone call from a friend wishing him the best of luck on Table Rock.
Photo: Shaye Baker
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The silhouetted men are among the most appreciated and talented of the tournament. They are members of the factory support crews. The daily routine is coming to the launch, eating breakfast and standing by for any need.
Photo: Shaye Baker
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James Elam snugs up his hoodie for the final day on Table Rock. It’s a long shot, but should he win Elam will help Jonathon VanDam qualify for the 2016 GEICO Bassmaster Classic presented by GoPro.
Photo: Shaye Baker
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Brett Preuett is eighth place with 24-2. More importantly he’s on the invitation list for the 2016 Bassmaster Elite Series. Today is a dream come true for him, he said.
Photo: Shaye Baker
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Watson and Luke Clausen pause for a quick conversation prior to the start of the Bass Pro Shops Central Open presented by Allstate.
Photo: Shaye Baker
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Rick Clunn prepares for a big day ahead. He’s in contention to win and qualify for the Classic, his 33rd appearance in the sport’s premier world championship.
Photo: Shaye Baker
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A drone circles overhead at Table Rock State Park. Flying and fishing conditions are good. Today’s weather calls for highs in the upper 60s with northerly winds at 10 miles per hour.
Photo: Shaye Baker
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Josh Bertrand is 10th with 23-11.
Photo: Shaye Baker
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The day begins with playing of the national anthem and tribute to the American flag.
Photo: Shaye Baker
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The top 12 are due back to the ramp at 3 p.m. with the weigh-in at Branson Landing, located at Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World.
Photo: Shaye Baker
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Bertrand is one of three Elite Series pros in contention for the winner’s trophy.
Photo: Shaye Baker
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As tournament leader, Watson is the first angler to leave the marina.
Photo: Shaye Baker
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Clunn takes a left while everyone else turns to the right out of the launch site.
Photo: Shaye Baker
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Clausen of Washington state idles out past the ramp. The 2006 Classic champion plans to accept his invitation to the 2016 Elite Series.
Photo: Shaye Baker
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Elam is already qualified for the Classic through the Elite Series. His win at the Central Open on Fort Gibson sealed the deal.
Photo: Shaye Baker
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The B.A.S.S. staff enjoys the morning. From here they go to the nearby Bass Pro Shops location to prepare for the championship weigh-in.
Photo: Shaye Baker
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Chris Bowes calls out the final boats and the day is underway.
Photo: Shaye Baker
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