Open: Atchafalaya registration

The final Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Central Open of the 2016 season takes anglers to Morgan City, LA and the vast Atchafalaya Basin. This event was originally scheduled for early February, but flooding and high water caused it to be rescheduled.

Registration took place at the Morgan City Municipal Auditorium.

This last open has extra pressure compared to the other two Opens because this is the last shot to qualify for the Geico Bassmaster Classic presented by GoPro and there are 5 Elite Series invitations up for grabs.

As always, there is some nice hardware for those who like shiny trophies rather than happy gilmore checks.

Winning a Bass Pro Shops Open isn’t an easy feat as the mix of locals and pros can be hard to top over three days.

Anglers come through and verify their information.

Homer Humphries talks with John Norris about the no wake zone that has been implemented for safety.

Anglers were given maps showing the area that needed extra caution.

The Toyota and Carhartt booths were ready for the rush of anglers.

Toyota had some rod gloves waiting for anglers…

As well as catalogs with information about the Tacoma and Tundra.

Carhartt had their t-shirts on display and multiple sizes for anglers to choose from.

Phoenix was next in line and they had a table full of hats.

Shimano showed off some of their products and had information about their reels and other products if anglers were curious.

Anglers couldn’t buy them at the moment, but their lightweight reels were on display to check out and hold.

Participants also grabbed a nice towel to dry their hands with.

The all-important information board had the points standings available to check out.

After Saturday’s competition day, the Top 5 anglers in the Points Standings will receive an Elite Series invite.

Louisiana angler Gerald Spohrer is on that short list after two great finishes in the first two Central Opens.

Elite Series angler Cliff Crochet makes his entrance. This event is in his backyard and he is hoping for three days of magic to make it to the Classic.