Mid-September will see a return of the Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year tournament to Mille Lacs Lake, and excitement is already building.
Last year the tournament held at this famed Minnesota Lake made this event one of the most anticipated bass competitions on the circuit.
For the first time the tournament will be held in the same location in two consecutive years in what is often referred to as a "world-class smallmouth bass factory."
On 14-17 September anglers can once again look at a steady haul of trophy sized fish from this renowned multi-species lake. With scheduled weigh-ins each day at the parking lot of Grand Casino Mille Lacs, and a fan appreciation day on the Saturday, this battle of the pros is expected to bring in large crowds.
Minnesota's Lt. Governor, Tina Smith, highlighted the importance of this world-class angling event.
"Lake Mille Lacs is a premiere fishing destination for anglers from across the United States. We are excited to have America's greatest anglers return to Mille Lacs next year for the Toyota Bassmaster tournament, and show off the fishing found only in Minnesota."
The tournament allows residents to showcase the incredible fishing at Mille Lacs Lake and also promote many of the other outdoor recreational activities in the area. John Edman, from Minnesota Tourism, spoke of the varied attractions for visitors.
"Fishing has long been a main reason Mille Lacs is such a draw for tourists and out-of-state anglers. The area additionally offers lots of ways people can enjoy the area's natural beauty on hiking, biking and ATV trails, watching wildlife, golfing or visiting a Minnesota State Park."
Outdoor recreational events, like this fishing tournament, play a critical role in Minnesota's economy. The influx of visitor dollars and outdoor based sports sustains an estimated 48,000 jobs in. A boost to Minnesota's economy that residents are keen to maintain in the near and far future.
For details on the fishing tournament, see the Mille Lacs page.
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