The Bass Anglers Sportsmen Society (B.A.S.S.) announced that Lake Texoma will host the Bassmaster Elite Series BASSfest in 2016. Lake Texoma is a relatively new venue for the world's premier bass fishing circuit. The Bassmaster Elite Series tournaments have become extremely popular festivals for bass fishing fans. Holding the Bassfest at Lake Texoma will expose the sport to a new fan base.
Attracting hundreds of professional Elite Series anglers, BASSFest is more than a fishing tournament. It is a weeklong festival attracting fishing fans from all over Texas and Oklahoma and points beyond. In addition to the tournament, the festival will also feature a military and fan appreciation day, Bassmaster University seminars, outdoor expo and other activities. Fans will be able to interact with the pros and see the latest offerings from sponsors.
The fan-favorite 5 day fishing tournament is set for Lake Texoma on June 8 -12, 2016. In this Elite Series tournament the only thing at stake is the prize money and a Classic spot. It isn’t a points event. Anglers can’t move up the ladder in Toyota Basmaster Angler of the Year points to qualify for the Bassmaster Classic but the winner is assured a spot in the Classic. Being assured of a spot in the $1 million championship is huge.
This is the first BASSFest on Lake Texoma. Only a few times in the past has Bassmaster Elite Series chosen Lake Texoma for an event. Texoma was the site of the 1979 Bassmaster Classic won by Hank Parker, now a popular television fishing show host, and it was the venue for the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Open in 2007 and 2010.
Choctaw Casino Resort-Durant is partnering with BASS to host the event.