The 2023 Bassmaster Elite Series will open on world-famous Lake Okeechobee Feb. 16-19.
Join our family of readers for as little as $5 per month and support local, unbiased journalism.
Already have an account? Log in to continue. Otherwise, follow the link below to join.
Please log in to continue |
OKEECHOBEE -- After starting the season the past four years on the St. Johns River, the 2023 Bassmaster Elite Series will open on world-famous Lake Okeechobee Feb. 16-19.
B.A.S.S. has an extensive history on the “Big O,” having visited there 22 times since 1980, but this will be the organization’s first trip there since 2017.
“We are thrilled to welcome the Bassmaster Elite Series back to Lake Okeechobee to kick off their 2023 season,” said Terry Burroughs of the Okeechobee Board of County Commissioners. “Lake Okeechobee offers the best freshwater fishery in Florida paired with a down-home community that offers a unique experience both on and off the water. We look forward to welcoming everyone with the Bassmaster Elite family!”
Bassmaster LIVE kicks off tournament coverage Thursday morning at 7 a.m. ET on Bassmaster.com, Tubi and the FOX Sports digital platforms. FS1 will broadcast live with the tournament leaders on Saturday and Sunday.
The SiteOne Bassmaster Elite at Lake Okeechobee is free and open to the public.
The tournament pits 104 of the top bass anglers in the world — including local favorite Scott Martin —against big bass and one another as they battle for the coveted championship trophy, $100,000 first-place prize and a total purse of more than $771,000.
Launch and weigh-in will be at C. Scott Driver Park, 10100 Hwy. 78 W, Okeechobee, FL 34974.
On Thursday, Feb. 16 and Friday, Feb. 17, the tournament field will launch at 7:30 a.m. and weigh-in will be at 3:30 p.m.
On Saturday, Feb. 18, the top 50 anglers will launch at 7:30 a.m. Weigh-in will be at 3:30 p.m.
The ET Bassmaster Outdoors Expo will open at noon on Saturday, Feb. 18. The expo will include a Kid's Zone, food, local vendors, live entertainment and free demo rides from Nitro Ranger/Mercury and Skeeter/Yamaha. Show a military or first responder ID to a staff person at the Bassmaster merchandise booth for a free hat.
On Sunday, Feb. 18, the top 10 anglers will launch at 7:30 a.m. for the final day of the tournament. The ET Bassmaster Outdoor Expo will open at noon. The championship weigh-in will be at 3:30 p..m.
