Classic Contenders Converging

Josh Polfer traveled 2,000 miles from Idaho to Louisiana's Re River to compete in the Bassmaster Classic Feb. 24-26. Photo courtesy of B.A.S.S.

For most Bassmaster Classic qualifiers, preparations began long ago, possibly with some pre-cutoff scouting at the Red River. In recent weeks most competitors have picked up, broken in and wrapped new boats and have been busy doing last-minute research while gathering and preparing tackle.

The intensity has risen a big step, though, as contenders are now beginning to arrive in Shreveport. Some didn't have far to travel. Others, like Brandon Palaniuk and Josh Polfer of Idaho, have traveled across the country. Palaniuk and Polfer each had about 2,000 miles to travel, so both left home well ahead of time and did other things in the South, "touring" their way toward the Classic venue.

The competition remains more than a week away, but he official practice begins in less than two days, and all the competitors' schedules will be filled from the time they arrive in Shreveport until the afternoon of Feb. 26, when the 2012 Bassmaster Classic Champion is crowned.