Bassmaster Classic to bring anglers from around the U.S. and beyond to Knoxville this weekend

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - The Bassmaster Classic is set to take place on the Tennessee River this weekend, drawing professional anglers from across the country — and beyond.

Knoxville native Robert Gee is among the competitors. Gee qualified for Bassmaster right after graduating from the University of Tennessee and said his passion for fishing started early.

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“My grandpa had me on the dock with some crickets and I caught my first bluegill and bass that day and I was hooked ever since,” Gee said.

Angler Ish Monroe said a family member also introduced him to fishing.

“My dad felt like it was a way for us to bond as a youth, which it really was. And me and my dad are really close because we got to go fishing a lot when I was younger,” Monroe said.

Carl Jocumsen relocated to East Tennessee from Australia to pursue a career as a professional angler. He said the opportunity is unique to the United States.

“You can only fish as a professional angler in America. It’s super cool, so it was always like that dream of one day being able to do it. And here at the Bassmaster Classic, you have a stadium with thousands of fans cheering while you drive your truck and your boat in. There’s nothing like it,” Jocumsen said.

All three anglers are encouraging families and friends to attend events at Volunteer Landing and Food City Center this weekend. Live weigh-ins and additional events are scheduled at both locations.

The first day of the event is Friday, March 13. The tournament begins at 7:45 a.m. at Volunteer Landing.