We’ve put together an agenda for the Classic Week. (Download agenda: classic_agenda.pdf) We’ve got a great week planned and it sounds like the fish are going to cooperate. All indications are that the majority of the system will be at peak spawn with areas in pre-spawn and others in post spawn. We’ll need at least one member of each qualified team to attend the first night of registration for each classic for the rules meeting. Where we’ll cover all rules and update any agenda changes.
Here’s a few FAQ’s we’ve had:
Where will we ramp?
Kentucky Dam Ramp. Just west of Kentucky Dam village at the North end of Kentucky Lake. For weekend Classic we will proceed to Barkley Lake. Kentucky Lake will be off limits for the weekend Classic.
What is off limits?
There are no off limit dates – at least one team member must attend the rules meeting the day before each tournament. Kentucky Lake is off limits to the Weekend Challenge classic anglers. Barkley Lake is off limits to the Weeknight Challenge anglers. The connecting channel between the lakes is open to all anglers.
Where is the livewell check?
All check-in’s and livewell checks will be done at JR’s Executive Inn in Paducah. We will stage out of the parking lot adjacent to the Convention Center via police escort.
How far is it to the ramp from JR’s?
It should take 15-25 minutes in the morning and 20-30 minutes in the afternoon.
How are fish checked?
We will check all livewells as you leave the ramp. You will be given a tag stating the number of fish and how many are alive to present at weigh in. We don’t anticipate a problem with the transport of the fish, but please check to see that your livewell is properly working. We will have the Kentucky DNR on hand to transport the fish back to the lake. Any fish lost in transport to weigh-in will not be assessed a penalty.
What Licenses are required?
Kentucky licenses will be required. If you fish in Tennessee, Tennessee licenses will be required.
What are the official practice days?
We have designated the two days before the classic as “official” practice days. We will have staff on hand to assist with any boat issues, rule clarifications, etc. You are not limited on these days – there are no off limit dates.
What is the size limit?
We are going with a 15” size limit for all bass weighed in, regardless of species. If there is any change in this policy, it will be addressed at the rules meeting.
What rules are in effect?
All NBAA rules will apply, and copies will be supplied at the meeting.
Who has to attend the meetings?
At least one member of each team must attend the registration and rules meeting. Any team not attending will lose take off position and not be eligible for the Minn-Kota drawing. At least one member must attend the banquet to pick up the start number for the following day. Teams not attending will lose boat position for the second day.
How are boats awarded?
- Weeknight Classic – Skeeter Boat will be awarded in a random drawing of all qualified participants – at least one team member must be in attendance to win.
- Weekend Classic – Skeeter boat will be awarded to the top finishing team. Cash and prizes will also be awarded at each tournament.
Is there a fee to fish either Classic?
NBAA never charges a fee to fish their National Championships. We will award close to $80,000 in cash and prizes at the 2005 Classic week. This classic fund is taken out weekly from your local divisions, so it’s your money - we don’t charge you to fish for your money!
- Optional Pot - we have been asked to collect an optional pot for those who wish to participate. This will be completely voluntary and paid back 100% at the classic.
- Big Bass Pot – there will also be a voluntary Big Bass pot for those who wish to participate. This pot will be paid back 100% at the classic.
How do we qualify for the BassFan Championship? Qualifiers will be the top two BassFan members at the Weeknight Championship. Any ties will be broken by a drawing or coin toss.
Be sure to contact us with any other questions that you might have – see you in Kentucky!
Jim & Jenny |
Black Jack Shootout 
