Regional bass events gain momentum

Anglers with the talent but not the bankroll can still itch their competitive urges in smaller regional bass fishing tournaments.

“We seem to be gathering momentum and sponsors with more dollars, said Gary Stiles of Spokane Valley, who works with his wife, Lisa, to organize the Northwest Bass six-event tournament fishing circuit. Entry fees are around $175.

Last September, 89 two-angler teams fished in the Northwest Bass season-ending championship event on the Columbia River based at Columbia Point. They competed for a bass boat plus $2,000.

“On average, we had up to 97 boats in our tournaments,” Stiles said. “With that and the FWL coming here, it seems the sport of competitive bass fishing is really taking off in the Northwest.”

“For more information on local competitive bass fishing, contact:

Northwest Bass, (509) 499-8797; www.nwbass.net.

Inland Empire Bass Club, (509) 879-7804; www.inlandempire bassclub.com.