2016 Bassmaster Classic Underway On Grand Lake

The 2016 Bassmaster Classic is underway on Grand Lake Friday morning. 

The 55 professional anglers launched their boats at 7 a.m. at Grove. For most of the past week, the competitors have been practicing and scouting out the best fishing spots on Grand Lake. They include three fishermen from Green Country.

3/3/2016 Related Story: Green Country Anglers Ready For Bassmaster Classic On Home Turf

Day One of the Classic has been a busy morning since the launch at 7 a.m. Thousands of fans packed the Wolf Creek boat launch in Grove. We had a chance to catch up with Edwin Evers, who had already been catching fish in the fierce competition.

Osage Sky News 6 HD also has been flying overhead, capturing the action. We had a chance to speak with some spectators who were just here to enjoy the sport.

“We pulled up and we caught Edwin Evers this morning,” Chris Laposta said. “He rolls up into his first spot …It took about 20 minutes and he caught what looked like a 4-or 5-pounder within the first 20 minutes. It was cool to see him catch a good fish right off the bat."

The events are free to spectators. If you want to come to the lake with your boat, you're just asked to give the anglers some space.

The events in Tulsa free as well. The BOK Center weigh-in starts at 3:15 p.m.

You can find a list of events and follow today's action live by clicking here or watching on the B.A.S.S. app.

Officials say more than 107,000 spectators are expected to watch the fishermen on Grand Lake and at the weigh-ins at the BOK Center in downtown Tulsa.  

The Tulsa Chamber's Visitor Bureau is projecting a $29 million impact for the Tulsa area's economy.

When the Classic was last in Oklahoma in 2013, officials say 106,800 fans attended events at Grand Lake and in Tulsa.