LA CROSSE, Wisconsin (WXOW)-- 99 of the best professional anglers in the world are in town this week for the Bassmaster Elite Series Tournament.
On Monday through Wednesday is their practice period.
The competition begins Thursday morning at 6:15 a.m.
The boats will be launched from Veterans Freedom Park in La Crosse.
The pros will also return each afternoon for a weigh-in beginning at 3:15 p.m.
The 2012 Mississippi River Rumble's first prize is $100,000 and an instant entry in the 2013 Bassmaster Classic.
News 19's Lindsey Hayes asked the 2012 Bassmaster Classic Champion for his prediction about the tournament.
"The guys on this tour are the best of the best no doubt. There is good comradery amongst the guys and we really enjoy it. The guys on the tour are first class. They are the elite. They are the best of the best," said Chris Lane, the 2012 Bassmaster Classic Champion.
Chris' brother Bobby is also a professional angler competing in this competition.
The Lanes are originally from Florida.
"Never been here before in my life, but what really gets me excited is there is a lot of grass. You can get large mouth bass to come through the grass or you can catch them flipping. There is all kinds of ways to do it. There is plenty of fish to go around. I promise you it is going to be an exciting weigh-in," said Bobby Lane.
The tournament also includes multiple events that are free to the public.
For more information :
www.bassmaster.com
Search for Mississippi River Rumble
