By Louie Stout
The biggest bass tournament in Michiana – the South Shore Open – is slated for Aug. 1-2 in Hammond, Ind.
Registration is now open for the tournament that guarantees a $12,000 first place prize if 40 boats enter. Last year’s event drew 47 boats. The top 6 places and big bass each day will earn cash.
Entry fee is $400 if paid before May 2 ($450 thereafter) and the tournament launches out of Hammond Marina. Fishing waters include Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin and Michigan waters of Lake Michigan and several of its tributaries.
The mandatory pre-tournament meeting will be held July 31 at the Horseshoe Casino overlooking Lake Michigan from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., CST. The starting order will be drawn at that time and at least one team member must attend. It will be followed by a meet-and-greet hospitality room where food and beverages will be available from 5:30-7 p.m. Special parking will be arranged for vehicles with trailers.
During tournament hours, all boats must be in the take-off area by 5:20 CST. The weigh-in will begin at 2 p.m. each day.