By Louie Stout

April Showers may bring May flowers, but it also brings a rush into the bass tournament season.

As tournament groups gear up for the regular season, some are planning “Opens” which usually means no membership fee and anyone can enter. These events are used as fund-raisers.

There are three events (that we know about) coming next weekend.

The Dennis Losee benefit on the St. Joe River at 6 Span - that was previously scheduled for this weekend - was moved to April 2nd. Entry fee is $65 with 50 percent of the pot going to Michiana angler Dennis Losee who suffered a stroke and needs help paying medical bills.

In addition, Clear H2o Tackle will donate an additional $25 for each boat entered and an additional $25 per any winners of side pots who donate their winnings back to the cause. Plaques will be given to the top three finishing teams.

Tournament hours are 8-2. For more information, contact Steve Martin, 269-858-6296.

If river fishing isn’t your thing, Casting Couples will be having an Open the same day at Lake Maxinkuckee. The tournament is open, meaning there are no gender restrictions on teams. Hours are 7-1 and entry fee is $50 plus $5 for big bass. You can fish alone, if you wish.

Another Casting Couples Open will be held April 16 on Lake Webster. For more information, call Rick Kedik, 269-240-4917.

If you can’t get enough tournament fishing on Saturday, the Angola Hog Hunters will have an open Sunday, April 3 on Lake Hamilton in northeastern Indiana. Hours are 7-3 and entry fee is $100. Call Kevin Days, 260-243-0266 for more info.

Hopefully, the weather will improve and the fishing is good!

For the remainder of the season, follow our Lake Drive Marine Events Calendar which lists specifics of tournaments and dates. If your event isn’t on the schedule, email us at stoutoutdoors@comcast.net.