PROSPERITY, S.C. — More than 500 college anglers took to Lake Murray Friday and Saturday, hoping to catch the biggest bass on the water as part of the Bassmaster College Series.
"I've grown up fishing, and I love the competitive aspect of it. I've always played sports, so it's a really fun thing to do competitively," said angler Reese Melven from the University of South Carolina (USC).
"I just love to fish. It's a great way to get outside, enjoy the scenery, have a good time with friends and make lasting memories that you'll never forget," USC senior angler Ben Williams said.
The rain and fog rolled in but didn't dampen the mood for hundreds of families across the country coming to watch the competition - some from as far away as California.
"The food industry, the gas, all that; it definitely has a huge economic impact on the area," Melven said.
Glenn Cale, the tournament manager, said Lake Murray is one of a kind.
"Great place, fishery, legendary Lake Murray. They're big fish here," Cale said. "You guys have seen it when you put some kids on the water."
Cale said the event brings money back into these fishing programs with about $6,000 in scholarships.
"It's awesome. It goes back to the kids and the programs, and it gives them chance to get that money back to the school and help them keep fishing, as it is a great expense to fish, just as any other sport out there," Cale said.
According to Capital City Lake Murray Country, the regional tourism board, one of the next events is Taste of Lake Murray on March 21.