As I was perusing the Internet a couple of weeks ago, I ran across an article promoting the Bassmaster Classic. For those of you that may not know, the Classic, as anglers refer it to across the world, is the championship tournament for B.A.S.S.

Is it a big deal? Yes! The winner will pocket $500,000. Not bad for a week’s work. What struck me, though, is where this year’s Classic will be held at the end of February — Grand Lake ‘o the Cherokees.

I have a special connection with this Northeastern Oklahoma impoundment. This is where I fished my first professional tournament. As I read the article, my mind drifted back to that fateful event. Let me set the stage for you.