Bassmasters Elite in Putnam

Posted on February 9, 2019 by PluggedInto in Flagler, Putnam, Recreation, St. Johns // 0 Comments

Fishermen on the St. Johns River waiting to head out at first light. Photo by George DeLoach.

PALATKA – Some 75 professional fishermen are on the St. Johns River and tributaries this weekend seeking to win the Bassmasters Elite Series tournament that began Thursday, Feb. 7.

Palatka’s riverfront with its bass mascot is drawing visitors for the Bassmasters Elite Series.Photo by Marcia Lane.

Hundreds and probably thousands of people will be in downtown Palatka this weekend waiting for the weigh-ins, looking at the latest in fishing gear and letting their kids have fun at booths set up by vendors.

Fishermen are heading out at 7:15 a.m. Saturday and Sunday. Weigh-in both days is at the Palatka riverfront at 4:10 p.m.

Great fishing weather Thursday and Friday, but competitors will be facing a mini-nor’easter making for rough waters and wind.

Second day leader is Chris Johnston out of Peterborough, Canada, who is also tournament leader. Day 1 he hooked 21.5 pounds, Day 2 25.11 pounds. Total catch: 47 pounds.

First day leader was Robbie Latuso of Louisiana with 25.2 pounds. He was in ninth place Friday after landing 13.15 pounds.

Many in Putnam County are keeping an eye on the progress of local Cliff Prince. He’s in 14th place with a total of 36.9 pounds.

If you can’t make it to Palatka, you can keep up with the action online at bass master.com.