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Knoxville hosts 2023 Bassmaster Classic

The 2023 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic is returning to the Tennessee River from March 24 through March 26.

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Knoxville is hosting the 2023 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic starting March 24 and lasting through the weekend.

During the event, anglers take off from Volunteer Landing starting at 7:30 a.m. each day. They will spend much of the day trying to catch the biggest fish they can before weigh-in at 3:30 p.m. in the Thompson-Boling Arena. Organizers said 55 anglers are competing for a cash prize of $300,000.

Away from the Tennessee River, fishing fans will be able to spend the day at the Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo in the Knoxville Convention Center, as well as the World's Fair Exhibition Hall. The expo will include exhibitors of several kinds.

Some of the exhibitors will present information about boating and fishing technology. Others will show off traditional fishing equipment, and many other vendors will share information about broader interests like cars and clothing.

Fans can also be able to win prizes and get gear from giveaways during the expo. They can also try catching a catfish in a pond or watch some of the jumping dogs compete to make the longest leap.

The national fishing competition started the evening of March 23 with a kickoff party at the Knoxville Convention Center Plaza Terrace. The free event was open to the public and included live music, food trucks, a beer garden, child-friendly activities and vendors. There was also a firework show.

All activities and venues are free and open to the public. Additional information, such as parking information and a schedule of events, is available online.

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