CLEWISTON, Fla. – With a host of diehard bass fishing fans looking on, the top 30 pros and co-anglers left Roland Martin’s Marina shortly after 7 a.m. today in a bid to qualify for tomorrow’s all-important final round of competition. Like yesterday, anglers were greeted by a big, bright moon, clear skies and seasonal temperatures. The relatively stable conditions also suggested that the frustrating cold front that had moved in earlier this week had finally dissipated.

After the day’s competition, both the Pro and Co-Angler divisions will be whittled down to 10 anglers. Those 10 will then compete for the first EverStart Series Eastern Division event title of 2001. First prize in the Pro Division, which will be awarded after Saturday’s weigh-in, is $15,000 and a new Ranger boat. The co-angler champion will receive a check for $6,000.

Today’s weigh-in is scheduled to take place at 3 p.m. at Roland Martin’s Marina located at 920 East Del Monte Ave., Clewiston, Fla.

Vital statistics

Sunrise: 7:03 a.m.
Temperature at takeoff: 70 degrees
Expected high temperature: 80 degrees
Water temperature: 67 degrees
Wind: Southeast 9 mph
Relative humidity: 68 percent
Day’s outlook: Partly sunny

For a look at all the day’s photos, click here.