NE OK Set to Host Bass Fishing ‘Super Bowl’
Tulsa reels in $26 million weekend
BY BRIAN ERVIN
February 14, 2013
The 2013 Bassmaster Classic—or the “Super Bowl” of bass fishing, as it is less formally known—is a week away, and it represents a major economic catch for Tulsa.
The competition itself will ensue on Grand Lake on Friday, Feb. 22 and continue through Sunday, Feb. 24. In addition to the main event, there will also be a consumer expo from Friday through Sunday at the Tulsa Convention Center, presented by Dick’s Sporting Goods, and the weigh-in at the BOK Center on Saturday and Sunday, where this year’s champion angler will be enthroned.
That single weekend of fish-centered festivities should net the Tulsa economy an immediate impact of more than $23 million, according to some estimates.
Heather Miller, spokesperson for B.A.S.S., said the average economic impact for the annual event over the past seven years is about $23 million, but an analysis by Tulsa Regional Chamber economist Bob Ball projects an impact of $26 million.