The gang’s all here for Classic week

Hank Cherry knows what prize lies ahead. He’s got one, but he still posted, “I spy the carrot,” after the angler meeting Tuesday for the Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk.

While the 54 anglers have been at Lake Ray Roberts practicing Friday through Sunday for the biggest title in bass fishing, the B.A.S.S. tournament and media crews got their Classic week rolling. Photos and interviews were conducted, and the anglers enjoyed receiving bags of gifts before being briefed.

Cherry, who won in March 2020 on Lake Guntersville and might be the longest reigning Classic champ, stood for the entire meeting, which ran down particulars like where the anglers needed to be and when.

Andy Crawford shot the Guess the weight photo gallery, asking qualifiers how much weight it would take to win and who they thought would do it. Guesstimates ranged from the low 50s to a high of 76 pounds, 12 ounces — Drew Benton picked running mate Drew Crook for that high honor. Bill Lowen’s name was chosen the most.

That’s a good reminder to set your Rapala Bassmaster Fantasy Fishing team. And don’t forget to play the Mercury Bassmaster Drain the Lake Challenge too.