The 2024 American Bass Anglers (ABA) American Fishing Tour Championship is set to return to Lake Murray from May 3-9, hosted at Dreher Island State Park in Prosperity. This marks the 24th national championship and the first time it’s returned to Lake Murray since its debut there in 2000.
Originally scheduled for October 2024, the tournament was rescheduled due to Hurricane Helene. The event is presented by the Capital City/Lake Murray Country Regional Tourism Board.
Tournament Schedule:
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Competition Days: May 7–9
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Launch Site: Dreher Island State Park (3677 State Park Road)
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Launch Time: Safe daylight each morning
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Weigh-Ins:
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May 7 & 8 at 3 PM
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May 9 (final day) at 2 PM
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Public Access: Free with paid park entry
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$3 per adult
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$1.50 for seniors (65+)
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$1 per child (ages 6–15)
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Food Truck Onsite: Big Boys BBQ
Prizes and Competitions:
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The overall champion will win a Caymas boat with Mercury Marine outboard and T-H Marine components.
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The Angler of the Year (AOY) competition includes top anglers from each division. The top finisher receives a second Caymas boat package.
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The Service Team Awards recognize outstanding anglers from specific groups:
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Army
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Navy
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Air Force
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Marines
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Homeland Security
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Non-Military
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Lady Anglers
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The American Fishing Tour includes more than 50 divisions east of the Rockies, with each division hosting 6–10 events annually. Focused on amateur anglers, it excludes full-time guides and professionals, promoting fairness and sportsmanship among weekend fishing enthusiasts.
Lake Murray continues to draw national attention as a premier bass fishing destination.
Photo by American Bass Anglers
