Tidbits from the BFHOF Dinner

One of the greatest parts of any Classic is the annual Bass Fishing Hall of Fame dinner. As you’d expect, it’s a who’s who of bass fishing folks, but that’s not what makes it great. It’s great because of the folks who get inducted.

This year it was Ken Cook, Guy Eaker and Dave Precht in that order (alpha by last name), and every single one of these guys was worth seeing and hearing. I hope someone videotaped it. Few highlights:

> Ken Cook said he’s “in a good place,” having quit the sport he loves and now working on his Tarbone Ranch including guiding folks there for trophy deer. He still fishes a lot, says he misses the competition, the travel and his buds on tour. Though he didn’t mention it, he also recently (like a month ago) had a knee replaced, and showed not a hint of it walking around.

> Although everyone I’ve seen get inducted into the Hall says how grateful they are to all fishermen everywhere, and obviously mean it, for some reason it seemed that Guy Eaker particularly felt it. Maybe it’s the fact that he’s never refused advice to anyone (literally) who’s called his house. Maybe it was just his unadorned, straightforward speaking style. Don’t know exactly, but I sure felt it.

> Dave Precht – longtime BASS employee, Bassmaster editor and all-around great guy – got the biggest ovation of the three inducted this year. I’ve known Dave for 20 years, and this is the first time I’ve seen him nervous or choked up about anything. Never knew how he got the BASS gig: He was a stowaway in Ray Scott’s car driving back from a tournament.

In no way does that do any of the above three men or their acceptance speeches anything close to justice. Just, as I said, tidbits for those of you who couldn’t be there. Here are a few more:

> We all know these folks who are inducted, or at least know of them, but hearing their stories and seeing their accomplishments laid out in this way is truly amazing. Never gets old.

> The three new owners of BASS seemed to be the toast of the gathering. Reminded me of when ESPN took over, the honeymoon period. Some hope was in there too: It was apparent that everyone, including me, hopes they do well.

> Have also heard Hank Parker speak more than a few times, but this time was particularly good. One of those times when someone holds the room in the palm of his hand. It was about getting more kids fishing, passing it on, stuff we’ve heard before but delivered in a funny, passionate way. Inspiring as intended. Thanks Hank.

> Talked a long time to Bobby Murray and Ricky Green – we sat at the same table. Man, it never gets old talking to these legends and hearing their stories. Not for me, anyway. Bobby had me cracking up about the options for his vast lure stash when he passes on (no, he’s not sick).

> Was very glad to see that Ray Scott and Forrest Wood look great and both are healthy (I asked them) – Forrest says Nina is too. I just love seeing those two guys. Ray was his usual charismatic self, and Forrest was his usual smiling, polite and dignified self. Not that Ray isn’t dignified – you know what I mean.

That’s about it. Rumor was the Hall would announce where it’ll be located, but that didn’t happen. Not even a mention of it. I asked around, sounds like they have a couple options almost fully developed. Can’t say more than that but will give you a hint: It’ll probably end up in a state starting with the letter A.

Congrats to Ken, Guy and Dave. They truly deserve it.

All for now bassheads!

Oops, two more things:

1. Join the BFHOF here. Awful website, but good organization.

2. Try to get to one of the induction ceremonies. Totally worth it.