Bass Fishing Tournament Kicks Off in Middletown

Close to 100 bass fishermen made waves in the Connecticut River at the first day the Northeast Regional Bass Fishing Tournament.

For Middletown, which beat out towns throughout the northeast to host the event, it could mean a whole lot of money will be reeled in to support the local economy.

“It's a nice place for them to come with their families and enjoy a beautiful downtown after a great day of fishing,” said Middletown Mayor Daniel Drew.

The town estimates that, from hotels to restaurants to gas, this week-long tournament will bring around $100,000 into the local economy.

“We’re off to a good start,” said Daniel Cronin, manager of the Canoe Club, which hosts the event.

The economy boost isn't limited to this one week. Many boaters have been coming to Middletown for weeks to scout the river, pouring even more money into this area.

“They picked this body of water last year so all summer and all spring guys have been coming here practicing on this river,” explained Mike Dunkerley, Senior Vice President of The Bass Federation.

The tournament includes the top 12 anglers from eight states in northeast region. Only the top two will move on to nationals.

The tournament ends on Friday.
 

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