Image for Semifinal suspense
Pro Gary Klein of Weatherford, Texas, and co-angler Richard Lowitzki of St. Charles, Ill., head out of Roland Martin Marina after takeoff. Photo by Gary Mortenson. Anglers: Richard Lowitzki, Gary Klein.
January 25, 2002 • Gary Mortenson • Archives

Co-angler champion will be crowned at today’s weigh-in, pros battle it out for a spot in finals

CLEWISTON, Fla. – Under decidedly hazy conditions and balmy temperatures, the remaining 40 anglers carefully made their way out onto the open waters of Lake Okeechobee shortly after 8 a.m. takeoff. Cruising past Roland Martin Marina with an eager crowd cheering them on, the top-20 pros and co-anglers set a course with two separate goals in mind.

For the pros, today is all about making the top-10 cut and qualifying for an automatic berth in the finals. For the co-anglers, the mission is simple – catch enough fish to finish in first place and grab the top prize of $15,000. For the co-anglers, there is no tomorrow.

However, with a host of favorites already eliminated from competition, the race for both divisions appears to be up in the air. Consequently, the question remains: Who has what it takes to grab hold of the title and not let go.

Action continues at today’s weigh-in, scheduled to take place at 5 p.m. at the Wal-Mart Supercenter located at 1005 West Sugarland Highway in Clewiston, Fla.

Vital statistics

Sunrise: 7:12 a.m.
Temperature at takeoff: 63 degrees
Expected high temperature: 82 degrees
Water temperature: 71 degrees
Wind: From the southwest at 5 mph
Relative humidity: 88 percent
Day’s outlook: Mostly sunny

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