Bassmaster Classic 2014: Dates, TV Schedule and Event Info

The fishing community will cast its attention toward Alabama's Lake Guntersville on Feb. 21-23 as the 2014 Bassmaster Classic crowns a champion. 

The Birmingham-area lake looks like a fertile ground for some big catches. As the event's official website tells us, the event "has the potential to produce record breaking weights and attendance at the weigh-ins."

Fifty-five competitors are scheduled to compete. There were 56 qualifiers, but former champion Cliff Pace was forced to withdraw due to a hunting injury.

With ample and big fish expected to be swarming around these world-class anglers, this should be a riveting competition. Luckily, there are several ways to enjoy the action. 

The event's official website offers several streaming options, which are discussed here. Streams include a live weigh-in camera.  

ESPN is not showing anything live, but will be showing extensive coverage:

Channel	Date	Time (EST)
ESPN 2	Sat 3/1/2014	10-11 a.m.
ESPN 2	Sun 3/2/2014	6-7 a.m.
ESPN 2	Sun 3/2/2014	7-9 a.m.
ESPN 2	Sun 3/2/2014	8-10 p.m.
ESPN 2	Sun 3/9/2014	5-7 a.m.
ESPN 2	Sun 3/9/2014	7-9 a.m.
ESPN 2	Sat 3/15/2014	8-9 a.m.
ESPN 2	Sun 3/23/2014	8-9 a.m.

Prediction

Patrick Collard/Associated Press

There is no such thing as a sure thing in fishing—in any aspect of it. That is especially true when trying to pick a winner of this event. 

One name stands out above the others for me, however: Kevin VanDam. 

VanDam (KVD) is a four-time Bassmaster Classics champion and a seven-time Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year, and he feels better than ever about this event. 

KVD said on The Times-Picayune's NOLA.com: "Most Classics I'm scrambling right down to the wire trying to get ready. For this one, I feel prepared on all levels. My tackle prep is done, my equipment is read—and I feel prepared mentally."

VanDam also scouted Lake Guntersville. "It was a very meaningful trip for me," VanDam said per NOLA.com. "Lakes that have a lot of grass change from year to year. I'm hoping that seeing it last fall will help me."

With the vast water space this competition will feature, VanDam's experience and scouting will be invaluable.