Bass catchers and fans of the sport have seemingly developed a strong affinity for Lake Murray.

The waters at Dreher Island State Park in Prosperity are filled with the popular species and has made it attractive for fishermen throughout the world. With over 650 miles of shoreline and over 12 species of fish including largemouth bass and striper, Lake Murray attracts many visitors for recreation and tourism along its shores.

“We are known for great bass fishing and the wonderful facilities that we have at Dreher Island State Park,” said Miriam Atria, President/CEO of Capital City Lake Murray Country.

The Phoenix Bass Fishing Regional Championship, presented by T-H Marine, scheduled for Oct. 6-8, is one of three events planned over the next seven months. Sponsored by the Capital City Lake Murray Country Regional Tourism Board, the three-day regional championship will feature over 45 boaters and co-anglers plus tournament winners in four divisions competing for $60,000 and a Phoenix 819 Pro Bass boat.

The highest finishing boater from each division will also receive a $1,000 bonus and the highest finishing co-angler from each division will receive a $500 bonus. Winners will be determined by the heaviest three-day catch.

Mabel expects the event to draw between 1,800 to 2,500 spectators. She also wanted to make clear all of the bass fish caught during the tournament are not weighed in unless they are alive and safety returned to the waters using special oxygen tanks.

Fans are welcome to attend the event or follow the action online through the “MLF Live” weigh-in broadcasts at MajorLeagueFishing.com.

Following the Phoenix event, The United States Angling Confederation and Capital City Lake Murray Country will hold the 2022 16th Annual Black Bass World Championship. The weeklong event starting Oct. 16 will feature fisherman from over 25 countries and Day One of the event which is Young Angling Day is free for children of all ages accompanied by an adult.

In addition to the contest, fans will get to hear music from an up-and-coming South Carolina country artist. On Oct. 21, Ridge Spring native Cody Webb will perform during the weigh-in at Dreher Island State Park.

In 2023, the Berkley South Carolina Big Bass Classic, presented by Lake Murray Country, will take place April 28-30. For more information on all events at Lake Murray, visit lakemurraycountry.com.