By Thomas Grant Jr.
Competitive fishing, live entertainment, and a run for a healthy cause highlight this weekend’s Tedy’s Team Bassmaster Elite at Lake Murray.
The tournament begins Thursday and runs through Sunday, with anglers launching daily from Dreher Island State Park before returning for afternoon weigh-ins. Organizers expect participation and attendance to surpass 2024 numbers.
“The fishery is really, really good; it’s on a big upturn, and every year the weights keep getting higher and higher,” said J.T. Thompkins, who finished third in last year’s event. “We’re hitting it at a pretty good time in terms of being entertaining. There’s going to be a lot of topwater and a lot of schooling activity.”
For its return to Lake Murray, Bassmaster has partnered with the Tedy’s Team Foundation as title sponsor. The organization was co-founded by former NFL linebacker, three-time Super Bowl champion, and stroke survivor Tedy Bruschi and his wife, Heidi Bruschi. Its mission focuses on raising awareness, supporting stroke survivors, and promoting education on prevention and recovery.
At 10 a.m. Saturday, the “Run to the Weigh-In 5K” will take place at Dreher Island State Park. The event features a 5K run/walk through the park, with a virtual participation option also available. A raffle will accompany the race, with all proceeds benefiting Tedy’s Team and its stroke awareness initiatives. May is recognized as Stroke Awareness Month.
Anglers, fans, and attendees are encouraged to wear red on one day of the tournament in support of stroke awareness and those affected.
Additional festivities include live music from The Millhands, food vendors, and a free, family-friendly expo scheduled from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday.
For more information or to register, visit Lake Murray Country.
