BY JIMMY LAWTON
North Country This Week

MASSENA — Village officials say interest in Massena’s fishing tournaments is growing following the recent success of the Major League Pro Tournament.

The recently-held tourney in Massena drew dozens of professional bass fishermen to compete for a top prize of $100,000.

The event was held June 25 and while interest from local participation at the time was decent, Massena officials said that many businesses have called since the event was held.

Officials said that as the tournament was happening and people realized it was a “big deal” there were organizations and businesses that decided they wanted to be part of future events.

Officials said they were pleased with the results of the previous tournament and excited about the upcoming event which will feature a fireworks display.

He said efforts are also underway to get a feel for the economic impact generated by the event.

The Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Fishing tournament is set to run from July 29 through Aug. 1 in Massena, launching from the Massena Intake Boat Launch at 6:30 a.m.

Weigh-ins will be held at 3 p.m. at the Intake.

Community events will coincide with the event including a kids fishing derby in Louisville at Wilson Hill Saturday, July 31, from noon to 2 p.m. and a Party at the Beach event July 31 from 6 to 9 p.m. A firework display will be held following a performance from Beatlegacy.