For Immediate Release
The CopperState Tackle Limited Team Open, originally scheduled for Orange Lake, has officially been relocated to Lake Rousseau following continued low-water conditions across the Orange Lake basin.
Tournament officials announced the venue change after ongoing dry weather and declining water levels created concerns regarding safe access, fishability, and tournament logistics heading into the event. While the newly constructed Heagy-Burry Boat Ramp is expected to remain open, current forecasts and water conditions show little improvement expected before tournament week.
“My hope was that there would be enough water to safely access Orange Lake once the Heagy-Burry Boat Ramp was completed and opened. The timeline for the ramp opening appeared to work in our favor,” said Brian Stahl, President of Xtreme Bass Series. “Unfortunately, Mother Nature had other plans.”
Water levels at Orange Lake continue to decline as dry conditions persist across the region.
“Anglers competing in the upcoming Major League Fishing Heavy Hitters event will likely still be able to access the lake thanks to the efforts of Marion County,” Stahl continued. “Their format creates a logistical advantage compared to a traditional team tournament. Any event requiring a standard weigh-in would face significant operational challenges on Orange Lake under the current conditions. At the present water levels, it simply would not be manageable.”
Known for a healthy largemouth bass population and unique river-reservoir layout, Lake Rousseau has long been considered one of Florida’s most underrated bass fisheries. Located along the Withlacoochee River system in west-central Florida, Rousseau features a diverse mix of shallow vegetation, submerged timber, river current, and offshore structure that consistently produces quality catches throughout the year. The fishery is especially popular among tournament anglers for its strong numbers of keeper-sized bass and the potential for heavyweight limits, making it a perfect option to replace Orange Lake for the CopperState Tackle Limited Team Open.
The tournament will take place on Saturday, May 30th at the Lake Rousseau Dam & Recreational Area, located at 10905 W Riverwood Dr, Crystal River, FL 34428.
Registration for the event remains open and is limited to the first 60 teams. The registration deadline is Tuesday, May 26, with no additional entries accepted after the deadline regardless of field size.
A full field of 60 teams will generate a $30,000 payout, including $10,000 awarded to the winning team. The top 15 teams will earn invitations to the CopperState Tackle Limited Team Open Championship at Lake Seminole in Bainbridge, where anglers will compete for a guaranteed $20,000 first-place prize.
For complete tournament details or to register, visit www.XtremeBassSeries.com/limited-open/
To place your next order for tackle, visit www.CopperStateFlorida.com
