The plan going into the GEICO Bassmaster BASSfest presented by Choctaw Casino Resort was to have the 108 anglers of the Bassmaster Elite Series launch at the Spillway Ramp on the Texas side of the lake and motor across to East Burns Run in Oklahoma for traditional morning takeoffs.

But Mother Nature had her own plans.

The boat ramp and courtesy dock at East Burns Run are underwater due to heavy rains in the region and lake levels that are more than 9 feet above normal for this time of year. So all takeoff festivities will now be held from the Spillway Ramp near Denison Dam, with B.A.S.S. pontoon vessels taking the place of courtesy docks.

Other than that, everything is on schedule for what has become one the premiere events on the Elite Series schedule.

“We’ve had to make a few changes due to the high water,” said B.A.S.S. Tournament Director Trip Weldon. “But it’s going to work fine.

"Spectators will certainly still be welcome at the takeoffs, but they’ll need to park at the overlook area and walk down to the ramp due to very limited parking. We really appreciate everyone’s cooperation.”