Alabama Bass Trail's North Division Tournament Returns to Wheeler Lake This Weekend!
Lillie Beth Warner • April 26, 2024
Don't miss the Alabama Bass Trail Tournament Series on Wheeler Lake on April 27th!
Gear up, anglers! The Alabama Bass Trail's North Division is set to ignite the waters of Wheeler Lake in Decatur on April 27th, 2024. Hosted by Decatur Morgan County Tourism, this anticipated event promises a thrilling showcase of angling prowess as 450 skilled amateur anglers compete for the prestigious top prize of $15,000.
As a sanctioned event by the renowned B.A.S.S. (Bass Anglers Sportsman Society), the ABT Tournament Series features two divisions, North and South, each boasting five tournaments across five different lakes. With a packed house of 225 boats, registration for the Wheeler Lake event is already at full capacity, drawing anglers from across the southeastern United States eager to demonstrate their fishing skills.
The action kicks off bright and early with takeoff at 6:00 a.m. from Ingalls Harbor, located at 802-A Wilson Street NW in Decatur. The excitement peaks at 2:30 p.m. with the eagerly awaited weigh-in. Both takeoff and weigh-ins are free and open to the public, inviting spectators to bring their own portable chairs and soak in the tournament's results.
Competitors will be battling it out for substantial cash prizes, with the first-place winner guaranteed a hefty $15,000. In total, payouts amount to $64,450.00 distributed across 40 places, ensuring fierce competition and thrilling outcomes.
Here's the breakdown of the payout schedule:
- First Place: $15,000
- Second Place: $7,500
- Third Place: $6,000
- Fourth Place: $4,000
- Fifth Place: $3,000
- Sixth Place: $2,000
- Seventh Place: $1,300
- Eighth Place: $1,300
- Ninth Place: $1,300
- Tenth Place: $1,300
- 11th – 15th Place: $1,000 each
- 16th – 25th Place: $750 each
- 26th – 30th Place: $600 each
- 31st – 40th Place: $500 each
- Big Fish Award: $1,000
- ABT Gear: $250
Did you know that Decatur offers a mile a Christmas magic and memories? Check out the Merry Mile!
There’s something undeniably special about Christmas in a small town. The streets come alive with twinkling lights, the sound of cheerful carols fills the air, and the community gathers together to celebrate the magic of the season. Few traditions capture that feeling quite like a Christmas parade. Across Morgan County, our towns roll out the holiday spirit with beloved parades featuring brightly decorated floats, festive music, and of course—a visit from Santa Claus himself. These annual celebrations mark the start of the holiday season, spreading joy and togetherness to all who attend. Here’s a look at this year’s lineup of Christmas parades throughout Morgan County: Trinity Christmas Parade Saturday, December 6th at 10:00 AM Start your day with holiday spirit as the Trinity community lines the streets for a morning of fun, family, and festive floats. Priceville’s Annual Shelia Smith Christmas Parade Saturday, December 6th at 3:00 PM Presented by the City of Priceville Parks and Recreation Department, this cherished tradition honors the late Shelia Smith and her legacy of community pride. Eva Christmas Parade Saturday, December 8th at 7:00 PM Bundle up and enjoy the twinkle of lights at night as Eva’s Christmas parade rolls through town—an event that always delights both kids and adults. Decatur’s “Lights, Camera, Christmas” Parade Monday, December 8th at 6:00 PM Hosted by the Young Professionals of Decatur, this year’s theme brings the magic of the movies to life! Expect creative floats, bright lights, and plenty of cinematic holiday flair. Falkville Christmas Parade Tuesday, December 9th at 3:00 PM This afternoon parade is packed with small-town charm, classic cars, and festive community spirit. Hartselle Christmas Parade Thursday, December 11th at 7:00 PM Presented by the Kiwanis Club of Hartselle, this beloved parade is one of the county’s largest, drawing visitors from near and far to celebrate under the glow of holiday lights. From morning marches to sparkling evening parades, each celebration showcases the heart and hospitality of Morgan County. Gather your family, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and make your way to one—or all—of these festive parades. There’s no better way to kick off the holiday season than right here at home.
Looking to make spooky memories this fall? Check out all the ways to celebrate the season throughout Decatur-Morgan County!
Big news for country music fans: Rock the South, one of the South’s most beloved music festivals, is making a major move. Beginning in 2026 , the three-day summer tradition will take place at its brand-new, permanent home— The Fields at Decatur —from June 11–13, 2026 . For more than 14 years, Rock the South has grown into a can’t-miss event, drawing fans from across the region to celebrate music, community, and Southern culture. Now, with its move to Decatur (just south of Huntsville and an hour from Birmingham), the festival is stepping into a bold new chapter. This relocation marks the first time Peachtree Entertainment—the team behind Rock the South—will fully own its festival grounds. That means long-term investments to enhance comfort, convenience, and fan experiences for years to come. The new site promises: 150+ acres of usable space for easy flow and bigger crowds. Expanded campgrounds with engineered drainage, designed to keep the fun going rain or shine. More shade and cooling zones to beat the Alabama heat. A reimagined VIP area plus new fan hangout spaces. A second stage presented by Raised Rowdy , doubling the music and energy. Nathan Baugh, CEO of Peachtree Entertainment, summed it up: “Rock the South has always been about more than music; it’s about tradition, community, and celebrating the South at its best. The Fields at Decatur gives us the space to do it right—and to make even bigger moments than ever before.”
Ninety-nine of the nation’s top high school anglers gathered in Decatur!
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