[mickey]

World-class theme parks and attractions are not the only reasons for visiting Walt Disney World Resort. There's fishing, too, with trophy-sized largemouth bass in the 14- pound range lurking in lakes and canals almost within casting distance of Cinderella Castle. Popular "catch and release" experiences around the Vacation Kingdom promise to "lure" even more guests to the Disney lakes, as Walt Disney World announced a new line-up of BASS fishing excursions with the nation's preeminent authority on the sport of fishing.

From true beginners to expert anglers, thousands of Walt Disney World guests annually participate in fishing excursions on Bay Lake, Seven Seas Lagoon and other Disney waterways. New BASS excursions will provide guests with access to 100 new Bassmaster rods and reels, as well as depth finders and other professional-grade fishing equipment. Disney's experienced guide staff will sport BASS uniforms and apparel, and the fleet of Disney boats and marina menu boards will also be adorned with BASS marks.

In addition to having access to some of the industry's best equipment, exceptional guides and Disney's stocked lakes, all BASS fishing participants at Walt Disney World will receive a one-year BASS membership, which includes: 11 issues of Bassmaster Magazine; a membership pack with a personalized membership card, colorful members-only decal, an embroidered patch and member handbook; free Gear Giveaways; a Boat Theft Reward; information on local BASS chapters; eligibility to compete in national events; and other exciting special discounts and benefits.

"From children to adults, everyone who picks up a rod and reel at Walt Disney World should enjoy an authentic, exhilarating fishing experience, and this relationship with BASS will help ensure that," said Reggie Williams, vice president of Disney Sports Attractions. "As guests learn more about the exciting sport of bass fishing through our new BASS excursions, they are sure to be hooked for the rest of their lives."

"This is a great way to promote BASS memberships as well as some of the finest bass fishing the country has to offer, which just happens to be in the shadow of the Magic Kingdom," said Dean Kessel, vice president and general manager of BASS. "I can't think of a better way to bring in new members while showcasing the mutual commitment to family activities and fishing education shared by BASS and Walt Disney World. It will also mean a lot to our existing membership that we have a presence at a respected, family-friendly vacation destination."

The new BASS programs will also bring many of the world's best anglers to Walt Disney World Resort for BASS anglers special events and athlete appearances featuring the likes of 2003 Bassmaster Classic champion Mike Iaconelli, who has fished the Disney lakes on multiple occasions. Iaconelli also served as an unofficial BASS ambassador by presenting a trophy to members of the Atlanta Braves following the inaugural Walt Disney World Spring Training Bass Fishing Classic on Disney's Bay Lake in March 2004.

Walt Disney World Resort

Guests with little or no fishing experience can enjoy the thrill of guided BASS fishing excursions on the waterway systems at Walt Disney World Resort, including World Showcase Lagoon, Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon. Two-hour "catch-and-release" tours led by experienced fishing guides are offered daily on an advance-reservation basis. Pontoon boats are fully stocked for excursions with rods, reels, fishing gear, beverages and a digital camera. A party of up to five people can participate in tours and no fishing license is required. Prices range from $195-$215 for parties of five, and typical tour hours can be arranged for early morning, mid-morning or early afternoon. Guests can make reservations up to two weeks in advance at 407/WDW-BASS (2277). General BASS tours are also available for children, ages six to 12, for $30 per child for one hour.

During construction of the Magic Kingdom theme park in the late 1960s, more than 70,000 bass fingerlings were released into Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon. Organized fishing tours didn't start at Walt Disney World Resort until 1977, leaving bass to grow and breed undisturbed for years. The heaviest largemouth bass caught and recorded at the Vacation Kingdom was 14 pounds, 6 ounces. Guests routinely catch bass weighing from 2 to 8 pounds -- and guides relate tales of catches in the 12-pound range. Most trips catch five to 10 fish, depending upon time of day, number of people on board ... and luck.

BASS fishing excursions are part of the menu of options available in various Dream Maker Packages at Walt Disney World Resort, which start at $359 per adult (based on double occupancy) for three nights. Guided fishing excursions can be booked at 407/WDW-BASS (2277).

BASS

BASS is the world's largest fishing organization, sanctioning more than 20,000 tournaments worldwide through its Federation. The Bassmaster Tournament Trail, which includes the all-new Bassmaster Elite 50 series, is the oldest and most prestigious pro bass fishing tournament circuit and continues to set the standard for credibility, professionalism and sportsmanship as it has since 1968.

[chris5568]

What about catfish, my husband is a avid fisherman, but love to fish for catfish, Blues and flathead. Does anyone know of a place near WDW, to catch these fish, 30-40 lbs.