ECEDA to Host Inaugural National Crappie League Tournament

ELMORE COUNTY, AL – On Saturday, March 4^th, and Sunday, March 5^th, the Elmore County Economic Development Authority (ECEDA) will host the National Crappie League (NCL) for its inaugural season and the first time in Elmore County. Approximately 60 two-person teams from all over the U.S. will compete on the Alabama River in this Open Division tournament. The City of Millbrook is hosting the welcome and rules meeting on Friday, March 3^rd at the Millbrook Civic Center. On Saturday and Sunday, boats will launch from Cooter’s Pond at first safe light. The public is invited to attend weigh-ins and award ceremonies at Cooter’s Pond Park beginning around 1:30 PM each day.

“We are excited that Elmore County has been selected to host an NCL tournament for its inaugural season,” said Elmore County Commission Chairman Bart Mercer. “We welcome the opportunity to share the beautiful Alabama River with these anglers and for them to experience one of the premier fishing venues in the country.”

Millbrook Mayor Al Kelley said, “I’m excited that Millbrook is serving as a host city for NCL and that these visitors can enjoy our great river, the City of Millbrook, and the surrounding region. I wish all of the anglers a safe and productive tournament and I hope to see them and their families in Millbrook again next year.”

“ECEDA is honored to partner with NCL and its efforts to promote our great crappie fishing,” ECEDA Executive Director Lisa Van Wagner said. “The economic impact of hosting a national tournament is tremendous to Elmore County and the entire River Region. We look forward to NCL’s return trip to enjoy our rivers and lakes and everything that Elmore County has to offer”.

The mission of NCL is to create a crappie tournament trail that supports competitive crappie fishing for all anglers, whether a weekend angler or a seasoned pro, where all have a chance to compete at the National Championship level. Anglers will compete for cash, prizes, and an opportunity to qualify for the NCL National Championship in March of 2024. This event has a guaranteed minimum payback of $20,000 and the Big Fish prize pays $1,000. The highest-placing senior, adult/youth, and male/female team will be awarded as well.

For more information contact:
Lisa Van Wagner
Elmore County Economic Development Authority
(334) 312-6886