Flooding at Smith Lake Park in Cullman, Ala., has prompted B.A.S.S. to move the Carhartt Bassmaster College Series at Lewis Smith Lake presented by Bass Pro Shops to May 14-15, 2021.

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Heavy spring rains across central Alabama have caused water levels to soar, prompting B.A.S.S. and officials with local hosts at the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce to postpone the Carhartt Bassmaster College Series at Lewis Smith Lake presented by Bass Pro Shops until May 14-15, 2021.

“Safety is always our top priority for anglers, Bassmaster staff and local volunteers. It is disappointing any time you have to move a tournament, but it is especially important when college anglers are taking time away from their studies to compete that we respect that time,” said College Series Senior Manager Hank Weldon. “These waters should return to normal levels soon, and we’re thankful to have found a date in May to ensure this event is rescheduled quickly.”

According to Alabama Power Company, Lewis Smith Lake is not expected to fall to summer pool until mid-April and the forecast is calling for additional rainfall. The ramp and surrounding areas where the tournament was to take place are currently flooded after lake levels reached over 521 feet last week. Smith Dam does not have spillway gates or floodgates but does have a natural spillway designed to allow the lake to overflow safely when it reaches an elevation of 522 feet.

All payments will be transferred to the new tournament date. Any teams who wish to cancel their tournament registration may email the B.A.S.S. tournament department at [email protected] for a refund.

Flooding in the area also prompted officials to postpone the Basspro.com Bassmaster Central Open at Lewis Smith Lake until Oct. 7-9, 2021.