One Idahoan qualifies for 2011 Bassmaster Classic

One angler from Idaho has qualified to compete in the Bassmaster Classic, slated for Feb. 18-20.

The revered competition will be held on the Louisiana Delta out of New Orleans, La., the first Classic on those waters since Hurricane Katrina and the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

"The fishery is reportedly in excellent condition, but adapting to the impacts of those events presents additional challenges for the competitors," according to a press release.

The Idaho qualifier is Brandon Palaniuk of Rathdrum.

Palaniuk is described in the release: "Trips to Classic: 1. Career earnings: $60,000. Qualified for 2011 Classic as: FNC overall champion. Member of the Panhandle Bassmasters in Idaho. Works as a heavy-equipment operator. Will fish the 2011 Elite Series as a rookie. Teamed up with fellow Idahoan Bill Golightly for practice on the Red River in the FNC."

Alabama leads all states with 10 residents in the 50-angler field. Oklahoma and Texas each have five, Arkansas four, and Florida and South Carolina each have three.