There were kudos all around as the Wood County Economic Development Commission (WCEDC) reviewed the success of the recent Bassmasters fishing tournament on Lake Fork Feb. 29-March 2.

Executive Director Christine Thomas noted there were good crowds for the four-day event held at Sabine River Authority’s (SRA)  Caney Point Recreation Area just north of the Lake Fork bridge on the west side of Hwy. 154.

Crowds were especially heavy for the Lake Fork Family Festival held on Saturday and Sunday, March 2-3.

The WCEDC partnered with the SRA and the Quitman Pilot Club to put on the festival.

She gave an attendance figure of 10,277 with an estimated economic impact of almost $3 million – for an investment of $21,731 in marketing expense.

The fishing was also good, with the top 10 anglers hitting the 100-pound mark for the four days of fishing.

WCEDC had concentrated efforts on marketing the event in the region, which resulted in Bassmasters reporting record number of people watching the event online from afar as well.

Thomas said vendors reported good sales.

The board also reviewed the strategic plan roll out.

Thomas recommended the board take on 2-3 projects per year based on the recommendations from the plan.

Targeted areas include airport development. workforce development, infrastructure and affordable housing.

The board discussed aligning various communication channels, like WCEDC’s two websites and the county website, to make information about the county easier to access.