OKEECHOBEE — Okeechobee County will host a Bassmaster Elite Series tournament on Feb. 11-14, 2027 at the C. Scott Driver Recreation Area.

At their Nov. 5 meeting, Okeechobee County Commissioners authorized the Tourist Development Council to spend up to $70,000 to support the tournament.

TDC funding comes from the Tourism Development Tax, sometimes called the “bed tax” that is charged on motel and hotel rooms and short-term rentals. This tax revenue can only be spent on projects that promote more tourism in Okeechobee County.

Commissioner Terry Burroughs said events like the tournament, which bring people into town, generate revenue in the county as participants stay in motels or hotels, eat in local restaurants, buy fuel for their vehicles and boats and shop in local stores.

“It’s very restrictive on what we can use TDC money for,” said Commissioner Brad Goodbread. “It’s a self-feeing budget item.” The tax is paid by visitors and is used to encourage more tourists to visit.

The 2027 tournament will be the fifth time Okeechobee County has hosted the Bassmaster Elite Series. Bassmaster tournaments were held in Okeechobee in 2012, 2017, 2023, and 2025. Competitors must qualify for the series through the Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens or the B.A.S.S. Nation. Anglers who are already on the Elite Series must re-qualify each year by maintaining enough points throughout the season.

Daily tournament weigh-ins will be held at 3:30 p.m. at the C. Scott Driver Recreation Area