Alabama Angler Wins Bassmaster Classic

Sunday, February 25th 2007, 9:13 pm

By: News On 6

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) Boyd Duckett became the first angler in Bassmaster Classic history to win the title in his home state, taking the $500,000 top prize by 6 ounces Sunday with a three-day total of 48 pounds, 10 ounces.

The 46-year-old Duckett, from Demopolis, had the final round's biggest five-bass limit -- 17 pounds, 13 ounces -- to climb from fourth place at Lay Lake.

"I'm so proud I brought the Classic title to my home state," Duckett said. "It's every angler's dream to be able to get here and to win it is just fantastic."

Skeet Reese of Aubun, Calif., finished second.

"Second hurts. It really does," Reese said.

Second-round leader Kevin VanDam of Kalamazoo, Mich., was third at 45-4.