Cochran Enters the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame

   The Bass Fishing Hall of Fame will induct a few select pros into its ranks at the 2004 Classic, and 7-time BASS winner and two-time Classic champion George Cochran will be among them. At the time of this interview, the inductee was turkey hunting, and was answering questions via cell phone (which frequently cut out).

   "I’m real honored to be inducted," he said over an uncooperative phone. "I’ve spent a lifetime doing what I want to do and it’s finally paid off." Cochran seemed very appreciative at his induction: "Being in the Hall of Fame is probably the biggest honor I’ve ever had."

   Most inductees are older than Cochran when they enter the Hall of Fame, and he had some comments on that topic: "I’m 53 and I feel like I have a few good years left in fishing," he commented. "I’ve won 7 Bassmaster tournaments and 2 Classics; I’ve gotten more press than I’ve ever had (since his induction). It (his career) feels like it’s gone by fast; I feel good and I feel like I could compete for at least another 5-6 years."

   Since Cochran discovered that he was to be inducted, it has motivated him to try harder than every before. It’s such a big honor that I think it will make me fish harder than I ever have," he said.

Special thanks is due to George Cochran for taking the time to be interviewed.

By Brandon Shook