An eco-friendly bass fishing tournament that features human-powered boats and catch-and-release practices is stopping in the Roanoke Region, giving anglers a chance to explore the area's lakes and rivers.

The national 2011 River Bassin' Tournament Trail, with stops in 15 locations across the United States, will hold its finale on Sept. 10, including a celebratory wrap-up event at Roanoke County's Green Ridge Recreation Center.

This up-and-coming national tournament is drawing anglers for its unique approach. At each stop competitors fish rivers and lakes of their choice then take photos of their catch on a ruler device before releasing fish back into water. They then bring their camera's memory card to determine the winner based on a three-fish combined length. Only paddle-powered boats are allowed (kayaks, canoes, SUP, etc.). Any angler can participate in the Roanoke stop (you do not have to participate in other tournament stops).

This new twist on fishing tournaments is growing in popularity, and the Roanoke Region's pristine rivers and its reputation as a premier outdoor lifestyle region combine to make this an exciting last stop for the Bassin' Tournament.

The tournament features a lake and river division. Lake bassers can choose from Smith Mountain, Claytor, and Philpott Lakes and Carvins Cove while river anglers can choose any river within 60 miles, with the James and New rivers expected to be the most popular.

Prizes are awarded in three divisions - avid angler, casual angler and young river bassers. The avid anglers will compete in a separate tournament in Roanoke, with the top 10 anglers competing for the title "River Basser of the Year".

The tournament raises money for the ALS Foundation. Partners for the tournament include Roanoke County, the City of Roanoke, Franklin County, Botetourt County and Giles County.

Learn more about the tournament at: www.riverbassintrail.com/roanoke.