Not that long ago freshwater fishing was a sport enjoyed by individuals, families or maybe a few friends, with competition limited to friendly rivalries. Competitive bass tournaments brought a new element to fishing, and spawned a new industry of specialty boats and gear — even launching some of the most successful fishermen to levels of minor celebrity.

But bass aren’t the only fish in the lake, and a couple of guys from Childersburg are doing their part to see that catfish get the respect they deserve in Alabama — and see that Alabama catfish get their due on the national stage.

Josh Blankenship organized the Grizzly Trail catfish tournament series on Alabama waters after having to travel to other states to compete. Now he, Barry Hagan, Steve Douglas and Matthew Meeks have a new project in mind.

The American ProCatters Monsters of Logan Martin tournament is coming up Fathers’ Day weekend, based at Clear Creek Marina.

They expected 40 entrants, but already have 70, and they’re holding a drawing for a boat and trailer for a fan, so they’re hoping folks will come out to see the action. Competitors head out at 6 a.m. Friday and Saturday and have until 3 p.m. to return for the weigh-in. Scales open at noon each day.

Blankenship says this is an opportunity to put Talladega County and Childersburg on the map for catfish. That’s the hope and the dream for these fishermen. A dream with whiskers on it.