Former Tyler resident Jay Yelas set for Bass Hall of Fame induction | Sports

The Rose City can claim another Hall of Famer.

Jay Yelas, a former Tyler resident, is scheduled to be inducted into the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame on Thursday at the Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife Museum and Aquarium in Springfield, Missouri.

Yelas, who has won Bassmaster Classic champion, B.A.S.S. Angler of the Year and FLW Angler of the Year to name a few, is a member of the 2020 Class. Along with Yelas, the class includes outdoor writer Steve Bowman along with posthumous inductees pro fisherman Bryan Kerchal, fishing educator Ron Lindner and lure designer James Heddon.

After last year’s induction ceremony was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Hall of Fame will also induct the 2021 class.

Gene Gilliland (fisheries biologist), Trip Weldon (20 years as B.A.S.S. tournament director and 31 years as a Tournament Department employee) and the late Jason Lucas (instrumental in popularizing bass fishing through his writings for Sports Afield…