Ogdensburg and Waddington will split $37,500 from the state to help support bass tournaments.

Waddington will receive $20,000 for Bassmaster Elite and Ogdensburg will get $17,500 for Junior Bassmasters.

Waddington Mayor Janet Otto-Casada said the cash will help us continue to market the St. Lawrence River as one of the premier fishing destinations for large and small tournaments, including the Bassmasters Elite 2017, which we will host in July.”

The tournament drew thousands of visitors and national sports media to the town in the summer of 2013.

“No matter the season, the Central and Northern New York regions offer top-notch opportunities for anglers to reel in their next big catch,” said Senator Patty Ritchie, R-Heuvelton, who announced the funding. “Not only that, our region’s fishing industry also provides a big economic boost, attracting tourists to our area, helping to support small businesses and creating jobs. I am pleased to be able to provide this funding, which will help spread the word about our local tournaments and attract more anglers to our region.”