If you think fishing doesn't pay, just ask Michael Bennett. He won a $1 million in last week's Forrest Wood Cup tournament on Lake Murray.
Thursday, we learned that "fantasy fishing" can pay just as much.
Excitement builds at the Colonial Life Arena Thursday. It was all part of the "fantasy fishing" competition.
More than 122 countries partcipated by logging on to the FLW web site, hoping to hook and tackle some big bucks.
But it was 33-year-old Michael Thompson from Minnesota who hooked the big one.
"I thought I had won the Z-19," said Thompson.
The arena lured Midlands residents by giving away free food, t-shirts and a rod and reel. James Bond wants to be next year's champion.
"I'm here to watch the check giveaway for the million dollars and learn more about it so hopefully next year, they'll be calling my name out and I'll be walking on stage receiving that check," said Bond.
The final 15 from all over the United States and all walks of life were dwindled down to the bottom three. Those who didn't win didn't leave empty handed. They left with all kinds of swag, including gas cards, Wal-Mart gift certifcates and even a boat.
Thompson, a stay-at-home dad, beat out players from all over the U.S. in the luxury of his own home.
As for what Thompson plans to do with the money, he wants to pursue a career in law enforcement and says his earnings will help him do that.
"I just can't believe this has happened and my wife and I will be able to do a lot of things we've talked about and hopefully this money is a start," said Thompson.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forWACH