BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. is excited to announce that FXR®, a leading performance apparel brand for anglers and outdoor athletes, will serve as the title sponsor of the 2026 Bassmaster Elite at Lake Guntersville, the season-opening event of the 2026 Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series.

Lake Guntersville, one of the most storied fisheries in tournament bass fishing, will provide the backdrop as the world’s best anglers launch their new season. The February event is expected to draw massive crowds and intense competition as pros return to one of the Tennessee River’s most dynamic and productive bass fisheries.

FXR has built a strong reputation for designing high-performance outerwear engineered for extreme climates, making the brand an increasingly popular choice among anglers who demand durability, warmth and mobility on the water. With deep roots in motorsports, action sports and outdoor recreation, FXR has expanded aggressively into competitive fishing, developing apparel built to withstand long days, changing weather and the fast-paced environment of tournament competition. Their commitment to technical innovation aligns closely with the needs of Elite Series anglers and the expectations of Bassmaster fans.

“This event checks all the boxes for us — it’s high energy, highly competitive and sets the tone for the entire season, just like our brand,” said Chris Meyeraan, Pro Fish Brand Director at FXR. “We’re proud to partner with B.A.S.S. on a marquee event that showcases the passion, preparation and performance that define both competitive fishing and FXR gear.”

As title sponsor, FXR will bring enhanced on-site presence, digital integration and angler-focused engagement opportunities to one of the year’s most anticipated tournaments. Guntersville’s early-season conditions make high-quality performance gear essential, offering FXR a natural environment to highlight its products in action.

“FXR’s dedication to innovation and performance makes them an ideal partner for an event as iconic as the season opener on Lake Guntersville,” said Phillip Johnson, Chief Operating Officer of B.A.S.S. “Their gear is trusted by anglers who require comfort and reliability on the water, and we’re excited to welcome them as a title sponsor for a tournament that will set the pace for another incredible Elite Series season.”

 

The 2026 FXR Bassmaster Elite at Lake Guntersville, to be held Feb. 5-8, will kick off a full slate of Elite Series tournaments across the country, with fans able to follow every moment through Bassmaster LIVE on Bassmaster.com, FS1 and the FOX Sports digital platforms.

 

About FXR
FXR is a leader in high-performance apparel, designed for anglers who demand the best in quality, durability and comfort. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, FXR continues to be a trusted name in the fishing community.

 

About B.A.S.S.

B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.

The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.