SHELBY, North Carolina – Bassmaster Elite Series pro Matt Arey is taking a medical hardship and will forgo the remainder of the 2026 Bassmaster Elite Series season after being diagnosed with Lymphoma, a type of blood cancer in the lymphatic system.

The North Carolina native received this diagnosis last week upon returning home from the Arkansas River Elite Series event after undergoing a myriad of tests, doctor visits, and a surgical biopsy. Matt, his wife Emily, and two daughters await full pathology results, but have opted to step away from competition to focus on his health.

“Trust me, I’d like nothing more than to keep fishing and build on what’s been a good season thus far but being here to watch my girls grow up means more to me than anything,” Arey said. “I thought about my family and did not hesitate to put fishing in the back seat and pour all my energy and effort into fighting this disease.

“Lymphoma is treatable and curable. We’re hopeful and ready to get treatments underway. I have incredible support from my faith, my family, my sponsors and fans, and I have a great team of doctors in my corner. I’m focused on getting healthy right now, but I’m already looking forward to getting back to the sport I love and competing on the Elite Series in 2027.”

Signs of concern began when Arey started experiencing night sweats just six weeks ago. Right before he left for Muskogee, OK, Arey noticed he had lost close to ten pounds since the last time he stepped on a scale. This prompted Arey to make a doctor’s appointment for his return from the Arkansas River.

While he jokes that he’s, “not an Instagram model”, the 45-year-old father of two has always been in shape and a healthy person. Arey lives an active lifestyle and has maintained his physical fitness through regular exercise and watching what he eats.

He’s also been consistent with regular visits to his primary care physician, every six months. Arey deals with high blood pressure and just had a CBC (Complete Blood Count) blood test last November, which came back perfectly normal.  Arey provided these details for educational purposes, so people are aware of just how fast things can happen.

“If you are reading this, please, pay attention to your body,” Arey advised. “Like my case suggests, things can happen fast. I have buddies who almost brag about having not been to the doctors in five years. I know as men sometimes there is the urge to be ‘tough’ and stubborn, but I’m telling y’all… it’s not worth it. Prioritize your health and get regular checkups with your doctor.”

Approximately 40% of Americans will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, with far more being affected by the disease in some capacity.

Arey using his circumstance as a warning to help others comes as no surprise to those who know him. Matt Arey is as good of a human being as you will find. He’s built a reputation amongst his peers, sponsors, and fans for not only his angling abilities, but his integrity and character both on and off the water.

Arey’s good nature, humor, and positive outlook make a lasting impression on every person he meets.  While Arey faces a challenging road ahead, he won’t face it alone. He’s surrounded by an incredibly supportive family and backed by his partners. Arey has earned the respect and admiration of the entire fishing community throughout his career.

The Arey family welcomes prayers and positivity. Arey will provide updates on his journey as appropriate, with appreciation for privacy as he and his family navigate the road ahead.