High hopes in low water defines outlook for Bassmaster Open at Sam Rayburn
JASPER, Texas — Some of what Sam Rayburn normally has to offer will not be available during the Turtlebox Bassmaster Open at Sam Rayburn Reservoir presented by Battery Tender. However, local pro Keith Combs said that what remains should be more than enough to fuel an exciting East Texas showdown.
Competition days will be February 19-21 with daily takeoffs from Umphrey Family Pavilion at 7 a.m. CT and weigh-ins each day at the same location at 3 p.m.
Combs, the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series veteran from Huntington, Texas has guided on Rayburn for about a decade, but he’s fished the lake competitively and recreationally for 35 years. Combs is not fishing this year’s event, but he won the 2022 Bassmaster Central Open on Sam Rayburn, so he knows this 114,500-acre Angelina River reservoir’s tendencies.
Most notable, he said, is the water level. About a week before the tournament, Rayburn stood at 155.06 feet, nearly 9 1/2 feet below full pool.
“I’ve never seen the lake this low in February,” Combs said. “Looking back, 1996 was the only time I’ve seen it not in the bushes in February. It’s gonna be a totally different Rayburn because there’s a lack of shallow vegetation due to the water level.”
On the upside, the lake’s shrunken playing field takes a lot of area out of the picture. Combs said he believes this could deliver great opportunities.
“You’re taking a massive lake and making it much smaller, so there’s gonna be a lot more concentrations of fish,” he said. “I think that’s gonna be the key, if someone gets around a concentration of fish.”
Notably, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Division 1 and Division 2 will both include two events with forward facing sonar and two without. Sam Rayburn, the first event of Division 2, will allow anglers to use this technology.
“Anglers will have to use forward facing sonar to catch fish just because of the way they’re gonna have to set up,” Combs said. “You’re not gonna have fish in patchy grass. There’s a couple of areas where that could play, but not for the win.”
Combs predicts deeper offshore patterns will dominate the event. Big main-lake points are popular late winter spots, while other fish will be relating to shad schools in drains and channels.
Rayburn has a lot of standing timber, especially in its shallower upper end, and Combs believes this habitat feature also could come into play.
“I think there will be a lot of fish suspended in the timber,” he said. “Maybe not big groups of fish, but big single fish. I think that could be the way to go.”
For the deep points, crankbaits, swimbaits, jighead minnows and Carolina rigs typically excel, while jerkbaits and jighead minnows do the job for those shad chasers. The latter two will also deliver in the timber.
Weather always factors into fishing tournament outcomes, but Combs notes a couple of particular points that could impact Rayburn. Probably the most significant detail will be the daytime highs in the upper 70s the week before the event and much of the tournament week.
“The main body of the lake has very good color to it,” he said. “We’ve had some recent rains, so the upper portions of the creek arms are going to be stained. Also, the warm weather is gonna make some fish move up shallow, especially into some of those stained areas.
“By the time the tournament starts, the water temperature will be in the 60s and there definitely will be some fish caught in that shallow mud. I don’t see that being the winning pattern, but I can see a good finish coming that way."
While Rayburn occasionally sees early spawners bedding in February, Combs does not anticipate seeing anglers spending any significant time on such pursuits. Rather, he believes the year’s weather patterns will set up well for a prespawn scenario.
“We had a pretty mild winter, then back-to-back major cold fronts, but the water temperatures stayed pretty warm,” Combs said. “The week before the event will warm up the surface and the shallow water big time. I really do think there will be a big prespawn push.”
Combs isn’t ruling out the winter patterns, but with the week’s warming conditions, he’s expecting a shallower movement. That being said, anglers taking a contrarian approach could surge ahead of the field.
“There will be some big groups of big wintertime fish that are just out in the lake’s main body,” Combs said. “If somebody can find those, then they’re gonna have an advantage, because most people are going to look in that mid-range. They’ll be able to find some prespawn fish in that midrange, but they’ll be dealing with other people pressuring those fish as well.”
Good news is the entire lake should be in play. By contrast, years where Rayburn’s water level remains closer to normal and the grass flourishes, often find small stretches delivering most of the bites. This year, Combs believes the win could come from practically anywhere.
Offering a leaderboard outlook, Combs predicts it will take a two-day total of at least 40 pounds to reach Championship Saturday. His prediction for the winning weight — 74 pounds.
“The lake is fishing extremely good,” Combs said. “It’s been some of the best fishing we’ve had in the last 10 years.”
Jasper Development District No. 1 is hosting this event.
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
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2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
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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.
AREY CARRIES GUNTERSVILLE MOMENTUM INTO TACTICAL TEST AT LAKE MARTIN
Courtesy of Dynamic Sponsorships
Momentum is a funny thing in professional bass fishing. It can’t be measured in ounces or entered into BASSTrakk but the anglers know exactly what it feels like.
For Team Toyota pro Matt Arey, that feeling rode shotgun as the Bassmaster Elite Series rolled into Lake Martin.
Arey is coming off a 21st-place finish at Lake Guntersville, a tournament that tested the field with bitter cold and stingy bites. It wasn’t a headline-grabbing Top 10 but in a sport where confidence can swing as wildly as a crankbait, it was a steadying performance. And one he believes can carry forward into the clear waters of this Alabama highland reservoir.
“I ended up finishing in 21st place on Guntersville,” Arey said. “The first day of practice there was probably the coldest I’ve ever been. The fish I ended up catching during the tournament, I found on that super-cold day. 13 of the 15 fish I weighed were caught on a jerkbait. It was an old-school bite, really. I’d jerk it a few times and have to wait 8 or so seconds to get a bite.”
That patience defined his week. Guntersville, famous for its expansive grass flats and ledges, demanded a throwback approach. Arey leaned into it. He targeted subtle irregularities.
“I was really focusing on drains and turns in the grass,” he said. “Open areas in the grass were key, obviously, so my treble hooks wouldn’t get tangled up in the vegetation.”
It wasn’t flashy. It wasn’t fast. It was methodical and rooted in experience. More importantly, it was instinctive.
“It was so nice letting the fish dictate everything,” Arey said. “Getting back to gut instincts, intuition and instinct was a lot of fun. I can’t overstate that.”
In a modern Elite Series field loaded with forward-facing sonar, high-definition mapping and real-time data, that kind of seat-of-the-pants fishing can feel almost rebellious. It reminded Arey why he started chasing bass for a living in the first place.
Now the tour shifts southeast to Lake Martin, a sprawling Coosa River impoundment known for its spotted bass, clear water and scenic shorelines dotted with docks and deep pockets. If Guntersville was a test of endurance and patience, Martin promises to be a thinking man’s lake.
“As far as Lake Martin goes, it’s slap-full of bass,” Arey said. “You can catch a bass just about anywhere, but 2-pounders are an absolute premium. If you look at all the BFL tournaments here lately, normally 13 to 15 pounds wins in a one-day tournament.”
That statistic alone tells the story.
Lake Martin isn’t a place where anglers typically stack 20-pound bags. Limits are common; quality is not. In many ways, it’s a grinder’s paradise.
“If you catch 7 1/2 to 9 pounds per day here, you’re going to have a great day,” Arey said.
In Elite Series competition, where five-bass limits and cumulative weights rule the week, that reality forces anglers to recalibrate expectations. A single 3-pounder can swing dozens of places in the standings. A lost fish can haunt a competitor long after weigh-in.
“A few folks are going to catch a big largemouth in the 5-pound range and that’s going to carry their weight for the tournament,” Arey said.
That wildcard, a kicker largemouth lurking around a dock, seawall or shallow brush pile, could separate the contenders from the rest of the pack. While Martin is known for its spotted bass, those green-backed largemouth still have the power to tilt the scales.
For Arey, the lake’s personality feels familiar.
“This lake reminds me a lot of Lake Hartwell and Lake Norman,” he said. “It’s a fantastic pattern lake. But don’t be mistaken, forward-facing sonar is going to change a lot of stuff. It will spread the lake out, which is a good thing. This lake has a lot of shoreline with a lot of fingers to it, so I don’t expect a bunch of anglers to be on top of each other.”
Hartwell. Norman. Both are Carolina fisheries where Arey has logged countless hours. Clear water. Spotted bass. Docks. Points. The kind of places where reading subtle clues like bait movement, wind direction and water clarity shifts can unlock a productive stretch.
On those lakes, patterns tend to develop in layers. Lake Martin offers similar possibilities, but modern electronics will undoubtedly influence how competitors break it down. Forward-facing sonar has become a dominant tool, allowing anglers to target individual fish in real time.
Arey isn’t blind to that evolution.
“I’ll be fishing with a lot of spinning gear in this event,” he said. “I’m very well versed when it comes to finesse fishing but the thing I have to remember is, a lot of other competitors are also very good at this type of fishing.”
That acknowledgment reflects the razor-thin margins at the Elite level. There are no secrets about finesse tactics anymore. Drop shots, shaky heads and small swimbaits on spinning rods are standard issue on lakes like Martin. The difference often comes down to execution. Boat positioning, line management and decision making under pressure.
It also comes back to momentum.
A 21st-place finish may not earn a trophy, but it builds rhythm. It reinforces decision-making. It reminds an angler that he can adjust when conditions turn harsh and the bite gets tough.
At Lake Martin, where 2-pounders are prized and ounces can mean everything, that same willingness to slow down and listen could pay dividends. Instead of forcing a preconceived game plan, Arey is ready to let the lake unfold in front of him.
As the Elite Series field launches onto the blue waters of Lake Martin, the storylines will revolve around electronics, spotted bass and the hunt for a 5-pound largemouth that could anchor a winning bag.
For Matt Arey, though, the storyline feels simpler.
Trust your instincts. Build on momentum. And when the bite gets tough, don’t be afraid to wait those eight long seconds. On a lake where every ounce matters, patience just might be the heaviest thing he brings to the scales.
University of Montevallo’s Robison & Sorrow Lead on Day 1 of MLF’s Columbia PFG College Fishing Presented by Abu Garcia National Championship on Lake Murray
COLUMBIA, S.C. (Feb. 12, 2026) – The caliber of anglers competing in the Columbia PFG College Fishing Presented by Abu Garcia ranks has made major waves in recent years. It’s become common to see collegians cashing big checks at the Toyota Series level and even qualifying for national tours while still enrolled in school.
So, when the best college teams in the country arrived at one of the premier largemouth fisheries in South Carolina’s Lake Murray for the College Fishing National Championship, competitors expected a slugfest. Yet defending champion Peyton Sorrow of the University of Montevallo, who hails from South Carolina and regularly fishes Murray, didn’t see this coming: Five tandems topped 25 pounds on Day 1 and 23 broke the 22-pound mark.
All of them are once again looking up at Sorrow and his partner, Brody Robison, who got off to a great start in their quest to be the first back-to-back champs since the first two editions of the National Championship in 2010 and 2011. Robison and Sorrow sacked up 26 pounds, 6 ounces. They lead Levi Thibodaux and Miles Smith of LSU-Shreveport by just 3 ounces, while a pair of Carson-Newman University duos are tied for third with 25-12.
“Definitely expected for there to be some really big bags caught, but not the caliber that this has been,” Sorrow said. “These are probably some of the most unreal Murray weights that I’ve seen in a long time. I don’t know, actually, if I’ve ever seen them like this before.
“But what do you expect? The college guys came to town, and they smashed ‘em, per usual.”
Considering Robison and Sorrow won last year’s National Championship on Wheeler Lake, plus Sorrow’s knowledge of Murray, the Montevallo pair entered this event as one of the clear teams to beat. But after a slow practice, they didn’t take off Thursday morning with sky-high expectations.
“We were kind of unsure,” Sorrow said. “We had a very tough practice with very, very few bites. Didn’t really honestly catch any big ones until the last day of practice; we got a couple bites to kind of clue us in.”
The pair started Day 1 at the one spot where they’d gotten multiple quality bites and fared better than they anticipated. They put more than 20 pounds in the livewell during the first hour. From there, they ran new water, keying on areas that set up similarly, and made two big culls.
“We fished a lot of new water,” Robison said. “We did a lot of hunting and just using the clues we gained from our start and tried to replicate it through different parts of the lake – places that Peyton knows large fish live and places that relate to what we’re doing. So, we were able to fish some new water and caught about a 5 1/2 mid-day and a 4 1/2.”
Even on this stage, Robison and Sorrow are comfortable fishing new water during competition. During their win at Wheeler, they dedicated big portions of Days 1 and 2 to idling new areas.
“We kind of changed our whole style right before that Wheeler tournament last year – just how we practice, how we go through tournaments,” Robison said. “Our biggest thing is just not having a plan. We have a starting hole, and we let the fish tell us what to do from there.”
While Sorrow’s Murray knowledge helped the pair expand their pattern, he said the lake is fishing differently than he’s seen it in past Februarys. Robison said they leaned just as much on their experience fishing for big winter bass in Alabama, where Montevallo is located.
“We’ve spent a lot of time messing around with oversized largemouth in cold water,” Robison said. “That’s some of our favorite stuff to do. I live on Guntersville, and the fish there act pretty similar to the fish here, and we fish some other smaller lakes around the house, and we’ve spent a lot of time working on this type of fishing – maybe not a highland reservoir, but just cold water, big largemouth. So, getting to do it in a big-scale tournament is really fun.”
Sorrow has no doubt that he and Robison will be able to put baits in front of more quality fish on Day 2. The challenge will be getting them to bite. Bass in the clear waters of Murray tend to be fickle, and they could get tougher as pressure mounts from the 153-boat event.
“We’re around some really, really big fish,” Sorrow said. “We’re not worried about catching size; we’re worried about catching five. That’s our main issue. If we get five bites, we’re going to have a big bag.”
Sorrow and Robison aren’t feeling any pressure as the defending champs. Sorrow said they’re “laid back like we always are.”
However, they recognize that extending Montevallo’s stranglehold over the sport by winning the Falcons’ third National Championship in the past four years would be big for the program.
“It would be absolutely amazing to pull it off,” Robison said. “We’ve got a long ways to go, but that would just be a really good opportunity for us to showcase our abilities and show off the university and the talent that’s went through the program in the last couple years.”
The top 10 teams after Day 1 of the MLF Columbia PFG College Fishing Presented by Abu Garcia National Championship on Lake Murray are:
1st: University of Montevallo – Brody Robison, Dawson, Ala., and Peyton Sorrow, Abbeville, S.C., five bass, 26-6
2nd: Louisiana State University-Shreveport – Levi Thibodaux, Thibodaux, La., and Miles Smith, Houma, La., five bass, 26-3
3rd: Carson-Newman University – Nolan Gray, Russellville, Tenn., and Riley Brown, Whitefish, Mont., five bass, 25-12
4th: Carson-Newman University – Zach Wolfe, Mokena, Ill., and Brayden Ruckman, Freeland, Mich., five bass, 25-12
5th: Lander University – Matthew Knopp, Mercer, Pa., and Logan Russell, Clyde, N.C., five bass, 25-10
6th: Kentucky Christian University – Ethan Burnette, Monticello, Ky., and Cameron Dials, Lovely, Ky., five bass, 24-3
7th: Adrian College – Nick Owens, Eau Claire, Wis., and Mitchell Straffon, Fenton, Mich., five bass, 24-0
8th: Murray State University – Levi Kohl, Edinburg, Ill., and Grant Meisenhelter, Decatur, Ill., five bass, 23-15
9th: University of Tennessee – Matthew Dettling, El Macero, Calif., and Cody Domingos, Knoxville, Tenn., five bass, 23-12
10th: University of Montevallo – Cole Edwards, Grant, Ala., and Brody Mitchell, Huntsville, Ala., five bass, 23-8
For a full list of results, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com.
Overall, there were 669 bass weighing 2,412 pounds, 7 ounces caught by 147 teams Thursday. The catch included 118 five-bass limits.
Anglers will take off from Dreher Island State Park, located at 3677 State Park Road, in Prosperity, South Carolina, at 7:30 a.m. ET each day of competition. Weigh-ins will be held at the State Park starting at 3:45 p.m. and will be livestreamed daily. Fans are welcome to attend the event or tune in to the weigh-in and follow the online coverage at MajorLeagueFishing.com.
The MLFNOW! broadcast team of Chad McKee and Rob Newell will break down the extended action live on Championship Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. ET. MLFNOW! will be live streamed on MajorLeagueFishing.com, the MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) app and Rumble.
Hosted by the Capital City Lake Murray Country Regional Tourism Board , the 17th annual College Fishing National Championship features 151 teams of the nation’s top collegiate anglers competing for a $43,500 top prize package that includes a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard and an additional $10,000. The second-place team will also earn a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard, meaning two boats are up for grabs in the biggest MLF College Fishing event of the season. Every team that finishes in the top 10 will take home at least $1,000 in the no-entry-fee Championship.
In addition to the new boats, both members of the winning team and the runners-up will advance to the 2026 Toyota Series Championship where they will compete as boaters for a top prize of up to $235,000. The winning team’s highest finishing team member at the Toyota Series Championship will also advance to REDCREST 2027 to compete against the world’s best pros for the sport’s top prize of $300,000.
Both members of the third-place team at the College Fishing National Championship will advance to the 2026 Toyota Series Championship to compete as co-anglers for a shot at winning a $33,500 Phoenix 518 pro with a 115-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard.
The 2025 MLF Abu Garcia College Fishing Presented by YETI season featured college teams from across the country competing in six regular-season tournaments. The top 15 percent of teams from each regular-season tournament qualified to compete in the 2026 Columbia PFG College Fishing Presented by Abu Garcia National Championship
Proud sponsors of the 2026 MLF Columbia PFG College Fishing Presented by Abu Garcia include: 7 Brew, Abu Garcia, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, BUBBA, Columbia PFG, Epic Baits, Mercury, MillerTech, OFF! Deep Woods, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, PirahnO2, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, VOSKER and YETI.
For complete details and updated tournament information, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular College Fishing updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF5’s social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery Channel, Outdoor Channel, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
Mosley junks his way to the lead on Day 1 at Lake Martin
ALEXANDER CITY, Ala. — Brock Mosley never caught a 2-pounder in practice for the Lippert Bassmaster Elite at Lake Martin, but all the ingredients came together for a magical Day 1.
The Collinsville, Miss., pro landed 15 pounds, 7 ounces to take the lead at the Tallapoosa River impoundment, anchoring his bag with a 4-pound largemouth. In total, Mosley brought three largemouth and two spotted bass to weigh-in, which were 12 ounces heavier than Drew Cook’s second-place limit.
“I didn’t have a great practice, but I didn’t have a terrible practice,” the 2023 Sabine River champion said. “At Lake Martin, you are liable to catch 6 or 7 pounds. I didn’t catch but one or two good ones in practice, but I kept an open mind and went fishing today.”
As anticipated, the weights throughout the field are super tight. Fifteen of the 101 anglers caught between 11 and 13 pounds while 30 more caught bags weighing between 10 and 11 pounds.
After last week’s cold spell, water temperatures have climbed several degrees from the start of practice to tournament day, which has the bass moving towards their prespawn and spawning patterns. On Day 1, air temperatures were close to 70 degrees, and Mosley found the prespawners ready to bite on Day 1.
“Several of the bass I caught today were full of eggs and right where they should be before they go up to start the spawning process,” he said.
He rotated between four different baits and several locations, mixing in forward-facing sonar techniques as well as traditional tactics.
“I started looking for a certain type of deal, and I caught some offshore and some up shallow,” Mosley said. “I kind of junk fished and put a bag together. I’m putting my head down and fishing for what is in front of me. I may fish a point, I may ’Scope out some brushpile, or I might catch suspended bass.”
Every stop Mosley made during the day, he caught bass, but not always the same quality. Although it was a post-front day, the bright sunshine warmed the water, which Mosley felt was particularly important.
“The sun helped a lot today,” he said. “The last couple days have been cloudy. Things changed today, and for the better for me.”
The forecast calls for more sunshine and warmer temperatures, at least until Championship Sunday, which Mosley believes will have more bass moving towards prespawn staging areas as well as towards the bank.
This could play right into his hands.
“If the sun stays out and it stays warm, I could see myself throwing a buzzbait before the week is over,” Mosley said.
Cook landed 14-11 to open his tournament, a bag made up of four spotted bass and a largemouth.
“I tried to stay away from the numbers game and went for the quality instead of quantity,” the Cairo, Ga., pro said. “I was fortunate enough to get (two) big bites and a couple decent bites.”
He got settled into the day at his second stop by landing a 3 1/2-pounder before rounding up the rest of his limit. No one piece of cover stood out more than another. Cook said he landed a bass on everything from clay banks, brush, docks to rock banks using three different baits. Anything less than 18 feet of water produced good bites.
The bass he caught were aggressive.
“It is March weather, but it is February, and it was freezing last week,” he said. “They are getting warm and starting to move a lot more. I think a lot of fish are going to move as the tournament goes on with the weather we are going to have.
“We are going to keep everything honest.”
Cole Sands used his east Tennessee prowess to land 13-4 and finish Day 1 in third. An area change on the final day of practice keyed the Johnson City pro into his primary pattern.
“In the last hour, I made a move to an area and caught 14 pounds in an hour. I had a decent practice, but I scraped everything I learned before that. It was a swing for the fence type of deal, and thankfully I landed on the right side of it.”
In the morning, Sands noticed the bass in more of a prespawn face, but once the water warmed up, he said the bass started moving towards their spawning areas. In his region of the lake, water temperatures are still between 50 and 53 degrees, but he caught several fish that have indicated to him the spawn is coming.
“I know the water is still cold for it, but I caught some (males) that were actually peeing,” he said. “It is getting close. I will have to change every day this week, but it is a super great start. Consistency is everything on this lake.”
Clanton, Ala., pro Wesley Gore landed the Phoenix Boats Big Bass of the Day, a 4-6 largemouth that earned him a $1,000 bonus.
Carbondale, Ill.’s, Trey McKinney leads the Progressive Bassmaster Angler of the Year standings with 186 points, followed by Cook in second with 182 points and Matt Robertson in third with 178 points. Mosley is fourth with 175 points and Canadian Jeff Gustafson rounds out the Top 5 with 174 points.
Georgia’s Caleb Hudson leads the Pro-Guide Batteries Bassmaster Rookie of the Year race with 146 points followed by Kentucky’s Matt Messer in second with 136 points and Alabama’s Fisher Anaya in third with 124 points.
The full field of pros will launch from Wind Creek State Park beginning at 7 a.m. CT and return for weigh-in starting at 3 p.m. The Top 50 pros after the Day 2 weigh-in will compete on Semifinal Saturday before the Top 10 advance to Championship Sunday.
Bassmaster LIVE coverage begins at 8 a.m. ET until 3 p.m. on Bassmaster.com and Roku before moving to FS1 on Saturday morning. Live weigh-in coverage will be available starting at 4 ET on Bassmaster.com.
The tournament is being hosted by Explore Lake Martin and Tallapoosa County Tourism.
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
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2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
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.
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Media Contact: Mandy Pascal, Communications Manager, 334-414-8677, [email protected]
2026 Lippert Bassmaster Elite Series at Lake Martin 2/12-2/15
Lake Martin, Alexander City AL.
(PROFESSIONAL) Standings Day 1
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Brock Mosley Collinsville, MS 5 15-07 101
Day 1: 5 15-07
2. Drew Cook Cairo, GA 5 14-11 100
Day 1: 5 14-11
3. Cole Sands Johnson City, TN 5 13-04 99
Day 1: 5 13-04
4. Joey Cifuentes III Clinton, AR 5 12-15 98
Day 1: 5 12-15
5. Carl Jocumsen Queensland TN AUSTRALIA 5 12-11 97
Day 1: 5 12-11
6. Luke Palmer Atoka, OK 5 12-10 96
Day 1: 5 12-10
7. Easton Fothergill Grand Rapids , MN 5 12-06 95
Day 1: 5 12-06
7. Jordan Lee Cullman, AL 5 12-06 95
Day 1: 5 12-06
9. Trey McKinney Carbondale, IL 5 12-03 93
Day 1: 5 12-03
10. Kyle Patrick Cooperstown, NY 5 11-15 92
Day 1: 5 11-15
11. Patrick Walters Eutawville, SC 5 11-10 91
Day 1: 5 11-10
12. Jeff Gustafson Kenora, ON Ontario CANA 5 11-09 90
Day 1: 5 11-09
13. Jay Przekurat Plover, WI 5 11-08 89
Day 1: 5 11-08
14. Justin Hamner Northport, AL 5 11-07 88
Day 1: 5 11-07
15. Fisher Anaya Eva, AL 5 11-06 87
Day 1: 5 11-06
16. Kyle Norsetter Cottage Grove, WI 5 11-05 86
Day 1: 5 11-05
17. Pake South Winnsboro, TX 5 11-03 85
Day 1: 5 11-03
18. Jacob Foutz Charleston, TN 5 11-02 84
Day 1: 5 11-02
19. Will Davis Jr Sylacauga, AL 5 11-01 83
Day 1: 5 11-01
19. Shane LeHew Catawba, NC 5 11-01 83
Day 1: 5 11-01
19. Emil Wagner Marietta, GA 5 11-01 83
Day 1: 5 11-01
22. Scott Canterbury Odenville, AL 5 11-00 80
Day 1: 5 11-00
23. Robert Gee Knoxville, TN 5 10-15 79
Day 1: 5 10-15
23. Cody Meyer Eagle, ID 5 10-15 79
Day 1: 5 10-15
23. Matt Robertson Kuttawa, KY 5 10-15 79
Day 1: 5 10-15
26. Kyle Welcher Valley, AL 5 10-14 76
Day 1: 5 10-14
27. Aaron Jagdfeld Rochester Hills, MI 5 10-12 75
Day 1: 5 10-12
28. Austin Cranford Moore, OK 5 10-11 74
Day 1: 5 10-11
28. Taku Ito Dalton GA JAPAN 5 10-11 74
Day 1: 5 10-11
28. Cliff Pace Ovett, MS 5 10-11 74
Day 1: 5 10-11
28. Alex Redwine Blue Ash, OH 5 10-11 74
Day 1: 5 10-11
32. Kyoya Fujita Yamanashi CA JAPAN 5 10-10 70
Day 1: 5 10-10
32. Caleb Hudson Lincolnton, GA 5 10-10 70
Day 1: 5 10-10
32. Paul Marks Cumming, GA 5 10-10 70
Day 1: 5 10-10
32. Tyler Rivet Raceland, LA 5 10-10 70
Day 1: 5 10-10
36. Wesley Gore Clanton, AL 5 10-09 66 $1,000.00
Day 1: 5 10-09
36. Bill Lowen Brookville, IN 5 10-09 66
Day 1: 5 10-09
38. Stetson Blaylock Benton, AR 5 10-07 64
Day 1: 5 10-07
39. Austin Felix Eden Prairie, MN 5 10-06 63
Day 1: 5 10-06
39. Bryan New Leesville, SC 5 10-06 63
Day 1: 5 10-06
41. Matt Arey Shelby, NC 5 10-05 61
Day 1: 5 10-05
41. Cooper Gallant Bowmanville Ontario CAN 5 10-05 61
Day 1: 5 10-05
41. Tristan McCormick Bon Aqua, TN 5 10-05 61
Day 1: 5 10-05
41. Matt Messer Warfield, KY 5 10-05 61
Day 1: 5 10-05
45. John Cox Debary, FL 5 10-03 57
Day 1: 5 10-03
45. Evan Kung Pickering Ontario CANAD 5 10-03 57
Day 1: 5 10-03
45. Jacob Powroznik North Prince George, VA 5 10-03 57
Day 1: 5 10-03
48. David Mullins Mt Carmel, TN 5 10-02 54
Day 1: 5 10-02
49. Tucker Smith Birmingham, AL 5 10-01 53
Day 1: 5 10-01
49. Jake Whitaker Hendersonville, NC 5 10-01 53
Day 1: 5 10-01
49. Tyler Williams Belgrade, ME 5 10-01 53
Day 1: 5 10-01
52. Brandon Lester Fayetteville, TN 5 10-00 50
Day 1: 5 10-00
52. Hunter Shryock Ooltewah, TN 5 10-00 50
Day 1: 5 10-00
52. Chris Zaldain Boyd, TX 5 10-00 50
Day 1: 5 10-00
55. Buddy Gross Chattanooga, TN 5 09-15 47
Day 1: 5 09-15
56. Dakota Ebare Brookeland, TX 5 09-13 46
Day 1: 5 09-13
57. Cody Huff Ava, MO 5 09-12 45
Day 1: 5 09-12
57. Andrew Loberg Guntersville, AL 5 09-12 45
Day 1: 5 09-12
57. Brock Reinkemeyer Warsaw, MO 5 09-12 45
Day 1: 5 09-12
60. Gregory DiPalma Millville, NJ 5 09-11 42
Day 1: 5 09-11
60. Sam Hanggi Knoxville, TN 5 09-11 42
Day 1: 5 09-11
62. John Crews Jr Salem, VA 5 09-10 40
Day 1: 5 09-10
62. John Garrett Union City, TN 5 09-10 40
Day 1: 5 09-10
62. Gerald Swindle Guntersville, AL 5 09-10 40
Day 1: 5 09-10
65. Beau Browning Hot Springs National Pa 5 09-09 37
Day 1: 5 09-09
65. Brandon Card Salisbury, NC 5 09-09 37
Day 1: 5 09-09
65. Hank Cherry Jr Lincolnton, NC 5 09-09 37
Day 1: 5 09-09
65. JT Thompkins Myrtle Beach, SC 5 09-09 37
Day 1: 5 09-09
69. Pat Schlapper Eleva, WI 5 09-08 33
Day 1: 5 09-08
70. Bob Downey Detroit Lakes, MN 5 09-07 32
Day 1: 5 09-07
70. Chris Johnston Otonabee Ontario CANADA 5 09-07 32
Day 1: 5 09-07
70. Lee Livesay Longview, TX 5 09-07 32
Day 1: 5 09-07
70. Nick Trim Galesville, WI 5 09-07 32
Day 1: 5 09-07
74. David Gaston Sylacauga, AL 5 09-06 28
Day 1: 5 09-06
75. Drew Benton Panama City, FL 5 09-05 27
Day 1: 5 09-05
75. Greg Hackney Gonzales, LA 5 09-05 27
Day 1: 5 09-05
77. Seth Feider Elko New Market, MN 5 09-02 25
Day 1: 5 09-02
77. Caleb Sumrall New Iberia, LA 5 09-02 25
Day 1: 5 09-02
79. Michael Iaconelli Pitts Grove, NJ 5 09-01 23
Day 1: 5 09-01
80. Cory Johnston Otonabee CANADA 5 09-00 22
Day 1: 5 09-00
81. Keith Combs Huntington, TX 5 08-14 21
Day 1: 5 08-14
81. Steve Kennedy Auburn, AL 5 08-14 21
Day 1: 5 08-14
81. Brad Whatley Bivins, TX 5 08-14 21
Day 1: 5 08-14
84. Wes Logan Springville, AL 5 08-12 18
Day 1: 5 08-12
84. Bryan Schmitt Deale, MD 5 08-12 18
Day 1: 5 08-12
86. Jamie Hartman Newport, NY 5 08-11 16
Day 1: 5 08-11
86. Mark Menendez Paducah, KY 5 08-11 16
Day 1: 5 08-11
86. Jason Williamson Aiken, SC 5 08-11 16
Day 1: 5 08-11
89. Blake Capps Muskogee, OK 5 08-08 13
Day 1: 5 08-08
89. Brandon Cobb Greenwood, SC 5 08-08 13
Day 1: 5 08-08
91. Randy Howell Guntersville, AL 5 08-07 11
Day 1: 5 08-07
92. Justin Atkins Florence, AL 5 08-05 10
Day 1: 5 08-05
93. Logan Parks Auburn, AL 5 08-04 9
Day 1: 5 08-04
93. KJ Queen Catawba, NC 5 08-04 9
Day 1: 5 08-04
95. Kenta Kimura Osaka OK JAPAN 5 08-03 7
Day 1: 5 08-03
96. Brandon Palaniuk Rathdrum, ID 5 08-01 6
Day 1: 5 08-01
97. Bryant Smith Roseville, CA 5 07-14 5
Day 1: 5 07-14
98. Jason Christie Dry Creek, OK 5 07-11 4
Day 1: 5 07-11
98. Clifford Pirch Payson, AZ 5 07-11 4
Day 1: 5 07-11
100. Caleb Kuphall Mukwonago, WI 5 07-10 2
Day 1: 5 07-10
101. Russ Lane Prattville, AL 5 07-07 1
Day 1: 5 07-07
------------------------------
PHOENIX BOATS BIG BASS
Day
1 Wesley Gore Clanton, AL 04-06 $1,000.00
------------------------------
Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 101 505 1022-00
------------------------------
101 505 1022-00
Drew Gill is Winning Everything
Courtesy of Dynamic Sponsorships
We are witnessing a rare run of on-the-water performances from 23-year-old Drew Gill. In the last three tournaments he has fished, Gill hasn’t finished lower than second, including a pair of dominant victories on both the Bass Pro Tour and the MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit to start the 2026 season.
The event he finished in second, he did so via tiebreaker after he caught enough weight to win the Toyota Series Championship on Grand Lake last November. In the process, he became the MLF’s youngest bass fishing millionaire. Gill came into 2026 with confidence and momentum in spades, which lined up with his ultimate goal for the year.
“Consistency is the undertone of everything I do on the water, and I’d be lying if I didn’t say the BPT Angler of the Year is my focal point,” Gill shared. “AOY is a coveted prize and it’s so tough to do with the caliber of anglers on the Bass Pro Tour. I’ve finished in 2nd and 3rd in that race the past two seasons, and I’d really like to know what it feels like to win.”
If you’ve watched Gill fishing LIVE or listened to him in podcasts and interviews, it’s easy to tell that his brain doesn’t work like most of the population or even most of his pro angling peers. Gill approaches bass fishing like a mathematician mixed with a mad scientist. He’s calculated, cerebral, and focused every time he launches his boat.
He very well may be the best in the world with forward facing sonar technology, but his understanding of bass behavior has expanded to a point that he continues to dominate in the blended formats he navigates in MLF competition.
“From a strategy perspective I love the blended FFS format of the BPT and Pro Circuits,” Gill explained. “It has become an intricate game of chess and its perfect for my style. It has kind of unexpectedly created a unique dilemma that I seem to gel with. With limited hours ‘scoping each day, I don’t have to show my hand as much, which has led to higher finishes in multi-day events.”
While online naysayers would love to point to Gill’s FFS prowess to detract from his domination the past several years, his success in the blended format both last season and to start 2026 has left the haters with no leg to stand on. The proof is in the pudding, or on the leaderboard… Gill is a special talent.
Along with trophies, accolades, and big pay days Gill has racked up $7,000 in extra cash from Toyota Bonus Bucks in the past month. Gill became the first to reap the rewards of the new payout structure from Toyota’s popular contingency program, winning $4,000 for being the highest placing angler driving a Toyota tow vehicle at Stage One on Lake Guntersville, followed by a $3,000 reward for his win at the Harris Chain in the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit competition.
Gill was still driving his 2024 Toyota Tundra SR5 to start the season at Lake Guntersville and then flew to Oklahoma to buy himself a new 2026 Tundra Limited package. Bonus Bucks has been good to Gill the past few years, which was a main factor in his tow vehicle consideration.
“As a tournament bass angler, you aren’t just buying a truck to tow your boat when you buy a Toyota, you’re recycling value,” Gill said. “The money I invest into my new truck comes back into the industry in the form of Toyota’s support for bass fishing, and then through Bonus Bucks for me as an individual angler. Factor in that these trucks hold their value, their super reliable, and just incredible vehicles. There was no question and no doubts for me when it came to what truck I’m buying.”
Gill has a unique perspective on trucks much like his extraordinary mind for bass fishing. He is one of one, and it’s not a stretch to predict we will all be witness to his ascendence in tournament fishing for years to come.
Thankfully, you don’t have to be a bass fishing phenom to cash in on opportunities with Toyota Bonus Bucks. If you tournament fish, you just need to own or lease a 2022 or newer Toyota tow vehicle, register for the free-to-join program, and compete in one of the over 620 supported events. Follow this link to learn more https://www.toyotatrucksbonusbucks.com/, or send an email with any questions to [email protected].
MLF Announces Expanded Partnership with VOSKER
VOSKER becomes Official Sponsor of MLF5 for 2026
BENTON, Ky. (Feb. 12, 2026) – Major League Fishing (MLF), the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, announced today a new sponsorship agreement with VOSKER, a leader in cellular security camera technology designed for remote, off-grid surveillance. As part of the partnership, VOSKER becomes an Official Sponsor of MLF5 for the 2026 season, further expanding the brand’s presence across MLF’s competitive and grassroots platforms.
As part of the agreement, VOSKER cellular security cameras will once again be utilized in every Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit boat throughout the season, allowing tournament officials to remotely monitor every competitor throughout each day of competition. The cameras provide an extra layer of security to ensure fair competition and consistent enforcement of league rules.
Additionally, VOSKER will support anglers across all MLF5 circuits with a VOSKER Championship Bonus Cash Award contingency program. At each MLF5 Championship, the highest-finishing boater that owns a VOSKER VKX camera and with an active monthly or annual VOSKER subscription will earn a bonus cash award, adding another incentive for top performance on championship stages.
As part of the partnership’s youth-focused initiatives, VOSKER will also offer high school anglers a unique on-the-water opportunity through the VOSKER Pro for a Day Experience. One selected high school-aged angler will spend a day fishing with VOSKER pro Matt Becker , gaining firsthand insight into professional-level competition, preparation and decision-making.
High school anglers can enter for a chance to win by visiting the VOSKER booth at the REDCREST 2026 Outdoor Sports Expo in Springfield, Missouri, April 17-19. The Pro for a Day Experience will take place April 25, 2026, on a lake in Northwest Arkansas or southwest Missouri. The winner will be announced and notified on April 19, 2026.
“We’re proud to continue growing our partnership with Major League Fishing and to support anglers at every level,” said Justin Lanclos, VOSKER Sr. Product Evangelist. “From championship bonus incentives to hands-on experiences for high school anglers, this partnership reflects our commitment to innovation, outdoor passion and giving back to the fishing community.”
VOSKER will receive integrated exposure across MLF5’s extensive media platforms, including television and livestream broadcasts, on-site branding and activations, digital and social media features and continued visibility throughout MLF5 league competition for the 2026 season.
For more information about MLF and its sponsors, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. To explore VOSKER’s complete line of cellular security products, visit VOSKER.com.
About VOSKER
VOSKER is a leading provider of innovative surveillance solutions, committed to empowering individuals and organizations with cutting-edge technology to protect what matters most. With a focus on quality, reliability and sustainability, VOSKER continues to push the boundaries of surveillance technology, ensuring safety and peace of mind in an ever-changing world. To learn more visit www.vosker.com
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery, Outdoor Channel, VICE, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network, RFD-TV and Game & Fish TV, and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
PATTERN, PATIENCE AND A PLUG: MENENDEZ EYES MARTIN AS HIS KIND OF FIGHT
Courtesy of Dynamic Sponsorships / Photo: Shane Durrance/Bass
If you’ve ever spent a spring morning on Lake Martin, you know there’s something about that stretch of Alabama water that settles into a man’s bones. It’s the way the mist hangs low over Kowaliga. The way the ridgelines hold the first blush of daylight. The way the water, clear as a church window, seems to promise more than it gives.
And for Yamaha pro and Elite Series veteran Mark Menendez, Lake Martin isn’t just another tournament stop. It’s personal.
“Lake Martin is my favorite lake in the country,” Menendez said. “I know that might sound crazy to some but the first time I ever launched a boat in this lake, I caught over 100 bass. That was in the fall of 1992 if my memory is correct.”
Over 100 bass. That’ll make a believer out of anybody.
Menendez has fished more water than most folks will ever see in a lifetime. From sprawling Tennessee River impoundments to stingy Ozark highland reservoirs, he’s built a career on figuring them out. But Lake Martin has always stood apart. It’s not the biggest fish factory on tour. It’s not known for 25-pound fireworks. What it is, however, is honest.
“It’s one of the best pattern lakes in the country. No matter what,” he said. “You can find something in one part of the lake and replicate it throughout the entire fishery.”
That’s high praise in a sport built on adjustments and intuition. Pattern lakes reward anglers who pay attention. The ones who notice how a bank sets up, how the wind hits a point, how the rock transitions from chunk to pea gravel. Find the ingredients once and you can cook that same recipe from dam to river.
For an experienced hand like Menendez, that’s right in his wheelhouse.
This week’s Elite Series event won’t require heroics. It will require discipline.
“The key to this place is catching 2 1/2-pounders,” Menendez explained. “12 pounds or so per day will have you in position to win this event. The last time we were here, I caught an 18-pound limit on day one and that really carried me throughout the tournament.”
On many fisheries, 12 pounds feels like survival weight. On Lake Martin, it’s currency. String together three or four days of it and you’re likely shaking hands on Championship Sunday.
Catching a limit won’t be the challenge.
“Those kicker largemouth are going to be a huge deal for all of us,” he said. “Catching a limit will not be a problem, I can promise you that.”
Lake Martin is famous for its spotted bass. Scrappy, bronze-backed fighters that rarely break the 3-pound mark but bite with reliability. They’ll keep an angler honest. They’ll keep him busy. But they won’t necessarily win him a blue trophy.
“The largemouth are the ‘X-factor’ in my opinion,” Menendez said. “That’s where you can fool around and catch a 5-pounder. If you can find a big largemouth, you’re in a great place. The smaller spotted bass won’t be hard at all to capture.”
It’s a tale as old as tournament fishing itself. The steady keeper bite versus the elusive kicker. Spots will fill the livewell. Largemouth will tilt the scales. And conditions may decide which species holds court.
A big moon looms over the event, stirring speculation about spawning waves and shallow movements. Menendez is watching it all with the patience of someone who knows Lake Martin rarely rushes.
“I would hope the big moon would help the fish come shallow,” he said. “Not all of them, because I don’t think we’re late enough in the year yet. We’re supposed to get some rain at some point, which would be fantastic for my fishing style. I’d like some color in the water. I’ve run all up the rivers of this lake and it’s gin-clear everywhere you go.”
Gin-clear water can be beautiful. It can also be cruel. In 10 feet of visibility, bass get educated quickly. They inspect every offering. They shy away from mistakes. A little stain changes everything.
“I want to see them positioned in about 5 to 7 feet,” Menendez said. “Right now, you can go out with your forward-facing sonar and find them in 70 feet. That’s a big difference.”
That sentence captures the crossroads of modern bass fishing. Yes, forward-facing sonar will be a player this week. There’s no denying it.
“There’s a big chance it will be won with forward-facing technology,” Menendez admitted.
Anglers can idle over deep timber, watch fish react in real time and drop a bait directly to them. It’s efficient. It’s precise. And on clear highland reservoirs, it can be hard to beat. But if Menendez gets his wish, the script may flip.
“I want sun, a little rain and I plan on winding a plug shallow to catch a big pre-spawner,” he said. “And heck, on this lake, a ‘big’ fish may be a 2 1/2-pound spotted bass.”
There’s something poetic about that image. A seasoned pro with decades of history on a beloved lake, leaning into a crankbait, feeling it deflect off rock in five feet of water. No screens. No hovering. Just wind, cast, retrieve.
Menendez has always trusted his instincts. And on Lake Martin, those instincts are seasoned by memory. By that first trip in 1992, by the 18-pound day that carried him in 2018, by countless runs up river arms searching for just the right combination of depth, cover and life.
Lake Martin may not give up giants in bunches. It may not headline record books. But it rewards anglers who understand it. Who respect its patterns, its clarity, its subtle shifts. For Mark Menendez, that understanding runs deep.
Major League Fishing Introduces Columbia PFG College Fishing Heavy Hitters
New all-star event to reward big-bass excellence and elevate the MLF College Fishing pathway
COLUMBIA, S.C. (Feb. 11, 2026) – Major League Fishing, the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, announced today on the eve of the 2026 College Fishing National Championship details surrounding the new MLF Columbia PFG College Fishing Heavy Hitters event, an all-star event designed to reward college fishing teams that excel at catching big bass while further elevating the pathway from the college ranks to the sport’s highest levels.
The inaugural event will take place Oct. 25, 2026, on Douglas Lake in Dandridge, Tennessee, and will be hosted by Visit Jefferson County, TN. A total of 18 teams will qualify for the event exclusively based on big-bass performance during the 2026 College Fishing regular season, mirroring the big-bite, earn-your-way-in Heavy Hitters format used on the Bass Pro Tour.
“This event is all about rewarding teams who produce the biggest bites,” said Kevin Hunt, Senior Director of Tournament Operations for MLF College Fishing. “Just like Heavy Hitters at the Bass Pro Tour, there is no other way in. Teams earn their spot by catching big bass throughout the season, and that makes this event such a special accomplishment for college anglers.”
The field will consist of the top three teams with the heaviest single bass from each of the six 2026 MLF Columbia PFG Presented by Abu Garcia College Fishing regular-season tournaments. Competition in the Columbia PFG Heavy Hitters will feature MLF’s catch, weigh and immediate-release format, where every scorable bass over the two-pound minimum counts toward a team’s total weight. In addition to cumulative weight determining the overall champion, a separate Big Bass award will be presented to the team that catches the single heaviest bass of the event.
Official practice and the pretournament meeting will take place Saturday, Oct. 24, with competition scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 25. Takeoff and the awards ceremony will be held at the Dandridge Boat Dock & Ramp, located at 157 Public Drive in Dandridge. Fans will be able to follow the leaderboard through SCORETRACKER LIVE®, bringing the excitement of college-level Heavy Hitters competition to fans in real time.
Proud sponsors of the 2026 MLF Columbia PFG College Fishing include: 7Brew Coffee, Abu Garcia, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, BUBBA, Columbia PFG, Epic Baits, Lew’s, Mercury, MillerTech, OFF! Deep Woods, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, PirahnO2, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Strike King, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, VOSKER and YETI.
For complete details and updated tournament information, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular College Fishing updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF5’s social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery, Outdoor Channel, VICE, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network, RFD-TV and Game & Fish TV, and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
Bassmaster’s 1st Tuesday Night LIVE
KIMBERLING CITY, Mo. — If you’ve ever experienced the fast-paced fun of an evening bass tournament, April 21 is going to deliver that excitement to fans in a whole new way on Table Rock Lake. Bass fishing fans are in for a truly unique event as Tuesday Night LIVE on Table Rock delivers a fun, fast-paced, grass-roots-style showdown featuring some of the biggest names in professional bass fishing. The first Bassmaster Team Tournament and first ever Tuesday Night Bassmaster Tournament brought to you by AFTCO, Beatdown Outdoors, Gamakatsu, SPRO and Sunline.
On Tuesday, April 21, 2026, eight Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series pros will trade the national stage for a down-home competition at Mill Creek Boat Ramp in Kimberling City, Missouri. With four boats, two legendary hosts, and five powerhouse sponsors, the event blends top-tier talent with the relaxed atmosphere of a local Tuesday night jackpot tournament.
The evening begins at 4 p.m. CT as competitors arrive at the ramp to prepare their gear and exchange some friendly trash talk with entertaining hosts of Dave Mercer and Mark Zona. At 4:30 p.m., its blast-off time, and the teams will hit Table Rock Lake for a high-energy, three-hour shootout. At 7:30 PM, the boats return to the ramp for a traditional, no-frills weigh-in — just like the weekly tournaments anglers across the country know and love.
“This event is all about getting back to the roots of tournament fishing,” said Mark Zona. “No big stage, no big production, just great anglers, great competition, and a fun night on one of America’s most iconic bass lakes.”
Phillip Johnson, B.A.S.S. Chief Operating Officer, said the organization is excited to bring a live Tuesday night event directly to fans in a fresh and accessible format.
“We’re thrilled to bring Tuesday Night LIVE to our fans and showcase these incredible anglers in a format that feels authentic and close to home,” Johnson said. “This event captures the spirit of local jackpot tournaments while still featuring the very best talent in the sport. It’s another way for us to connect directly with our audience and deliver live bass fishing in a fun, innovative way.”
The event will feature limited commercial interruptions and will be streamed live on Bassmaster.com, the Bassmaster YouTube channel and the Bassmaster Channel on Roku, Plex and Freebie TV.
Adding to the excitement, the tournament will follow a traditional team format, pairing one boater with one non-boater. While the four boaters have already been selected, fans will have the chance to determine the pairings through online voting, giving them a direct role in shaping the competition. Fans are going to have a lot of opportunities to get involved ahead of the event and chances to win some great prizes. Fan voting will determine the pairings of the eight selected anglers and fans will have a chance to submit team names and possibly win thousands of dollars in prizes.
The eight-man field is stacked with an all-star mix of established legends and rising stars. Leading the boater lineup is Drew Cook, the 2019 Bassmaster Elite Rookie of the Year and an Elite Series event champion known for his consistency and sight-fishing prowess. If the fish are spawning, Cook will be a major threat to find the biggest bites on Table Rock. Joining him is Drew Benton, the 2016 Rookie of the Year and two-time Elite Series winner, a proven performer who is especially dangerous during the month of April.
Bryan New brings momentum and versatility to the event, having burst onto the Elite Series scene with a victory in his very first tournament. As the 2020 Bassmaster Opens Angler of the Year, New has shown he can win in any format. Rounding out the boaters is Kyle Welcher, the 2023 Bassmaster Elite Series Angler of the Year, whose record-shattering performances and deep roots in jackpot-style tournaments make him a perfect fit for this competition.
The non-boater side is just as impressive. Chris Johnston, a back-to-back Bassmaster Elite Series Angler of the Year, is widely regarded as one of the most consistent anglers in the sport and will be a valuable partner for any team. Bassmaster legend Mike Iaconelli adds star power and passion to the event. A Bassmaster Classic champion and Angler of the Year, Ike has announced that 2026 will be his final Elite Series season, making this a special opportunity for fans to see him compete in a relaxed, fun environment.
Jason Christie, a Bassmaster Classic champion and multiple-time Elite winner, is known as one of the fiercest and most intense competitors in professional bass fishing. His relentless drive ensures he’ll be taking this event just as seriously as any major tournament. Completing the field is rising Elite Series pro Kyle Patrick, whose versatile skill set and confident attitude make him an exciting wildcard no matter who he is paired with.
Fans can catch every minute of the action live from 4 to 8 p.m. CT on Bassmaster.com, with a simulcast on the Bassmaster YouTube channel and the Bassmaster Channel on Roku, Plex and Freebie TV. Spectators are also welcome to attend the weigh-in in person at Mill Creek Boat Ramp to experience the excitement up close.
With no big stage, no frills, and nothing on the line but bragging rights and a winner take all cash prize, the Tuesday Night LIVE on Table Rock is designed to feel just like your local weekday tournament, only with some of the biggest names in the sport.
Mark your calendar for April 21 and join the action, watch live online or come experience it in person. This is one Tuesday night on Table Rock you won’t want to miss.
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.
B.A.S.S. announces 2026 BassmastHER workshop schedule
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. is proud to unveil the 2026 BassmastHER workshop schedule, offering a nationwide series of events designed to bring together women and girls who share a passion for bass fishing. The immersive workshops will take place alongside some of the most anticipated tournaments and championship events of the season, providing hands-on learning opportunities, expert instruction, and lasting community connections.
“BassmastHER gave me a community I didn't even realize I was missing, and it means the world to me that I get to be a part of it,” said BassmastHER Ambassador Kylee Short. “This program has brought together so many women and girls that share the same love for this sport and just want to share knowledge. It's so important to have a safe space where growth feels possible for every experience level and every angler belongs.”
Now in its continued expansion, the 2026 BassmastHER workshop series creates spaces on the water and off where anglers of all ages and skill levels can grow their confidence, improve their techniques and forge friendships within a supportive environment. Whether participants are new to bass fishing or seasoned anglers seeking to sharpen their skills, each workshop offers opportunities to connect, learn and celebrate time on the water together.
BassmastHER 2026 Workshop Dates and Locations:
- Feb. 14: Bassmaster Elite Series at Lake Martin — Alexander City, Ala.
- March 14: Bassmaster Classic at Tennessee River — Knoxville, Tenn.
- May 16: Bassmaster Elite Series at Santee Cooper Lakes — Clarendon County, S.C.
- June 13: Bassmaster Elite Series at Pasquotank River/Albemarle Sound — Elizabeth City, N.C.
- July 29: Bassmaster High School & Junior Championship at Kentucky Lake — Paris, Tenn.
- Aug. 29: Bassmaster Elite Series at St. Lawrence River — Clayton, N.Y.
Each workshop is curated to provide engaging, relevant content with instruction from experienced anglers and authentic opportunities to explore new techniques, tackle and approaches to bass fishing. Attendees can expect a blend of classroom-style learning and on-water demonstrations, designed to bolster both knowledge and confidence.
Created to serve as a support system for education, travel, inspiration and community for female anglers everywhere, BassmastHER is more than a series of workshops — it is a movement that fosters belonging, growth and empowerment within the bass fishing community. The initiative encourages women and girls of all experience levels to embrace the sport and connect with those who share their passion.
For more information on the 2026 BassmastHER workshop schedule, to register to attend an event, or to learn how you can get involved, visit Bassmaster.com/BassmastHER.
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.
Tennessee Tourism to support 2026 Bassmaster Classic, High School National Championship
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. officials announced that Tennessee Department of Tourist Development has been named a Local Classic Partner for the 2026 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour, which will be held in Knoxville, Tennessee. Tennessee Tourism will also serve as the presenting sponsor of the Strike King Bassmaster High School National Championship, scheduled for July 30-Aug. 1 on Kentucky Lake out of Paris, Tennessee.
The partnership highlights Tennessee’s long-standing commitment to fishing, conservation and outdoor recreation while connecting Bassmaster fans and families with some of the most diverse and accessible fisheries in the country.
Tennessee is a world-class outdoor destination with stunning natural resources, premier fishing opportunities and family-friendly travel experiences. With hundreds of thousands of miles of fishable waters, including 18 Bill Dance Signature Lakes, the state has become a destination of choice for anglers at every level — from youth competitors and weekend families to Elite Series professionals.
“We’re excited to welcome visitors and showcase why Tennessee is a world-class fishing destination,” said Dennis Tumlin, chief customer officer for Tennessee Tourism. “Through our Fish Tennessee partnership with the Bassmaster Classic and Bassmaster High School National Championship, we’re highlighting the state’s 500,000 miles of rivers, lakes and streams — offering something for every angler, from trophy smallmouth and giant largemouth to native trout. We’re excited to share Tennessee’s great outdoors with visitors across the globe.”
The Bassmaster tournaments will bring together the nation’s top anglers at every age to compete on Tennessee fisheries, underscoring the state’s long-term investment in fisheries enhancement, angler access and youth development.
“Tennessee Tourism is a perfect partner for B.A.S.S. because they share our commitment to growing the sport, supporting conservation and creating meaningful experiences for anglers and their families,” said Phillip Johnson, chief operating officer of B.A.S.S. “From hosting the Bassmaster Classic to investing heavily in fisheries and youth programs, Tennessee continues to set the standard for how states can support competitive fishing at every level.”
For more information on the 2026 Bassmaster Classic or the Bassmaster High School National Championship, visit Bassmaster.com.
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.
Oconee County Readies for MLF Bass Pro Tour O’Reilly Auto Parts Stage 2 at Lake Hartwell Presented by Lowrance
51 pros to compete on Lake Hartwell, competition live all four days at MajorLeagueFishing.com
SENECA, S.C. (Feb. 10, 2026) – The Major League Fishing (MLF) Bass Pro Tour (BPT) will head to South Carolina next week, Feb. 19-22, for a landmark event as the circuit makes its long-awaited debut on Lake Hartwell at O’Reilly Auto Parts Stage 2 Presented by Lowrance.
Hosted by Visit Oconee SC, t he four-day tournament will feature 51 of the world’s top professional anglers competing for a $125,000 top prize and their share of a $600,000 purse, along with valuable Fishing Clash Angler of the Year (AOY) points in hopes of qualifying for REDCREST 2027 – the Bass Pro Tour championship – and the MLF Heavy Hitters all-star event. Competition will unfold under MLF’s catch, weigh, immediate-release format, where every bass over the 2-pound minimum counts and SCORETRACKER® – the MLF live leaderboard – keeps the pressure on throughout the day.
“We are thrilled to welcome Major League Fishing’s first-ever Bass Pro Tour event to Lake Hartwell and Oconee County,” said Phil Shirley, President and CEO of Visit Oconee SC. “This landmark event showcases not only the world-class fishing Lake Hartwell is known for, but also the natural beauty, hospitality and outdoor recreation opportunities that define Oconee County. Hosting the MLF Bass Pro Tour places our community on a national stage and reinforces our region’s reputation as a premier destination for anglers and visitors alike.”
The field brings together an impressive blend of elite talent and compelling storylines, led by reigning Bass Pro Tour AOY and 10-time BPT champion Jacob Wheeler and back-to-back REDCREST champion Dustin Connell. Established winners and fan favorites such as Alton Jones, Jr., Edwin Evers and Ott DeFoe anchor the roster, while a dynamic rookie class stands ready to leave its mark on the Bass Pro Tour stage. Newcomers this season include Mitchell Robinson, Jacob Walker, Banks Shaw and Dustin Smith, who made their Bass Pro Tour debut at Stage 1 last month, where Walker finished in second place and Shaw in fifth.
While Lake Hartwell is one of the most storied fisheries in the country, hosting nearly 100 MLF events over the past three decades, the Stage 2 event will mark the first-ever Bass Pro Tour stop on the expansive reservoir – adding a new chapter to a lake that continues to test anglers in unique ways and opening the door for a compelling mix of history and momentum. Three anglers in the Stage 2 field have previously earned victories on Lake Hartwell on the MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit – Brent Ehrler (2012), Casey Ashley (2014) and Mitchell Robinson (2025) – each proving capable of unlocking the lake’s ever-changing patterns.
Ashley, who hails from Donalds, South Carolina, said he is excited to be fishing his home lake for this event and expects the Bass Pro Tour format to push weights higher than many fans might anticipate.
“Lake Hartwell is fishing really good right now, and we’ve never fished one of the Bass Pro Tour every-fish-counts tournaments there, so this event should be really interesting,” said Ashley. “It’s a huge lake, but the cool thing is it’s good end to end. You could fish the whole four days and never see another boat, and it could be won anywhere.”
Lake Hartwell’s size and diversity are expected to play a major role, especially with both spotted bass and largemouth bass in play.
“It’s got a massive population of both spots and largemouth,” Ashley said. “You can catch them deep, shallow – it’s just a great lake with a lot of good fish in it. The two-pound minimum is really going to showcase the spotted bass in this fishery. In a five-fish tournament, guys don’t always target them, but in this event, you’re really going to see what lives in Hartwell.”
Ashley believes the format will highlight contrasting approaches throughout the day, from deepwater finesse to shallow-water power fishing.
“You’ll see guys catching them 40 feet deep on the bottom, and you’ll also see guys shallow cranking in the backs of creeks in dirty water,” he explained. “That’s what makes Hartwell so unique – you can fish your strengths here. Drop-shot rigs, shaky heads and jigs will play, but shallow crankbaits, spinnerbaits and flat-sides will be in the mix as well.”
As a blueback herring fishery, Lake Hartwell presents an added layer of unpredictability that could reshape the leaderboard daily.
“All the lakes in this region have blueback herring, which are really nomadic fish,” Ashley said. “The bass at Lake Hartwell sometimes act more like striper than bass – you can catch them great one day and it can be a ghost town the next because they just follow the bait. That can help you or hurt you in a hurry.
“I expect whoever’s leading to finish around 60 to 65 pounds per day,” Ashley continued. “On the Championship Round, after four days of fishing, it’ll probably still take 50 pounds or more to come out on top.”
Anglers will arrive each morning at 6:15 a.m. ET to Seneca Creek County Park, located at 270 Seneca Creek Road in Seneca, South Carolina. Anglers will return to Seneca Creek County Park each evening following the end of competition at 3:45 p.m. Fans are welcome to attend all launch and takeout events and also encouraged to watch the event live online throughout the day on the MLFNOW!® livestream and follow along with SCORETRACKER® coverage at MajorLeagueFishing.com.
On Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 21-22, from 3–6 p.m., MLF invites fans of all ages to Seneca Creek County Park, located at 270 Seneca Creek Road in Seneca, for the MLF Fan Experience & Watch Party. Fans can watch the Bass Pro Tour pros live on the MLFNOW!® big screen, enjoy free food for the first 100 fans each day, enter hourly giveaways, browse MLF merchandise and the bargain bait bin, and cheer on their favorite anglers. Youth of all ages can take part in a fishing derby (gear and bait provided, weather permitting) and a casting contest. Live music begins at 4 p.m., followed by Top 10 angler interviews and the trophy presentation at 5 p.m., including autographs and photos with Bass Pro Tour finalists. The first 50 kids ages 14 and under will receive a free rod and reel each day.
The O’Reilly Auto Parts Stage 2 at Lake Hartwell Presented by Lowrance will feature anglers competing with a 2-pound minimum weight requirement for a bass to be deemed scorable. The MLF Fisheries Management Division determines minimum weights for each body of water that the Bass Pro Tour visits, based on the productivity, bass population and anticipated average size of fish in each fishery.
The 2026 Bass Pro Tour features a field of 51 of the best professional anglers in the world, competing across seven regular-season tournaments around the country for millions of dollars and valuable points to qualify for the annual Heavy Hitters all-star event and the REDCREST 2027 championship.
The full field of anglers will compete in the two-day Qualifying Round on Thursday and Friday. After the two-day Qualifying Round is complete, the pro with the heaviest two-day total will advance directly to Sunday’s Championship Round. Anglers who finish 2nd through 25th will advance to Saturday’s Knockout Round. In the Knockout Round, weights are zeroed, and the remaining anglers compete to finish in the top nine to advance to Sunday’s Championship Round. In the final-day Championship Round, weights are zeroed, and the highest one-day total wins the top prize of $125,000.
The MLFNOW!® broadcast team of Chad McKee and J.T. Kenney will break down the extended action live on all four days of competition from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET. MLFNOW!® will be livestreamed on MajorLeagueFishing.com , the MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) app and Rumble.
Television coverage of the O’Reilly Auto Parts Stage 2 at Lake Hartwell Presented by Lowrance will premiere as a two-hour episode starting at 7 a.m. ET, on Saturday, Aug. 22, on Discovery. New MLF episodes premiere each Saturday morning on Discovery, with re-airings on Outdoor Channel.
Proud sponsors of the MLF Bass Pro Tour include: Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing Co., Bass Force, B&W Trailer Hitches, Bass Pro Shops, Berkley, Black Buffalo, BUBBA, Cigars International, Epic Baits, Grizzly, Lowrance, Mercury, MillerTech, NITRO Boats, OFF! Deep Woods, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Power-Pole, Ranger Boats, Rapala, Star brite, Suzuki Marine, Toyota, Yuengling and Zenni.
For complete details and updated information on Major League Fishing and the Bass Pro Tour, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com . For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF’s social media outlets at Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube.
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery, Outdoor Channel, VICE, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network, RFD-TV and Game & Fish TV, and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
Springville’s Walker Uses Home-Water Knowledge to Win Phoenix Bass Fishing League Event at Lay Lake
Georgia’s Ford Earns Victory in Co-Angler Division
COLUMBIANA, Ala. (Feb. 9, 2026) – Boater Jacob Walker of Springville, Alabama, caught a total of five bass weighing 23 pounds even to win the MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League (BFL) Presented by T-H Marine on Lay Lake . The tournament was the second of five events of the season for the BFL Bama Division. Walker earned $10,540, including a $7,000 Phoenix MLF Bonus, for his victory.
Walker, a rookie on the Bass Pro Tour, grew up and learned how to fish on the Warrior River just a couple of hours’ drive from Lay Lake and currently resides one hour and 10 minutes from Lay to the south and Guntersville Lake to the north. He calls the Coosa River his home waters, and he found he had to rely on home-water experience during the BFL event.
“I practiced for three days this week for the tournament, and it was really cold,” Walker said. “We had brutal conditions. The water temperature was mid-40s. I would use my LiveScope for a couple of hours in the morning, then I would go and look around to try to find something else. I never really found anything too good.”
Walker approached the tournament by planning to throw a 6-inch Deps Sakamata Shad Heavy Weight Soft Jerkbait on a 3/16-ounce Owner Range Roller Jig Head while utilizing his LiveScope and then switching to a Big Texan-colored Reaction Innovations Sweet Beaver 4.20 secured to a ½-ounce tungsten weight on 50-pound-test Sunline Braid to flip grass.
“That 6-inch bait is usually big for a spotted bass, and most people will not throw something that big for spotted bass,” Walker said. “I might not get as many bites with it as somebody throwing something smaller, but when I do get a fish to commit on that bait it’s usually one you’re going to weigh in.”
“I used the three hours of LiveScope from 7:10 to 10:10 and caught seven fish,” Walker went on to say. “I had a bunch of 4-pounders for 20 pounds. After my scoping was done, I went and flipped grass the rest of the day. I got five bites flipping, and I landed three of them, one of which was a 6-13 at 2:45.”
Although Walker knew his approach was a solid one, conditions played a major factor in the tournament and forced Walker to lean on past experience on the water.
“It was just a tough day,” Walker said. “Understanding current and the effect it has on water levels played a big factor. When they run some current and the water is already low, the bottom end of the lake is typically lower than it is mid- to up-river, so that’s where the grass fishing was better for me, because the water was a little bit higher up there. I’m talking four inches made a big difference. I just had to have faith to fish some of the stuff I’ve caught big fish on in the past and know where to go flip for six hours and have the confidence to get the right three bites. The weights have been really good on the lake, so I was worried. Even after I caught that big one I was still worried I wasn’t going to win.”
“I am a professional fisherman,” Walker went on to say. “I realize that. But I don’t feel that way. All of the people I fished against in this tournament are people I’ve fished against since I was 12 years old. I mean, there are local legends there. I don’t fish at home much anymore. It’s hard to compete at home because everybody there is so good. They know exactly what’s going on day to day. And being on the road you lose touch with that. So, I was shocked to win this, honestly.”
The top 10 boaters finished the tournament:
1st: Jacob Walker, Springville, Ala., five bass, 23-0, $10,540 (includes $7,000 Phoenix Bonus)
2nd: Hunter Davidson, Reform, Ala., five bass, 19-10, $1,680
3rd: Tristen Price, Madison, Ala., five bass, 18-3, $850
4th: Bobby McCaa, Selma, Ala., five bass, 17-4, $680
5th: Chris Hensley, Marbury, Ala., five bass, 16-11, $600
6th: Dalton Cochran, McCalla, Ala., five bass, 16-6, $520
7th: Matthew Bennett, Eclectic, Ala., five bass, 16-0, $500
8th: Phillip Herring, Richton, Miss., five bass, 15-10, $480
9th: Josh Statum, Jackson’s Gap, Ala., five bass, 15-2, $460
10th: James Willoughby, Gulfport, Miss., five bass, 15-0, $430
Complete results can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.
Walker also earned the Berkley Big Bass Boater award after landing a 6-pound, 13-ounce bass worth $200.
Jeffrey Ford of Trion, Georgia, won the co-angler division and the top prize of $1,670 Saturday after bringing three bass to the scale that totaled 10 pounds, 6 ounces.
The top 10 co-anglers finished:
1st: Jeffrey Ford, Trion, Ga., three bass, 10-6, $1,670
2nd: Timothy Shockley, Booneville, Miss., three bass, 10-0, $840
3rd: Michael Hester, Ohatchee, Ala., three bass, 8-10, $425
4th: Scott Noles, Woodland, Ala., three bass, 8-6, $340
5th: Corey Wyrosdick, Phenix City, Ala., three bass, 8-0, $300
6th: Roger Shirey, Ashland, Ala., three bass, 7-13, $260
7th: Alvin Shirey, Talladega, Ala., three bass, 7-9, $250
8th: David Rhudy, Calera, Ala., three bass, 7-7, $240
9th: Randy Wiggins, Birmingham, Ala, three bass, 7-6, $230
10th: Phillip Easterling, Clanton, Ala., three bass, 7-5, $215
Joseph Chilcott of Williamson, Georgia, earned the Berkley Big Bass co-angler award after landing a 5-pound, 7-ounce bass worth $100.
After two events, Tristen Price of Madison, Alabama, now leads the 7 Brew Bama Division Angler of the Year (AOY) race with 493 points, while Jeffrey Ford of Trion, Georgia, leads the Bama Division Co-Angler of the Year race with 494 points.
The top 45 boaters and co-anglers in the division based on point standings, along with the five tournament winners of each qualifying event, will qualify for the Oct. 22-24 BFL Regional tournament on Watts Bar Lake in Spring City, Tennessee. Boaters will fish for a top award of a new Phoenix 819 Pro with a 200-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard worth $50,000, while co-anglers will compete for a top prize of a new Phoenix 518 pro with a 115-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard, worth $33,500.
The 2026 Phoenix BFL Presented by T-H Marine is a 24-division circuit devoted to weekend anglers, with 128 events throughout the season, five qualifying tournaments in each division. The top 45 boaters and co-anglers from each division, along with the five qualifying tournament winners, will advance to one of six BFL Regional tournaments where they are competing to finish in the top seven, which then qualifies them for one of the longest-running championships in all of competitive bass fishing – the BFL All-American. The 2026 BFL All-American will take place May 28-30, at Lake Murray in Columbia, South Carolina, and is hosted by Capital City Lake Murray Country Regional Tourism.
Proud sponsors of the 2026 MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine include: 7 Brew, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, BUBBA, Cigars International, Epic Baits, Grizzly, Lew’s, Mercury, MillerTech, Mystik Lubricants, OFF! Deep Woods, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, PirahnO2, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Strike King, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, VOSKER, YETI and Yuengling.
For complete details and updated tournament information, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular BFL updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF5’s social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery, Outdoor Channel, VICE, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network, RFD-TV and Game & Fish TV, and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
Cox ready to measure up at Martin
With light weights and fish measuring mishaps at the Elite Series opener on Guntersville in his rearview mirror, the always happy John Cox begins round two of the season at Lake Martin this week with nothing but positive vibes and numerous measuring accessories on board his aluminum Vexus®.
Q: First things first, did you make sure there’s a measuring board in your boat?
Cox: I borrowed one from a buddy at Guntersville. I hope he doesn’t want it back. (laughs) Plus, my buddies at Vexus gave me a hard time, and bought me a tape measure and one of those soft tapes that tailors and seamstress use.
Q: After a brutal Day 1 at Guntersville, you managed to catch nearly 18 pounds on Day 2. What was the difference?
Cox: It was like I got up on the wrong side of the bed last Thursday. Ice was freezing in my rod guides and reels, and I got spun out mentally fighting casting issues. Things thawed out on Friday, I went back to the same areas with the same lures and caught a decent limit.
Q: Let’s move on to Lake Martin. Do you have any history on that 100-year old reservoir?
Cox: A little bit. I fished it once when I was 18-years old and did terrible, but went back as an FLW angler and cashed a check.
Q: This is a forward-facing sonar event, and lots of 10-12-pound spotted bass limits are likely to be weighed-in, with a 14-pound limit generally being highly regarded. What will your approach be?
Cox: I’ll probably try to find a place to catch a limit, and then go hunt a bigger largemouth to separate myself from the pack.
Q: Will the spinnerbait and buzzbait be key for you at Martin?
Cox: I hope so. They’re both classic pre-spawn baits that allow me to cover a ton of water to keep up with the ‘scopers’ -- and we’re facing a big warming trend that should also make them players.
Note: Five years ago, Cox won $100,000 at this time of year on Smith Lake, another well-known Alabama fishery full of spotted bass. Hopefully some of the similarities will translate to a magnificent week on Lake Martin for the lighthearted Florida pro.
Wes Logan Loads Boat with Yamaha Power Pay
Courtesy of Dynamic Sponsorships
Wes Logan bested 96 six of his peers to finish fifth in the FXR Bassmaster® Elite on Lake Guntersville, earning an additional $2,500 of extra cash from the Yamaha Power Pay program for his efforts. The 32-year-old Alabama native has now fished three Elite Series tournaments on this iconic fishery, and he’s never finished lower than fifth.
Logan’s quiet confidence and consistent results on Lake Guntersville mirror the efficiency and reliability of the Yamaha 250-horsepower V MAX SHO® on the back of his Falcon Boat. Yamaha’s renowned dependability was paramount for Logan this week, as extremely cold air and water temperatures were a major storyline throughout practice and competition for the Elite Series season opener.
The air temperature was a brutal nine degrees on day one of practice and Logan said he was reading 36-degree water temps when he launched his boat, by far the coldest water temperatures Logan had ever fished for bass in. Even amid the harsh conditions, Logan said he never worried about the motor that had his back.
“That Yamaha SHO on the back of my boat gives me absolute peace of mind,” Logan said. “Whether it’s ten degrees or 100 degrees, I know if I take care of my Yamaha it’ll take care of me. When temperatures dip below freezing like we faced at Guntersville, you need to be mindful of the conditions. Let your motor idle and warm up a bit first thing in the morning before you blast off and make sure you drain all water from your motor at the end of the day.”
Logan emphasizes that with proper maintenance and care, he knows he can count on his outboard to get him to the fish and back to the boat ramp without issue every single time. Which, at the end of the day, is the most important thing whether you are fishing at the highest level or you’re on the water for a short trip with your family.
Another major perk of running a Yamaha is if you compete in one of the nearly 600 supported bass, walleye, or saltwater tournaments you’ll have the opportunity for bonus money through Yamaha’s Power Pay contingency. You don’t need to be a pro like Wes Logan to enjoy the rewards of Power Pay.
“I’ll tell any angler who will listen, if you fish tournaments you need to be running a Yamaha,” Logan offered. “It pays to run the best, literally, through the Power Pay program but also in the sense that you get the best performing and most reliable outboard on the market. It really is an easy decision.”
Anglers of all levels are eligible to win through Power Pay. High school and college competition, team trails, grassroots events and more are included in the full list of supported tournaments. For more information, follow this link https://yamahapowerpay.com/registration or send us an email at [email protected] and get signed up today.
Keystone State’s Ryan Matylewicz locks up key Kayak Series win at Kissimmee Chain
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Ryan Matylewicz didn’t come close to catching the best bag of bass in the Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series at Kissimmee Chain presented by Native Watercraft. That honor went to fellow Pennsylvanian Dylan Crystaloski whose Day 2 total of 114.75 inches broke the record for the largest one-day limit in Bassmaster Kayak Series history.
Despite those fireworks, Matylewicz proved consistency wins the race.
The 38-year-old Tunkhanook, Pa., resident caught a 98.75-inch limit on Saturday and closed with a limit of 95.5 inches Sunday to give him 10 bass measuring 194.25 inches overall, which was more than enough length to top the field of 242 anglers competing this weekend in central Florida.
Matylewicz earned $11,500 for the victory, part of a $48,400 cash purse awarded to top performers on the Kissimmee Chain. The tournament was the first of six regular season stops for the series in 2026.
“Being consistent was the name of the game,” Matylewicz said. “I found some fish in practice on the north end of Lake Tohopekaliga, and I stayed up there both days of the tournament. I threw an Alabama rig the whole time and I feel like I threw it about 6 million times. I was hurting overnight and maxed out on ibuprofen. It’s not easy throwing that thing as many times as I did, but that’s what they were hitting.”
Chucking the A-rig was a necessity, Matylewicz said, following a bitter cold front that blanketed the East Coast last week. Water temperatures plummeted and still were at 52 degrees on Sunday morning for Day 2 of the derby. Florida provided plenty of its signature sunshine, though, and the water warmed rapidly as the final day progressed.
“It got to 59, 60 degrees eventually,” Matylewicz said. “The fish were lethargic and really slow to bite. But with that big rig whizzing over their heads, I was getting some reaction bites. I was close enough, so they thought they’d take a chance on some free food.”
A variety of lures worked with the Alabama rig, but Matylewicz said basic shad-colored plastics worked best. He fished over hard spots and small rockpiles in anywhere from 4 to 8 feet of water.
“I stayed near some pre-spawn locations that were close to winter spots,” he said. “The fish wanted to spawn, but the water temperature dropped so much with that cold front, the fish were disoriented. Where I was worked, but it got less productive as thy day went on. I wouldn’t have a lot of confidence going to that spot again if we had to fish tomorrow.”
Rounding out the Top 5 at the Kissimmee Chain are, second, North Carolina’s Wyatt Hammond, 190.75 inches, $5,250; third, Pennsylvania’s Greg Polec, 190.50, $3,250; fourth, Crystaloski, 182.75, $2,855; and fifth, Connecticut’s Ryan Nye, 180, $2,655.
Of that quintet, only Crystaloski was outside the Top 5 after Day 1, when he caught four fish measuring 68 inches. He crashed the party on Championship Sunday, though, with eight total catches, including a pair of 24-inch toads. He also had bass of 22.5, 22.25 and 22 inches to round out his record-setting haul. Bassmaster Kayak Series Director Steve Owens said five bass totaling 114.75 inches is equivalent to about 35 pounds.
“It was the best day of my life on the water,” said Crystaloski, a 25-year-old native of Greensburg, Pa.
“I caught a 9 1/2-pound, 26-inch largemouth in practice right outside a spawning flat using a DT6 Rapala crankbait. “When the tournament started, I sat on that same point all day and knew it was either sink or swim … I knew I had to go there and swing on them again today. They just kept reloading. I couldn’t ask for a better start to the season.”
The previous one-day record in a Bassmaster Kayak Series event was 112.25 inches caught by Mark Pendegraf in the 2021 Championship on Possum Kingdom Lake in Texas.
The Top 5 anglers in each of this year’s kayak tournaments advance to the 2026 Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series Championship presented by Native Watercraft, which will be held later this year at a location not yet announced. The Bassmaster College Kayak Series will be held in conjunction with that championship.
Garin Butler, of Duluth, Ga., caught a 24.75-inch bass on Saturday and won the $500 Big Bass Award. Also, for the first time in the Bassmaster Kayak Series, a $100 Hourly Big Bass prize was awarded to the competitor who caught the longest bass in each hour of the tournament.
Scoring for the week will be available via TourneyX.
The Kissimmee Sports Commission hosted this event.
2026 Bassmaster Kayak Series
2026 Bassmaster Kayak Series Presenting Sponsor: Native Watercraft
2026 Bassmaster Kayak Series Angler of the Year Sponsor: Pro-Guide Batteries
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.
Illinois’ Drew Gill Earns Fifth Career Win at Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches
Gill catches final day limit weighing 26 pounds even Sunday to earn $100,000 top prize
LEESBURG, Fla. (Feb. 8, 2026) – Mount Carmel, Illinois, pro Drew Gill kicked off the 2026 Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech season the same way he kicked off the 2026 Bass Pro Tour season – with a superlative win and a $100,000-plus payday. In the first few weeks of the fishing season, the young superstar has now won two national-level events and consequently leads in Angler of the Year (AOY) points on both of MLF’s top circuits.
This week at Stop 1 at the Harris Chain of Lakes Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches , Gill had a killer gameplan for big bites and weighed three fish over 8 pounds on the week. After catching three for an even 21 pounds on Day 1, Gill took a big lead on Day 2 with a 19-4 limit and closed Sunday with an even 26 pounds (including an 8-pounder and a 9-pounder) for a dominating 66-4 total. Gill topped 2nd-place finisher Brody Campbell by nearly 18 pounds and weighed either the biggest or second-biggest bag every day of the event. For the win, Gill pocketed $100,500 (including a $500 Berkley Big Bass Bonus) and also qualified for REDCREST 2027, which is at least a level of insurance for the BPT standout.
Fishing for suspended, offshore fish in Lake Beauclair, Gill showed off a master gameplan and did what he does best at a level nobody else could touch.
The Pro Circuit field is not lacking in exceptional offshore anglers or anglers skilled with forward-facing sonar – in fact, Bobby Bakewell and Aaron Yavorsky both have some major success on the Harris Chain, and major skills with the beam. Banks Shaw made the Top 50 cut, as well as Alec Morrison, two modern pros will a full skillset and winners of the last two Pro Circuit AOY awards. However, Gill fished at a level that was a cut – or maybe two cuts, even – above his competition throughout the entire event.
One of Gill’s big keys was an umbrella rig, with caught all his fish over 8 pounds, and which he was more committed to than any other angler.
“When I showed up here, the water was 48 degrees in the lake I started in,” he said. “That’s ridiculously cold, and a cold bass is a cold bass. A cold bass has always, will always, eat an A-rig. The first fish I threw it at was almost a 6-pounder. From there, I kept it in my back pocket, ordered a bunch and had it ready.
“The big, big ones just would not respond to the minnow,” he said. “I caught three over 8 on the week, and all of them bit the A-rig. That was the ticket: When the water is so dirty, you need something that has drawing power to make it worth it. And when they’re suspended, they don’t generally want to go to the bottom.”
On Day 1, Gill caught about half the fish he saw. He caught about a quarter of the fish he saw on Day 2, and nearly a third of the fish he saw on Day 3. A slightly worse catch rate might have seen him battling instead of cruising, or maybe, in the sort of situation that Yavorsky ended up in, catching big ones but never enough of them.
“Using ‘Scope, fishing offshore for suspended fish in Florida, it comes down to fish identification and understanding your approach,” he outlined. “Picking your approach is really important. With an A-rig, the big thing is you’ve got about six inches of metal in front of those swimbaits. You’ve got a lot of ‘not look so good’ that is in front of the part you want them interested in. Picking your cast right to make sure the first thing they engage with is not the front of the rig, but the back of it, is super important. Being very meticulous about how I approached those big, big ones was very important. Those giant ones didn’t want to bite anything else.”
Gill used a YUM YUMbrella Flash Mob Jr. rig with 3 1/2-inch swimbaits – on two screwlocks, two 1/8-ounce heads and a 1/16-ounce head. He threw it on 25-pound Seaguar Tatsu and never had an issue handling any of the giants he hooked. Gill also caught some fish on a 4.8-inch Big Bite Baits Spotlight Minnow on a 1/8-ounce head, as well as several key fish on 3/8- and 1/2-ounce ChatterBaits.
Gill ran Kissimmee grass edges with the ChatterBait, which put key fish in the boat on the last two days. It continued his trend of mastering whatever forward-facing sonar bite exists on competition waters and then figuring out the rest of the gameplan.
“I didn’t spend a lot of time trying to figure it out in practice,” he said. “I tried to figure it out in the tournament. The first day, I ran too much, I fished too little. I think on the Harris Chain right now it is an efficiency deal. I regrouped and just got on the trolling motor on the edge of the Kissimmee grass and put that ChatterBait in my hand, and I got meaningful bites on it the last two days.”
Fishing the Pro Circuit is an important avenue for Gill to win money and promote his sponsors, but it’s also a lot of fun for the young pro. He’s willing to take risks he might not on the Bass Pro Tour, and this week showed that off. He didn’t chase some sort of moonshot plan. He never went to a limit hole and AOY points never crossed his mind.
“There weren’t a lot of bites to be had this week on the Harris Chain,” Gill said. “The only way to overcome that was to do it on really big fish. It’s really hard to intentionally manufacture three 8-plus bites, but I knew I was around big ones this week. There were a couple places in Dora where I knew I could go catch some fish, but I never bailed to them; I spent every minute of my ‘Scope period looking for big ones, and it worked out.
“This was a big risk, but it was a big risk because it wasn’t a likely positive outcome,” he said. “They were kind of unpredictable. They didn’t have a pattern of where they would go; it’s really wind susceptible and there were a lot of variables that could have destroyed it. The beauty of five-fish tournaments with a high-risk pattern is when you only have one idea, you commit. I didn’t have a backup plan.”
On Day 3, Gill had it wrapped up early, maybe when he caught his first 8-pounder, definitely when he caught his 9-pounder. And with it, he added yet another accolade to his already overflowing resume.
“It’s a hard place to win and this was an incredible field of anglers,” he said. “I’m ecstatic. The fact that this happens, that it continues to happen, it baffles me.”
The top 20 pros at the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 at the Harris Chain of Lakes Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches finished:
1st: Drew Gill, Mount Carmel, Ill., 13 bass, 66-4, $100,000
2nd: Brody Campbell, Oxford, Ohio, 15 bass, 48-14, $25,000
3rd: Aaron Yavorsky, Palm Harbor, Fla., nine bass, 43-3, $20,000
4th: Connor Jacob, Peoria, Ill., 15 bass, 42-12, $18,000
5th: Keith Poche, Pike Road, Ala., 15 bass, 39-13, $17,000
6th: Jared Lintner, Covington, Ga., 15 bass, 39-4, $16,000
7th: Chad Mrazek, Montgomery, Texas, 14 bass, 36-15, $15,000
8th: Broderick Luckey, Lynchburg, Va., 14 bass, 36-11, $14,000
9th: Marshall Robinson, Landrum, S.C., 15 bass, 36-4, $13,000
10th: Ryan Lachniet, Gum Spring, Va., 15 bass, 36-3, $12,000
11th: Jack Daniel Williams, Kingsport, Tenn., 15 bass, 33-10, $10,000
12th: Samuel Fish, Chelsea, Ala., 14 bass, 33-7, $10,000
13th: Will Harkins, Blairsville, Ga., 15 bass, 31-11, $10,000
14th: Terry Scroggins, San Mateo, Fla., 15 bass, 31-5, $10,000
15th: Gary Klein, Mingus, Texas, 15 bass, 30-15, $10,000
16th: Dylan Nutt, Nashville, Tenn., 13 bass, 30-12, $10,000
17th: Tyler Campbell, Martin, Ga., 12 bass, 30-1, $10,000
18th: Drew Boggs, Lebanon, Tenn., 12 bass, 29-14, $10,000
19th: Colby Miller, Elmer, La., eight bass, 29-12, $10,000
20th: Matt Massey, Saint Augustine, Fla., 13 bass, 29-10, $10,000
Complete results for the entire tournament can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.
Overall, there were 180 bass weighing 417 pounds, 3 ounces caught by 44 pros Sunday. The catch included 25 five-bass limits.
The three-day Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 at the Harris Chain of Lakes Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches, hosted by Discover Lake County Florida, featured professional pro anglers competing for a top prize of up to $135,000. Pros were also vying for valuable points to qualify for the 2026 Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Championship, hosted by Experience Kissimmee , set for Sept. 18-20 on the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes in Kissimmee, Florida, as well as REDCREST 2027 qualification and a coveted spot on the MLF Bass Pro Tour – the sport’s premier circuit.
“Closing out the final day of competition at the 2026 Major League Fishing Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 was an incredible moment for Lake County and the City of Leesburg,” said Ryan Ritchie, Director, Office of Tourism-Discover Lake County. “The anglers delivered an unforgettable finish on our waters, and the excitement on shore matched every ounce of intensity that carried throughout the tournament. We’re grateful to stand alongside the City of Leesburg, the Lake County Board of County Commissioners, our Tourist Development Council and the Greater Orlando Sports Commission, and we appreciate the partnership that helped deliver an event that brought national attention and meaningful economic impact to our community.”
The full field competed in the two-day opening round on Friday and Saturday in a five-fish, weigh-in format. Only the top 50 pros, based on their two-day cumulative weight, advanced to the final round on Championship Sunday, where they competed for the grand prize of up to $135,000.
Television coverage of the MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech Stop 1 at the Harris Chain Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches will air as a two-hour episode, premiering at 9 a.m. ET, on Sunday, Sept. 6 on VICE TV.
The next event for 2026 is the MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 2 at Santee Cooper Lakes, set for Feb. 26-28 in Clarendon County, South Carolina.
Proud sponsors of the 2026 MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech include: 7Brew Coffee, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, Bubba, Cigars International, Epic Baits, Grizzly, Mercury, MillerTech, OFF! Deep Woods, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, PiranhO2, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, VOSKER, YETI and Yuengling.
For complete details and updated information visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the MLF5 social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery, Outdoor Channel, VICE, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network, RFD-TV and Game & Fish TV, and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
Cherry conquers Bassmaster Elite at Lake Guntersville
SCOTTSBORO, Ala. — Hank Cherry, turned 52 today, so it’s fitting that the pro from Lincolnton, N.C., employed a straight-up old-school technique to win the FXR Bassmaster Elite at Lake Guntersville with 88 pounds, 11 ounces.
Cherry caught the majority of his fish on a 3-inch hand-poured chartreuse curly tail grub rigged on a 1/8-ounce ball-head jig. Dedicating his win to his father Harold, Sr., Cherry said he was thrilled to claim the victory with a bait from his childhood.
“I felt like I was 10-years-old again; it was incredible fishing,” Cherry said with a quaking voice. “I was throwing a bait that’s older than (much) of the field. I’ve been waiting my whole life to be able to fish a major tournament and do that.
“My dad has been feeling under the weather, but he’s the one that taught me how to fish and he started this thing.”
Cherry’s slower start amplified his win. A frigid Day 1 impeded his signature jerkbait efforts and left Cherry in 64th place with 16 pounds, 3 ounces. The following day, Cherry sacked up 22-11 and rocketed into 18th.
On Semifinal Saturday, Cherry continued his climb with a limit of 22-2, which moved him into sixth place and secured his Championship Sunday berth. In the final round, Cherry added 27-11 — the event’s heaviest bag — to claim the blue trophy.
Edging Stetson Blaylock of Benton, Ark., by 1-13, Cherry won the $100,000 top prize.
“I love this game, I was born to do this game and I thank God that he gave me the ability to do what I do,” Cherry said. “This is incredible. This is just another check mark on a lifelong dream that I’ve been living.”
Cherry devoted his tournament to the Alred Creek area, where the abundance of baitfish and the scarcity of boats presented a promising scenario. He caught his fish by casting and slowly swimming the grub along the grass edge.
“Once you learn how to move the bait, it’s very easy,” Cherry said. “The bite’s simple. You don’t lose a lot, except when they straighten out your hook.
“I just paid attention to one grassline and anytime I went over a group of bait or a group of fish with my DownScan, I would mark it and come back through. I knew today was my day when I looked up in the grass 30 yards away, and (the fish) were just boiling.”
When Cherry left his main area, he was unsure of his overall standing. Fortunately, a late-day decision sealed the deal.
“I was second guessing leaving, but the afternoon has been so bad,” Cherry said. “I came up here (near the tournament site at Goose Pond) with 10 minutes to go and fished a Bassmooch HC 115 jerkbait on a bluff and caught my last one, which was right at 5 pounds.
“I said, ‘If I get beat, I just get beat.’”
This win marks Cherry’s fifth Bassmaster victory. Most recently, he won back-to-back Bassmaster Classic titles at the 2021 event at Lake Ray Roberts and the 2020 Classic on Lake Guntersville.
Cherry also won the 2013 Elite Series All-Star Week and Championship at Muskegon Lake and White Lake. A year prior, he topped the Southern Open at Smith Lake.
Only three other anglers have claimed consecutive Classic titles: Rick Clunn (1976-77), Kevin VanDam (2010-2011) and Jordan Lee (2017-2018). On the theme of repetition, Cherry said his underlying sense of familiarity helped deliver a second Guntersville title.
“Anytime I’m on this lake, I feel like I have a chance to win,” Cherry said. “I knew that with that bait and these conditions, this would be the one time I was really gonna have a chance.
“I just feel comfortable here. I don’t know why; I just have a peace when I come here.”
Improving from third on Day 3, Blaylock finished second with 86-14. His daily weights were 18-12, 22-14, 22-11 and 22-9.
Working in the back of Alred Creek, Blaylock fished a ditch running through the grass. Targeting prespawn bass, he threw a 5-inch YUM Money Minnow rigged on a 3/8-ounce Scottsboro Tackle swimbait head.
“One mistake I made was I did not fish the area I caught them in the last three days on the first day,” Blaylock said. “If I would have done that, it would have been a little different outcome.”
On Day 4, Blaylock also worked a Booyah One Knocker and an unnamed jig head minnow into his rotation.
Matt Robertson of Kuttawa, Ky., finished third with 85-13. He caught limits of 23-11, 16-5, 23-9 and 22-4.
“On Day 3, I was throwing a Berkley Cull Shad and I caught a couple, then I missed two,” Robertson said. “I put my Power-Poles down and picked up a Berkley Stunna jerkbait. The grass was so shallow, I just made a short pitch out there and kept my rod tip up, twitched it three or four times and I caught a few.
“I thought, ‘If they’re not gonna miss the jerkbait, I’ll just keep throwing it.’”
Cooper Gallant of Bowmanville Ontario won the $2,000 Phoenix Boats Big Bass award with his 8-4.
Cherry won the $2,000 Rapala CrushCity Monster Bag with his 27-11.
Cherry won the $4,000 Toyota Bonus Bucks contingency award for the highest-placing eligible angler.
Wes Logan of Springville, Ala., won the $4,000 Yamaha Power Pay contingency award for the highest-placing eligible angler.
Jacob Powroznik of North Prince George, Va., the BassTrakk Contingency prize for the angler whose BassTrakk estimates are closest to their official weight.
This event was hosted by Mountain Lakes Chamber of Commerce.
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
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.
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Connect with #Bassmaster on Facebook, Instagram, Twitte
Media Contact: Mandy Pascal, Communications Manager, 334-414-8677, [email protected]
2026 FXR Bassmaster Elite Series at Lake Guntersville 2/5-2/8
Lake Guntersville, Scottsboro AL.
(PROFESSIONAL) Standings Day 4
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Hank Cherry Jr Lincolnton, NC 20 88-11 101 $102,000.00
Day 1: 5 16-03 Day 2: 5 22-11 Day 3: 5 22-02 Day 4: 5 27-11
2. Stetson Blaylock Benton, AR 20 86-14 100 $22,000.00
Day 1: 5 18-12 Day 2: 5 22-14 Day 3: 5 22-11 Day 4: 5 22-09
3. Matt Robertson Kuttawa, KY 20 85-13 99 $15,000.00
Day 1: 5 23-11 Day 2: 5 16-05 Day 3: 5 23-09 Day 4: 5 22-04
4. Jamie Hartman Newport, NY 20 85-11 98 $12,500.00
Day 1: 5 20-12 Day 2: 5 23-04 Day 3: 5 23-00 Day 4: 5 18-11
5. Wes Logan Springville, AL 20 82-07 97 $11,750.00
Day 1: 5 20-08 Day 2: 5 20-09 Day 3: 5 24-01 Day 4: 5 17-05
6. Justin Atkins Florence, AL 20 80-13 96 $11,000.00
Day 1: 5 20-06 Day 2: 5 20-10 Day 3: 5 19-15 Day 4: 5 19-14
7. Brandon Card Salisbury, NC 20 80-09 95 $10,500.00
Day 1: 5 21-14 Day 2: 5 19-04 Day 3: 5 19-04 Day 4: 5 20-03
8. Kyle Welcher Valley, AL 20 80-06 94 $10,300.00
Day 1: 5 20-07 Day 2: 5 24-09 Day 3: 5 17-05 Day 4: 5 18-01
9. Trey McKinney Carbondale, IL 20 79-09 93 $10,200.00
Day 1: 5 19-02 Day 2: 5 16-08 Day 3: 5 24-04 Day 4: 5 19-11
10. Dakota Ebare Brookeland, TX 20 74-04 92 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 18-09 Day 2: 5 17-08 Day 3: 5 24-05 Day 4: 5 13-14
------------------------------
PHOENIX BOATS BIG BASS
Day
1 Wesley Gore Clanton, AL 08-01 $1,000.00
2 Cooper Gallant Bowmanville Ontario CANADA08-04 $1,000.00
3 Stetson Blaylock Benton, AR 07-07 $1,000.00
4 Stetson Blaylock Benton, AR 06-11 $1,000.00
------------------------------
PHOENIX BOATS BIG BASS
Cooper Gallant Bowmanville Ontario CANADA08-04 $2,000.00
RAPALA CRUSHCITY MONSTER BAG
Hank Cherry Jr Lincolnton, NC 27-11 $2,000.00
------------------------------
Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 85 469 1670-10
2 82 466 1596-06
3 40 233 802-06
4 10 50 200-03
------------------------------
217 1218 4269-09
Hartman eyeing second title in Bassmaster Elite lead at Lake Guntersville
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Drew Gill Jumps to Day 2 Lead at Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches
Mount Carmel, Illinois pro paces field into Championship Sunday with 7-pound, 15-ounce lead
LEESBURG, Fla. (Feb. 7, 2026) – Day 2 of the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech Stop 1 on the Harris Chain Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches finished better than Day 1, with quite a bit better weather. The field managed 54 limits on the day, up from 46 on Day 1, and the pros caught 906 pounds of bass, up from 878 pounds – certainly not up to the usual Florida standards, but definitely better on a tough Harris Chain.
Consistency was tough to come by, and those who stayed steady were rewarded. The best of the bunch, Drew Gill backed up his three-bass, 21-pound effort from Day 1 with a limit for 19-4, bringing his total to 40-4 – nearly 8 pounds ahead of second place. Brody Campbell rolled up the leaderboard with 17-11 to claim the second position at 32-5, while Keith Poche maintained his third place position with another limit to get to 30 pounds even.
To make the 50-angler cut and advance to Championship Sunday, it took 14-8 for two days. Lucas Black, who caught three bass for less than 3 pounds on Day 1 and backed it up with five for 11-12 on Day 2, claimed the final spot.
Coming in off a win in the first Bass Pro Tour derby of the year at Lake Guntersville, it’s looking highly likely that Gill will bank over $200,000 in the first two events of the season. Fishing offshore and mostly making hay during his three hours of forward-facing sonar use, the young pro is in the midst of proving yet again that nobody ‘Scopes like he does.
Fishing roughly the same area as several other anglers on Day 1, Gill caught three giants to start out in second place. On Day 2, with at least as many competitors around, he again outstripped his competition.
“There was an absolute horde of boats in the area where I’d planned on starting. It took me an hour and 45 minutes to catch one fish – I was way off pace,” he said of his start to the day. “It was pretty rough, but I was able to rally and put some solid ones in the boat to end my ‘Scope period.”
Then, Gill hit the bank, winding a vibrating jig up shallow, where he caught two bass, including a 5-pounder. Without that fish, Gill probably still leads, but his ability to manufacture bites the old-fashioned way gave him a lot more breathing room.
As for Day 3, Gill doesn’t think anything is guaranteed, as the fish are far from reliable at the moment.
“Day 1, I saw six bass in three hours,” he explained. “Today, I saw almost 30. There’s more fish now than there were. The problem is, the reason there are more fish is not that there are more showing up. Fish that were out deep are getting pulled up by the boat traffic. They’re engaging with baits, they’re engaging with boats, and they become very hard to catch. The problem tomorrow is probably not going to be seeing fish; it’s going to be getting them to bite.”
Plenty of other pros had that issue Saturday – there were anglers fishing the same water as Gill who only caught one or two fish. But if Gill can be himself for one more day, he stands a good chance to take home his fifth major win since February 2024.
“I’ve fished my areas pretty hard the last couple days, and I don’t think there will be a lack of boat traffic there tomorrow,” he said. “So, I’ve got a pretty good gap, but I’m not remotely ready to call this. The Harris Chain has been very unpredictable this week. I could believe it if I had 4 pounds tomorrow, and I’d honestly believe it if I had 26. It’s really, really hard to tell, but by about 11 o’clock, I should have a good idea of how the day is going.”
Last year on the Tackle Warehouse Invitationals, Campbell finished one point away from qualifying for the Bass Pro Tour. This week, he’s showing again that he’s bound for the next level sooner or later, having put together a very clean couple days of fishing.
“I started in Lake Harris; I caught four bass and lost two,” he outlined. “I’ve got a little starting spot where I can catch a couple. Then, I rolled out to Beauclair and caught a big one ‘Scoping. Then, I came back to Harris and culled three times.”
On both Days 1 and 2, plying Bird Dog Rods, Campbell has weighed four fish from Harris, which he caught without LiveScope, and one from Beauclair. He’ll follow the same blueprint on Day 3.
“I’m going to run the same plan,” he said. “It’s what got me here. I’m going to start on a hole; it’s guaranteed that I’ll catch a couple. Then, I’ll head down there and hope to crack a bag. And hopefully somebody cuts Drew Gill’s LiveScope cords or something.”
Though Campbell knows a win might be a longshot, he’s not totally counting himself out, and he loves the points regardless.
“We’ll see tomorrow. I need to catch 29 1/2 pounds to win,” he said. “But I can catch a limit, no doubt, to maintain. And the main goal is qualifying for the Bass Pro Tour, so I want to stay up there and not sacrifice any points. If Drew Gill messes up, hey, I might catch 20.”
The top 20 pros advancing to Championship Sunday on the Harris Chain of Lakes are:
1st: Drew Gill, Mount Carmel, Ill., eight bass, 40-4
2nd: Brody Campbell, Oxford, Ohio, 10 bass, 32-5
3rd: Keith Poche, Pike Road, Ala., 10 bass, 30-0
4th: Aaron Yavorsky, Palm Harbor, Fla., six bass, 29-14
5th: Marshall Robinson, Landrum, S.C., 10 bass, 27-12
6th: Broderick Luckey, Lynchburg, Va., nine bass, 27-8
7th: Ryan Lachniet, Gum Spring, Va., 10 bass, 27-0
8th: Caz Anderson, Haysville, N.C., 10 bass, 25-8
9th: Colby Miller, Elmer, La., six bass, 24-14
10th: Marshall Hughes, Hemphill, Texas, 10 bass, 24-11
11th: Drew Boggs, Lebanon, Tenn., 10 bass, 24-6
12th: Jared Lintner, Covington, Ga., 10 bass, 24-5
13th: Jack Daniel Williams, Kingsport, Tenn., 10 bass, 23-13
14th: Connor Jacob, Peoria, Ill., 10 bass, 22-12
15th: Dylan Nutt, Nashville, Tenn., eight bass, 21-2
16th: Chad Mrazek, Montgomery, Texas, nine bass, 21-2
17th: Mike Mayo, Athens, Texas, seven bass, 21-1
18th: Will Harkins, Blairsville, Ga., 10 bass, 21-1
19th: Teimuraz (Tom) Balachvili, Brooklyn, N.Y., 10 bass, 20-13
20th: Gary Klein, Mingus, Texas, 10 bass, 20-8
To view all 50 competitors advancing to Championship Sunday and complete results for the entire field, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com.
Overall, there were 447 bass weighing 906 pounds, 3 ounces caught by 145 pros Saturday. The catch included 54 five-bass limits.
Pro Bobby Bakewell of Orlando, Florida, earned the Day 2 Berkley Big Bass award of $500 after bringing a bass that weighed 8 pounds, 14 ounces to the scale.
The three-day Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 at the Harris Chain of Lakes Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches is hosted by Discover Lake County Florida and features professional bass anglers competing for a top prize of up to $135,000.
“We are thrilled to be hosting Major League Fishing in Lake County this week as part of the region’s expanding lineup of premier sporting events,” said Jason Siegel, President & CEO of the Greater Orlando Sports Commission. “Events of this caliber reinforce the strength of our community’s venues and our ability to deliver a first-class experience. As the second day of competition comes to a close, we’re confident the anglers and their families will continue to enjoy their time here, and we thank the City of Leesburg and Discover Lake County for their ongoing partnership and collaboration.”
In Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit competition, the full field competed in the two-day opening round on Friday and Saturday in a five-fish, weigh-in format. Only the top 50 pros, based on their two-day cumulative weight, now advance to the final round on Championship Sunday, where they will compete for the grand prize of up to $135,000. The winner of the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 at the Harris Chain of Lakes Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches will be determined by the heaviest three-day cumulative weight.
Anglers will launch at 7:30 a.m. ET on Championship Sunday from Ski Beach at Venetian Gardens, located at 201 E. Lake Harris Drive in Leesburg, Florida. Weigh-ins will be held at the same location and will begin at 3:30 p.m. Fans are welcome to attend all launch and weigh-in events and also encouraged to follow the event online throughout the day on the MLFNOW!® live stream and coverage at MajorLeagueFishing.com .
The MLFNOW! broadcast team of Chad McKee and Rob Newell will break down the extended action live on Championship Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET. MLFNOW! will be live streamed on MajorLeagueFishing.com, the MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) app and Rumble.
Television coverage of the MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech Stop 1 at the Harris Chain Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches will air as a two-hour episode, premiering at 9 a.m. ET, on Sunday, Sept. 6 on VICE TV.
Proud sponsors of the 2026 MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech include: 7Brew Coffee, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, Bubba, Cigars International, Epic Baits, Grizzly, Mercury, MillerTech, OFF! Deep Woods, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, PiranhO2, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, VOSKER, YETI and Yuengling.
For complete details and updated information visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the MLF5 social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery, Outdoor Channel, VICE, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network, RFD-TV and Game & Fish TV, and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
Riser on top after Day 1 of Kayak Series opener at Kissimmee Chain
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Adam Riser can’t remember many practices less productive than the ones he had leading up to the Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series at Kissimmee Chain presented by Native Watercraft.
But fortune changed for the 41-year-old Riser in the final minutes of Friday’s practice when he found an area in the north end of Lake Tohopekaliga that had a steady stream of pre-spawn bass swimming through it. He caught a few sizable fish, then slipped away, carrying high hopes into the start of competition on Saturday.
Riser found the fish again on Day 1, catching a limit of five bass that measured exactly 100 inches. That put the Knoxville, Tenn., resident in the lead on the Kissimmee Chain — the first of six regular-season Kayak Series events in 2026. A total of 242 anglers from around the U.S. are competing this weekend in central Florida for a total of $48,400 in prize money, including $11,500 guaranteed to the winner.
Riser was, without a doubt, pleased with Saturday’s catch. He said the difference between nearly three days of practice and Day 1 of competition was “night and day”.
“As difficult as practice was, it wasn’t surprising,” he said, referencing the massive cold front that buried much of the East Coast a few days before anglers arrived for the tournament. “Freezing cold weather and Florida bass do not go hand in hand. But what I stumbled upon really set up the way I like to fish.”
Riser said he found an inconspicuous area of Toho that was an ideal pre-spawn staging area. He quickly caught bass there measuring 22 and 19 inches to close Friday’s practice and arrived again Saturday morning to find more bass funneling into the same area.
“I got on the LiveScope and I could see the fish, in a single-file line, loading into this area,” he said. “About a half-dozen would come in at a time. I’d fish for them, catch a few nice ones, and then there would be a lull of about 30 minutes to an hour. But then, here comes another group of half-dozen sliding into the same corridor. I was able to take advantage of that and put some in the boat.”
Riser caught 11 keepers on Saturday, according to TourneyX results. That was a remarkable feat, considering only 40 anglers among the 242 entered managed a limit on Day 1 of the derby. The Florida bass seem to be stunned by air temperatures near freezing at sunrise and water temperatures yet to climb back above 60 degrees this week.
Riser used a variety of JDM baits to trigger his best bites, but offered few specifics.
“I’m thinking a little outside the box,” he said. “Each bait I used had a different look and sound, but the bass responded positively to all of them. Honestly, I don’t think it would have mattered what color lure I threw.”
Now, he awaits the second and final day of the tournament, and hopes good fortune finds him again.
“I realize how valuable this spot is,” Riser said. “I know how hard it has been to find bass this week. That gives me every reason to go back there tomorrow.”
Rounding out the Top 5 after Day 1 are, second, Pennsylvania’s Ryan Matylewicz, 98.75 inches; third, Connecticut’s Ryan Nye, 94.5; fourth, North Carolina’s Wyatt Hammond, 94; and fifth, Pennsylvania’s Greg Polec, 91.25.
The Top 5 anglers in each of this year’s kayak tournaments will advance to the 2026 Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series Championship presented by Native Watercraft, to be held later this year at a location not yet announced. The Bassmaster College Kayak Series will be held in conjunction with that championship.
Garin Butler, of Duluth, Ga., caught a 24.75-inch bass on Saturday, the longest of the day.
A Big Bass Award of $500 will be presented, and for the first time in the Bassmaster Kayak Series, a $100 Hourly Big Bass prize is being awarded to the competitor who catches the longest bass in each hour of the tournament.
The second and final day of the Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series at Kissimmee Chain presented by Native Watercraft will begin Sunday with a 6:15 a.m. ET launch. Fishing time is from 6:45 a.m. ET to 2:45 p.m. ET, and there’s a 3:45 p.m. ET deadline to enter bass into the tournament scoring system. Awards will be presented at 4:30 p.m. ET and can be seen on Bassmaster.com.
Scoring for the week will be available via TourneyX.
The Kissimmee Sports Commission is hosting the event.
2026 Bassmaster Kayak Series
2026 Bassmaster Kayak Series Presenting Sponsor: Native Watercraft
2026 Bassmaster Kayak Series Angler of the Year Sponsor: Pro-Guide Batteries
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.
Tough Tournament Takeaways with Swindle and Fothergill
Courtesy of Dynamic Sponsorships
After the day two weigh-in concluded for the FXR Bassmaster Elite on Lake Guntersville, Gerald Swindle and Easton Fothergill found themselves on the wrong side of the day three cut line. It’s not how they hoped to start their 2026 seasons, but it’s the reality they faced after waking up to no alarm Saturday morning. Coming up short is something that all Elite Series competitors must deal with. These are 101 of the best anglers in the world but only one will leave Goose Pond a winner on Sunday afternoon.
If you tournament bass fish at any level, the fact is you are going to lose a lot more than you’ll win. The mental side of fishing is a major factor in what separates pros like Swindle and Fothergill from the average angler. In this case, what lessons can they take away from a disappointing tournament finish?
Fothergill and Swindle are at very different points in their career, have contrasting fishing strengths and come from opposite sides of the country, but there are common threads to take away from their post-tournament process. These two graciously provided their point of view just hours after a frustrating finish.
Swindle: Decisions and Don’t Dwell
2026 is year 32 as a full-time professional angler for two-time AOY Gerald Swindle. At this point in his career, he has seen it all, done it all, and probably came back for seconds. Swindle has also spent countless hours on Lake Guntersville, but even with all his experience there are key takeaways.
“After all these years there is still something to learn and take away from every event,” Swindle said. “This week, I’m pinpointing one decision I made on day two after I had caught a small limit, I ended up leaving those fish biting to run around and look for a big bite. I had three hours, but I never got that bigger bite, even with local knowledge on my side. Man, I wish I wish I could make that decision over again.
“I should have rotated through some baits and stayed put for a while, but that’s hard to do when you are only getting seven or eight bites a day. But… I’ve learned after 32-years you can’t dwell on it. Practice for Lake Martin starts Monday and you gotta treat your brain like an Etch-And-Sketch. Make some mental notes and use it to improve, sure, but don’t you dwell on it.”
Swindle’s advice is good medicine for all fishermen. The Team Toyota pro stood in as a co-host on Bassmaster LIVE Mix this morning, which allowed him to watch the leaders and pick up on some nuances he missed on his home fishery.
“Specific to Guntersville this week, it was mostly an area and depth deal that I missed,” Swindle said. “I focused a little too deep, which sounds crazy when we’re talking water temps in the upper 30s. But I watched Cooper Gallant catch ‘em this morning out of pad stems that were covered with a layer of ice on during practice. I never looked at that area again after I saw that ice and I obviously should have. There weren’t any real secrets this time around, it was small, key decisions that made all the difference.”
Swindle explained that most competitors were throwing the same baits and had the same general idea of how to excel on Guntersville, but it came down to small decisions, with late afternoon decisions being paramount as the water warmed slightly and the mood of the fish improved.
Fothergill: Damage Control and Coverage Review
2026 is Fothergill’s sophomore season on the Elites, which is hard to believe as the Yamaha Outboards pro has already accomplished so much in his young career. Fothergill is as cerebral of an angler as you’ll come across and even with the success he’s experienced, he knows he still has a lot to learn on both a macro and micro level of tournament fishing.
Because of this, the Toyota Bonus Bucks pro has an entirely different process than Swindle. Easton has an old soul but he’s representative of the youth invasion at the top level of tournament competition.
“I’ve already moved on from Guntersville,” Fothergill said. “We have another tournament starting in just a few days, so I’m already back to baseline and focused on Lake Martin, but I will look back at both events after the Alabama swing is over. I’ll watch Bassmaster LIVE, review some of the coverage and see what intricacies I missed.
“I haven’t watched any LIVE yet, but I know from talking to peers that I should have spent some time in the B.B. Comer section of the river. It’s pretty common knowledge that area is historically good, but I tend to try and avoid fishing in crowds. A lot of big fish ended up being caught in that stretch, and I obviously shouldn’t have ignored it just because it was a community hole. I’m sure I’ll learn even more when I go back and watch the coverage.”
Another take away Fothergill spoke on came in the form of damage control, which is something fans don’t always see from the outside looking in. Easton is wise beyond his years when it comes to catching bass, but his maturity in terms of mindset is just as impressive.
“59th isn’t a great finish by any means but based off my practice you could call this a win,” Fothergill explained. “I literally caught zero bass during the first day (of practice) and felt like I was on nothing Thursday morning. Something I learned from Brandon Palaniuk last year was damage control... I finished just about dead last in the first two events of 2025 and BP took me aside and provided some perspective on salvaging those bombs to earn some valuable AOY points. Just as importantly, learn from the disappointment and move on.”
Disappointment is bound to find you if you tournament bass fish, but how you compartmentalize that adversity is what separates the best from the rest. With the right perspective, there is always room to learn and grow.
Swindle and Fothergill may be at different points in their careers, but their mindset is extremely similar. They’ll be better equipped to excel next week at Lake Martin because of it and their advice can help to make you a better angler, too.
Welcher’s uncharacteristic patience delivers Bassmaster Elite lead at Lake Guntersville
SCOTTSBORO, Ala. — Kyle Welcher doesn’t like to stay put, but switching off his core instinct and committing to one area delivered a big Day 2 improvement that put him atop the leaderboard for the FXR Bassmaster Elite at Lake Guntersville.
After placing 18th on Day 1 with 20 pounds, 7 ounces, the pro from Valley, Ala., sacked up 24-9 and surged into the lead with a two-day total of 45 pounds.
“The moral of the story was hunkering down and staying put,” Welcher said. “I did better than I did yesterday; I didn’t run around as much and that was the way to catch ’em.”
Welcher, who won the 2025 St. Croix Bassmaster Elite at Pasquotank River by parking in one key area, knew he’d have to employ the same uncomfortable strategy on Guntersville.
“It’s the hardest thing for me to do; it goes against everything that I want to do,” Welcher said. “But when it’s tough and it’s hard to run around and get bites, sometimes that’s the best thing to do.
“That’s something I’ve had to learn by fishing on the Elites. I didn’t have the patience whenever I first started out here.”
Welcher said he fished south of the takeoff site at Goose Pond and focused on a 3-acre stretch. He tried the same area he fished on Day 1, but when the bites failed to materialize, he repositioned and relocated his fish.
“They had slid 150 yards away and I caught them there today,” Welcher said. “The majority of what I’m fishing is eelgrass, but every now and then, I’ll pull up some coontail or some hydrilla, but it’s 90% eel grass.”
Welcher stuck with the same lipless bait/bladed jig combo that much of the field has been throwing. His choice was a 1/2-ounce Rapala Snare and an unnamed bladed jig with a Crush City Freeloader trailer.
Describing his presentations, Welcher said: “It was early-slow and late-fast. That was the biggest adjustment I’d make throughout the day. I think they get up higher in the water column as the sun gets up.”
A gloomy Day 1 brought mostly overcast skies, light breezes and air temperatures that struggled to reach the low 40s. By contrast, the second round saw bright, sunny conditions, stronger afternoon wind and a high of 61.
“I think the sun is the major thing, but the wind could’ve helped a little” Welcher said. “I caught a couple big ones after it started blowing today, but I caught most of the fish I weighed in before the wind started blowing. I definitely think the sun helps you get more bites.
“I had my limit probably at, like, 10 o’clock and I had the last one I weighed in at 2.”
Looking ahead to Semifinal Saturday, Welcher said he’ll give his area another shot, but he expects he’ll need to continue narrowing down his focus.
“There’s a lot of dead water this week; I’ve never seen Lake Guntersville with so much dead water,” Welcher said. “It’s very difficult to get a bite just covering water. They’re definitely schooled up in small little areas.
“I think that’s what’s going to win this event — schools in small little areas.”
Jamie Hartman of Newport, N.Y., is in second place with 44 pounds. On Day 1, he caught 20-12 and placed 14th. A second-round limit of 23-4, moved Hartman up a dozen spots.
“I’m still grinding them,” said Hartman, who won the 2019 Elite event at Lake Guntersville. “They’re coming slow but they’re coming steady. God blessed me yesterday and He really blessed me today.
“I backed off of them again today. I think I have a lot of fish in the area. I don’t know, but I’m not leaning on them too much, so I hope I get to crack another bag like that and fish on Championship Sunday.”
Hartman said he expected the day’s warming conditions would move more fish into his area, but he was careful not to conserve productivity for at least one more day.
“I can’t take that chance and keep leaning on them,” Hartman said. “I’m only making one pass and then I’m leaving.”
Hartman attributed his success to a specific technique predicated on precise casts. He kept the details guarded, but noted that he could run the lake and use a particular bait and presentation in other areas.
“I just have it zoned so good in my area that I called my shots several times today,” Hartman said.
Hunter Shryock of Ooltewah, Tenn., is in third place with 41-14. His daily weights were 21-1 and 20-13.
“Yesterday, it was fast and heavy, but today, we had to nickel and dime ’em, bounce around and learn some things,” Shryock said. “I think I found a special bait and a special color that’s working right now. I’m gonna ride with it and see what happens tomorrow.”
Shryock said he based his bait choice on the lake’s clarity level and the common choices he’s seen other competitors using. Standing out from the crowd, he said, boosts his confidence.
“Overall, it’s about putting yourself around fish and having to settle down and fish,” he said. “You start running around on this place and you can get (spun out) in a hurry.”
Cooper Gallant of Bowmanville Ontario is in the lead for Phoenix Boats Big Bass honors with his 8-4.
Saturday’s takeoff is scheduled for 7 a.m. CT at Goose Pond. The weigh-in will be held at the same location at 3 p.m.
Live coverage of the FXR Bassmaster Elite at Lake Guntersville will be available on FS1 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. before moving to Bassmaster.com from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Championship Sunday coverage can be found on FS1 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with afternoon action to follow on Bassmaster.com.
This event is being hosted by Mountain Lakes Chamber of Commerce.
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
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.
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Connect with #Bassmaster on Facebook, Instagram, Twitte
Media Contact: Mandy Pascal, Communications Manager, 334-414-8677, [email protected]
2026 FXR Bassmaster Elite Series at Lake Guntersville 2/5-2/8
Lake Guntersville, Scottsboro AL.
(PROFESSIONAL) Standings Day 2
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Kyle Welcher Valley, AL 10 45-00 101
Day 1: 5 20-07 Day 2: 5 24-09
2. Jamie Hartman Newport, NY 10 44-00 100
Day 1: 5 20-12 Day 2: 5 23-04
3. Hunter Shryock Ooltewah, TN 10 41-14 99
Day 1: 5 21-01 Day 2: 5 20-13
4. Stetson Blaylock Benton, AR 10 41-10 98
Day 1: 5 18-12 Day 2: 5 22-14
5. Caleb Kuphall Mukwonago, WI 10 41-07 97
Day 1: 5 21-07 Day 2: 5 20-00
6. Brandon Card Salisbury, NC 10 41-02 96
Day 1: 5 21-14 Day 2: 5 19-04
7. Wes Logan Springville, AL 10 41-01 95
Day 1: 5 20-08 Day 2: 5 20-09
8. Justin Atkins Florence, AL 10 41-00 94
Day 1: 5 20-06 Day 2: 5 20-10
9. Cooper Gallant Bowmanville Ontario CAN 10 40-13 93 $1,000.00
Day 1: 5 17-03 Day 2: 5 23-10
10. Cory Johnston Otonabee CANADA 10 40-10 92
Day 1: 5 24-09 Day 2: 5 16-01
11. Bryan Schmitt Deale, MD 10 40-10 91
Day 1: 5 24-05 Day 2: 5 16-05
12. Brock Mosley Collinsville, MS 10 40-10 90
Day 1: 5 23-06 Day 2: 5 17-04
13. Nick Trim Galesville, WI 10 40-08 89
Day 1: 5 19-08 Day 2: 5 21-00
14. Matt Robertson Kuttawa, KY 10 40-00 88
Day 1: 5 23-11 Day 2: 5 16-05
15. Blake Capps Muskogee, OK 10 39-09 87
Day 1: 5 20-09 Day 2: 5 19-00
16. Jeff Gustafson Kenora, ON Ontario CANA 10 39-04 86
Day 1: 5 22-01 Day 2: 5 17-03
17. Evan Kung Pickering Ontario CANAD 10 39-01 85
Day 1: 5 23-06 Day 2: 5 15-11
18. Hank Cherry Jr Lincolnton, NC 10 38-14 84
Day 1: 5 16-03 Day 2: 5 22-11
19. Matt Arey Shelby, NC 10 38-07 83
Day 1: 5 17-00 Day 2: 5 21-07
20. Caleb Hudson Lincolnton, GA 10 38-05 82
Day 1: 5 16-15 Day 2: 5 21-06
21. Taku Ito Dalton GA JAPAN 10 38-04 81
Day 1: 5 20-02 Day 2: 5 18-02
22. Bob Downey Detroit Lakes, MN 10 38-03 80
Day 1: 5 19-15 Day 2: 5 18-04
23. Bryant Smith Roseville, CA 10 38-02 79
Day 1: 5 24-06 Day 2: 5 13-12
24. Matt Messer Warfield, KY 10 38-02 78
Day 1: 5 19-08 Day 2: 5 18-10
25. Cody Meyer Eagle, ID 10 37-15 77
Day 1: 5 18-02 Day 2: 5 19-13
26. Keith Combs Huntington, TX 10 37-14 76
Day 1: 5 18-09 Day 2: 5 19-05
27. John Garrett Union City, TN 10 37-10 75
Day 1: 5 14-14 Day 2: 5 22-12
28. Lee Livesay Longview, TX 10 37-10 74
Day 1: 5 17-06 Day 2: 5 20-04
29. Caleb Sumrall New Iberia, LA 10 37-06 73
Day 1: 5 19-07 Day 2: 5 17-15
30. KJ Queen Catawba, NC 10 37-03 72
Day 1: 5 19-03 Day 2: 5 18-00
31. Brandon Lester Fayetteville, TN 10 36-15 71
Day 1: 5 21-06 Day 2: 5 15-09
32. Chris Johnston Otonabee Ontario CANADA 10 36-15 70
Day 1: 5 17-04 Day 2: 5 19-11
33. Drew Cook Cairo, GA 10 36-07 69
Day 1: 5 17-13 Day 2: 5 18-10
34. Jacob Foutz Charleston, TN 10 36-05 68
Day 1: 5 17-07 Day 2: 5 18-14
35. Jason Christie Dry Creek, OK 10 36-04 67
Day 1: 5 18-05 Day 2: 5 17-15
36. Jacob Powroznik North Prince George, VA 10 36-02 66
Day 1: 5 16-13 Day 2: 5 19-05
37. Drew Benton Panama City, FL 10 36-01 65
Day 1: 5 16-12 Day 2: 5 19-05
38. Dakota Ebare Brookeland, TX 10 36-01 64
Day 1: 5 18-09 Day 2: 5 17-08
39. Brandon Cobb Greenwood, SC 10 35-14 63
Day 1: 5 18-04 Day 2: 5 17-10
40. Jake Whitaker Hendersonville, NC 10 35-11 62
Day 1: 5 16-10 Day 2: 5 19-01
41. Paul Marks Cumming, GA 10 35-11 61
Day 1: 5 18-15 Day 2: 5 16-12
42. Trey McKinney Carbondale, IL 10 35-10 60
Day 1: 5 19-02 Day 2: 5 16-08
43. Tyler Williams Belgrade, ME 10 35-10 59
Day 1: 5 18-13 Day 2: 5 16-13
44. Cliff Pace Ovett, MS 10 35-09 58
Day 1: 5 16-10 Day 2: 5 18-15
45. Jason Williamson Aiken, SC 10 35-07 57
Day 1: 5 19-12 Day 2: 5 15-11
46. Kyle Norsetter Cottage Grove, WI 10 35-06 56
Day 1: 5 17-02 Day 2: 5 18-04
47. Greg Hackney Gonzales, LA 10 35-06 55
Day 1: 5 17-06 Day 2: 5 18-00
48. Cole Sands Johnson City, TN 10 34-14 54
Day 1: 5 17-00 Day 2: 5 17-14
49. Andrew Loberg Guntersville, AL 10 34-10 53
Day 1: 5 13-06 Day 2: 5 21-04
50. Seth Feider Elko New Market, MN 10 34-09 52
Day 1: 5 19-15 Day 2: 5 14-10
51. Tristan McCormick Bon Aqua, TN 10 34-07 51
Day 1: 5 15-15 Day 2: 5 18-08
52. Pat Schlapper Eleva, WI 10 34-04 50
Day 1: 5 13-10 Day 2: 5 20-10
53. Brandon Palaniuk Rathdrum, ID 10 34-02 49
Day 1: 5 18-14 Day 2: 5 15-04
54. Tyler Rivet Raceland, LA 10 33-09 48
Day 1: 5 15-10 Day 2: 5 17-15
55. Patrick Walters Eutawville, SC 10 33-07 47
Day 1: 5 18-01 Day 2: 5 15-06
56. Carl Jocumsen Queensland TN AUSTRALIA 8 33-05 46
Day 1: 5 22-00 Day 2: 3 11-05
57. Brad Whatley Bivins, TX 10 33-03 45
Day 1: 5 15-07 Day 2: 5 17-12
58. John Crews Jr Salem, VA 9 33-02 44
Day 1: 4 12-10 Day 2: 5 20-08
59. Easton Fothergill Grand Rapids , MN 10 33-01 43
Day 1: 5 16-06 Day 2: 5 16-11
60. David Mullins Mt Carmel, TN 10 32-09 42
Day 1: 5 19-01 Day 2: 5 13-08
61. Bryan New Leesville, SC 10 32-09 41
Day 1: 5 16-05 Day 2: 5 16-04
62. Wesley Gore Clanton, AL 9 32-07 40 $1,000.00
Day 1: 5 23-05 Day 2: 4 09-02
63. Scott Canterbury Odenville, AL 10 31-15 39
Day 1: 5 17-08 Day 2: 5 14-07
64. Alex Redwine Blue Ash, OH 10 31-14 38
Day 1: 5 16-12 Day 2: 5 15-02
65. Fisher Anaya Eva, AL 10 31-11 37
Day 1: 5 18-14 Day 2: 5 12-13
66. Logan Parks Auburn, AL 10 31-07 36
Day 1: 5 17-05 Day 2: 5 14-02
67. Pake South Winnsboro, TX 10 30-13 35
Day 1: 5 18-12 Day 2: 5 12-01
68. Cody Huff Ava, MO 10 30-13 34
Day 1: 5 15-02 Day 2: 5 15-11
69. Kyoya Fujita Yamanashi CA JAPAN 10 30-07 33
Day 1: 5 13-08 Day 2: 5 16-15
70. Jay Przekurat Plover, WI 10 30-01 32
Day 1: 5 17-09 Day 2: 5 12-08
71. Steve Kennedy Auburn, AL 10 29-13 31
Day 1: 5 14-12 Day 2: 5 15-01
72. Gerald Swindle Guntersville, AL 10 29-12 30
Day 1: 5 15-06 Day 2: 5 14-06
73. Shane LeHew Catawba, NC 10 29-04 29
Day 1: 5 14-03 Day 2: 5 15-01
74. Will Davis Jr Sylacauga, AL 8 28-10 28
Day 1: 4 13-02 Day 2: 4 15-08
75. JT Thompkins Myrtle Beach, SC 10 28-02 27
Day 1: 5 13-10 Day 2: 5 14-08
76. Kenta Kimura Osaka OK JAPAN 10 27-14 26
Day 1: 5 12-06 Day 2: 5 15-08
77. Mark Menendez Paducah, KY 8 27-10 25
Day 1: 5 17-03 Day 2: 3 10-07
78. Tucker Smith Birmingham, AL 10 27-07 24
Day 1: 5 14-08 Day 2: 5 12-15
79. Russ Lane Prattville, AL 8 27-03 23
Day 1: 5 20-09 Day 2: 3 06-10
80. Robert Gee Knoxville, TN 10 27-02 22
Day 1: 5 13-01 Day 2: 5 14-01
81. Luke Palmer Atoka, OK 9 26-02 21
Day 1: 5 15-10 Day 2: 4 10-08
82. Kyle Patrick Cooperstown, NY 8 26-01 20
Day 1: 3 08-10 Day 2: 5 17-07
83. Jordan Lee Cullman, AL 8 26-00 19
Day 1: 5 17-15 Day 2: 3 08-01
84. Aaron Jagdfeld Rochester Hills, MI 9 24-15 18
Day 1: 5 14-15 Day 2: 4 10-00
85. Justin Hamner Northport, AL 9 24-14 17
Day 1: 5 15-04 Day 2: 4 09-10
86. Chris Zaldain Boyd, TX 9 24-14 16
Day 1: 5 14-10 Day 2: 4 10-04
87. David Gaston Sylacauga, AL 8 24-01 15
Day 1: 3 07-07 Day 2: 5 16-10
88. Austin Felix Eden Prairie, MN 8 23-13 14
Day 1: 3 12-03 Day 2: 5 11-10
89. Beau Browning Hot Springs National Pa 8 22-05 13
Day 1: 3 07-15 Day 2: 5 14-06
90. Michael Iaconelli Pitts Grove, NJ 9 21-09 12
Day 1: 5 12-14 Day 2: 4 08-11
91. Brock Reinkemeyer Warsaw, MO 9 21-05 11
Day 1: 5 10-12 Day 2: 4 10-09
92. Sam Hanggi Knoxville, TN 7 21-00 10
Day 1: 2 06-09 Day 2: 5 14-07
93. Austin Cranford Moore, OK 7 20-08 9
Day 1: 4 13-12 Day 2: 3 06-12
94. Buddy Gross Chattanooga, TN 5 20-07 8
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 5 20-07
95. John Cox Debary, FL 5 16-12 7
Day 1: 0 -01-00 Day 2: 5 17-12
96. Gregory DiPalma Millville, NJ 5 16-09 6
Day 1: 2 06-03 Day 2: 3 10-06
97. Emil Wagner Marietta, GA 6 16-02 5
Day 1: 3 09-07 Day 2: 3 06-11
98. Joey Cifuentes III Clinton, AR 5 13-13 4
Day 1: 4 11-12 Day 2: 1 02-01
99. Randy Howell Guntersville, AL 5 13-04 3
Day 1: 4 11-03 Day 2: 1 02-01
100. Bill Lowen Brookville, IN 3 12-13 2
Day 1: 2 10-03 Day 2: 1 02-10
101. Clifford Pirch Payson, AZ 3 10-05 1
Day 1: 3 10-05 Day 2: 0 00-00
Aaron Yavorsky Takes Lead on Day 1 of Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches
Palm Harbor, Florida pro catches 22-8 limit to grab early lead in three-day event
LEESBURG, Fla. (Feb. 6, 2026) – The Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech opened the season with brutal weather and a tough day of fishing. Kicking off Stop 1 Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches on the Harris Chain , only 46 pros caught a limit, and Miles Smith holds down the cutline in 50th with a meager total of 6 pounds, 15 ounces on three keepers.
At the top of the leaderboard, it didn’t get much easier. In first, Aaron Yavorsky tallied 22-8 on five, and Drew Gill weighed an even 21 pounds on just three bass. Neither angler culled, as Yavorsky landed just five – no more, no less. In third, Keith Poche knocked out 17-12, and Marshall Robinson and Caz Anderson also got over the 17-pound mark.
The Day 1 weather was pretty ruthless by Florida standards, with temperatures starting in the 30s and climbing into the 60s. For most of the day, an extremely blustery wind kept the anglers on their toes. Saturday should be nicer, with a little less wind and slightly warmer temperatures, but it is by no means the sort of big warmup these Florida bass crave.
With the full field hitting the water again and battling to make Day 3 and the Top 50, there should be a ton of movement in the standings. One or two good bites will go a tremendous distance, and while a few pros are already safe above the cut, there’s no limit to how high someone could rise.
Though a rookie on the Pro Circuit, Yavorsky is no rookie to the Harris Chain, so his strong start shouldn’t surprise anyone. Having already fished in the Bassmaster Classic as the youngest ever qualifier, he didn’t have any jitters, but he was very happy to get off on the right foot.
“I’m pretty pumped,” he said. “I was kind of worried going into it with the cold front – a lot of the advantage I have went away with it being so tough. But I’m excited to be leading the first Pro Circuit event of the year, my first one ever. It feels pretty good.”
Fishing an area that has seen plenty of pressure over the years, Yavorsky made a bit of a gamble on Day 1 – it could have gone sideways, as it did for plenty of other Harris Chain regulars in the field.
“There’s a bunch of fish – there’s 35 pounds there on the best five,” he said of his best area. “But it’s a timing thing. I was really debating on if I should go there or not. You either catch them really good, or you’re not going to catch anything. They’re always there – they’re there 365 days a year – but it’s whether or not they are going to bite. Hopefully we can go there tomorrow and catch some more big ones.”
Catching all his weight during his three hours with forward-facing sonar in the morning, the young Floridian hit the bite window perfectly.
“I figured out what I was doing a little too late,” he said. “I probably could have gotten another 20 or 30 minutes out of my forward-facing period. I caught them all in a bite window really early this morning and then ran around all day. The fish I was on left – they don’t really bite after about 10 or 11 o’clock – and I never really figured anything else out.”
Yavorsky is fishing pretty traditional stuff for the Harris Chain, and the end results look great, but it wasn’t easy, and there’s no guarantee he can replicate it.
“The fish are only there until like 10 or 10:30, wanting to bite – and they barely want to bite then,” he said. “I was just using ‘Scope to see their tails above the bottom, and I was using ‘Scope to make a good cast and put a bait in front of them. I don’t think they wanted to eat. Most of them were hooked on the back hook and just swiping at it.”
Key was, he got five to swipe right, and they were exactly what he needed to lead the day.
While Yavorsky managed five fish, Gill ratcheted up the degree of difficulty, catching three giants, including an 8-3 that earned Berkley Big Bass honors.
“We had the right quantity of weight, but not the right quantity of bass,” said Gill. “I’m not going to complain too much, but it’s one of those things, you don’t want to leave meat on the bone, especially in a tournament like this. When you catch a giant limit in Florida, it opens up the door to run away. I had the opportunity to catch a giant bag, a 25-plus day. If I’d caught two 2-pounders, I’d have had 25 pounds, but I couldn’t make it happen.”
Catching all his weight during his three hours of forward-facing sonar use like Yavorsky, Gill thinks he’s around the right fish to do big things again. But he’s not around many of them.
“I think the odds of me catching a couple big ones tomorrow are pretty high,” he said. “I don’t have any real doubts about the quality I’m around, but the quantity is poor. I have to stay pretty mobile, and I can’t fish behind myself very much, because there just aren’t that many there.”
The top 20 pros after Day 1 on the Harris Chain of Lakes are:
1st: Aaron Yavorsky, Palm Harbor, Fla., five bass, 22-8
2nd: Drew Gill, Mount Carmel, Ill., three bass, 21-0
3rd: Keith Poche, Pike Road, Ala., five bass, 17-12
4th: Marshall Robinson, Landrum, S.C., five bass, 17-9
5th: Caz Anderson, Haysville, N.C., five bass, 17-5
6th: Levi Kohl, Edinburg, Ill., five bass, 15-10
7th: Jared Lintner, Covington, Ga., five bass, 15-4
7th: Ty Faber, Pagosa Springs, Colo., five bass, 15-4
9th: Drew Boggs, Lebanon, Tenn., five bass, 14-13
10th: Brody Campbell, Oxford, Ohio, five bass, 14-10
11th: Ryan Lachniet, Gum Spring, Va., five bass, 13-13
12th: Dylan Nutt, Nashville, Tenn., five bass, 13-6
13th: Gary Klein, Mingus, Texas, five bass, 12-0
14th: Connor Jacob, Peoria, Ill., five bass, 11-14
15th: Clint Knight, Russellville, Ky., four bass, 11-1
16th: Marshall Hughes, Hemphill, Texas, five bass, 10-9
17th: Samuel Fish, Chelsea, Ala., five bass, 10-7
18th: Brandon McMillan, Lake Placid, Fla., five bass, 10-6
19th: Mike Surman, Boca Raton, Fla., three bass, 10-5
20th: Keith Carson, DeBary, Fla., five bass, 10-4
Complete results for the entire field can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.
Overall, there were 440 bass weighing 878 pounds, 10 ounces caught by 134 pros Friday The catch included 46 five-bass limits.
Pro Drew Gill of Mount Carmel, Illinois, earned the Day 1 Berkley Big Bass award of $500 after bringing a bass that weighed 8 pounds, 3 ounces to the scale.
The three-day Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 at the Harris Chain of Lakes Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches is hosted by Discover Lake County Florida and features professional bass anglers competing for a top prize of up to $135,000.
“We are honored to host the first stop of the Major League Fishing Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit here in the Lakefront City of Leesburg,” said Mayor Allyson Berry, City of Leesburg. “Hosting a professional organization of this caliber highlights Leesburg as a premier destination for outdoor recreation and competitive sport fishing. Opening day of competition delivered strong economic activity for our local businesses and showcases our community on a national stage.”
In Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit competition, the full field compete in the two-day opening round on Friday and Saturday in a five-fish, weigh-in format. Only the top 50 pros, based on their two-day cumulative weight, advance to the final round on Championship Sunday, where they will compete for the grand prize of up to $135,000. The winner of the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 at the Harris Chain of Lakes Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches will be determined by the heaviest three-day cumulative weight.
Anglers will launch at 7:30 a.m. ET each day from Ski Beach at Venetian Gardens, located at 201 E. Lake Harris Drive in Leesburg, Florida. Weigh-ins will be held at the same location and will begin at 3:30 p.m. Fans are welcome to attend all launch and weigh-in events and also encouraged to follow the event online throughout the day on the MLFNOW!® live stream and coverage at MajorLeagueFishing.com .
The MLFNOW! broadcast team of Chad McKee and Rob Newell will break down the extended action live all three days of competition from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET. MLFNOW! will be live streamed on MajorLeagueFishing.com, the MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) app and Rumble.
On Friday and Saturday, Feb. 6-7, from 3-5 p.m., MLF invites fans of all ages to the Ski Beach Park, located at 109 E. Dixie Ave. in Leesburg, for the MLF Fishing Show. Fans can watch Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit anglers at the live weigh in, enjoy free food for the first 100 fans each day, enter hourly giveaways and cheer on their favorite anglers. Youth of all ages can take part in a fishing derby (gear and bait provided, weather permitting) and casting contest, and the first 50 kids ages 14 and under will receive a free rod and reel combo each day.
Television coverage of the MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech Stop 1 at the Harris Chain Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches will air as a two-hour episode, premiering at 9 a.m. ET, on Sunday, Sept. 6 on VICE TV.
Proud sponsors of the 2026 MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech include: 7Brew Coffee, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, Bubba, Cigars International, Epic Baits, Grizzly, Mercury, MillerTech, OFF! Deep Woods, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, PiranhO2, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, VOSKER, YETI and Yuengling.
For complete details and updated information visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the MLF5 social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery, Outdoor Channel, VICE, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network, RFD-TV and Game & Fish TV, and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
Johnston takes slim lead in Bassmaster Elite at Lake Guntersville
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Iaconelli’s Insights after 30 years of Fishing Lake Guntersville
Courtesy of Dynamic Sponsorships
Mike Iaconelli began the final Elite Series season of his iconic career this morning along with 100 of his peers on Lake Guntersville to kick off the 2026 Bassmaster campaign. It’s fitting for the first stop of Ike’s swan song to take place on Guntersville, a legendary fishery by any measure. If lakes could be voted into the Hall of Fame, Guntersville would be on the first ballot, much like Iaconelli who was inducted into the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame in 2023.
The 31-year tournament veteran has a unique perspective on Guntersville, as he has competed on this body of water over the span of three decades. Longer than many of his Elite Series competitors have been alive. While tournament bass fishing has seemingly moved in the direction of a young man’s game in recent years, there is no way to replace or replicate experience.
Iaconelli has always had an incredible mind for not just bass fishing, but general wildlife biology. Many fans are familiar with one of his signature phrases of, “fish the moment” which really comes from understanding and predicting the seasonal and daily movements of both bass and baitfish as they go about their aquatic lives. The Team Toyota pro has proven to be one of the best in the world at fishing the moment over the duration of his time fishing at the highest level.
This morning, Iaconelli offered some of his hard-earned knowledge and a few insights on Lake Guntersville just minutes before firing up his Yamaha SHO in search of a strong start to his season.
Q – You’ve competed on this fishery over a span of three decades – what is the most notable difference and the biggest similarity between Guntersville today and 30 years ago?
Iaconelli – “The biggest difference to me is the amount of grass. Grass was always important here, but it used to be about finding key patches of milfoil or hydrilla. Now you cannot go anywhere on Guntersville, I’m talking from dam to dam, without seeing massive beds of eelgrass and other aquatic vegetation. Which makes the fishing better and more confusing, all at the same time!”
“The biggest similarity is the size of the fish. It’s always taken big ones to do well here whether we are talking 2006 when I won an Elite Series tournament in April, or February of 2026. There has always been a massive amount of bait here, which keeps the dinner table full for these bass. Even though Guntersville receives a ton of pressure, the bait coupled with the grass allow this fishery to keep pumping out big ones.”
Q – What kind of weight, per day, will it take to make Sunday’s top 10 cut?
Iaconelli – “It will take over 20-pounds per day to make the final day in my opinion. No doubt about it. In fact, you’re probably going to need 21-to-23-pounds per day to secure a Sunday spot.”
Q – You’ve seen it all throughout your 31-year career, but this years’ hybrid forward facing sonar format is a first for you… how do you feel about it?
Iaconelli – “I like it! I think it is a great compromise to the changing world of fishing. There are a lot of fans and competitors who prefer the old way, then there is another group of fans and competitors that love the new way of fishing. And as we’ve seen the past few seasons, both are very vocal about it. I think this will be a good blend.
“I’m so happy they (B.A.S.S.) went to this in my last season. I’m glad I get to experience this before my days as a full-time tournament pro are done.”
Q – You have been known to excel in cold water scenarios and early spring (late winter) tournaments throughout your illustrious career – what is one key tip you’d give to someone who wants to catch bass in frigid conditions?
Iaconelli – “Regardless of where you are in the country, the transition from winter to spring means the bass will be pre-spawn. Down here in Alabama that’s February, but back home that might be late March, April, or even May. When the season is changing, the bass will be transitioning, too. Because of that, I don’t care where you go, you should always be looking for those transition areas. Which to me, basically means the last little bit of deep water that leads to where those bass are going to want to spawn. Find that and you’ll find bass.”
“On Guntersville I’m looking for ‘touch points’, where the last little bit of deep-water touches something like a point, the side of a flat, a hump or some kind of structure those fish will stage near. Another thing I’m keying on this week is ditches. But not massive, deep ditches like many people imagine. I’m talking 8-to-14-inch ditches in a pocket that these fish will use like highways to get to where they want to be.”
Major League Fishing to Host Celebration for Local Fans with MLF Watch Party and Fishing Show at Ski Beach Park
WHAT:
On Friday and Saturday, MLF invites fans of all ages to Ski Beach Park for the MLF Watch Party and Fishing Show. Fans can watch the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit pros live on the MLFNOW! big screen, enjoy free food for the first 100 fans each day, enter hourly giveaways, browse MLF merchandise and the bargain bait bin, and cheer on their favorite anglers.
WHEN:
Friday, Feb. 6 and Saturday, Feb. 7
3 p.m. – MLF Watch Party & Fishing Show
3:30 p.m. – Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 Weigh-In
WHERE:
Ski Beach Park, 201 E. Lake Harris Dr., Leesburg, Fla.
NOTES:
Youth of all ages can take part in a fishing derby (gear and bait provided, weather permitting), inflatables and a casting contest.
The first 50 kids ages 14 and under will receive a free rod and reel each day.
Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit anglers will be on hand both days to meet and greet fans, sign autographs and take selfies.
Hosted by Discover Lake County Florida, the three-day Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 at the Harris Chain of Lakes Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches features 150 of the world’s top professional anglers competing for a top prize of up to $135,000, crucial points in the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Angler of the Year (AOY) race and coveted qualification spots for the Pro Circuit Championship, hosted by Experience Kissimmee , set for Sept. 18-20 on the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes in Kissimmee, Florida. Competitors are also vying for REDCREST 2027 qualification and a coveted spot on the MLF Bass Pro Tour – the sport’s premier circuit.
For complete details and updated information on Major League Fishing and the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the MLF5 social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery, Outdoor Channel, VICE, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network, RFD-TV and Game & Fish TV and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
FISHING/BOATING: A Short Evolution
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Whitewater Fishing’s new Flats Short results from the evolution of familiar, functional, and comfortable gym shorts |
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MUSKEGON, Mich. (Februrary 2, 2026) – The story goes that some of the Whitewater young guns – hardcore angling high schoolers and collegiate athletes – asked for shorts they could wear hard and be comfortable in while practice-fishing before tournaments. Those days are often marked by sunrise to sunset slugfests coupled with oppressive temperatures in the afternoon, so comfort is a must. Whitewater’s challenge was to develop shorts that perform like the best-of-the-best gym shorts, but with fishing features and fabrics. And after final samples were tested and ultimately approved, the new Flats Short was born. |
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“We really ended up with a do-it-all short,” said Whitewater Fishing Merchandise Manager, Doug Veldhuizen. “They’re great for every outdoor pursuit but really exceed expectations for fishing.” Constructed from a distinctly comfortable 175g quick-dry fabric blend, the Flats Short balances performance and stylish, everyday wearability. With built-in stretch and a soft hand feel, they move with you while drying fast after spray, sweat, or a quick rinse. And the stain-release treatment means salt, sunscreen, and fish slime won’t linger – just wash and they’re ready for the next trip. The soft and technical fabric results from a rather complex composition of 40% recycled polyester, 34% polyester, 17% cotton, and 9% spandex. Whitewater didn’t land on that formula by throwing a dart at a board, either. Rather, it came from rigorously testing wide ranging fabrics until arriving at perfection. |
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Intelligent storage keeps essentials secure without getting in the way with two drop-in front pockets for quick grabs and a hook-and-loop back pocket with drainage grommet, which sheds water fast. A zip-closure right-side pocket also keeps keys, wallet, or smartphone locked down and out of the drink. An elastic waistband with adjustable drawcord lets you dial in comfort while fishing and releases some pressure after a second helping of beer-battered fish. And the Flats Short’s 8-inch inseam hits the sweet spot for action, adventure, and a smart look. |
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Flats Short FEATURES:
MSRP $59.99 |
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ABOUT WHITEWATER Whitewater performance fishing apparel gives anglers distinct advantages whenever Mother Nature’s unpredictability conspires to ruin angling adventures. Whether faced with wind, rain, snow, sun, or extreme temperatures, Whitewater apparel equips anglers with the ability and confidence to overcome the elements, so they apply their focus and energies on fighting fish, not the conditions. Whitewater is a brand by Nexus Outdoors, headquartered in Muskegon, Michigan, USA. Learn more and order at whitewaterfish.com. |
CrushCity and Sufix to be Title Sponsors of the Hartwell Slam
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Walters Joins the ChatterBait® Team
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Did Feider catch a 9-pounder at Guntersville with an ice fishing lure?
Courtesy of Vexus Boats
Minnesota pro Seth Feider seems unphased by the frigid temps surrounding the 2026 Bassmaster Elite Series opener on Guntersville, AL. Understandably, given the fact he caught a 9-pounder on the final day of practice Tuesday.
But did he use one of the Rapala ice fishing lures you see him holding here to catch that G’Ville giant?
Q: Let’s start with an easy one. Did you use your Vexus® as an ice breaker ship at any point this week?
Feider: Absolutely! All the shallow bays were totally iced over the first morning of practice when it was 14-degrees. I waited until noon to launch that day.
Q: What’s the coldest water you’ve ever caught a bass from a boat in?
Feider: Right here. This week. Surface temp was 36 degrees.
Q: And you caught 9-pounder yesterday?
Feider: Yup, on a bait that looks a whole lot like this Rapala Rippin Blade. I caught the 9-pounder on a lipless crankbait, working it almost exactly like I slowly “yo-yo” a blade bait off the bottom in cold water.
Q: It’s been an exceptionally cold winter for most Americans. What advice would you give fans on how to catch a largemouth as things first start to thaw out?
Feider: Target the same shallow bays that ice over first. Those shallow bays may ice over first, but they’re also the same places that warm the fastest. Use a lipless crankbait or a ChatterBait.
Q: It may be frigid here, but it’s still Guntersville. How many limits over 20-pounds should fans expect to see weighed-in on Day 1?
Feider: They’ll be 10 to 20 guys with at least a 20-pound limit, and somebody’s probably gonna catch a 30-pound limit.
Arey Welcomes Old-School Test as Elite Series Opens on Lake Guntersville
By Walker Smith, Courtesy of Dynamic Sponsorships
Team Toyota pro Matt Arey pulled into Lake Guntersville with a familiar mix of confidence and urgency, the kind that comes from years of experience and the sting of narrowly missing a goal. As the 2026 Bassmaster Elite Series season opens on one of the Tennessee River’s most storied fisheries, Arey believes this event could feel different from the very first cast.
The biggest reason has nothing to do with water level, weather or seasonal movement. Instead, it’s what won’t be allowed.
“It’s refreshing to not have to worry about forward-facing sonar during this event,” Arey said plainly. “It’s actually a lot of weight on your shoulders during practice for those events (allowing FFS).”
With the season-opening Elite Series tournament designated as a non-forward-facing sonar event, anglers will be forced to rely on instincts, traditional electronics and decision-making. For a veteran like Arey, it’s a welcome change that rewards adaptability rather than screen time.
“I can fish a lot more freely now,” he said. “I can go back to more natural fishing, if that makes sense. I love letting the fish dictate how I need to make my next move.”
Guntersville has long been known as a grass fishery, capable of producing massive limits and dramatic swings. Without forward-facing sonar, Arey expects the lake to fish truer to its roots, where reading water, understanding grass composition and bite windows will matter more than locating and targeting individual fish.
“The fact that Guntersville is not a forward-facing sonar event totally changes how we all fish,” Arey said. “It’s going to be more about versatility now in my opinion.”
That versatility will be tested across miles of submerged vegetation and subtle contour changes. Arey believes multiple patterns will be in play and the winning angler will likely be the one who can adjust on the fly as conditions change throughout the day.
“There will probably be groups of fish in the grass,” he said. “Some will be caught on bluffs and isolated vegetation. High spots in the grass and areas with a hard bottom could play in a big way, too. My Lowrance mapping is going to be a major key during this event.”
Electronics still matter, just not in the same way. For Arey, detailed mapping and understanding bottom composition could be the difference between a good day and a great one. Subtle rises, shell beds and transitions often hold the better-quality fish, especially when bass are grouping up.
Another variable anglers will have to manage is eel grass, which can be both productive and frustrating.
“Eel grass is also going to play a large factor,” Arey said. “It’s hard to fish efficiently. The last few times we’ve been here it was floating everywhere and it’s hard to fish.”
Floating grass can slow anglers down and limit presentations, but it can also position fish in predictable areas. Arey noted that efficiency is always critical fishing against this bunch, particularly during practice when covering water and eliminating unproductive areas is essential.
That sense of discovery is part of what excites him most about this tournament. Without forward-facing sonar, there’s a greater chance that someone stumbles onto something special rather than watching it swim across a screen.
“I have a gut feeling that someone is going to figure out a hidden gem during practice,” Arey said. “This time of year, fish love to group up in the grass and if you run across the right wad of them, you can get right in a hurry.”
Those “wads” of fish can turn an average day into a career-defining moment on Guntersville. Arey has seen it happen before and he’s approaching this event with an open mind and a willingness to cover water.
“I’ve been covering a lot of water in practice,” he said. “I could see someone fishing shallow, dead grass mats with a jig. They won’t get many bites but the ones they get will be big.”
Big bites have never been the issue for Arey, who has built a reputation as one of the Elite Series’ most consistent anglers. Consistency, however, doesn’t guarantee championships, a lesson that hit especially close to home last season.
“I missed my first championship in 15 years in 2025,” Arey said. “It all came down to decision making. People don’t realize how good everyone is. One small, wrong move can cost you a lot of AOY points.”
That near miss has lingered through the offseason, serving as motivation and a reminder of how thin the margins are at the highest level of professional bass fishing. Every decision, from choosing a starting area to leaving biting fish in search of something better, carries weight.
For Arey, the disappointment has sparked reflection rather than regret.
“Maybe I got a little too comfortable,” he said. “But this year I’m as driven as I’ve ever been. I am refreshed and ready to go.”
Arey enters the 2026 season with a clear head, a strong understanding of Guntersville and a format that suits his fishing style. The absence of forward-facing sonar in some events will put a greater emphasis on experience, intuition and pattern recognition. Areas where Arey excels.
As the first Elite Series event of the year gets underway, Lake Guntersville promises to deliver drama, big weights and tough decisions. For Matt Arey, it also represents a fresh start, a chance to fish freely and let the lake reveal its secrets the old-fashioned way.
Progressive Insurance® named Platinum Sponsor and Official Insurance of Bassmaster
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. announced today that Progressive Insurance has been named a Platinum Sponsor and the Official Insurance of Bassmaster, further strengthening a long-standing relationship between the two organizations and underscoring Progressive’s commitment to professional bass fishing and the outdoor lifestyle.
As part of the agreement, Progressive will serve as the title sponsor of the Bassmaster Angler of the Year award, the Bassmaster Elite Series, the Bassmaster Classic Celebrity Pro-Am and the Bassmaster Classic Tailgate. Progressive will also be the title sponsor of one Bassmaster Elite Series tournament during the season.
“As the country’s No. 1 boat insurer, Progressive is thrilled to strengthen its involvement with Bassmaster, an organization that embodies our passion for the outdoors and commitment to community,” said Eric Doubler, Progressive Recreational Lines Direct Business Leader. “With our expanded sponsorship, we look forward to deepening our connection with the amazing angler community while enhancing and delivering memorable experiences to fishing enthusiasts and fans.”
Progressive’s expanded role connects the brand with Bassmaster’s most prestigious competitive honors and marquee fan experiences. The Bassmaster Angler of the Year award is widely regarded as the most respected title in professional bass fishing, recognizing consistent excellence and performance across an entire Elite Series season. Earning Angler of the Year honors requires anglers to compete at the highest level across diverse fisheries and conditions, making the award a defining career achievement.
Progressive will serve as title sponsor of the Bassmaster Elite Series, which features the sport’s best anglers competing across the country on iconic fisheries, with each event drawing national attention through live coverage, broadcast programming and extensive digital storytelling. The series serves as the primary pathway to the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour and showcases the skill, preparation and innovation that define elite-level competition.
Progressive’s title sponsorship of the Bassmaster Elite Series tournament further reinforces its presence on the water. Each Elite Series event is a multi-day competition that brings anglers, fans and local communities together, generating significant economic impact while highlighting fisheries management and conservation efforts in host regions.
The Bassmaster Classic Celebrity Pro-Am, another event sponsored by Progressive, pairs professional anglers with celebrities, industry leaders and notable outdoor enthusiasts in a unique format that blends competition with entertainment. Held during Classic week, the event provides a high-profile platform to introduce new audiences to the sport while celebrating the broader fishing lifestyle.
Progressive will also serve as the title sponsor of the Bassmaster Classic Tailgate, a fan-focused experience that has become a centerpiece of Classic week. The Tailgate offers interactive activities, sponsor exhibits, giveaways and live entertainment, creating a welcoming environment for families and fans to connect with the sport beyond the weigh-in stage.
Progressive and B.A.S.S. share in their focus on innovation, performance and a deep connection to life on the water. Both organizations serve passionate, dedicated audiences — anglers, boaters and outdoor enthusiasts — who depend on reliability, preparation and trust in the brands and institutions that support their lifestyle.
Progressive provides boat insurance for anglers and boaters through comprehensive insurance solutions and easy-to-use digital tools, while B.A.S.S. leads the sport through conservation efforts, angler education and stewardship initiatives designed to preserve bass fishing for future generations.
“Progressive has been an outstanding supporter of B.A.S.S. for many years, and this expanded agreement reflects our shared commitment to the anglers and fans who make this sport so special,” said Phillip Johnson, B.A.S.S. Chief Operating Officer. “Having Progressive as a Platinum Sponsor and the Official Insurance of Bassmaster allows us to elevate our premier events while continuing to deliver exceptional experiences for our audience.”
Through integrated branding across live events, broadcast coverage and digital platforms, Progressive will have an opportunity to engage with millions of fans throughout the season while reinforcing its connection to the fishing and boating community.
For more information on Bassmaster events and sponsorship opportunities, visit Bassmaster.com.
About Progressive Insurance®
Progressive Insurance® makes it easy to understand, buy and use car insurance, home insurance, and other protection needs. Progressive offers choices so consumers can reach us however it's most convenient for them — online at progressive.com, by phone at 1-800-PROGRESSIVE, via the Progressive mobile app, or in-person with a local agent.
Progressive provides insurance for personal and commercial autos and trucks, motorcycles, boats, recreational vehicles, and homes; it is the second largest personal auto insurer in the country, a leading seller of commercial auto, motorcycle
Founded in 1937, Progressive continues its long history of offering shopping tools and services that save customers time and money, like Name Your Price®, Snapshot®, and HomeQuote Explorer®.
The Common Shares of The Progressive Corporation, the Mayfield Village, Ohio-based holding company, trade publicly at NYSE: PGR.
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.
South Carolina Readies to Host Major League Fishing’s Columbia PFG College Fishing Presented by Abu Garcia National Championship on Lake Murray
COLUMBIA, S.C. (Feb. 3, 2026) – Hundreds of the nation’s best collegiate bass-fishing anglers from across the country will be in Columbia, South Carolina, next week, Feb. 12-14, for the 2026 Columbia PFG College Fishing Presented by Abu Garcia National Championship on Lake Murray.
Hosted by the Capital City Lake Murray Country Regional Tourism Board , the 17th annual College Fishing National Championship will bring together up to 160 qualified teams from across the country, as the nation’s top collegiate anglers compete for a $43,500 top prize package that includes a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard and an additional $10,000. The second-place team will also earn a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard, meaning two boats are up for grabs in the biggest MLF College Fishing event of the season. Every team that finishes in the top 10 will take home at least $1,000 in the no-entry-fee Championship.
"Capital City/Lake Murray Country is honored to host the MLF College Fishing season kickoff with the Abu Garcia National Championship at Lake Murray, welcoming the top teams from the 2025 season,” said Vickie Davis, Executive Director of Capital City/Lake Murray Country. "This tournament provides a meaningful boost to the local economy, supporting jobs and businesses throughout the region, while showcasing Lake Murray as a premier destination for anglers and visitors alike.”
In addition to the new boats, both members of the winning team and the runners-up at the 2026 Columbia PFG College Fishing National Championship will advance to the 2026 Toyota Series Championship where they will compete as boaters for a top prize of up to $235,000. The winning team’s highest finishing team member at the Toyota Series Championship will also advance to REDCREST 2027 to compete against the world’s best pros for the sport’s top prize of $300,000.
Both members of the third-place team at the College Fishing National Championship will advance to the 2026 Toyota Series Championship to compete as co-anglers for a shot at winning a $33,500 Phoenix 518 pro with a 115-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard.
Few anglers know Lake Murray better than Bass Pro Tour angler Anthony Gagliardi of Prosperity, South Carolina , who lives on the fishery and has stacked up multiple wins and hundreds of thousands of dollars in earnings there over the course of his career. Gagliardi said he expects Murray to demonstrate why it’s one of the best bass-fishing lakes on the planet during the winter-time event next week.
“We’re right in the tough part of winter right now,” Gagliardi said. “We’ve had some really cold weather here – lows down into the 20s. The water temperature is going to be low, but I don’t think that’s going to change much. We’re just going to see a lot of typical wintertime fishing in this one.”
Despite the cold, Gagliardi said Lake Murray no longer fishes strictly as a deep-water reservoir in winter. While offshore structure will certainly factor, he expects a mix of patterns to develop with some shallow fish still in play depending on daily conditions.
“There’s always some shallow fish here now,” Gagliardi explained. “It used to be that most of the bass got caught deep in the winter, but it’s not really like that now. Guys will catch some cranking, flipping a jig, and that probably depends on how cold it actually gets. The crankbait bite is something that’s really fairly consistent this time of year.”
Offshore, forward-facing sonar tactics are expected to be a major player, particularly around baitfish, and Gagliardi anticipates plenty of competitors leaning on their electronics to locate schools holding deeper.
“There are going to be guys who do well just scoping,” Gagliardi said. “They’ll find bait balls, fish around larger trees and shad, and that’s definitely going to be a factor. You’ll also see some fish caught on the bottom deep – dragging a jig, drop-shotting around deeper rock and stuff like that.”
Shallow opportunities won’t disappear entirely, especially if conditions line up with wind or sunshine, and Gagliardi noted that docks could quietly produce throughout the event.
“If the sun gets up, you might see some teams catching fish around docks,” he said. “A jig, a jerkbait – things like that. Nothing off the wall. It’s just a typical wintertime deal where guys are going to have to play the conditions day by day.”
As for what it will take to win over three days, Gagliardi expects strong daily weights, but consistency will be the strongest factor in determining the next National Champion.
“You’ve got to average 20 pounds a day,” Gagliardi said. “Single-day tournaments this time of year are often mid-20s, sometimes upper 20s, but doing that for three consecutive days is tough. If you can average 20 pounds a day for three days, that’s what it’s going to take to win this one.”
Anglers will take off from Dreher Island State Park, located at 3677 State Park Road, in Prosperity, South Carolina, at 7:30 a.m. ET each day of competition. Weigh-ins will be held at the State Park starting at 3:45 p.m. and will be livestreamed daily. Fans are welcome to attend the event or tune in to the weigh-in and follow the online coverage at MajorLeagueFishing.com .
The MLFNOW! broadcast team of Chad McKee and Rob Newell will break down the extended action live on Championship Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. ET. MLFNOW! will be live streamed on MajorLeagueFishing.com, the MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) app and Rumble.
Television coverage of the 2026 MLF Columbia PFG College Fishing Presented by Abu Garcia National Championship on Lake Murray will air as a one-hour episode, premiering at 9 a.m. ET, on Saturday, Aug. 23 on Vice TV.
The 2025 MLF Abu Garcia College Fishing Presented by YETI season featured college teams from across the country competing in six regular-season tournaments. The top 15 percent of teams from each regular-season tournament qualified to compete in the 2026 Columbia PFG College Fishing Presented by Abu Garcia National Championship.
Proud sponsors of the 2026 MLF Columbia PFG College Fishing Presented by Abu Garcia include: 7Brew Coffee, Abu Garcia, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, BUBBA, Columbia PFG, Epic Baits, Lew’s, Mercury, MillerTech, OFF! Deep Woods, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, PirahnO2, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Strike King, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, VOSKER and YETI.
For complete details and updated tournament information, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular College Fishing updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF5’s social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery, Outdoor Channel, VICE, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network, RFD-TV and Game & Fish TV, and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
SITKA GEAR LAUNCHES FISH WITH PURPOSE-BUILT SYSTEMS FOR ALL WATERS
Bringing technical performance and all-waters design to anglers who give a damn.
BOZEMAN, Mont. (Feb. 3, 2026) – SITKA Gear, the industry leader in high-performance hunting apparel, today announced its expansion into the fishing category with SITKA Fish, drawing on more than two decades of technical outdoor expertise. The new category introduces purpose-built systems designed to perform across all waters.
The U.S. fishing market continues to grow, with 57.9 million participants,1 representing a significant opportunity in the fishing apparel segment. With 70 percent of existing SITKA customers already identifying as anglers, the brand is uniquely positioned to serve this growing market. The brand enters this space with advanced technology, rigorous testing across diverse fishing environments, and diverse conservation partnerships built into the business model from day one.
Since SITKA’s founding, the company has continually taken the harder, divergent path solving real problems with advanced innovation and putting the pursuit, not lifestyle, at the center of everything. SITKA is launching Fish with a commitment to entering the category differently by addressing the performance gaps anglers have tolerated for too long. The expansion evolves the brand from a seasonal hunting specialist into a year-round technical apparel company serving the modern sportsman across pursuits.
“Fishing is more than a hobby for our customers—it is part of how they live,” said Matt Carara, Product Line Manager at SITKA Gear. “With SITKA Fish, we’re delivering gear that removes barriers to the pursuit of fishing, so anglers can focus on connecting with the fish, the environment, and the people around them. These purpose-built skin to shell systems perform across all waters, giving every cast and step the attention it deserves.”
SITKA Fish offers a complete suite of products engineered for all-water performance—not just single fishing disciplines. The range is headlined by:
● Crosscurrent Wading System: A complete wading solution featuring zip and non-zip stockingfoot waders ($800–$1,000) built with four-layer GORE-TEX PRO construction, along with purpose-built wading boots ($299 Rubber $249 Felt) that solve the industry’s most persistent pain points—durability through wet/dry cycles, replaceable traction systems, and quick-drying materials.
● CAT-5 Jacket and Bib System: A technical rain and wind system featuring a jacket and bib (Jacket $500, Bib $500) built using GORE-TEX with Stretch technology—rare in fishing outerwear—delivering guaranteed waterproof protection without sacrificing mobility for casting, netting, and all-day wear.
● Guard Sun Hoodie ($99) and Guard LS Shirt ($129): Lightweight warm-weather fishing essentials delivering integrated UPF 50+ sun protection and Insect Shield treatment that won’t wash out, providing breathable, all-day protection on the water.
For more information on this gear, and the full range of products, visit https://www.sitkagear.com/fish
To demonstrate the all-water capability of SITKA Fish gear, the brand produced four cinematic films documenting full time watermen and the gear they rely on across North America. The films include "A Town Called Sitka" (steelhead in Alaska), "Feathers to Fins" (turkey and permit in the Yucatán), "Casting for Ghosts" (musky in the Mid-west), and "Kings to Giants" (tarpon and large mouth bass in Florida). The films will release on a rolling schedule from February through June 2026.
SITKA is not just innovating gear—it is rethinking how products interact with the environment. The same way SITKA engineers gear to work as a system, it invests in conservation efforts that strengthen the entire environment supporting fish, wildlife, and their habitats. SITKA Fish launches with five foundational conservation partnerships: Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership (modernizing access to our public waters), American Rivers (protecting and restoring rivers), Keep Fish Wet (science-based catch-and-release education), Captains for Clean Water (Everglades and clean water restoration), and Backcountry Hunters & Angler’s Armed Forces Initiative with Chesapeake Bay Foundation (habitat restoration). Together, these partnerships safeguard the future of the outdoor pursuits SITKA depends on.
“At SITKA, conservation is not a campaign—it is core to how we show up in the outdoors,” said Lindsey Davis, Director of Conservation at SITKA Gear. “Rooted in science and shared stewardship, our whole-ecosystem approach guides our entry into fishing, supporting partners who protect water ecologies at scale for the benefit of many species.
Together, the product line and conservation work mark SITKA’s commitment to serving anglers with gear built for the water—and for the future of the environments they depend on.
SITKA Fish products will be available starting February 3, 2026, at https://www.sitkagear.com/fish, in SITKA Gear retail locations, and at select specialty retailers nationwide.
About SITKA Gear
SITKA Gear, based in Bozeman, Montana, created and leads the technical hunting apparel category. The company is recognized for its commitment to continually improving the life experience of the hunter and for its support of healthy ecosystems and wildlife populations. SITKA products work together in systems, and each piece is designed and tested rigorously in both the lab and the field. SITKA is owned by W.L. Gore & Associates, an advanced materials company well known for GORE-TEX™ fabrics and many other industry-leading innovations that provide durable comfort and protection to outdoor enthusiasts. Go to sitkagear.com to learn more about how SITKA enhances the full life experience of the hunter.
Yokohama Tire Named presenting sponsor of Bassmaster Classic Celebrity Pro-Am and Classic Weigh-Ins; title sponsor of the Bassmaster Elite at Santee Cooper Lakes
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. has announced a multifaceted partnership with Yokohama Tire, which will serve as the presenting sponsor of the Bassmaster Classic Celebrity Pro-Am, the presenting sponsor of all Bassmaster Classic weigh-ins and the title sponsor of the Bassmaster Elite at Santee Cooper Lakes.
The expanded relationship strengthens Yokohama’s long-standing presence with Bassmaster fans and competitors while highlighting the brand’s rugged, adventure-ready GEOLANDAR® line of truck and CUV/SUV tires.
“Yokohama is once again proud to partner with Bassmaster on several fan-related activities and activations,” said Andrew Briggs, Yokohama Tire's senior vice president of marketing and product management. “We're looking forward to another successful year connecting with Bassmaster's passionate fan base about our wide range of rugged GEOLANDAR® truck and CUV/SUV tires.”
As presenting sponsor of the Bassmaster Classic Celebrity Pro-Am, Yokohama will help kick off one of sportfishing’s most celebrated weeks by pairing celebrities, influencers and top Bassmaster anglers for a fun and high-energy exhibition event. The partnership also elevates the brand’s presence on the sport’s biggest stage as presenting sponsor of the Bassmaster Classic weigh-ins, where thousands of fans gather daily to celebrate the biggest moments of championship week.
Yokohama will also headline the Bassmaster Elite at Santee Cooper Lakes, one of the most anticipated destinations on the 2026 Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series schedule. The South Carolina fishery is known for producing heavyweight largemouth bass and dramatic leaderboard swings — a perfect setting for showcasing a brand built around performance and durability.
“Bassmaster fans are among the most loyal and engaged in sports, and Yokohama has continually demonstrated a commitment to enhancing their experience, both on-site and through our media platforms,” said Phillip Johnson, Chief Operating Officer of B.A.S.S. “Their GEOLANDAR® lineup has become a trusted favorite for anglers and outdoorsmen, and we’re thrilled to expand our partnership across some of the most visible and exciting moments of the Bassmaster season.”
Through on-site activations, digital integration and fan-focused promotions, Yokohama’s expanded sponsorship will provide unique opportunities to engage with the millions of Bassmaster fans who travel, tow and explore the outdoors year-round.
About Yokohama Tire Corporation
Yokohama Tire Corporation is the North American manufacturing and marketing arm of Tokyo, Japan-based The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd., a global manufacturing and sales company of premium tires since 1917. Servicing an extensive sales network throughout the U.S., Yokohama Tire Corporation is a leader in technology, innovation, sustainable manufacturing, and environmentally conscious products. The company’s complete product line includes tires for high-performance, light truck, passenger car, and commercial truck and bus. For more information on Yokohama’s broad product line, visit www.yokohamatire.com and www.yokohamatruck.com.
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.
MLF Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats Set to Open Southwestern Division at Sam Rayburn Reservoir
BROOKELAND, Texas (Feb. 3, 2026) – The Major League Fishing (MLF) Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats will continue its 2026 season in Brookeland, Texas, next week, Feb. 12-14, with the first event of the Southwestern division – the Toyota Series at Sam Rayburn Reservoir Presented by Suzuki Marine.
The three-day tournament, hosted by the Jasper-Lake Sam Rayburn Area Chamber of Commerce, will feature a roster of the region’s best bass-fishing pros and co-anglers competing for a top prize of up to $100,000 in the pro division and a new Phoenix 518 Pro boat with a 115-horsepower outboard motor plus $5,000 in the co-angler division.
“It’s Sam Rayburn – I’m sure this one is going to be good,” said Bass Pro Tour angler Marshall Hughes of Hemphill, Texas . “The lake is really low, but I don’t think that’s going to hurt the fish a whole lot. Rayburn’s one of those places that can still show out even when conditions aren’t perfect.”
One noticeable change from past winters is the lack of vegetation, which Hughes believes could push competitors toward more traditional wintertime patterns. With limited grass growth across much of the reservoir, anglers are likely to focus their efforts offshore and along key staging areas as bass begin moving toward the prespawn.
“Since there’s not a whole lot of grass this year, I think it’ll be more of an offshore deal,” Hughes explained. “That prespawn stuff – tapering drains and areas like that, is what I’d be looking at.”
As for what anglers will have tied on, Hughes expects a familiar Rayburn playbook to come into play, built around bottom-contact baits and reaction lures that excel in colder water.
“Definitely a crankbait,” Hughes said. “An A-rig, a Carolina rig like always, and dragging a jig around. That’s usually hard to beat this time of year.”
The event will also be one of the first Toyota Series tournaments contested under new forward-facing sonar guidelines, and Hughes believes those limits will influence strategy in a meaningful way.
“It’ll definitely play a role,” Hughes said. “Guys aren’t going to be able to use forward-facing sonar all day, so they’re going to have to drag something around offshore. It’ll be really interesting to see how it plays out.”
Despite the lower water levels, Hughes expects the field to spread out across the massive reservoir, noting that big bites are always in play no matter where anglers choose to fish.
“Rayburn’s one of those places you’re liable to catch a 10-pounder anywhere,” Hughes said. “The lake being low might group guys up a little, but there’s still plenty of water for people to spread out.”
When it comes to winning weight, Hughes anticipates solid but not outrageous numbers, with consistency being the key over three days of competition.
“I’d guess that about 21 pounds a day will likely win this thing,” Hughes said. “Rayburn will always throw some big bags, but I don’t know if there’ll be as many as usual. Still, if you can average around that, you’ll be right there at the end.”
Anglers will begin each day at 7 a.m. CT, launching from the Umphrey Family Pavilion, located at 5438 Sam Rayburn Parkway in Brookeland. Weigh-ins will take place at the Umphrey Family Pavilion and will start at 3 p.m. daily. Fans are invited to attend in person and can also stay connected by following the “MLF Live” weigh-in broadcasts and daily updates on MajorLeagueFishing.com.
In Toyota Series regular-season competition, payouts are based on the number of participants competing in the event, scaling up for every 20 boats over 160 and scaling down for every boat below 160. With a 160-boat field, pros fish for a top prize of up to $75,000, if Phoenix MLF Bonus qualified. Co-anglers cast for the top prize of a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard (valued at $33,500). With a 260-boat field, pros fish for a top award of up to $100,000, if Phoenix MLF Bonus qualified. Co-anglers cast for the top prize of a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard plus $5,000 cash.
The 2026 Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats consists of five divisions – Central, Northern, Plains, Southern and Southwestern – each holding three regular-season events, along with the International and Wild Card divisions. Anglers who fish in any of the five divisions or the Wild Card division and finish in the top 25 will qualify for the no-entry-fee Toyota Series Championship for a shot at winning up to $235,000 and a qualification to REDCREST 2027. The winning co-angler at the championship earns a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard. The 2026 Toyota Series Championship will be held Nov. 5-7 on Pickwick Lake in Counce, Tennessee, and is hosted by Explore Pickwick Lake & Hardin County Tourism.
Proud sponsors of the 2026 MLF Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats include: 7Brew, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, BUBBA, Cigars International, Epic Baits, Grizzly, Lew’s, Mercury, MillerTech, OFF! Deep Woods, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, PirahnO2, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Strike King, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, VOSKER, YETI and Yuengling.
For complete details and updated information visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular Toyota Series updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the MLF5 social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery, Outdoor Channel, VICE, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network, RFD-TV and Game & Fish TV, and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
REDARC Tow-Pro Link Now Available
The All-New Brake Controller Redefines Towing Safety, Convenience, and Performance.
LONSDALE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA – February 2, 2026 – REDARC, the industry leader in power management systems and towing for over 45 years, introduces the Tow-Pro Link — a next-generation brake controller that makes towing simpler, safer, smarter, and more connected than ever. The dedicated Bluetooth remote delivers dependable braking control on every drive, while the smartphone app and Apple CarPlay/Android integration add additional flexibility. With its true plug-and-play design, the Tow-Pro Link installs effortlessly with no dash modifications required.
As the newest addition to the Tow-Pro family, the Tow-Pro Link sets unprecedented standards in towing convenience, safety, and control, making it an ideal choice for both serious and casual towers alike. The system combines REDARC’s proven reliability with new levels of connectivity and intelligent performance. Through the Tow-Pro app, users can test trailer brake lights, adjust braking sensitivity, and receive over-the-air updates via an intuitive Bluetooth connection. The Tow-Pro Link will also include native Apple CarPlay integration, bringing key Tow-Pro information and select controls directly into the vehicle’s existing infotainment system. Every essential function is also accessible through the included physical Bluetooth remote – ensuring vital functionality is never left solely up to a smartphone or infotainment system.
REDARC has updated its key safety feature for the Tow-Pro Link. SwayStop Plus offers a one-touch trailer sway recovery by automatically applying the trailer's brakes until the sway stops, allowing drivers to keep hands on the wheel. A built-in 6-axis sensor continuously monitors movement, delivering smooth, responsive braking and confident control in any environment. By measuring pitch, roll, and yaw in addition to forward and lateral movement, it provides earlier and more precise brake response than traditional single or dual-axis systems, improving safety on uneven roads and during sudden maneuvers.
Ensuring a simple, less than 15 minute installation process, the Tow-Pro Link does not require drilling or other modifications to the vehicle’s dash or firewall. Simply connect the controller between the vehicle harness and the back of the standard 7-pin connector, then power the Bluetooth remote head via USB. At 55% smaller than the leading competitor, it features a slim design and a waterproof IP rating, allowing several basic mounting options, including a simple cable tie option.
For when the terrain varies, the Tow-Pro Link offers two distinct braking modes: Everyday Mode (proportional braking) for smooth, consistent control in normal driving, and Manual Offroad Mode for steep descents, sand, mud, and uneven terrain, providing drivers with precise braking power in even the toughest conditions.
Manufactured and rigorously tested in Australia, the Tow-Pro Link upholds REDARC’s reputation for building products that perform in the world’s harshest conditions. Its ultrasonic-welded enclosure and moisture-controlled venting protect internal components from water, dust, and debris, ensuring long-term reliability wherever the road or trail leads.
With its blend of smart technology, safety, and simplicity, the Tow-Pro Link represents a new era in towing, empowering drivers with complete confidence and control every mile of the way. For more information about REDARC and the innovative Tow-Pro Link, visit https://www.redarcelectronics.com/us/tow-pro-link-electric-brake-controller
About REDARC
For over 45 years, REDARC has been a trusted name in power management and towing solutions, allowing adventurers to bring the comforts of modern living to the most remote locations. With products engineered, tested, and manufactured in Australia, REDARC delivers power systems that charge and manage batteries through vehicle, solar, or utility power. These systems power everything from essential safety equipment to household appliances, making outdoor adventures safer, longer, and more enjoyable. Whether you're camping, overlanding, or touring REDARC ensures that you have the power to enjoy your outdoor experience with confidence.
About Idea Ranch
Idea Ranch is a full-service advertising, public relations, and consumer insights firm headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with offices in Wichita, Kansas, and Durango, Colorado. The firm has a diversified list of clients across the country and is an industry-leading marketing-communications company building brands in the outdoor recreation, passion sports, and farm & ranch sectors. For more information, please visit www.idearanch.com.
Banks Shaw Wins Toyota Series Season Opener at Lake Okeechobee by 3 Ounces
CLEWISTON, Fla. (Feb. 1, 2026) – One of the hottest anglers in bass fishing, Banks Shaw of Harrison, Tennessee, earned his third major win in three years with Major League Fishing (MLF), edging out Kyle Cortiana Saturday for the top spot at the Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats Southern Division event on Lake Okeechobee. Weighing 13 pounds, 12 ounces on the final day, Shaw totaled up 49-5 to beat out Cortiana by 3 ounces and earn $79,250, which included the Phoenix MLF Bonus and Tackle Warehouse Rewards.
The win also qualified Shaw for the Toyota Series Championship this fall on Pickwick Lake, which will give him a little wiggle room in an already packed schedule. This season, Shaw is fishing his rookie year on the Bass Pro Tour, and looking to defend his Angler of the Year (AOY) season on the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit – a full plate for someone still taking classes at the University of North Alabama.
With cold weather affecting the bite all week, it didn’t take big weights to win this round on Okeechobee. But Shaw was just a bit better than Cortiana in the end, and the pair stood head and shoulders over the rest of the field when the scales closed on the final day.
It’s not uncommon for anglers to be bunched up in areas in Florida; in fact, fishing alone is sometimes a bad thing. But when it’s good, it tends to be very good, and Shaw caught the bulk of his weight this week from one area that nobody else was fishing.
“I found fish in two areas, but I knew one was going to have a ton of pressure,” Shaw said. “I kind of focused on the one area where I knew there wouldn’t be many people. I caught ‘em the first day, a big one right off the bat, and then after that it was tough to even get a limit.”
On Day 1, Shaw caught two of his limit fish with forward-facing sonar on, and three without. On Day 2, he played things a little smarter.
“Day 2, I had a better idea when they would turn on and start feeding,” he said. “So, I was able to use my forward-facing to target those fish. The second day went super smooth, other than losing fish – I had a chance to have a good lead.”
On Day 2, Shaw weighed five fish caught on forward-facing sonar and even used some of his three hours to practice – which turned out to be key for Day 3.
“I mixed it up today a little bit, I thought for sure I could catch some more fish in my main area, but with having such tough mornings, I decided to start in my secondary area,” Shaw said. “That’s what produced most of my weight today – I caught four of my fish there.”
Plying a jerkbait and a finesse presentation, Shaw abandoned his secondary area halfway through the day and turned his forward-facing sonar on, only to be victimized by the contrary weather.
“Luckily my main area was clean right when I pulled up to it, and I caught my biggest fish in there – a 3 1/2-pounder,” he said. “Right after that, the wind picked up. I made one pass, saw some really big ones and didn’t get them to bite, and then all of a sudden the water just dirtied up. You couldn’t really even see the fish, and they weren’t acting right.”
On Day 3, only one of Shaw’s fish came when he had his sonar turned on, and he spent a good deal of time with a Rapala Mavrik 110 jerkbait in hand, with 12-pound Sufix Advance and a 6-foot, 10-inch, medium 13 Fishing Myth rod.
Coming off a Top 10 to start the year on the Bass Pro Tour and a string of Top-10 finishes on the Invitationals and Toyota Series in 2025, Shaw was itching to seal the deal again.
“I was on the way down here, and I told Josh, my cameraman, ‘I’m due for a win,’” Shaw admitted. “It felt good to finally get a win. I know I won Pickwick, but it was so close from there on, for quite a while. It wasn’t the best feeling before it happened. Usually when I win it’s by a decent margin, so this was nerve-racking. But I’m glad to pull it away, way down south on Okeechobee.”
Of course, the win is probably bad news for anyone signed up to fish against him in the near future, as Shaw shows no signs of slowing down.
“I’m feeling really good, I’m definitely off to a good start, riding the momentum from last year,” he said, referring to the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit opener Feb. 6-8. “The Harris Chain is one of my favorite fisheries in Florida, and it’s kind of my wheelhouse of fishing – shell bars and offshore grass. I’m pumped up for the Harris Chain.”
Tune in for that one – when Stop 1 Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches on the Harris Chain fires up on Friday, you’ll be able to tune in to MLFNOW! on Day 1 to watch Shaw and the other Pro Circuit pros get to work.
The top 10 pros at the Toyota Series at Lake Okeechobee finished:
1st: Banks Shaw, Harrison, Tenn., 15 bass, 49-5, $79,250 (includes $35,000 Phoenix MLF bonus)
2nd: Kyle Cortiana, Broken Arrow, Okla., 15 bass, 49-2, $17,000
3rd: Val Osinski, Fort Lauderdale, Fla., 14 bass, 44-11, $12,750
4th: Tim Wilson, Marion, Ind., 13 bass, 42-2, $10,750
5th: Parker Knudsen, Shakopee, Minn., 15 bass, 40-4, $9,750
6th: Doug Wooldridge, Williston, S.C., 15 bass, 39-11, $8,375
7th: Adriano Theriot, Lake Charles, La., 15 bass, 38-12, $7,300
8th: Brian Holder, Conover, N.C., 15 bass, 37-9, $6,300
9th: Connor Macdougall, Cape Coral, Fla., 15 bass, 37-5, $5,300
10th: Tyler Nekolny, Coral Springs, Fla., 15 bass, 36-15, $4,700
Complete results can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.
Pro Anthony Hunt of Coconut Creek, Florida, earned Thursday’s $500 Berkley Big Bass Award with a bass weighing 9 pounds, 13 ounces, while pro Tyler Nekolny of Coral Springs, Florida, won Friday’s $500 Berkley Big Bass, weighing in an 8-pound, 2-ounce bass to earn the $500 award.
Kenny Garand of Holiday, Florida, won the co-angler division Saturday at Lake Okeechobee with a three-day total of 13 bass weighing 27 pounds, 12 ounces. Garand earned the top co-angler prize package worth $34,000, including a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard motor.
The top 10 co-anglers at the Toyota Series at Lake Okeechobee finished:
1st: Kenny Garand, Holiday, Fla., 13 bass, 27-12, Phoenix 518 Pro boat w/115-hp Mercury outboard
2nd: William Lewis, Jacksonville, Fla., seven bass, 25-8, $5,375
3rd: Ray Ruiz, Boca Raton, Fla., nine bass, 25-8, $4,400
4th: Bob Morin, Seymour, Tenn., 12 bass, 25-2, $3,650
5th: Marlei Hunt, Wesley Chapel, Fla., 12 bass, 23-3, $3,150
6th: Jeff Morgan, Newnan, Ga., 10 bass, 22-13, $2,650
7th: Eric Stong, Leesburg, Fla., six bass, 20-7, $2,150
8th: David Williams, Fredericksburg, Va., seven bass, 19-15, $1,925
9th: Stephen Draghi, Sparrowbush, N.Y., eight bass, 19-1, $1,530
10th: John Hicks, Winter Garden, Fla., six bass, 18-14, $1,290
Co-angler Brad Moore of Cape Coral, Florida, earned the first Berkley Big Bass co-angler award of the week on Thursday with a 7-pound, 12-ounce bass to earn the $150 prize, while Friday’s Day 2 $150 co-angler award went to Steve Barnett of Mount Holly, North Carolina, who weighed in a bass totaling 8 pounds, 7 ounces.
The Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats at Lake Okeechobee was hosted by the Hendry County Tourism Development Council. It was the first of three regular-season tournaments for the Toyota Series Southern Division. The next event for Toyota Series anglers will be the Toyota Series at Sam Rayburn Reservoir Presented by Suzuki Marine, Feb. 12-14, in Brookeland, Texas. For a complete schedule of events, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com.
The 2026 Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats consists of five divisions – Central, Northern, Plains, Southern and Southwestern – each holding three regular-season events, along with the International and Wild Card divisions. Anglers who fish in any of the five divisions or the Wild Card division and finish in the top 25 will qualify for the no-entry-fee Toyota Series Championship for a shot at winning up to $235,000 and a qualification to REDCREST 2027. The winning co-angler at the championship earns a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard. The 2026 Toyota Series Championship will be held Nov. 5-7 on Pickwick Lake in Counce, Tennessee, and is hosted by Explore Pickwick Lake & Hardin County Tourism.
Proud sponsors of the 2026 MLF Toyota Series include: 7Brew, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, BUBBA, Cigars International, Epic Baits, Grizzly, Mercury, MillerTech, OFF! Deep Woods, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, PiranhO2, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, VOSKER, YETI and Yuengling.
For complete details and updated information visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular Toyota Series updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the MLF5 social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery, Outdoor Channel, VICE, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network, RFD-TV and Game & Fish TV, and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
Stahl’s perfect plan yields wire-to-wire win at Kissimmee Chain
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Intuition plus determination plus execution equalled a dominant victory for Cody Stahl, who tallied a three-day total of 74 pounds, 6 ounces and earned the wire-to-wire victory in the Turtlebox Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain presented by Battery Tender.
“That is one heckuva way to start the season,” Stahl said. “It was just an unbelievable week.”
With all due respect to Stahl’s Top 10 competitors, the Barnsville, Ga., pro could’ve slept in this morning and still won the event, as he caught a Championship Saturday limit of 17-13 and finished with a 22-1 margin over second-place Stephen Browning.
En route to that enviable position, Stahl took the Day 1 lead with the event’s heaviest bag — a limit of 28-9. He’d back up that strong performance with an even 28 pounds to hold the lead and head into the final round with a 19-pound, 7-ounce advantage.
“If you would’ve told me I’d be sitting in first place with a 19-pound lead going into the third day, I’d put every single dollar in my bank account on saying that’s not possible,” Stahl said. “Ultimately, things just worked out and God blessed me with an amazing week.”
Clearly, Stahl would’ve lost that bet, but being wrong meant adding $38,731 to his account — and receiving an invitation to fish the 2027 Bassmaster Classic.
All week, Stahl focused on a prespawn staging area at the south end of Lake Toho. A good mix of grass species provided what he believed would offer appealing habitat that would attract the right size fish.
Stahl located this area in practice and, even though he caught only small male bass prior to the event, he believed the week’s weather and the approaching full moon (Feb. 1) would invite the larger prespawn females.
“In practice, I only found the bucks; I caught three in the 1-pound range right there, but I just had a feeling that this is where it’s gonna go down,” Stahl said. “I just made a gut call that this is the stopping point where they’re gonna fatten up before they go lay their eggs.
“On Day 1, I put my trolling motor down right there and made it work for three days.”
Stahl caught the majority of this fish by ripping a 3/4-ounce lipless crankbait through the grass with a 7-5 Fenwick extra-heavy, extra-fast rod and an 8.1:1 Abu Garcia STX reel carrying 20-pound fluorocarbon. That setup, he said, proved critical to his success.
“That setup really keeps your bait clean, especially with that 3/4-ounce bait,” Stahl said. “You have to keep your bait clean in a short amount of distance when you hit those grass clumps. Those bass are on the other side of those clumps and they’re not going to hit a bait when it’s full of grass.”
Championship Saturday’s weather complexion strongly contrasted that of Days 1 and 2. A severe cold from dropped air and water temperatures during practice and draped the tournament’s first two rounds with calm, clear “bluebird” conditions.
Day 3 dawned with gloomy gray skies, which drizzled occasional showers ahead of the next approaching front. Air temperatures only reached the mid-50s, nearly 10 less than the previous day’s warm afternoon, and the last three hours of the day saw 20-mph winds whipping local waters.
The first angler to catch a limit, Stahl had five keepers estimated at 14 1/2 pounds by 8:45. He caught plenty of quality fish, but he did not see a big kicker like the 9- and 8-pounder he caught on Days 1 and 2, respectively.
Adding another trophy to the one he earned in the 2024 St. Croix Bassmaster Open at Mississippi River presented by SEVIIN, Stahl said he’s delighted to start the year qualified for the sport’s most prestigious event.
“I’m excited to get back to the Classic,” Stahl said.
Hailing from Hot Springs, Ark., Browning finished second with 52-5. His daily weights were 18-13, 17-4 and 16-4.
Taking a tip from Terry Scroggins, who finished seventh with 46 pounds, Browning spent most of his time fishing within eyesight of the tournament site at Lake Front Park - Big Toho Marina.
“Scroggins told me, ‘Somebody will make the Top 10 right here,’ and I said, ‘There’s no better person in the world to make the Top 10 right here than me!’” Browning chuckled. “I burned up a lot of gas the first day, but the last two days, I just made a big circle right out here.
“The Good Lord blessed me with enough bites to settle me down. I used my Garmin Force trolling motor way more than my Mercury engine.”
Browning caught his fish by crawling a Rapala DT-6 crankbait over grass in 6-7 feet. He did most of his work with the river shad color, but when he broke the bill on that bait, he switched to the chartreuse blue back pattern.
Bo Thomas of Edwardsburg, Mich., finished third with 49-6. Thomas weighed daily limits of 12-2, 20-6 and 16-14.
For most of the final day, Thomas caught his fish by slow rolling a homemade swim jig with a 3.8 Keitech swimbait trailer. A late-day decision yielded an upgrade that would lift him several spots on the leaderboard.
“It got really windy out there today, so with about 2 hours to go, I decided to leave my main area and head back toward the ramp and fish some community holes,” Thomas said. “I started throwing a jerkbait and I caught a 3-5 and culled out a 1-pounder. It was just making the right decisions and doing the right things.”
Jonathan Kelley of Old Forge, Pa., won the $500 Phoenix Boats Big Bass award for his 10-7.
Visit Kissimmee hosted this event.
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series P
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
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.
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Connect with #Bassmaster on Facebook, Instagram, Twitte
Media Contact: Mandy Pascal, Communications Manager, 334-414-8677, [email protected]
2026 Turtlebox Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain presented by Battery Tender 1/29-1/31
Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, Kissimmee FL.
(BOATER) Standings Day 3
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Cody Stahl Barnsville, GA 15 74-06 200 $38,731.00
Day 1: 5 28-09 Day 2: 5 28-00 Day 3: 5 17-13
2. Stephen Browning Hot Springs, AR 15 52-05 199 $15,492.00
Day 1: 5 18-13 Day 2: 5 17-04 Day 3: 5 16-04
3. Bo Thomas Edwardsburg, MI 15 49-06 198 $11,619.00
Day 1: 5 12-02 Day 2: 5 20-06 Day 3: 5 16-14
4. Jonathon VanDam Gobles, MI 15 48-14 197 $10,845.00
Day 1: 5 17-06 Day 2: 5 19-11 Day 3: 5 11-13
5. Jonathan Kelley Old Forge, PA 13 48-01 196 $10,570.00
Day 1: 3 15-10 Day 2: 5 18-00 Day 3: 5 14-07
6. Freddy Palmer Estill Springs, TN 14 47-11 195 $9,295.00
Day 1: 4 13-01 Day 2: 5 20-02 Day 3: 5 14-08
7. Terry Scroggins San Mateo, FL 15 46-00 194 $8,521.00
Day 1: 5 20-11 Day 2: 5 11-07 Day 3: 5 13-14
8. Niko Romero Coldspring, TX 14 43-06 193 $7,746.00
Day 1: 5 10-12 Day 2: 5 21-03 Day 3: 4 11-07
9. Cliff Prince Palatka, FL 13 41-02 192 $7,746.00
Day 1: 5 26-02 Day 2: 5 11-00 Day 3: 3 04-00
10. Noah Winslow Naugatuck, CT 13 37-06 191 $7,746.00
Day 1: 5 18-12 Day 2: 5 14-00 Day 3: 3 04-10
------------------------------
BIG BASS OF TOURNAMENT
Jonathan Kelley Old Forge, PA 10-07 $500.00
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Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 95 682 1552-06
2 106 690 1554-15
3 7 45 125-10
------------------------------
208 1417 3232-15
Steady Stahl stays atop Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Two of the hardest things to find in Florida: a parking spot close to the main attraction and early-year bass fishing consistency.
Cody Stahl found both and handily maintained his lead in the Turtlebox Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain presented by Battery Tender. After leading Day 1 with a 28-pound, 9-ounce limit, the Barnsville, Ga., pro added a 28-pound bag to tally 56-9 and establish a mammoth lead of 19-7 over Cliff Prince.
“This is just one of those events where you prep for it in practice, you mentally prepare for the conditions and where these fish are headed and it actually pans out,” Stahl said. “Not too many times do you find a place in practice where you catch 1-pounders and you have a feeling that this is where it’s gonna go down; this is where you think the fish are moving, and you put yourself in that spot.
“I’m fishing a stopping point for prespawn bass, but I know there probably are some fish spawning out there, just because of how shallow it is. The majority of these fish are feeding up before they go spawn.”
Stahl, who anchored his bag with an 8-14, stuck to his Day 1 script and fished one particular area at the lower end of Lake Toho. While his practice results were far from impressive, it was the site’s promising potential that prompted Stahl’s commitment.
Winter Storm Fern, which blasted much of the nation with extreme conditions, lowered air and water temperatures right before the event began. Stahl, however, was undeterred, as the event’s warming direction and the approaching full moon (Feb. 1) told him big things were coming.
“I caught better weight and way bigger fish up shallow on the bank, but based on history and experience, I knew what was gonna happen with the conditions that we’re having, the (rising) water temperature and how those fish were gonna react,” Stahl said. “I put myself in a position to find one of the places where the big fish go and in two and a half days of practice and I found one.
“That spot met all the requirements, it had all the ingredients for it to go down. It had the bucks (smaller male bass) there in practice and all I was waiting for was that weather to come in and push those females right there on the edge. That’s exactly what happened.”
Day 1 saw Stahl rotate between two baits, but a single presentation — a lipless crankbait — produced all of his Day 2 fish. Stahl also narrowed down key sections within his spot.
Tournament note: This event does not allow anglers to use forward facing sonar, so Stahl has had to break down his area by fishing it.
“When I found my area in practice, I didn’t expand on it at all,” Stahl said. “I just planned on giving myself time on Day 1 to expand, to learn the area and figure out the sweet spots in the area.
“Yesterday, I started in a spot that’s not as good as where I started today. Yesterday morning ended up being a little slower, but late in the day, I found that magical sweet spot where I started this morning.”
Stating that he had his weight before 9 a.m., Stahl said he intends to see if his area has one more day of productivity to offer. He’s optimistic, but he’s also aware of how fleeting Florida consistency can be.
“I think the biggest factor will be the wind in the afternoon; how hard it’s gonna blow and when it’s gonna start blowing hard,” Stahl said of the next cold front forecast to arrive on Saturday. “Another factor will be tonight’s overnight low.
“If it drops really low and really cools down the water temperature, the fish might pull out. I’m just going into tomorrow with an open mind and I’m gonna try and follow the fish. If they’re not there and it’s not happening, I’m gonna have to make some adjustments and get something done.”
Hailing from Palatka, Fla., Prince is in second place with 37-2. After placing second on Day 1 with 26-2, Prince saw his productivity slip with a second-round limit of 11-0.
“In Florida, you catch ’em when they’re biting,” Prince said. “I did all I could yesterday and all I could today and I didn’t lay off of ‘em yesterday.”
Prince had been catching most of his fish on a bladed jig, but a tip from a fellow angler fishing nearby led him to catch a couple of good ones on a swim jig.
“I caught a couple that helped me, but if I had made that change earlier in the day, I probably would have been better off,” Prince said.
Jonathon VanDam of Gobles, Mich., is in third place with 37-1. VanDam placed 10th on Day 1 with 17-6. He added a Day 2 limit of 19-11.
“It was just fishing a big flat where you kinda have to mill around a little bit, but there’s definitely little key zones where it seems the fish are concentrated,” VanDam said. “It definitely seems like there are some bite windows.”
Moving baits produced most of VanDam’s fish. He also caught one of his limit fish on a finesse presentation.
Jonathan Kelley of Old Forge, Pa., is in the lead for Phoenix Boats Big Bass honors with his 10-7.
Saturday’s takeoff is scheduled for 7 a.m. ET at Kissimmee Lake Front Park. The weigh-in will be held at the park at 3 p.m.
Bassmaster LIVE can be found on Bassmaster.com and Roku from 8-11 a.m. ET and from Noon-3 p.m.
Follow along with all of the action from the Turtlebox Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain of Lakes presented by Battery Tender on Bassmaster.com.
Visit Kissimmee is hosting this event.
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series P
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
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.
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Connect with #Bassmaster on Facebook, Instagram, Twitte
Media Contact: Mandy Pascal, Communications Manager, 334-414-8677, [email protected]
2026 Turtlebox Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain presented by Battery Tender 1/29-1/31
Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, Kissimmee FL.
(BOATER) Standings Day 2
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Cody Stahl Barnsville, GA 10 56-09 200
Day 1: 5 28-09 Day 2: 5 28-00
2. Cliff Prince Palatka, FL 10 37-02 199
Day 1: 5 26-02 Day 2: 5 11-00
3. Jonathon VanDam Gobles, MI 10 37-01 198
Day 1: 5 17-06 Day 2: 5 19-11
4. Stephen Browning Hot Springs, AR 10 36-01 197
Day 1: 5 18-13 Day 2: 5 17-04
5. Jonathan Kelley Old Forge, PA 8 33-10 196
Day 1: 3 15-10 Day 2: 5 18-00
6. Freddy Palmer Estill Springs, TN 9 33-03 195
Day 1: 4 13-01 Day 2: 5 20-02
7. Noah Winslow Naugatuck, CT 10 32-12 194
Day 1: 5 18-12 Day 2: 5 14-00
8. Bo Thomas Edwardsburg, MI 10 32-08 193
Day 1: 5 12-02 Day 2: 5 20-06
9. Terry Scroggins San Mateo, FL 10 32-02 192
Day 1: 5 20-11 Day 2: 5 11-07
10. Niko Romero Coldspring, TX 10 31-15 191
Day 1: 5 10-12 Day 2: 5 21-03
11. Timothy Reams Morgantown, WV 10 31-15 190 $6,972.00
Day 1: 5 14-01 Day 2: 5 17-14
12. Brett Hite Phoenix, AZ 10 31-13 189 $5,422.00
Day 1: 5 17-05 Day 2: 5 14-08
13. Zac Ridenhour Salisbury, NC 10 31-10 188 $4,648.00
Day 1: 5 11-10 Day 2: 5 20-00
14. Hayden Gaddis Dandridge, TN 8 31-02 187 $3,873.00
Day 1: 3 12-11 Day 2: 5 18-07
15. Buddy Benson Dahlonega, GA 10 30-15 186 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 17-11 Day 2: 5 13-04
16. Lucas Toliver Paw Paw, MI 10 30-15 185 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 13-07 Day 2: 5 17-08
17. CJ Maddux Birmingham, AL 9 30-11 184 $3,873.00
Day 1: 4 11-01 Day 2: 5 19-10
18. Adam Rasmussen Sturgeon Bay, WI 10 30-02 183 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 19-02 Day 2: 5 11-00
19. Tyler Conde Chepachet, RI 10 29-12 182 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 16-10 Day 2: 5 13-02
20. Billy Gilbert Hamburg, NY 10 29-01 181 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 14-15 Day 2: 5 14-02
21. Brady Vernon Sterrett, AL 10 28-13 180 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 11-15 Day 2: 5 16-14
22. Steve Dimatteo Lancaster, PA 10 27-09 179 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 12-07 Day 2: 5 15-02
23. Jack Dice Lynchburg, VA 10 27-07 178 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 15-03 Day 2: 5 12-04
24. Brock Bila Republic, MO 7 27-00 177 $3,873.00
Day 1: 2 04-13 Day 2: 5 22-03
25. Dillon Falardeau Hixson, TN 10 26-14 176 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 10-02 Day 2: 5 16-12
26. Matt Mosby Dryden, MI 10 26-11 175 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 18-13 Day 2: 5 07-14
27. Ed Powell Sandyville, WV 10 26-10 174 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 14-10 Day 2: 5 12-00
28. Ty Austin Rush, NY 10 26-01 173 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 09-07 Day 2: 5 16-10
29. Kaden Buchmann Troutman, NC 10 25-13 172 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 15-02 Day 2: 5 10-11
30. Bryson Osteen Live Oak, FL 10 25-13 171 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 10-14 Day 2: 5 14-15
31. Grant Neubauer Medford, WI 10 25-11 170 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 16-06 Day 2: 5 09-05
32. Garrett Smith Mount Holly, NC 10 25-07 169 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 14-07 Day 2: 5 11-00
33. Cody Abbott Woodruff, SC 10 25-03 168 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 14-06 Day 2: 5 10-13
34. Alex Heintze Denham Springs, LA 9 25-01 167 $3,098.00
Day 1: 4 09-10 Day 2: 5 15-07
35. Darold Gleason Leesville, LA 10 24-12 166 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 13-11 Day 2: 5 11-01
36. Destry Ford Tuscaloosa, AL 10 24-11 0 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 09-10 Day 2: 5 15-01
37. David Williams Maiden, NC 10 24-05 165 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 13-12 Day 2: 5 10-09
38. John Branch Magnolia, KY 10 24-00 164 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 09-01 Day 2: 5 14-15
39. Chase Carey Hoschton, GA 10 23-10 163 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 12-01 Day 2: 5 11-09
40. Connor Jacob Peoria, IL 8 23-08 162 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 18-13 Day 2: 3 04-11
41. Tripp Berlinsky Florence, AL 10 23-05 161 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 12-04 Day 2: 5 11-01
42. Robert Davenport Brooksville, FL 8 22-14 160 $3,098.00
Day 1: 4 09-10 Day 2: 4 13-04
43. Donald Tripoli Webster, NY 10 22-14 159 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 11-05 Day 2: 5 11-09
44. Brooks Anderson Marietta, GA 10 22-11 158 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 08-06 Day 2: 5 14-05
45. Bernie Schultz Gainesville, FL 9 22-11 157 $3,098.00
Day 1: 4 12-01 Day 2: 5 10-10
46. Ryan Lachniet Gum Spring, VA 10 22-08 156
Day 1: 5 14-12 Day 2: 5 07-12
47. Robert Hoyt Union Hall, VA 10 22-07 155
Day 1: 5 12-02 Day 2: 5 10-05
48. Justin Kimmel Athens, GA 8 22-00 154
Day 1: 3 04-01 Day 2: 5 17-15
49. Laker Howell Guntersville, AL 8 22-00 153
Day 1: 5 17-05 Day 2: 3 04-11
50. Clayton Batts Warner Robins, GA 10 22-00 152
Day 1: 5 12-10 Day 2: 5 09-06
51. Chase Clarke Virginia Beach, VA 10 21-15 151
Day 1: 5 09-11 Day 2: 5 12-04
52. Michael Corbishley Raleigh, NC 10 21-15 150
Day 1: 5 11-11 Day 2: 5 10-04
53. George Hirapetian Lancaster, SC 10 21-12 149
Day 1: 5 09-15 Day 2: 5 11-13
54. Lucas Lindsay Auburn , AL 10 21-11 148
Day 1: 5 13-15 Day 2: 5 07-12
55. Rich Howes Oviedo, FL 10 21-11 147
Day 1: 5 09-08 Day 2: 5 12-03
56. Jaron Burr Bowling Green, KY 9 21-06 146
Day 1: 5 13-13 Day 2: 4 07-09
57. Aaron Yavorsky Palm Harbor, FL 10 21-06 145
Day 1: 5 08-07 Day 2: 5 12-15
58. Chris Lighthizer Zanesville, OH 10 21-03 0
Day 1: 5 09-05 Day 2: 5 11-14
59. Whitney Stephens Waverly, OH 9 21-00 144
Day 1: 4 06-03 Day 2: 5 14-13
60. Tyler Shawger Zanesville, OH 7 21-00 0
Day 1: 5 13-11 Day 2: 2 07-05
61. Brayden Rakes Winston Salem, NC 10 20-15 143
Day 1: 5 07-08 Day 2: 5 13-07
62. Gary Clouse Winchester, TN 9 20-15 142
Day 1: 5 09-03 Day 2: 4 11-12
63. Blaine Bunney Claremore, OK 8 20-12 141
Day 1: 3 04-06 Day 2: 5 16-06
64. Allen Williford Paducah, KY 6 20-11 0
Day 1: 1 01-10 Day 2: 5 19-01
65. Lucas Murphy West Columbia, MI 10 19-14 140
Day 1: 5 11-08 Day 2: 5 08-06
66. Blake Milligan Nashville, TN 10 19-13 139
Day 1: 5 10-06 Day 2: 5 09-07
67. Seiji Kato Forney TX JAPAN 10 19-11 138
Day 1: 5 08-06 Day 2: 5 11-05
68. Logan Johnson Nauvoo, AL 10 19-07 137
Day 1: 5 06-00 Day 2: 5 13-07
69. Charlie Hartley Grove City, OH 9 19-06 136
Day 1: 4 08-07 Day 2: 5 10-15
70. Zach Goutremout Chaumont, NY 10 19-06 135
Day 1: 5 08-10 Day 2: 5 10-12
71. Brandon Pilling Clermont, FL 9 19-05 0
Day 1: 4 08-08 Day 2: 5 10-13
72. Cole McAusland Tuscaloosa, AL 10 19-04 134
Day 1: 5 10-06 Day 2: 5 08-14
73. Greg Alexander Hebron, MD 8 18-15 133
Day 1: 5 14-13 Day 2: 3 04-02
74. Wyatt Burkhalter Coker, AL 6 18-11 132
Day 1: 5 15-09 Day 2: 1 03-02
75. Alex Wetherell Middletown, CT 7 18-11 131
Day 1: 2 06-11 Day 2: 5 12-00
76. John Pollard Eclectic, AL 10 18-10 130
Day 1: 5 07-04 Day 2: 5 11-06
77. River Lee Diboll, TX 9 18-03 129
Day 1: 4 09-10 Day 2: 5 08-09
78. Chris Miller Spirit Lake, IA 7 17-15 128
Day 1: 5 07-06 Day 2: 2 10-09
79. Ricky Basey Warrenville, SC 7 17-12 127
Day 1: 3 06-08 Day 2: 4 11-04
80. Jeremy Sadowski Voluntown, CT 9 17-10 126
Day 1: 4 07-12 Day 2: 5 09-14
81. Ish Monroe Oakdale, CA 10 17-10 125
Day 1: 5 08-06 Day 2: 5 09-04
82. Derek Rodriguez Jr. Okemos, MI 10 17-09 124
Day 1: 5 10-06 Day 2: 5 07-03
83. Nathan Quince Imperial, PA 10 17-09 123
Day 1: 5 10-05 Day 2: 5 07-04
84. Ryan Michl Newton, IL 7 17-08 122
Day 1: 4 09-02 Day 2: 3 08-06
85. Dylan Akins Flowery Branch, GA 10 17-07 121
Day 1: 5 09-01 Day 2: 5 08-06
86. Bubba Baker Ridgeway, SC 10 17-04 0
Day 1: 5 08-01 Day 2: 5 09-03
87. Dylan Fogarty Mechanicsburg, PA 8 17-03 120
Day 1: 5 09-02 Day 2: 3 08-01
88. Jamie Fountain East Dublin, GA 10 17-02 119
Day 1: 5 08-04 Day 2: 5 08-14
89. Jack Daniel Williams Kingsport, TN 9 16-13 118
Day 1: 5 11-14 Day 2: 4 04-15
90. Damian Szlachta Dawsonville, GA 9 16-12 117
Day 1: 4 08-02 Day 2: 5 08-10
91. Brian Hatfield Spring City, TN 9 16-08 116
Day 1: 4 06-14 Day 2: 5 09-10
92. Ryan Salzman Huntsville, AL 10 16-06 115
Day 1: 5 08-13 Day 2: 5 07-09
93. Chad Pipkens Dewitt, MI 10 16-06 114
Day 1: 5 08-01 Day 2: 5 08-05
94. Jay Schoenfelder Sarasota, FL 9 16-04 0
Day 1: 4 04-10 Day 2: 5 11-10
95. Michael Webster Gastonia, NC 9 16-03 113
Day 1: 5 09-09 Day 2: 4 06-10
96. Josh Hubbard Citrus Springs, FL 8 16-01 112
Day 1: 5 11-07 Day 2: 3 04-10
97. Stu Martel Northbrook, IL 9 16-01 111
Day 1: 4 09-12 Day 2: 5 06-05
98. Cody Detweiler Guntersville, AL 9 15-15 110
Day 1: 5 10-05 Day 2: 4 05-10
99. Jacob Thompkins Myrtle Beach, SC 10 15-14 109
Day 1: 5 07-13 Day 2: 5 08-01
100. Doug Chapin Tigerton, WI 7 15-13 108
Day 1: 5 13-03 Day 2: 2 02-10
101. Willie Mcmullen Covington, GA 4 15-11 107
Day 1: 1 02-09 Day 2: 3 13-02
102. Brandon Parson Erwin, NC 9 15-07 106
Day 1: 4 07-15 Day 2: 5 07-08
103. Kevin Jones Valley, AL 9 15-04 105
Day 1: 4 08-09 Day 2: 5 06-11
104. Mike McClelland Blue Eye, MO 7 15-00 104
Day 1: 5 11-08 Day 2: 2 03-08
105. Evan White Roanoke Rapids, NC 8 14-13 103
Day 1: 4 08-10 Day 2: 4 06-03
106. Daniel Lanier Jr. Winter Springs, FL 5 14-12 0
Day 1: 2 07-00 Day 2: 3 07-12
107. Parker Guy Ocilla, GA 7 14-11 102
Day 1: 5 10-13 Day 2: 2 03-14
108. Yukihiro Sawamura Harker Heights, TX 10 14-11 101
Day 1: 5 07-02 Day 2: 5 07-09
109. Joshua Weaver Macon, GA 8 14-09 100
Day 1: 3 06-07 Day 2: 5 08-02
110. Trey Thompson Sanford, NC 5 14-08 99
Day 1: 2 03-15 Day 2: 3 10-09
111. Lee Harper Abbeville, AL 5 14-07 0
Day 1: 2 09-09 Day 2: 3 04-14
112. Easton Lindus Woodville, WI 10 14-02 98
Day 1: 5 06-15 Day 2: 5 07-03
113. Rick Greene Ocala, FL 6 14-00 97
Day 1: 1 05-12 Day 2: 5 08-04
114. Alex Johnson Milltown, NJ 8 13-13 96
Day 1: 5 08-06 Day 2: 3 05-07
115. Jake Maddux Alpharetta, GA 7 13-13 95
Day 1: 4 07-13 Day 2: 3 06-00
116. Ben Quisno Oakwood, OH 9 13-12 94
Day 1: 5 07-15 Day 2: 4 05-13
117. Teb Jones Yalaha, MS 8 13-11 93
Day 1: 5 08-06 Day 2: 3 05-05
118. Bobby Bakewell Orlando, FL 8 13-11 92
Day 1: 3 05-08 Day 2: 5 08-03
119. Fred Roumbanis Russellville, AR 9 13-09 91
Day 1: 4 06-05 Day 2: 5 07-04
120. Kyle Walters Palm Bay, FL 5 13-05 0
Day 1: 5 13-05 Day 2: 0 00-00
121. Kenny Mittelstaedt Minnetonka, MN 9 13-05 90
Day 1: 4 04-09 Day 2: 5 08-12
122. Jeremy Radford Huntly, VA 7 13-01 89
Day 1: 2 03-00 Day 2: 5 10-01
123. Dave Miller Stratford, CT 6 12-09 88
Day 1: 1 03-03 Day 2: 5 09-06
124. Johnathan Crossland Chapin, SC 9 12-08 87
Day 1: 5 06-12 Day 2: 4 05-12
125. Timmy Sheridan Troy, VA 10 12-03 86
Day 1: 5 06-15 Day 2: 5 05-04
126. Jeremy Goodwyn Bowling Green, FL 6 11-15 0
Day 1: 4 09-02 Day 2: 2 02-13
127. Nic Rand Paw Paw, MI 8 11-15 85
Day 1: 4 05-12 Day 2: 4 06-03
128. Charles Sim Wasaga Beach Ontario CA 7 11-14 84
Day 1: 2 02-05 Day 2: 5 09-09
129. Neal Gilmore Magnolia, TX 7 11-12 83
Day 1: 2 03-12 Day 2: 5 08-00
130. Colt Blanton Piketon, OH 8 11-12 82
Day 1: 4 06-09 Day 2: 4 05-03
131. Ron Farrow Rock Hill, SC 8 11-10 81
Day 1: 3 05-05 Day 2: 5 06-05
132. Brien Vaughn Lampe, MO 8 11-05 80
Day 1: 3 04-14 Day 2: 5 06-07
133. Guy Eaker Sr Cherryville, NC 6 11-04 79
Day 1: 5 10-06 Day 2: 1 00-14
134. Ryan Broughman Corapeake, NC 8 11-02 78
Day 1: 5 08-01 Day 2: 3 03-01
135. Yusuke Miyazaki Forney, TX 8 11-02 77
Day 1: 3 04-01 Day 2: 5 07-01
136. Chris Kingree Inverness, FL 5 11-02 76
Day 1: 2 07-01 Day 2: 3 04-01
137. Pete Pisello Phillipsburg, NJ 8 11-00 75
Day 1: 3 04-04 Day 2: 5 06-12
138. Troy Coney Owego, NY 8 10-10 74
Day 1: 5 07-03 Day 2: 3 03-07
139. Shayne Berlo Mclean, VA 6 10-09 73
Day 1: 3 05-08 Day 2: 3 05-01
140. Caden Vincent Cross Junction, VA 7 10-04 0
Day 1: 5 07-11 Day 2: 2 02-09
141. Bill Rea Greenfield, OH 5 10-02 0
Day 1: 5 10-02 Day 2: 0 00-00
142. Anastasia Patterson Sumter, SC 3 09-10 72
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 3 09-10
143. Phil Kroll Otego, NY 7 09-10 71
Day 1: 2 03-04 Day 2: 5 06-06
144. Trent Palmer Cumming, GA 4 09-09 70
Day 1: 2 02-12 Day 2: 2 06-13
145. Cory Mcglamery Madisonville, TN 4 09-08 69
Day 1: 1 01-15 Day 2: 3 07-09
146. Cody Ross Livingston, TX 5 09-07 68
Day 1: 5 09-07 Day 2: 0 00-00
147. Colden Baker Ridgeway, SC 6 09-06 67
Day 1: 1 01-14 Day 2: 5 07-08
148. Tanner Hadden Appling, GA 6 09-03 66
Day 1: 5 06-09 Day 2: 1 02-10
149. Paul Tabisz Livonia, MI 6 08-11 65
Day 1: 2 02-07 Day 2: 4 06-04
150. Byron Kenney Jr Monticello, GA 6 08-10 64
Day 1: 1 00-15 Day 2: 5 07-11
151. Mikey Weems Hull, TX 5 08-10 0
Day 1: 3 03-01 Day 2: 2 05-09
152. Colton Trotter Dothan, AL 3 08-08 63
Day 1: 2 04-12 Day 2: 1 03-12
153. Trey Schroeder Theodosia, MO 6 08-03 62
Day 1: 1 01-10 Day 2: 5 06-09
154. Joey Hanna Corsicana, TX 5 07-14 61
Day 1: 2 03-13 Day 2: 3 04-01
155. Kenneth Sharkey Grand Haven, MI 5 07-13 0
Day 1: 1 01-09 Day 2: 4 06-04
156. Kristian Johnson Belvidere, NJ 5 07-11 60
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 5 07-11
157. Tommy Dunaway Havana, FL 3 07-06 59
Day 1: 2 05-10 Day 2: 1 01-12
158. Tommy Dickerson Orange, TX 5 07-03 0
Day 1: 5 07-03 Day 2: 0 00-00
159. Bryden Mugleston Lebanon, TN 5 06-09 58
Day 1: 1 01-05 Day 2: 4 05-04
160. Tyler Lubbat Naples, FL 3 06-09 57
Day 1: 1 02-02 Day 2: 2 04-07
161. Parker Mott Winter Garden, FL 4 06-08 0
Day 1: 4 06-08 Day 2: 0 00-00
162. Blake Thompson Conway, SC 3 06-07 56
Day 1: 2 04-08 Day 2: 1 01-15
163. Nick Mandes North Stonington, CT 3 05-15 55
Day 1: 3 05-15 Day 2: 0 00-00
164. Yuming Gao Waterloo CANADA 3 05-12 54
Day 1: 2 02-11 Day 2: 1 03-01
165. Luke Chichetto Land O Lakes, FL 3 05-09 0
Day 1: 1 03-14 Day 2: 2 01-11
166. Mike Blevins Burnsville, NC 3 04-10 53
Day 1: 3 04-10 Day 2: 0 00-00
167. David Perdue Wirtz, VA 4 04-10 52
Day 1: 1 01-11 Day 2: 3 02-15
168. Stephen Burlington Jupiter, FL 3 04-09 0
Day 1: 3 04-09 Day 2: 0 00-00
169. Grae Buck Green Lane, PA 4 04-05 51
Day 1: 1 01-05 Day 2: 3 03-00
170. Allen Brooks Canton, GA 3 04-01 50
Day 1: 3 04-01 Day 2: 0 00-00
171. Matt Keezer Kirkland Quebec CANADA 3 03-11 49
Day 1: 2 02-02 Day 2: 1 01-09
172. Michael Johns Waynesville, GA 2 03-05 48
Day 1: 1 02-02 Day 2: 1 01-03
173. Chris McCarthy Woonsocket, RI 3 03-02 47
Day 1: 2 02-00 Day 2: 1 01-02
174. Lance Owen Greer, SC 2 02-08 46
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 2 02-08
175. Steven Eastman Eustis, FL 1 02-00 0
Day 1: 1 02-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
176. Gregg Johnson Ocala, FL 1 01-12 0
Day 1: 1 01-12 Day 2: 0 00-00
177. Darrell Ivey Lebanon, MO 1 01-11 45
Day 1: 1 01-11 Day 2: 0 00-00
178. Bryan Hoffman Andrews, TX 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
178. Johno Roberts Golden, CO 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
178. Casey Smith Victor, NY 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
178. Tommy Young Orlando, FL 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
------------------------------
Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 95 682 1552-06
2 106 690 1554-15
------------------------------
201 1372 3107-05
Bassmaster introduces Fan Cam for Elite Series LIVE coverage
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. is excited to announce the launch of the Bassmaster Fan Cam, an innovative new initiative designed to give fans a direct role in shaping Bassmaster LIVE coverage throughout the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series season, including the sport’s biggest stage at the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
The Bassmaster Fan Cam allows fans to vote on which Elite Series pro will receive a Day 1 LIVE spotlight at every Elite Series event, including Friday coverage at the Bassmaster Classic. The fan-selected angler will be featured prominently during LIVE broadcasts, offering viewers deeper access to the competitor they are most excited to follow as the tournament unfolds. Once an angler is selected, they will not be eligible for Fan Cam at the following event.
The first-of-its-kind, fan-driven selection marks a significant evolution in Bassmaster LIVE coverage, creating a new level of audience participation, interactivity and social engagement during the most high-impact moments of the season.
“Bassmaster fans are some of the most passionate and knowledgeable in all of sports, and the Fan Cam gives them a meaningful voice in our LIVE coverage,” said Phillip Johnson, Chief Operating Officer of B.A.S.S. “By allowing fans to help decide which angler we spotlight on Day 1, we’re strengthening the connection between our audience and the athletes they follow while enhancing the overall LIVE viewing experience. This is another step forward in how we continue to innovate and engage our fans.”
The Fan Cam will be integrated across Bassmaster’s digital and social platforms, giving fans a simple and accessible way to participate while encouraging ongoing interaction throughout the season. By blending real-time voting with LIVE tournament coverage, Bassmaster is creating a more dynamic broadcast experience that reflects the voices and interests of its audience.
For anglers, the Fan Cam adds a new layer of excitement and exposure. Being selected by fans for the Day 1 LIVE spotlight provides an opportunity to connect with viewers early in the event, showcase strategy and personality, and build momentum with audiences following the action at home.
By debuting the Fan Cam across the Elite Series schedule — including the Bassmaster Classic — B.A.S.S. is reinforcing its focus on elevating the fan experience while maintaining the integrity and competitiveness that define professional bass fishing.
Voting for the Bassmaster Fan Cam is now open and will remain available through Wednesday, Feb. 4, at noon. Fans can cast their votes by clicking HERE or visiting Bassmaster.com to help determine which Elite Series pro will receive the Day 1 LIVE spotlight at the FXR Bassmaster Elite at Lake Guntersville.
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.
Kayak Series’ return to Kissimmee Chain should be spawn showdown
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — For the second year in a row, the Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft will be visiting the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes during the spawning time. How good fishing is will depend on the weather.
Tournament days are scheduled for Feb. 7-8 with home base located in Kissimmee, Fla. Anglers will be able to launch from any approved public landing on the chain in this catch-weigh-release event. The Top 5 finishers will punch their ticket to the 2026 Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series Championship presented by Native Watercraft, and all anglers will earn points toward the Pro-Guide Batteries Bassmaster Kayak Series Angler of the Year race.
This will be the third time the Kayak Series has visited Central Florida. Last February, the weather worked in the anglers' favor. Multiple 100-inch bags were recorded both days of the event, and Sherman Bishop took home the title with 204.75 total inches.
While not as vast as last year, the playing field for this event is quite large. Kissimmee, Toho, Hatchineha, Tiger and Cypress are the give legal fisheries for this tournament, and all five have the potential to produce winning stringers.
Early February is prime time to catch bass that have moved up to spawn in the warm Florida waters, but there is always the chance that a cold front will move through the week of the tournament. Lower temperatures would result in a much tougher bite, while a warming trend should get the bass moving toward the shallows and their spawning grounds.
A variety of vegetation plays a role throughout the Kissimmee Chain. In Lake Toho, consistent hydrilla growth has been noticeable, a promising sign for anglers who enjoy fishing offshore grass. Kissimmee grass, lily pads, hyacinth and eelgrass are spread out throughout the rest of the lakes.
If a cold front does come through, those hyacinth mats will become important pieces of cover to target.
Expect the classic Florida staples to play once again. Texas-rigged Yamamoto Senkos, Z-Man ChatterBaits, Zoom Speed Worms and creature baits will likely produce important bites, as will lipless crankbaits, Carolina rigs and jerkbaits.
Scoring for the week will be available via TourneyX.
The Kissimmee Sports Commission is hosting the event.
2026 Bassmaster Kayak Series
2026 Bassmaster Kayak Series Presenting Sponsor: Native Watercraft
2026 Bassmaster Kayak Series Angler of the Year Sponsor: Pro-Guide Batteries
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.
Bass Fishing Hall of Fame - 2026 Ballot Revealed
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — For immediate release—Jan. 29, 2026 — World championship and exemplary pro anglers, legendary boat and tackle manufacturers, and all-around trailblazers of the sport form the diverse lineup comprising the 2026 Bass Fishing Hall of Fame ballot.
Twelve people who have made a lasting and meaningful impact on the sport bass fishing have reached the final doorstep of enshrinement into the Hall of Fame with the ballot announcement.
| Name | Category | Location |
| Terry Brown | Media | Normal, Ill. |
| Edwin Evers | Angler | Talala, Okla. |
| Don Iovino | Angler | Burbank, Calif. |
| Pam Martin-Wells | Angler | Bainbridge, Ga. |
| Andy Morgan | Angler | Dayton, Tenn. |
| John Murray | Angler | Spring City, Tenn. |
| Takahiro Omori | Angler | Tokyo, Japan |
| Rick Pierce | Industry | Mountain Home, Ark. |
| Lynn Reeves | Industry | Ozark, Mo. |
| Hal Schramm | Educator | Counce, Tenn. |
| Clark Wendlandt | Angler | Leander, Texas |
| Mike Whitaker | Industry | Gilbertsville, Ky. |
“These folks have spent most of their lives contributing to the lifestyle and sport of bass fishing,” said Bruce Stanton, President of the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame Board of Directors. “It is a high honor just to be nominated to the final ballot. And a few of these individuals will be immortalized forever in our hall in Springfield, Missouri.”
The 10-person Nominations Committee, comprised of members of the Hall’s Board of Directors, selected the final ballot from the organization’s master list of eligible candidates, identifying top nominees based on committee input and prior ballot consideration, with those selections reviewed collectively to shape a final ballot reflecting both sustained recognition and new consideration.
“We refined our selection process to consider top vote getters from previous ballots while considering new nominees,” said Craig Lamb, chair of the Board’s nominations committee and a 2025 Hall inductee. “The 2026 ballot represents our best effort to honor the worthiest individuals who also support our mission to celebrate, promote and preserve the sport of bass fishing.”
The slate of nominees will be considered and voted on by the 30-member Hall of Fame Selection Panel and the 50 living members of the Hall. Each voter will choose five names and rank them in order of preference with the top choice receiving five (5) points, second receiving four (4) points, and so on. Voting will conclude on Feb. 13.
The Class of 2026 will be announced in March. The inductees will be honored during “Celebrate Bass Fishing Week” when the Hall of Fame holds its annual induction ceremony and banquet on Sept. 24, at Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium in Springfield, Mo.
###
About the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame (BFHOF)
The Bass Fishing Hall of Fame is a nonprofit organization led by a volunteer board of directors, dedicated to celebrating, promoting, and preserving the sport of bass fishing. The Hall’s inductees and historical memorabilia are showcased in Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife Museum and Aquarium in Springfield, Missouri. For more information about the road to induction, the Hall’s impact on the community, or to get involved, visit www.BassFishingHOF.com.
or contact BFHOF executive director Barbara Bowman at [email protected].
--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Barbara Bowman
Executive Director
BassFishingHOF.com
P.O. Box 26584
Little Rock, AR 72221
501-541-6660
We are dedicated to celebrating, promoting and preserving the sport of bass fishing
Be Social - @BassFishingHOF
2026 AFTCO x B.A.S.S. Conservation Grants
SANTA ANA, Ca, January 15 , 2026– The AFTCO x B.A.S.S. Nation Conservation Grant Program continues in 2026 to support conservation initiatives throughout the country. The Conservation Grant Program was created in 2018 to help provide funds to approved freshwater bass conservation projects proposed by B.A.S.S. Nation clubs. To date, AFTCO’s total contribution to this program has exceeded $177,000 in grants. This partnership with B.A.S.S. Nation Conservation has actively contributed to the shared goals of AFTCO and B.A.S.S., fostering community and youth-oriented conservation projects that positively impact local fisheries.
The Grant Program provides financial support for stocking bass, habitat enhancements, and ensuring that bass are properly cared for and returned to lakes and rivers in the best possible condition for future generations to enjoy. These efforts are coordinated locally with the aid of B.A.S.S Nation chapters, governmental fishery management agencies, local businesses, and the valuable support of volunteers and youth organizations contributing their time and labor to the cause. “Conservation has always been at the heart of who we are at AFTCO, and continuing the AFTCO x B.A.S.S. Nation Conservation Grant Program into 2026 reflects that long-term commitment,” said AFTCO President Casey Shedd. “Since 2018, this program has helped fund meaningful, grassroots conservation efforts—from habitat enhancement to bass stocking and proper fish care—by empowering local B.A.S.S. Nation clubs, agencies, and volunteers. We’re proud to have contributed more than $177,000 to projects that strengthen fisheries, engage youth, and ensure our lakes and rivers remain healthy for future generations of anglers.”
“AFTCO’s continued support of these B.A.S.S. Nation grass roots projects shows their commitment to the preservation of our aquatic resources and to make bass fishing better,” — Gene Gilliland, B.A.S.S. Conservation Director.
Website page with full program details HERE. You can directly submit your conservation proposal HERE.
The deadline for entries is March 31, 2026. Proposals will be judged by a panel that includes representatives from B.A.S.S. and AFTCO. Please direct any questions to Gene Gilliland at [email protected].
About AFTCO
Family owned and operated, the American Fishing Tackle Company (AFTCO) represents unparalleled quality, performance, and reliability when it counts most. Worn across the globe, AFTCO's fishing clothing and fishing rain gear is designed to handle the harshest elements. Whether you're a tournament bass angler looking to stay dry in a late fall downpour or an offshore weekend warrior seeking protection from the sun's harmful UV rays, AFTCO keeps you fishing comfortably.
AFTCO reflects a legacy of firsts. From former company Chairman Milt Shedd's pioneering conservation achievements, to the invention of the roller guide and the introduction of the world's first pair of true fishing shorts, AFTCO provides conservation leadership and innovative products proven to deliver performance on the water. Our passion for the outdoors goes beyond our product offering because of an unwavering commitment to help protect our fishing resources and angler rights. Through our 10% Pledge to Protect and Conserve, your purchase of any AFTCO product directly supports conservation initiatives.
Suzuki Marine Rewards: Fueling Grassroots Success Across the BFL and Toyota Series
In tournament bass fishing, every decision matters — the cast you make, the water you run, and the engine you trust to carry you through long days on the water. For anglers competing in the Phoenix Bass Fishing League and the Toyota Series, Suzuki Marine has become a powerful ally, backing their performance with one of the most straightforward and rewarding contingency programs in the sport.
Across both tours, Suzuki Marine Rewards is putting real money into the hands of anglers who choose Suzuki reliability and proudly represent the brand on tournament day.
Big Incentives for BFL Anglers
For thousands of anglers competing through BFL Qualifiers, Regionals, and Wild Cards, Suzuki’s support is both meaningful and attainable.
At every BFL event:
- $500 goes to the winning boater who meets all Suzuki Marine Rewards requirements.
- At the All-American, that payout jumps to $2,000.
If the event winner isn’t Suzuki-qualified, the program still rewards loyalty:
- The highest-finishing qualified boater earns $250 at each Qualifier, Regional, and Wild Card.
- At the All-American, that amount increases to $1,000.
For many anglers, that’s fuel money, entry fees, or the difference between breaking even and turning a profit — all for running the outboard they already trust.
Toyota Series Pros See Even Bigger Rewards
The Toyota Series is a proving ground for the next generation of top-tier anglers, and Suzuki Marine Rewards scales up accordingly.
At each Toyota Series qualifier:
- The highest-finishing pro running a qualifying Suzuki outboard earns $1,000.
At the Toyota Series Championship:
- That reward climbs to $3,000, one of the most generous contingency payouts in the field.
For pros chasing points, championships, and career momentum, these payouts can be game-changing.
Simple Requirements, Serious Rewards
Suzuki keeps the program accessible with clear, straightforward criteria:
- Angler must own and compete with a Suzuki 4-stroke outboard of 115 HP or larger.
- The outboard must be registered through Suzuki’s warranty process (813-687-5900).
- The Suzuki Marine logo must be displayed on the front of the jersey or hat on stage.
- Angler must receive weight credit in the event.
- Eligibility must be declared to MLF prior to the tournament start.
- MLF reports winners to Suzuki for verification.
- Suzuki has final approval on all payouts and may modify the program at any time.
- Limit: five wins per year (Toyota Series Championship excluded).
- Elite Series and Bass Pro Tour anglers are not eligible.
These requirements ensure the rewards go to the anglers who truly represent the brand — the grassroots competitors who rely on Suzuki power day in and day out.
A Program Built for the Anglers Who Grind
Suzuki Marine Rewards isn’t just a contingency program — it’s a statement. It says that the anglers who tow long distances, practice for days, and compete with passion deserve support. It says that loyalty matters. And it says that the anglers who choose Suzuki should have every opportunity to earn more for their efforts.
Whether you’re chasing your first BFL check or fishing your way toward the Toyota Series Championship, Suzuki Marine is ready to reward the anglers who run with them.
Healthy Guntersville set to kick off 2026 Bassmaster Elite season
SCOTTSBORO, Ala. — Call it bass fishing’s version of “curb appeal,” the condition of a lake’s grass plays a big role in determining its value and that’s precisely the formula awaiting anglers in the FXR Bassmaster Elite at Lake Guntersville.
Competition days will be February 5-8 with daily takeoffs from Goose Pond Colony Resort at 7 a.m. CT and weigh-ins each day at the same location at 3 p.m.
Speaking two weeks prior to the tournament, local guide and Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens presented by Battery Tender pro Laker Howell said he’s optimistic about what the season-opener will offer. He couched that sentiment with a thought of how near-term weather patterns might affect the vast acreage of healthy eel grass carpeting much of Guntersville.
A major winter storm moved through the region in late January and brought significant temperature declines. The level of impact Guntersville sustains will play a big role in how the tournament unfolds.
“I think the No. 1 thing you’re gonna really have to pay attention to will be the effects of the cold front,” Howell said. “Normally, a cold front wouldn’t matter on Guntersville, but I’ll want to know what happens to the grass.
“The whole condition of the lake is phenomenal. I’ve been guiding just about every day since New Years and the clarity is flawless. I haven’t seen the grass fishing this fun in a long time.”
Submersed aquatic vegetation always factors into the late-winter picture, as fish start transitioning from deeper cold-season haunts to progressively shallower prespawn staging areas. Fitting the fish’s needs, grass offers concealment, feeding opportunities and some degree of heat retention.
If the Guntersville grass remains as healthy as it was before the recent weather event, Howell expects tremendous fishing action. Any declines won’t necessarily stymie that potential; it will simply limit some of the shallower grass opportunities.
“I really think the guys are gonna whack ’em,” Howell predicts. “The only thing that might hinder them a little bit is if that water temp gets below 44 degrees. The water had been around 52 before the front and it had been warming up, so if it tanks, it’s gonna get really weird on the lake.”
Referencing a similar scenario a dozen years ago, Howell said extreme temperatures would likely halt the seasonal progression and turn this into more of an offshore event. That would present a challenging scenario, as this tournament is one of four on the 2026 schedule that will not allow the use of forward facing sonar (often colloquially called ’Scope, for Garmin’s LiveScope).
“If it drops below 42, I think we would see conditions similar to the 2014 Classic on Guntersville when it got so cold,” Howell said. “A lot of the guys struggled just because of how cold the water was.
“Right now, all those big females are moving into the grass humps in 3-6 feet and it’s getting really easy to catch a big bag. If that water temp tanks, it could send those fish back out to the floating stage where they’re out there chasing bait balls. That would be harder with no ’Scope.”
An offshore event would likely see a mix of jerkbaits, swimbaits, jighead minnows and possibly some topwater action for isolated schooling opportunities. If the cold weather brings minimal impact and anglers find the grass game in full swing, the event will see a lot of lipless baits, bladed jigs and spinnerbaits.
Notably, Howell’s father, Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series pro Randy Howell won the 2014 Bassmaster Classic at Lake Guntersville. During that late-February event, a significant warming trend ushered a group of fish onto the Spring Creek Bridge riprap, where Howell sacked up a Day 3 limit of 29-2 and made a big move from 11th place to win the sport’s most prestigious award.
The younger Howell said that, while a similar occurrence is not out of the question, he’s anticipating more of a winter grass event. It’s entirely possible, however, to find a couple of the Top 10 finishers doing, at least, some of their work around bridges.
As Howell points out, Guntersville’s entirety will be in play. Along with the grass, docks, riprap and bluffs could also produce. The one consistent requirement, though, will be intentionality.
“It’s pretty rare to see a guy do well off random fish on Guntersville,” Howell said. “The guy that does well will have to find a couple of zones with big fish.”
Sizing up the leaderboard potential, Howell said he’s looking for an average of at least 24 pounds a day to win. If the water temperature falls into the low 40s, he’d back that down to 22. In any scenario, he believes Guntersville will offer plenty of widely distributed opportunity.
“There are big fish top to bottom,” Howell said. “I guide from the north bridge to the dam and it doesn’t matter what zone you’re in if you’re in the right habitat. The lake is just so healthy.”
Live coverage of the FXR Bassmaster Elite at Lake Guntersville will be available on Bassmaster.com and Roku Thursday and Friday beginning at 8 a.m. ET and running until 3 p.m. Coverage on Saturday will be available on FS1 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. before moving to Bassmaster.com from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Championship Sunday coverage can be found on FS1 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with afternoon action to follow on Bassmaster.com.
This event is being hosted by Mountain Lakes Chamber of Commerce.
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
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.
Stahl’s confidence delivers Day 1 lead in Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — When you know, you know; and Cody Stahl knew his spot had the potential to deliver a big bag, like the 28-pound, 9-ounce limit that leads Day 1 of the Turtlebox Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain presented by Battery Tender.
“All week, I was paying attention to the conditions and what the weather was calling for,” said the pro from Barnsville, Ga. “In practice, I caught three little fish where I caught those fish today. But looking at the conditions, I said, ‘This is where it’s gonna go down and gosh, it went down!’
“Obviously, tomorrow’s a different day and I might have to make some adjustments, but overall, today was a phenomenal day.”
Following a cold front that sent Central Florida temperatures into the mid-30s, Day 1 began in the low 40s, with the afternoon warming by about 20 degrees. Despite the shivering start, Stahl enjoyed an early day-maker, with another kicker about five hours later.
“I caught my biggest one, a 9-6, first thing in the morning and I caught another big one late in the day,” Stahl said. “It was a mental grind today; I only caught eight fish.
“With the full moon (Feb. 1) and the cold front, these fish want to be up (near the spawning zone). I looked at my spot and said, ‘This is textbook.’ I just trusted my gut and it went down.”
Stahl said he’s fishing a grass-oriented scenario on Lake Toho. He kept the particulars guarded, but noted that his spot presented a mix of prespawn and spawning habitat.
“It’s a place where I’ve caught them before, so I know what lives there,” Stahl said. “It’s kind of a catch-all place, but it was kinda overlooked by a lot of boats.”
Stahl said he caught his fish on two baits. Casting accuracy always matters in bass fishing, but Stahl said confidence also impacted his success.
“One thing I’ve learned out of all my trips to Florida is confidence in your cast,” he said. “I only caught eight fish today and having confidence in every single cast and every decision I made really played a key role in catching those fish today.”
Stahl, who won the 2024 St. Croix Bassmaster Open at Mississippi River presented by SEVIIN, said he’s delighted with his opening performance on the Kissimmee Chain, a fishery that gave him trouble during his previous visit in 2022.
“The last time I was here, I zeroed on Day 1 and caught the biggest bag of Day 2,” said Stahl, who placed 48th in that 2022 event. “Hopefully, this is gonna be a good week and we can finish it out tomorrow and make it to Championship Saturday.”
Cliff Prince of Palatka, Fla., is in second place with 26-2. He also fished in Toho and found his fish in offshore grass. Targeting mostly prespawn staging fish, Prince alternated between lipless baits and jerkbaits.
“I was fishing medium to fast retrieves; I was trying to make them react,” Prince said.
Anchoring his bag with a 6 1/2-pounder, Prince said he found good fish in practice, but he knew the week’s cold front would stall any spawning movement.
“Where I got my bites the first day of practice, which was the warmest day of the week is where I caught them today,” Prince said. “Why the big ones showed up, I don’t know. I caught some good ones in practice, but I didn’t expect to catch ’em like I caught ’em.
“I didn’t figure they were going in. If anything, they were going to stay put or push out. I stayed on the outside of everything, fished as deep as I could and stayed close to the edge of the grass.”
Terry Scroggins of San Mateo, Fla., is in third place with 20-11. He did all of his work on shellbars in 6 to11 feet, but that success came after Plan A. fell flat.
“All practice, long, I tried to make a flipping bite happen, but it didn’t happen, so I started looking offshore to some deeper stuff,” Scroggins said. “I found one shellbar that had a lot of fish on it and I caught 20 pounds before 11 o’clock.
“I caught a little more and just tried to protect the spot because I had some other boats around. When they left, I left and just kinda went practicing the rest of the day.”
Scroggins caught his offshore fish on lipless baits, a flutter spoon, a hair jig and a jighead minnow. After securing his bag, he tested the flipping potential in various areas of matted vegetation. That bite did materialize on Day 1, but Scroggins remains optimistic that the seasonal pattern will eventually ignite.
“That should be the deal here, and it’s not the deal, but anytime it could be,” Scroggins said. “We have the high sun, the high (atmospheric) pressure and everything is setting up for that.
“If I can get a couple big flipping bites, it’ll make a difference. In Florida, you catch three or four good ones and a big one goes a long way. That’s what I’m looking for — that big bite. I don’t think I can get it offshore, so that’s why I keep looking for that flipping bite.”
Jonathan Kelley of Old Forge, Pa., is in the lead for Phoenix Boats Big Bass honors with his 10-7.
Friday’s takeoff is scheduled for 7 a.m. ET at Kissimmee Lake Front Park. The weigh-in will be held at the park at 3 p.m.
Follow along with all of the action from the Turtlebox Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain of Lakes presented by Battery Tender on Bassmaster.com.
Visit Kissimmee is hosting this event.
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series P
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
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.
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Connect with #Bassmaster on Facebook, Instagram, Twitte
Media Contact: Mandy Pascal, Communications Manager, 334-414-8677, [email protected]
2026 Turtlebox Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain presented by Battery Tender 1/29-1/31
Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, Kissimmee FL.
(BOATER) Standings Day 1
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Cody Stahl Barnsville, GA 5 28-09 200
Day 1: 5 28-09
2. Cliff Prince Palatka, FL 5 26-02 199
Day 1: 5 26-02
3. Terry Scroggins San Mateo, FL 5 20-11 198
Day 1: 5 20-11
4. Adam Rasmussen Sturgeon Bay, WI 5 19-02 197
Day 1: 5 19-02
5. Stephen Browning Hot Springs, AR 5 18-13 196
Day 1: 5 18-13
5. Connor Jacob Peoria, IL 5 18-13 196
Day 1: 5 18-13
5. Matt Mosby Dryden, MI 5 18-13 196
Day 1: 5 18-13
8. Noah Winslow Naugatuck, CT 5 18-12 193
Day 1: 5 18-12
9. Buddy Benson Dahlonega, GA 5 17-11 192
Day 1: 5 17-11
10. Jonathon VanDam Gobles, MI 5 17-06 191
Day 1: 5 17-06
11. Brett Hite Phoenix, AZ 5 17-05 190
Day 1: 5 17-05
11. Laker Howell Guntersville, AL 5 17-05 190
Day 1: 5 17-05
13. Tyler Conde Chepachet, RI 5 16-10 188
Day 1: 5 16-10
14. Grant Neubauer Medford, WI 5 16-06 187
Day 1: 5 16-06
15. Jonathan Kelley Old Forge, PA 3 15-10 186
Day 1: 3 15-10
16. Wyatt Burkhalter Coker, AL 5 15-09 185
Day 1: 5 15-09
17. Jack Dice Lynchburg, VA 5 15-03 184
Day 1: 5 15-03
18. Kaden Buchmann Troutman, NC 5 15-02 183
Day 1: 5 15-02
19. Billy Gilbert Hamburg, NY 5 14-15 182
Day 1: 5 14-15
20. Greg Alexander Hebron, MD 5 14-13 181
Day 1: 5 14-13
21. Ryan Lachniet Gum Spring, VA 5 14-12 180
Day 1: 5 14-12
22. Ed Powell Sandyville, WV 5 14-10 179
Day 1: 5 14-10
23. Garrett Smith Mount Holly, NC 5 14-07 178
Day 1: 5 14-07
24. Cody Abbott Woodruff, SC 5 14-06 177
Day 1: 5 14-06
25. Timothy Reams Morgantown, WV 5 14-01 176
Day 1: 5 14-01
26. Lucas Lindsay Auburn , AL 5 13-15 175
Day 1: 5 13-15
27. Jaron Burr Bowling Green, KY 5 13-13 174
Day 1: 5 13-13
28. David Williams Maiden, NC 5 13-12 173
Day 1: 5 13-12
29. Darold Gleason Leesville, LA 5 13-11 172
Day 1: 5 13-11
29. Tyler Shawger Zanesville, OH 5 13-11 0
Day 1: 5 13-11
31. Lucas Toliver Paw Paw, MI 5 13-07 171
Day 1: 5 13-07
32. Kyle Walters Palm Bay, FL 5 13-05 0
Day 1: 5 13-05
33. Doug Chapin Tigerton, WI 5 13-03 170
Day 1: 5 13-03
34. Freddy Palmer Estill Springs, TN 4 13-01 169
Day 1: 4 13-01
35. Hayden Gaddis Dandridge, TN 3 12-11 168
Day 1: 3 12-11
36. Clayton Batts Warner Robins, GA 5 12-10 167
Day 1: 5 12-10
37. Steve Dimatteo Lancaster, PA 5 12-07 166
Day 1: 5 12-07
38. Tripp Berlinsky Florence, AL 5 12-04 165
Day 1: 5 12-04
39. Robert Hoyt Union Hall, VA 5 12-02 164
Day 1: 5 12-02
39. Bo Thomas Edwardsburg, MI 5 12-02 164
Day 1: 5 12-02
41. Chase Carey Hoschton, GA 5 12-01 162
Day 1: 5 12-01
42. Bernie Schultz Gainesville, FL 4 12-01 161
Day 1: 4 12-01
43. Brady Vernon Sterrett, AL 5 11-15 160
Day 1: 5 11-15
44. Jack Daniel Williams Kingsport, TN 5 11-14 159
Day 1: 5 11-14
45. Michael Corbishley Raleigh, NC 5 11-11 158
Day 1: 5 11-11
46. Zac Ridenhour Salisbury, NC 5 11-10 157
Day 1: 5 11-10
47. Mike McClelland Blue Eye, MO 5 11-08 156
Day 1: 5 11-08
47. Lucas Murphy West Columbia, MI 5 11-08 156
Day 1: 5 11-08
49. Josh Hubbard Citrus Springs, FL 5 11-07 154
Day 1: 5 11-07
50. Donald Tripoli Webster, NY 5 11-05 153
Day 1: 5 11-05
51. CJ Maddux Birmingham, AL 4 11-01 152
Day 1: 4 11-01
52. Bryson Osteen Live Oak, FL 5 10-14 151
Day 1: 5 10-14
53. Parker Guy Ocilla, GA 5 10-13 150
Day 1: 5 10-13
54. Niko Romero Coldspring, TX 5 10-12 149
Day 1: 5 10-12
55. Guy Eaker Sr Cherryville, NC 5 10-06 148
Day 1: 5 10-06
55. Cole McAusland Tuscaloosa, AL 5 10-06 148
Day 1: 5 10-06
55. Blake Milligan Nashville, TN 5 10-06 148
Day 1: 5 10-06
55. Derek Rodriguez Jr. Okemos, MI 5 10-06 148
Day 1: 5 10-06
59. Cody Detweiler Guntersville, AL 5 10-05 144
Day 1: 5 10-05
59. Nathan Quince Imperial, PA 5 10-05 144
Day 1: 5 10-05
61. Dillon Falardeau Hixson, TN 5 10-02 142
Day 1: 5 10-02
61. Bill Rea Greenfield, OH 5 10-02 0
Day 1: 5 10-02
63. George Hirapetian Lancaster, SC 5 09-15 141
Day 1: 5 09-15
64. Stu Martel Northbrook, IL 4 09-12 140
Day 1: 4 09-12
65. Chase Clarke Virginia Beach, VA 5 09-11 139
Day 1: 5 09-11
66. Destry Ford Tuscaloosa, AL 5 09-10 0
Day 1: 5 09-10
67. Robert Davenport Brooksville, FL 4 09-10 138
Day 1: 4 09-10
67. Alex Heintze Denham Springs, LA 4 09-10 138
Day 1: 4 09-10
67. River Lee Diboll, TX 4 09-10 138
Day 1: 4 09-10
70. Michael Webster Gastonia, NC 5 09-09 135
Day 1: 5 09-09
71. Lee Harper Abbeville, AL 2 09-09 0
Day 1: 2 09-09
72. Rich Howes Oviedo, FL 5 09-08 134
Day 1: 5 09-08
73. Ty Austin Rush, NY 5 09-07 133
Day 1: 5 09-07
73. Cody Ross Livingston, TX 5 09-07 133
Day 1: 5 09-07
75. Chris Lighthizer Zanesville, OH 5 09-05 0
Day 1: 5 09-05
76. Gary Clouse Winchester, TN 5 09-03 131
Day 1: 5 09-03
77. Jeremy Goodwyn Bowling Green, FL 4 09-02 0
Day 1: 4 09-02
77. Ryan Michl Newton, IL 4 09-02 130
Day 1: 4 09-02
79. Dylan Akins Flowery Branch, GA 5 09-01 129
Day 1: 5 09-01
79. John Branch Magnolia, KY 5 09-01 129
Day 1: 5 09-01
79. Dylan Fogarty Mechanicsburg, PA 5 09-01 129
Day 1: 5 09-01
82. Ryan Salzman Huntsville, AL 5 08-13 126
Day 1: 5 08-13
83. Zach Goutremout Chaumont, NY 5 08-10 125
Day 1: 5 08-10
84. Evan White Roanoke Rapids, NC 4 08-10 124
Day 1: 4 08-10
85. Kevin Jones Valley, AL 4 08-09 123
Day 1: 4 08-09
86. Brandon Pilling Clermont, FL 4 08-08 0
Day 1: 4 08-08
87. Aaron Yavorsky Palm Harbor, FL 5 08-07 122
Day 1: 5 08-07
88. Charlie Hartley Grove City, OH 4 08-07 121
Day 1: 4 08-07
89. Brooks Anderson Marietta, GA 5 08-06 120
Day 1: 5 08-06
89. Alex Johnson Milltown, NJ 5 08-06 120
Day 1: 5 08-06
89. Teb Jones Yalaha, MS 5 08-06 120
Day 1: 5 08-06
89. Seiji Kato Forney TX JAPAN 5 08-06 120
Day 1: 5 08-06
89. Ish Monroe Oakdale, CA 5 08-06 120
Day 1: 5 08-06
94. Jamie Fountain East Dublin, GA 5 08-04 115
Day 1: 5 08-04
95. Damian Szlachta Dawsonville, GA 4 08-02 114
Day 1: 4 08-02
96. Bubba Baker Ridgeway, SC 5 08-01 0
Day 1: 5 08-01
96. Ryan Broughman Corapeake, NC 5 08-01 113
Day 1: 5 08-01
96. Chad Pipkens Dewitt, MI 5 08-01 113
Day 1: 5 08-01
99. Ben Quisno Oakwood, OH 5 07-15 111
Day 1: 5 07-15
100. Brandon Parson Erwin, NC 4 07-15 110
Day 1: 4 07-15
101. Jacob Thompkins Myrtle Beach, SC 5 07-13 109
Day 1: 5 07-13
102. Jake Maddux Alpharetta, GA 4 07-13 108
Day 1: 4 07-13
103. Jeremy Sadowski Voluntown, CT 4 07-12 107
Day 1: 4 07-12
104. Caden Vincent Cross Junction, VA 5 07-11 0
Day 1: 5 07-11
105. Brayden Rakes Winston Salem, NC 5 07-08 106
Day 1: 5 07-08
106. Chris Miller Spirit Lake, IA 5 07-06 105
Day 1: 5 07-06
107. John Pollard Eclectic, AL 5 07-04 104
Day 1: 5 07-04
108. Troy Coney Owego, NY 5 07-03 103
Day 1: 5 07-03
108. Tommy Dickerson Orange, TX 5 07-03 0
Day 1: 5 07-03
110. Yukihiro Sawamura Harker Heights, TX 5 07-02 102
Day 1: 5 07-02
111. Chris Kingree Inverness, FL 2 07-01 101
Day 1: 2 07-01
112. Daniel Lanier Jr. Winter Springs, FL 2 07-00 0
Day 1: 2 07-00
113. Easton Lindus Woodville, WI 5 06-15 100
Day 1: 5 06-15
113. Timmy Sheridan Troy, VA 5 06-15 100
Day 1: 5 06-15
115. Brian Hatfield Spring City, TN 4 06-14 98
Day 1: 4 06-14
116. Johnathan Crossland Chapin, SC 5 06-12 97
Day 1: 5 06-12
117. Alex Wetherell Middletown, CT 2 06-11 96
Day 1: 2 06-11
118. Tanner Hadden Appling, GA 5 06-09 95
Day 1: 5 06-09
119. Colt Blanton Piketon, OH 4 06-09 94
Day 1: 4 06-09
120. Parker Mott Winter Garden, FL 4 06-08 0
Day 1: 4 06-08
121. Ricky Basey Warrenville, SC 3 06-08 93
Day 1: 3 06-08
122. Joshua Weaver Macon, GA 3 06-07 92
Day 1: 3 06-07
123. Fred Roumbanis Russellville, AR 4 06-05 91
Day 1: 4 06-05
124. Whitney Stephens Waverly, OH 4 06-03 90
Day 1: 4 06-03
125. Logan Johnson Nauvoo, AL 5 06-00 89
Day 1: 5 06-00
126. Nick Mandes North Stonington, CT 3 05-15 88
Day 1: 3 05-15
127. Nic Rand Paw Paw, MI 4 05-12 87
Day 1: 4 05-12
128. Rick Greene Ocala, FL 1 05-12 86
Day 1: 1 05-12
129. Tommy Dunaway Havana, FL 2 05-10 85
Day 1: 2 05-10
130. Bobby Bakewell Orlando, FL 3 05-08 84
Day 1: 3 05-08
130. Shayne Berlo Mclean, VA 3 05-08 84
Day 1: 3 05-08
132. Ron Farrow Rock Hill, SC 3 05-05 82
Day 1: 3 05-05
133. Brien Vaughn Lampe, MO 3 04-14 81
Day 1: 3 04-14
134. Brock Bila Republic, MO 2 04-13 80
Day 1: 2 04-13
135. Colton Trotter Dothan, AL 2 04-12 79
Day 1: 2 04-12
136. Jay Schoenfelder Sarasota, FL 4 04-10 0
Day 1: 4 04-10
137. Mike Blevins Burnsville, NC 3 04-10 78
Day 1: 3 04-10
138. Kenny Mittelstaedt Minnetonka, MN 4 04-09 77
Day 1: 4 04-09
139. Stephen Burlington Jupiter, FL 3 04-09 0
Day 1: 3 04-09
140. Blake Thompson Conway, SC 2 04-08 76
Day 1: 2 04-08
141. Blaine Bunney Claremore, OK 3 04-06 75
Day 1: 3 04-06
142. Pete Pisello Phillipsburg, NJ 3 04-04 74
Day 1: 3 04-04
143. Allen Brooks Canton, GA 3 04-01 73
Day 1: 3 04-01
143. Justin Kimmel Athens, GA 3 04-01 73
Day 1: 3 04-01
143. Yusuke Miyazaki Forney, TX 3 04-01 73
Day 1: 3 04-01
146. Trey Thompson Sanford, NC 2 03-15 70
Day 1: 2 03-15
147. Luke Chichetto Land O Lakes, FL 1 03-14 0
Day 1: 1 03-14
148. Joey Hanna Corsicana, TX 2 03-13 69
Day 1: 2 03-13
149. Neal Gilmore Magnolia, TX 2 03-12 68
Day 1: 2 03-12
150. Phil Kroll Otego, NY 2 03-04 67
Day 1: 2 03-04
151. Dave Miller Stratford, CT 1 03-03 66
Day 1: 1 03-03
152. Mikey Weems Hull, TX 3 03-01 0
Day 1: 3 03-01
153. Jeremy Radford Huntly, VA 2 03-00 65
Day 1: 2 03-00
154. Trent Palmer Cumming, GA 2 02-12 64
Day 1: 2 02-12
155. Yuming Gao Waterloo CANADA 2 02-11 63
Day 1: 2 02-11
156. Willie Mcmullen Covington, GA 1 02-09 62
Day 1: 1 02-09
157. Paul Tabisz Livonia, MI 2 02-07 61
Day 1: 2 02-07
158. Charles Sim Wasaga Beach Ontario CA 2 02-05 60
Day 1: 2 02-05
159. Matt Keezer Kirkland Quebec CANADA 2 02-02 59
Day 1: 2 02-02
160. Michael Johns Waynesville, GA 1 02-02 58
Day 1: 1 02-02
160. Tyler Lubbat Naples, FL 1 02-02 58
Day 1: 1 02-02
162. Chris McCarthy Woonsocket, RI 2 02-00 56
Day 1: 2 02-00
163. Steven Eastman Eustis, FL 1 02-00 0
Day 1: 1 02-00
164. Cory Mcglamery Madisonville, TN 1 01-15 55
Day 1: 1 01-15
165. Colden Baker Ridgeway, SC 1 01-14 54
Day 1: 1 01-14
166. Gregg Johnson Ocala, FL 1 01-12 0
Day 1: 1 01-12
167. Darrell Ivey Lebanon, MO 1 01-11 53
Day 1: 1 01-11
167. David Perdue Wirtz, VA 1 01-11 53
Day 1: 1 01-11
169. Trey Schroeder Theodosia, MO 1 01-10 51
Day 1: 1 01-10
169. Allen Williford Paducah, KY 1 01-10 0
Day 1: 1 01-10
171. Kenneth Sharkey Grand Haven, MI 1 01-09 0
Day 1: 1 01-09
172. Grae Buck Green Lane, PA 1 01-05 50
Day 1: 1 01-05
172. Bryden Mugleston Lebanon, TN 1 01-05 50
Day 1: 1 01-05
174. Byron Kenney Jr Monticello, GA 1 00-15 48
Day 1: 1 00-15
175. Bryan Hoffman Andrews, TX 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
175. Kristian Johnson Belvidere, NJ 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
175. Lance Owen Greer, SC 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
175. Anastasia Patterson Sumter, SC 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
175. Johno Roberts Golden, CO 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
175. Casey Smith Victor, NY 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
175. Tommy Young Orlando, FL 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
------------------------------
Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 95 682 1552-05
------------------------------
95 682 1552-05
Warm-water surprise boosts Emmanuel University’s Dunn & Mcguffin to Okeechobee win
OKEECHOBEE, Fla. — After Peyton Dunn and Luke Mcguffin found a “magical spot” and grabbed the Day 1 lead in the Strike King Bassmaster College Series at Lake Okeechobee presented by Bass Pro Shops, their greatest fear was that other anglers might fish the same area and disrupt their momentum.
Other teams did fish nearby on Thursday in the second and final day of the derby, but none found the weight needed to knock the Emmanuel University duo from the pole position.
Dunn and Mcguffin caught a two-day total of 10 bass weighing 32 pounds, 14 ounces to claim the tournament title here in south Florida. They caught a limit of 12 pounds, 5 ounces on Thursday – considerably less than the 20-9 limit they sacked on Wednesday, but easily enough to hold off the field off the field of 219 teams fishing on legendary Lake Okeechobee this week.
Dunn and Mcguffin netted $6,921 for the Emmanuel University bass team, part of a cash purse of $23,269 that was split among the Top 10 duos.
The victors finished more than five pounds ahead of their closest competitors , but the win didn’t come as easily as it might seem. Dunn and Mcguffin said they caught only 10 keeper fish on Day 2, relying heavily on an early-morning flurry that got a limit in the livewell. They upgraded only a couple times and said Thursday’s best bass weighed about 3 1/2 pounds.
“We battled all day long and really struggled to get the fish we needed,” said Mcguffin, a 19-year-old freshman from Seneca, SC. “We knew the right fish were there, it was just getting them to bite or not. We thought we might pick off a big one or two, but it didn’t happen. When we were making the (40-minute) run back, we thought we were gonna come up short by a pound or two. But when we got to the tanks and saw what was in front of us, we realized we had a shot.
“You go from completely stressed to holding the trophy,” Mcguffin added.
Dunn and Mcguffin fished in the Indian Prairie area of Lake Okeechobee. Dunn said the key was a small pipe beneath the surface that warmed the water they fished, and with 35-degree temperatures to start both mornings, the extra heat helped them turn up the heat on the largemouth bass.
“We kept hearing water temperature in the main lake was 56, 58 degrees,” Dunn said. “But we were fishing in water that was 65 degrees. It’s not much, but it made a huge difference.”
Still, others fished the area but didn’t manage the weight needed to catch the Emmanuel tandem.
“We saw six boats yesterday and today it was about 40,” Dunn said. “The traffic ruined the water color today and made it challenging to get them in the boat.”
Dunn and Mcguffin caught their best fish on a black/blue 6-inch Senko worm on a 5/0 Gamakatsu wide gap hook. They also used white and clear Berkley Stunna jerkbaits and a Berkley General stickbait.
“There were about 30 yards of reeds near the bank by this pipe,” Dunn said. “It was just a great set up.”
Rounding out the Top 5 teams at Okeechobee are second, Joe Vaulton and Walker Larue, Carson-Newman University, 27-8; third, Lane Clark and Tallis Morrison, Erskine College, 26-9; fourth, Bryson Dotson and Victor Alford, Tennessee Wesleyan University, 25-4; and fifth, Nolan Gray and Riley Brown, Carson-Newman University, 25-0.
The Big Bass Award went to Carson-Newman’s Kaden Casey and Collin French who boated an 8-14 largemouth on Day 1, good enough to split a $200 prize. They finished 40th in the tournament.
The Top 22 teams at Okeechobee (10% of the field) earned a spot in the Strike King Bassmaster College Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops later this year. This was the first of three tournaments on the Lunkers Trail this year. B.A.S.S. has a two-division format (both the Legends and Lunkers trails each have three tournaments) which is designed to give college anglers additional opportunities to compete.
Okeechobee County Tourist Development Center hosted this event.
2026 Bassmaster College Series
2026 Bassmaster College Series
2026 Bassmaster College Series
2026 Bassmaster College Series
2026 Bassmaster College Series
2026 Bassmaster College Series
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.
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2026 Strike King Bassmaster College Series at Lake Okeechobee - Lunkers 1/28-1/29
Lake Okeechobee, Okeechobee City FL.
(BOATER) Standings Day 2
Angler Club/School Pts
1. Peyton Dunn - Luke Mcguffin Emmanuel University 250
Day 1: 5 20-09 Day 2: 5 12-05 Total: 10 32-14
2. Joe Vaulton - Walker LaRue Carson-Newman University 249
Day 1: 5 11-10 Day 2: 5 15-14 Total: 10 27-08
3. Lane Clark - Tallis Morrison Erskine College 248
Day 1: 5 14-15 Day 2: 5 11-10 Total: 10 26-09
4. Bryson Dotson - Victor Alford Tennessee Wesleyan University 247
Day 1: 5 13-02 Day 2: 5 12-02 Total: 10 25-04
5. Nolan Gray - Riley Brown Carson-Newman University 246
Day 1: 5 12-12 Day 2: 5 12-04 Total: 10 25-00
6. Ethan Burnette - Cameron Dials Kentucky Christian University 245
Day 1: 5 11-04 Day 2: 5 13-11 Total: 10 24-15
7. Anderson Jones - Lander University 244
Day 1: 5 12-00 Day 2: 5 12-12 Total: 10 24-12
8. Szymon Piton - Riley Faulkner Carson-Newman University 243
Day 1: 5 09-07 Day 2: 5 15-03 Total: 10 24-10
9. Graham Flaherty - Nathan Preston Auburn University 242
Day 1: 5 11-15 Day 2: 5 12-00 Total: 10 23-15
10. Caleb Neu - Jakob Dreher Bethel University 241
Day 1: 3 04-15 Day 2: 5 16-11 Total: 8 21-10
11. Ryan Small - David Buccafuri Penn State University 240
Day 1: 5 10-06 Day 2: 3 11-00 Total: 8 21-06
12. Will Wester - Jackson Thomas Emmanuel University 239
Day 1: 2 08-01 Day 2: 5 13-03 Total: 7 21-04
13. Bryson Gurley - Ethan Evatt USC - Union 238
Day 1: 5 11-09 Day 2: 4 09-07 Total: 9 21-00
14. Noah Haas - Jace French Purdue University 237
Day 1: 5 16-12 Day 2: 1 03-12 Total: 6 20-08
15. Brycen Williamson - Reed Rooke Erskine College 236
Day 1: 5 16-07 Day 2: 2 04-00 Total: 7 20-07
16. Elijah Kelley - Kyle Smith Kentucky Christian University 235
Day 1: 5 13-09 Day 2: 2 06-07 Total: 7 20-00
17. Andrew Terry - Kole Weir Bryan College 234
Day 1: 5 10-11 Day 2: 4 09-02 Total: 9 19-13
18. Max Hondorp - Ridge Faircloth Troy University 233
Day 1: 5 09-07 Day 2: 5 10-04 Total: 10 19-11
19. Cole Petroff - Noah Loxley Tennessee Tech University 232
Day 1: 5 19-04 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 19-04
20. Quinn Williams - Emery Burnett Georgia Southern University 231
Day 1: 5 08-15 Day 2: 4 10-02 Total: 9 19-01
21. Jackson Fuller - Grant Steinauer Auburn University 230
Day 1: 5 09-14 Day 2: 3 08-15 Total: 8 18-13
22. Cole Russell - Ty Trentham University of Tennessee 229
Day 1: 5 14-08 Day 2: 1 04-00 Total: 6 18-08
23. Reece Keeney - Brantley Anders Kentucky Christian University 228
Day 1: 5 08-14 Day 2: 5 09-10 Total: 10 18-08
24. John Cooper - Daxton Wammack University of North Alabama 227
Day 1: 5 13-05 Day 2: 3 05-02 Total: 8 18-07
25. Luke Wyle - Trey Richardson III Auburn University 226
Day 1: 4 07-15 Day 2: 5 09-12 Total: 9 17-11
26. Jaxon Leverette - Austin Sawyer Troy University 225
Day 1: 5 10-05 Day 2: 3 07-05 Total: 8 17-10
27. Colin Oldfield - Jack Miner Michigan State University 224
Day 1: 5 10-10 Day 2: 3 06-14 Total: 8 17-08
28. Cole Moulton - Jared Hubbard Lander University 223
Day 1: 3 05-15 Day 2: 2 11-08 Total: 5 17-07
29. Brendin Simich - Carter Stambelos Auburn University 222
Day 1: 2 07-06 Day 2: 4 10-01 Total: 6 17-07
30. CJ Chavous Jr. - Landon Bannister USC - Union 221
Day 1: 2 10-00 Day 2: 4 07-05 Total: 6 17-05
31. Joe Mcnamara - Grady Mcclendon University of North Alabama 220
Day 1: 5 08-08 Day 2: 5 08-12 Total: 10 17-04
32. Brayden Ruckman - Zach Wolfe Carson-Newman University 219
Day 1: 3 10-08 Day 2: 2 06-04 Total: 5 16-12
33. Drew Pitts - Nicholas DellaPorta Carson-Newman University 218
Day 1: 3 08-04 Day 2: 5 08-06 Total: 8 16-10
34. Landen Parsons - Brayden Wilson Bethel University 217
Day 1: 2 03-03 Day 2: 5 13-06 Total: 7 16-09
35. Fischer Barber - Troy University 216
Day 1: 5 12-05 Day 2: 2 04-03 Total: 7 16-08
36. Andrew Turner - Evan Powell Carson-Newman University 215
Day 1: 3 09-13 Day 2: 2 06-09 Total: 5 16-06
37. Carter Steed - Brewton-Parker College 214
Day 1: 4 08-10 Day 2: 2 07-03 Total: 6 15-13
38. Jake Brown - Nathan Reynolds University of North Alabama 213
Day 1: 4 08-12 Day 2: 3 07-00 Total: 7 15-12
39. Quade Lobo - Jerry Brumbaugh Jr. Adrian College 212
Day 1: 2 03-01 Day 2: 5 12-05 Total: 7 15-06
40. Kaden Casey - Collin French Carson-Newman University 211
Day 1: 3 11-13 Day 2: 2 03-07 Total: 5 15-04
41. Tanner Herndon - Mason Taylor Bryan College 210
Day 1: 2 04-07 Day 2: 5 10-12 Total: 7 15-03
42. Robie Vines Jr - Colby Bryan Catawba Valley Community College 209
Day 1: 1 04-11 Day 2: 5 10-07 Total: 6 15-02
43. Ryan Wiener - Max Meyer Alexandria Technical And Communi 208
Day 1: 5 14-14 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 14-14
44. Nick Fashho - Mason Stidwill Oakland University 207
Day 1: 5 10-11 Day 2: 2 04-03 Total: 7 14-14
45. Gavin Seewald - Drew Turnbull University of North Alabama 206
Day 1: 3 05-11 Day 2: 5 09-03 Total: 8 14-14
46. Anderson Keim - Adam Hyder Clemson University 205
Day 1: 2 09-04 Day 2: 3 05-06 Total: 5 14-10
47. Will Kimbrough - Mac Nail Georgia Southern University 204
Day 1: 5 14-03 Day 2: 3 00-00 Total: 8 14-03
48. Drew Kuhnle - Landon Rollison Lander University 203
Day 1: 5 10-03 Day 2: 1 04-00 Total: 6 14-03
49. Hayden Williams - Chase Rogers USC - Union 202
Day 1: 4 10-02 Day 2: 2 03-15 Total: 6 14-01
50. Will Hammond - John Such Lander University 201
Day 1: 2 06-13 Day 2: 4 07-02 Total: 6 13-15
51. Hunter Starling - William Vickery Georgia Southern University 200
Day 1: 1 01-11 Day 2: 4 12-00 Total: 5 13-11
52. Colin Chavers - Preston Barnett Auburn University 199
Day 1: 1 02-07 Day 2: 5 11-01 Total: 6 13-08
53. Trenton Carey - Cody Abbott Lander University 198
Day 1: 2 04-04 Day 2: 2 09-02 Total: 4 13-06
54. Cameron Seay - Nate Campbell USC - Union 197
Day 1: 4 13-01 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 4 13-01
55. Zach Helton - Blake Wheat Carson-Newman University 196
Day 1: 3 08-10 Day 2: 1 04-06 Total: 4 13-00
56. Skyler Stevens - Grant McCraney Faulkner University 195
Day 1: 1 06-14 Day 2: 2 06-02 Total: 3 13-00
57. Brady Osborn - Connor Racine Adrian College 194
Day 1: 2 07-02 Day 2: 1 05-11 Total: 3 12-13
58. Nick Hawkins - Chase Wollam Southeastern University 193
Day 1: 5 12-07 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 12-07
59. Cooper Hughes - Brett Bucolo Florida Gulf Coast University 192
Day 1: 4 12-07 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 4 12-07
60. Diego Alea - Carter Teune Southeastern University 191
Day 1: 2 03-08 Day 2: 5 08-15 Total: 7 12-07
61. Richard Johnson III - Tanner Hamilton Troy University 190
Day 1: 3 05-06 Day 2: 3 07-00 Total: 6 12-06
62. Wes Smith II - Caden Gettys Catawba Valley Community College 189
Day 1: 5 12-05 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 12-05
63. Spencer Grooms - Auburn University 188
Day 1: 2 03-07 Day 2: 3 08-08 Total: 5 11-15
64. Carson Peeters - Drew Wagner University of Wisconsin - Steven 187
Day 1: 1 08-04 Day 2: 2 03-11 Total: 3 11-15
65. Jackson Mitchell - Will Shepherd Carson-Newman University 186
Day 1: 3 08-10 Day 2: 1 03-04 Total: 4 11-14
66. Jake Lovingood - Bryson Hatcher Bryan College 185
Day 1: 5 09-09 Day 2: 1 02-03 Total: 6 11-12
67. Jackson Shore - Fletcher Allen Unc - Charlotte 184
Day 1: 1 04-09 Day 2: 3 07-03 Total: 4 11-12
68. Garrett Sullivan - Hayes Pate Faulkner University 183
Day 1: 3 06-02 Day 2: 2 05-05 Total: 5 11-07
69. Hunter Owens - Jackie Hatfield Carson-Newman University 182
Day 1: 4 08-04 Day 2: 1 03-02 Total: 5 11-06
70. Zion Dunaway - Andrew Krintz Purdue University 181
Day 1: 3 06-05 Day 2: 3 05-01 Total: 6 11-06
71. A
Back to Balance: Palaniuk Recharges with Family, Eyes Guntersville to Open 2026
By Walker Smith, Courtesy of Dynamic Sponsorships
By any measure, Brandon Palaniuk’s offseason was anything but quiet. For the Team Toyota pro, the months between seasons were a blur of travel, content creation and preparation. All layered on top of the responsibilities that come with being one of the most recognizable anglers in professional bass fishing. Yet somewhere between the business meetings and camera lenses, Palaniuk managed to do something just as important as any on-the-water prep: slow down.
“I spent a lot of time the past few months preparing for the upcoming 2026 season,” Palaniuk said. “It was one of the busiest offseasons I’ve ever had, to be honest. There was a bunch of business stuff going on and I had a lot of content to film and photograph. I was part of several new-product launches, and it was a bunch of fun to do it. But it sure does keep a man busy.”
That balance between professional obligation and personal fulfillment has become a defining theme of Palaniuk’s career as he’s matured as a competitor and as a family man. The work never truly stops for an Elite Series angler, especially one with Palaniuk’s profile. Sponsors expect excellence. Fans expect insight. And the sport itself demands relentless preparation. Still, even the most driven competitors need moments to unplug.
This offseason, Palaniuk made that a priority.
“I took the family to Hawaii to get away for a little bit,” Palaniuk said. “I’ve always tried to create a career from which I don’t need a vacation but this year it was more needed than normal. I just really wanted to put my phone down and spend a while on the beach in warm weather with my wife and little girls. The girls love the beach and just giggle like crazy when the waves crash on them. All those laughs do a dad’s heart good. They made sandcastles, forts out of driftwood we found on the beach. And there were a bunch of chickens on the island that our little girls got a kick out of chasing around.”
It’s a glimpse into a side of Palaniuk fans don’t always see. A father soaking in laughter, sunscreen and sandy feet. Those moments are grounding. They provide perspective and fuel that can’t be found in a tackle box or on a graph screen. As the 2026 Bassmaster Elite Series season approaches, that clarity is shaping how Palaniuk plans to compete.
“My mindset going into the 2026 Elite Series season is very detail oriented,” Palaniuk said. “I want all the controllables taken care of far in advance of every event. I refuse to go into an event with my mind unorganized or scrambled. I have made sure everyone in the family is on the same page so I can focus on the task at hand when Guntersville comes around.”
That approach has long been a hallmark of Palaniuk’s success. Known for his preparation and adaptability, he thrives when he can fish with a clear head and an open playbook. The season-opening event on Alabama’s Lake Guntersville sets up perfectly for that philosophy, especially given one key rule wrinkle.
“I think the fact that the Guntersville event doesn’t allow forward-facing sonar is great because it opens up so many different ways to win,” Palaniuk offered. “It would be dominated with forward-facing technology if it were allowed. It would also severely limit techniques. I never want to feel like I’m strapped to something that I have to do to win or compete. I want to fish freely and use my instincts. I am going to attack this lake with an open mind and I’m so excited to do so.”
Guntersville has always been a thinking-man’s fishery. It’s a place where grass, current, timing and decision-making matter just as much as raw fish-finding technology. Without FFS in play, the field will be forced to rely on experience, intuition and versatility. Few anglers embrace that challenge as comfortably as Palaniuk.
Beyond the strategic intrigue, there’s also genuine excitement about the fishery itself. Guntersville has shown signs of resurgence in recent seasons and Palaniuk believes the lake is poised to put on a show.
“It seems to me that Guntersville is on a major upswing,” Palaniuk said. “It has an incredibly healthy population of 3- to 4-pounders. There will be a pile of 17- to 18-pound bags but there is a real potential for someone to break 30 pounds. The fish are fresh this time of year, they’re clean, they’re fat and happy. It will be an awesome event for us anglers and spectators.”
The combination of explosive weights, diverse techniques and a level playing field makes the opener one of the most anticipated events on the schedule. For Palaniuk, it’s also a chance to immediately put his offseason work to the test. Every hour spent organizing gear, refining systems and aligning expectations with his family now funnels toward those first competitive casts of 2026.
There’s a quiet confidence in how he talks about the season ahead. Not bravado, not prediction. Just readiness. The kind that comes from knowing the details are handled and the priorities are straight. Family first. Preparation always. Then, let instinct take over.
As Palaniuk loads up and heads toward northern Alabama, he does so carrying more than rods and reels. He brings with him the echoes of laughter on a Hawaiian beach, the satisfaction of a busy offseason well managed and the hunger of a competitor eager to fish freely once the clock starts.
When the Elite Series launches on Lake Guntersville, Brandon Palaniuk will be exactly where he wants to be. Focused, balanced and ready to let the lake tell him what to do next.
Emmanuel’s Dunn & McGuffin make late move, shoot to top of Okeechobee leaderboard
OKEECHOBEE, Fla. — The temperature fell 30 degrees overnight at Lake Okeechobee, but the fortune of Emmanuel University’s Peyton Dunn and Luke Mcguffin was climbing Wednesday on Day 1 of the Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops.
The duo caught a five-bass limit weighing 20 pounds, 9 ounces, to jump atop the leaderboard in this two-day tournament in south Florida. That gave them a 1-5 edge over Tennessee Tech’s Cole Petroff and Noah Loxley, who are in second place after weighing a 19-4 limit.
In all, 219 tandems are competing in the derby on Okeechobee, which at a staggering 730 square miles is the second largest freshwater lake in the lower 48 states.
The storied Okeechobee was a bit of a puzzle for Dunn and Mcguffin early on Day 1, and that’s not unexpected when they practiced in 65-degree weather but hit the water Wednesday morning with the thermometer sitting at 35 degrees. The duo started out on the LiveScope, but their bites were infrequent. By noon, they only had two bass totaling about eight pounds in the livewell.
But as quickly as the cold crept in overnight, the weather warmed just as rapidly Wednesday afternoon. That led the Emmanuel anglers to change tactics.
“We stuck with the ’Scoping for a good while because we thought the fish would push off the banks in this colder weather,” Dunn said. “But as we started taking layers off when the sun came out, we decided to get to the bank.”
Mcguffin caught a 6-pounder along the bank to anchor their bag and get momentum in their favor. They boated a pair of 3- to 4-pounders in the final minutes to vault into the lead.
“I was stressing at about noon, I’m not gonna lie,” said Mcguffin, a 19-year-old freshman from Seneca, S.C. “You’re just fishing and not talking to one another because you’re both stressed. But hey, it’s Florida. You can turn things around quick here. We proved it today.”
The pair didn’t divulge the lures they used to mount their late rally, but they acknowledged the bites were coming from 4 feet deep or less. And with winds gusting as high as 20 mph at times on Day 1, they were looking for the calmest water they could find — a comfort not only to them, but to the Okeechobee bass they figured might be staging to spawn.
“The water was pretty muddy, and it was hard to see much of anything,” said Dunn. “I think the 6-pounder was spawning, but I’m not sure on the others.”
Regardless, bass like that capped Day 1 on a high note. Now the young aces from Emmanuel, located in Franklin Springs, Ga., will try to duplicate their production on the second and final day of the tournament.
“It was a magical day,” Mcguffin said. “You pray for miracles and sometimes you get them … Having the lead won’t help me sleep any easier, but I feel a bit better because we didn’t find a lucky place. We found a good place. It has fish and there should be fish there tomorrow.”
Rounding out the Top 5 teams on Day 1 at Okeechobee are third, Noah Haas and Jace French, of Purdue University, 16-12; fourth, Brycen Williamson and Reed Rooke, Erskine College (S.C.), 16-7; and fifth, Lane Clark and Tallis Morrison, Erskine College (S.C.), 14-15.
The Top 22 teams in the tournament (10% of the field) will earn a spot in the Strike King Bassmaster College Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops later this year. This was the first of three tournaments on the Lunkers Trail this year. B.A.S.S. has a two-division format (both the Legends and Lunkers trails each have three tournaments) which is designed to give college anglers additional opportunities to compete.
The Top 10 teams at Okeechobee will split a cash purse of $23,069 that will be awarded to their respective college bass fishing programs.
The second and final day of the Strike King Bassmaster College Series at Lake Okeechobee presented by Bass Pro Shops will begin Thursday with a 7 a.m. ET takeoff from C. Scott Driver Park. Weigh-in is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET. Fans can follow the action on Bassmaster.com.
Okeechobee County Tourist Development Center is hosting this event.
2026 Bassmaster College Series
2026 Bassmaster College Series
2026 Bassmaster College Series
2026 Bassmaster College Series
2026 Bassmaster College Series
2026 Bassmaster College Series
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.
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Media Contact: Mandy Pascal, Communications Manager, 334-414-8677, [email protected]
2026 Strike King Bassmaster College Series at Lake Okeechobee - Lunkers 1/28-1/29
Lake Okeechobee, Okeechobee City FL.
(BOATER) Standings Day 1
Angler Club/School Pts
1. Peyton Dunn - Luke Mcguffin Emmanuel University 250
Day 1: 5 20-09 Total: 5 20-09
2. Cole Petroff - Noah Loxley Tennessee Tech University 249
Day 1: 5 19-04 Total: 5 19-04
3. Noah Haas - Jace French Purdue University 248
Day 1: 5 16-12 Total: 5 16-12
4. Brycen Williamson - Reed Rooke Erskine College 247
Day 1: 5 16-07 Total: 5 16-07
5. Lane Clark - Tallis Morrison Erskine College 246
Day 1: 5 14-15 Total: 5 14-15
6. Ryan Wiener - Max Meyer Alexandria Technical And Communi 245
Day 1: 5 14-14 Total: 5 14-14
7. Cole Russell - Ty Trentham University of Tennessee 244
Day 1: 5 14-08 Total: 5 14-08
8. Will Kimbrough - Mac Nail Georgia Southern University 243
Day 1: 5 14-03 Total: 5 14-03
9. Elijah Kelley - Kyle Smith Kentucky Christian University 242
Day 1: 5 13-09 Total: 5 13-09
10. John Cooper - Daxton Wammack University of North Alabama 241
Day 1: 5 13-05 Total: 5 13-05
11. Bryson Dotson - Victor Alford Tennessee Wesleyan University 240
Day 1: 5 13-02 Total: 5 13-02
12. Cameron Seay - Nate Campbell USC - Union 239
Day 1: 4 13-01 Total: 4 13-01
13. Nolan Gray - Riley Brown Carson-Newman University 238
Day 1: 5 12-12 Total: 5 12-12
14. Nick Hawkins - Chase Wollam Southeastern University 237
Day 1: 5 12-07 Total: 5 12-07
15. Cooper Hughes - Brett Bucolo Florida Gulf Coast University 236
Day 1: 4 12-07 Total: 4 12-07
16. Fischer Barber - Troy University 235
Day 1: 5 12-05 Total: 5 12-05
16. Wes Smith II - Caden Gettys Catawba Valley Community College 235
Day 1: 5 12-05 Total: 5 12-05
18. Anderson Jones - Lander University 233
Day 1: 5 12-00 Total: 5 12-00
19. Graham Flaherty - Nathan Preston Auburn University 232
Day 1: 5 11-15 Total: 5 11-15
20. Kaden Casey - Collin French Carson-Newman University 231
Day 1: 3 11-13 Total: 3 11-13
21. Joe Vaulton - Walker LaRue Carson-Newman University 230
Day 1: 5 11-10 Total: 5 11-10
22. Bryson Gurley - Ethan Evatt USC - Union 229
Day 1: 5 11-09 Total: 5 11-09
23. Ethan Burnette - Cameron Dials Kentucky Christian University 228
Day 1: 5 11-04 Total: 5 11-04
24. Nick Fashho - Mason Stidwill Oakland University 227
Day 1: 5 10-11 Total: 5 10-11
24. Tucker Sutherland - Brier Hardy Faulkner University 227
Day 1: 5 10-11 Total: 5 10-11
24. Andrew Terry - Kole Weir Bryan College 227
Day 1: 5 10-11 Total: 5 10-11
27. Colin Oldfield - Jack Miner Michigan State University 224
Day 1: 5 10-10 Total: 5 10-10
28. Brayden Ruckman - Zach Wolfe Carson-Newman University 223
Day 1: 3 10-08 Total: 3 10-08
29. Ryan Small - David Buccafuri Penn State University 222
Day 1: 5 10-06 Total: 5 10-06
30. Jaxon Leverette - Austin Sawyer Troy University 221
Day 1: 5 10-05 Total: 5 10-05
31. Drew Kuhnle - Landon Rollison Lander University 220
Day 1: 5 10-03 Total: 5 10-03
32. Hayden Williams - Chase Rogers USC - Union 219
Day 1: 4 10-02 Total: 4 10-02
33. Cameron Yates - Harrison McCall Lander University 218
Day 1: 5 10-00 Total: 5 10-00
34. CJ Chavous Jr. - Landon Bannister USC - Union 217
Day 1: 2 10-00 Total: 2 10-00
35. Jackson Fuller - Grant Steinauer Auburn University 216
Day 1: 5 09-14 Total: 5 09-14
36. Andrew Turner - Evan Powell Carson-Newman University 215
Day 1: 3 09-13 Total: 3 09-13
37. Jake Lovingood - Bryson Hatcher Bryan College 214
Day 1: 5 09-09 Total: 5 09-09
38. Max Hondorp - Ridge Faircloth Troy University 213
Day 1: 5 09-07 Total: 5 09-07
38. Szymon Piton - Riley Faulkner Carson-Newman University 213
Day 1: 5 09-07 Total: 5 09-07
40. Drew Moss - Reece Knight Auburn University 211
Day 1: 3 09-07 Total: 3 09-07
41. Anderson Keim - Adam Hyder Clemson University 210
Day 1: 2 09-04 Total: 2 09-04
42. Dan Maciejczyk - John Meyer Penn State University 209
Day 1: 4 09-02 Total: 4 09-02
43. Hunter Barrow - Kanton Trull Catawba Valley Community College 208
Day 1: 5 09-01 Total: 5 09-01
43. Emerson Petty - Carson Falk Tennessee Wesleyan University 208
Day 1: 5 09-01 Total: 5 09-01
45. Quinn Williams - Emery Burnett Georgia Southern University 206
Day 1: 5 08-15 Total: 5 08-15
46. Reece Keeney - Brantley Anders Kentucky Christian University 205
Day 1: 5 08-14 Total: 5 08-14
47. Jake Brown - Nathan Reynolds University of North Alabama 204
Day 1: 4 08-12 Total: 4 08-12
48. Emory Carver - Colby Clayton Auburn University 203
Day 1: 3 08-11 Total: 3 08-11
49. Carter Steed - Brewton-Parker College 202
Day 1: 4 08-10 Total: 4 08-10
50. Zach Helton - Blake Wheat Carson-Newman University 201
Day 1: 3 08-10 Total: 3 08-10
50. Jackson Mitchell - Will Shepherd Carson-Newman University 201
Day 1: 3 08-10 Total: 3 08-10
52. Joe Mcnamara - Grady Mcclendon University of North Alabama 199
Day 1: 5 08-08 Total: 5 08-08
53. Trey Marco - Jake Rowlands Carson-Newman University 198
Day 1: 3 08-06 Total: 3 08-06
54. Logan Greeno - Ty Kreis University of Nebraska - Lincoln 197
Day 1: 1 08-05 Total: 1 08-05
55. Hunter Owens - Jackie Hatfield Carson-Newman University 196
Day 1: 4 08-04 Total: 4 08-04
56. Drew Pitts - Nicholas DellaPorta Carson-Newman University 195
Day 1: 3 08-04 Total: 3 08-04
57. Dane Leopold - Chris Veitch Coastal Carolina University 194
Day 1: 2 08-04 Total: 2 08-04
58. Carson Peeters - Drew Wagner University of Wisconsin - Steven 193
Day 1: 1 08-04 Total: 1 08-04
59. Hampton Shull - Landon Surrett Lander University 192
Day 1: 5 08-01 Total: 5 08-01
60. Will Wester - Jackson Thomas Emmanuel University 191
Day 1: 2 08-01 Total: 2 08-01
61. Luke Wyle - Trey Richardson III Auburn University 190
Day 1: 4 07-15 Total: 4 07-15
62. Ryan Soles - Alexander Karp Georgia Southern University 189
Day 1: 4 07-14 Total: 4 07-14
63. Landon Myers - Lane Parker Carson-Newman University 188
Day 1: 3 07-13 Total: 3 07-13
64. Mason Sills - Catawba Valley Community College 187
Day 1: 1 07-12 Total: 1 07-12
65. Caleb Dugger - King University 186
Day 1: 2 07-08 Total: 2 07-08
66. Robert Miller - Levi Bolton Emmanuel University 185
Day 1: 2 07-07 Total: 2 07-07
67. Brendin Simich - Carter Stambelos Auburn University 184
Day 1: 2 07-06 Total: 2 07-06
68. Alex Thigpen - University of Alabama 183
Day 1: 1 07-06 Total: 1 07-06
69. Hunter Slone - Wilson Greenwood Tennessee Tech University 182
Day 1: 3 07-02 Total: 3 07-02
70. Brady Osborn - Connor Racine Adrian College 181
Day 1: 2 07-02 Total: 2 07-02
71. James Lamberth - Carter Burdette Troy University 180
Day 1: 3 07-01 Total: 3 07-01
72. Brendan Ellis - Parker Mckee Faulkner University 179
Day 1: 3 07-00 Total: 3 07-00
73. Skyler Stevens - Grant McCraney Faulkner University 178
Day 1: 1 06-14 Total: 1 06-14
74. Will Hammond - John Such Lander University 177
Day 1: 2 06-13 Total: 2 06-13
75. Benjamin Travis - Auburn University 176
Day 1: 3 06-06 Total: 3 06-06
76. Zion Dunaway - Andrew Krintz Purdue University 175
Day 1: 3 06-05 Total: 3 06-05
77. Austin Denmark - Matthew Bennett Faulkner University 174
Day 1: 4 06-04 Total: 4 06-04
78. Grant Rice - Blake Marcum Morehead State University 173
Day 1: 2 06-03 Total: 2 06-03
79. Garrett Sullivan - Hayes Pate Faulkner University 172
Day 1: 3 06-02 Total: 3 06-02
