AnglersChannel

MLF Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats Returns to Sam Rayburn for Southwestern Division Event

BROOKELAND, Texas (Feb. 25, 2025) – The Major League Fishing (MLF) Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats is returning to Sam Rayburn Reservoir, next week, March 6-8, for the second Southwestern division tournament of the 2025 season – the Toyota Series at Sam Rayburn Reservoir.

The three-day tournament, hosted by the Jasper-Lake Sam Rayburn Area Chamber of Commerce, will showcase the region’s top bass-fishing boaters and co-anglers competing for a grand 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.

Known for its consistent production of trophy-sized bass and limits, Sam Rayburn Reservoir is a hotspot for diverse strategies, especially during the transitional pre-spawn period. Local standout Kaden Mueck of Livingston, Texas, who finished in second-place at the first Toyota Series event on Sam Rayburn earlier this year, anticipates another action-packed showdown.

“This time of year, the fish are really spread out – you’ve got some shallow, some staging, and some already making moves to spawn,” said Mueck, who also competes for the Stephen F. Austin College Fishing team. “I’ll be targeting the prespawners – they’re bigger, and they tend to group up better. But we’ll definitely see some solid shallow-water patterns playing out too.”

The versatility of Sam Rayburn ensures that anglers will be able to choose their preferred approach, whether it’s punching shallow grass, cranking offshore structure, or deploying forward-facing sonar to target fish on the move. When it comes to baits, expect to see proven Rayburn staples and some innovative techniques.

“A Bill Lewis Rat-L-Trap is a go-to for this time of year,” Mueck said. “We’ll also see some guys dragging Carolina rigs, throwing swimjigs, and possibly some glide baits or swimbaits offshore. And, of course, throwing a minnow using forward-facing sonar. That’s going to be a strong pattern, no doubt.”

With fish staging near drains and the mouths of spawning flats, targeting these transitional areas will be crucial.

“Those staging fish are the big ones, and they’ll make the difference if you can find them,” Mueck added.

“It’s going to take every bit of 70 pounds to win over three days,” Mueck went on to predict. “It takes close to 30 pounds to win any local tournament, and I think we’ll see something similar here. Someone will crack a 30-pound bag, at least one day. It’s doing it for three days that is the hard part.”

Anglers will begin each day at 7 a.m. CT, launching from the Umphrey Family Pavilion at 5438 Sam Rayburn Parkway in Brookeland. Weigh-ins will take place at the same location, starting 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. Strike King 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. Strike King 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 2025 Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats consists of five divisions – Central, Northern, Plains, Southern and the 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 2026. The winning Strike King co-angler at the championship earns a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard. The 2025 Toyota Series Championship will be held Nov. 6-8 on Grand Lake in Grove, Oklahoma, and is hosted by the City of Grove Convention & Tourism Bureau.

Proud sponsors of the 2025 MLF Toyota Series include: 7Brew, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, BUBBA, Deep Dive App, E3 Sports Apparel, Epic Baits, Fishing Clash, Grizzly, Humminbird, Lew’s, Mercury, Minn Kota, Mossy Oak, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, Polaris, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Strike King, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, WIX Filters and YETI.

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 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.

by AnglersChannel

2025 Bassmaster High School, Junior National Championships headed to Clarks Hill Lake

Feb. 25, 2025

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. officials announced today that the Bassmaster Junior National Championship will be held July 25-26 on Clarks Hill Lake in Evans, Ga., followed by the Strike King Bassmaster High School National Championship July 31-Aug. 2. Visit Columbia County will host both events, with daily takeoffs and weigh-ins held at Wildwood Park.

The Junior Series National Championship will feature qualifying anglers from grades second through eighth, while the High School Series National Championship will have a field comprised of eighth- to 12th-graders. With the High School and Junior Series kicking off the season last month on the Harris Chain in Leesburg, Fla., young anglers are busy qualifying now through regular-season events at both levels.

“We are thrilled to welcome the Bassmaster High School/ Junior Series Championship to Clarks Hill Lake,” said Shelly Blackburn, Visit Columbia County Georgia’s executive director. “Hosting this prestigious event is an incredible honor, and we are excited to showcase the natural beauty and hospitality of Columbia County to anglers and spectators alike. The economic impact of this championship will be significant, bringing numerous visitors and opportunities to our local businesses and residents. We look forward to a successful and memorable event that highlights the very best of what our community has to offer.”

Chase Clarke perfectly executed a big-bass pattern to win the weather-shortened St. Croix Bassmaster Open at Clarks Hill Reservoir presented by SEVIIN last month with a two-day total of 47 pounds, 7 ounces.

The 2022 Auburn University graduate caught three 6-pound-or-better largemouth during the tournament, two on the first day that lifted him to a daily total of 25-14 and one on the second day that anchored his 21-9 Day 2 total. Those two bags propelled him over second-place Blaine Bunney by 6-plus pounds.

“I'm super-excited about these National Championships,” said Glenn Cale, B.A.S.S. tournament manager for the College, High School and Junior Series. “I’m excited about sharing the stage with the best student anglers in the country and having this event on the outstanding fishery that is Clarks Hill Lake.”

2025 Bassmaster High School Series Title Sponsor: Strike King

2025 Bassmaster High School Series Platinum Sponsor: Toyota
2025 Bassmaster High School Series Premier Sponsors: Bass Pro Shops, Dakota Lithium, Humminbird, Mercury, Minn Kota, Nitro Boats, Power-Pole, Progressive Insurance, Ranger Boats, Rapala, Skeeter Boats, Yamaha
2025 Bassmaster High School Series Supporting Sponsors: AFTCO, Daiwa, Garmin, Lew's, Lowrance, Marathon, Triton Boats, VMC

2025 Bassmaster High School Series Youth Sponsors: Seaguar, Shimano

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 500,000-member 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 Bassmaster Elite Series, St. Croix Bassmaster Opens Series presented by SEVIIN, 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, Bassmaster Junior Series, Bass Pro Shops 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.

by AnglersChannel

Lake Murray Readies for MLF Bass Pro Tour PowerStop Brakes Stage 3 Presented by Strike King

$150,000 Top Prize Up for Grabs in Columbia Next Week as 66 Anglers Battle it Out on Lake Murray, Follow the Competition Live All Four Days at MajorLeagueFishing.com

COLUMBIA, S.C. (Feb. 25, 2025) – The Major League Fishing (MLF) Bass Pro Tour is set to visit Columbia, South Carolina, and Lake Murray next week, March 6-9, for the third regular-season event of the 2025 Bass Pro Tour – the PowerStop Brakes Stage 3 at Lake Murray Presented by Strike King.

Hosted by the Capital City/Lake Murray Country Regional Tourism Board, the four-day tournament will feature 66 of the world’s top professional anglers competing for a $150,000 top prize, crucial points in the Fishing Clash Angler of the Year (AOY) race and coveted qualification spots for the Heavy Hitters all-star event and REDCREST 2026.

The star-studded lineup will showcase top professionals and local fan favorites, including defending Lake Murray champion and Prosperity, South Carolina local, Anthony Gagliardi, reigning Fishing Clash AOY Jacob Wheeler, and REDCREST 2024 Champion Dustin Connell. Joining them are South Carolina standouts Casey Ashley, Andy Montgomery, Britt Myers , and the father-son duo of Marty and Marshall Robinson , all eager to capitalize on their home-state advantage.

The tournament will feature the MLF catch, weigh, immediate-release format, in which anglers catch as much weight as they can each day, while also feeling the pressure and intensity of the SCORETRACKER® leaderboard. The tournament is being filmed for broadcast later this year on Discovery.

"Capital City/Lake Murray Country is honored to host this prestigious event that will showcase the natural beauty and world-class fishing opportunities that Lake Murray has to offer,” said Miriam Atria, President and CEO of Capital City/Lake Murray Country. “Our region is a premier destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Lake Murray is a highly competitive fishery, and we know it will deliver a challenging event with strong final weights.”

The Bass Pro Tour last visited Lake Murray in 2023, where Gagliardi added another major victory to his impressive record on his home lake. His success on the fishery includes a 2006 FLW Tour win, a 2014 Forrest Wood Cup title and a runner-up finish at the 2021 Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit event – a tournament won by fellow Bass Pro Tour competitor Matt Becker , underscoring the high level of competition that defines this event.

When asked about the conditions and expectations, Gagliardi shared insights into how he anticipates the tournament unfolding.

"I know that it's fishing good. It always does this time of year," Gagliardi said. "You can catch them on a lot of different things, so I think the guys are going to have fun because they're going to catch fish – big fish – in a variety of ways."

Taking current weather patterns into consideration, Gagliardi said he believes the event will fall squarely in the pre-spawn stage.

"We're kind of in a place where the spawn can really move. Sometimes they spawn in February, sometimes not until April. It depends on the winter and recent weather. We've had some cold spells and a warm week, but I think it's going to be a pre-spawn event. It's just not warm enough to push a lot of fish into the spawn, yet."

With multiple ways to target bass, Gagliardi expects a mix of techniques to play a role throughout the tournament.

"There will be fish caught in all depths,” the Suzuki pro explained. “Some guys will fish shallow with crankbaits, spinnerbaits and flipping jigs around cover. Others will focus on jerkbaits or forward-facing sonar. It’s really going to be a typical pre-spawn deal, with ChatterBaits, crankbaits, dragging a worm and flipping a jig all coming into play. There’s not really a way you could fish this lake right now and not catch one."

As for tournament weights, Gagliardi admits it's difficult to predict.

"I’ve never fished a tournament here in the everything-counts format. Last time, I won under the five-fish limit format. Looking at it that way, you’re going to have mid-20-pound bags, and then who knows how many fish beyond that? Maybe someone cracks 100 pounds. I’d guess that 30 pounds a day would be a solid mark to advance, but we’ll have to see how it plays out."

Despite his history of success on Lake Murray, Gagliardi remains cautious about his chances at another win on his hometown fishery.

"I never feel good about it going in. Even though I’ve done well, I’m always leery,” Gagliardi said. “I honestly don’t fish the lake as much as I should, even though I live here. I know the lake well, but I don’t always know the bite for a given time of year. Every time I’ve won, it’s been doing something different than I expected.

“I’m a little nervous going into it, like I always am before any big tournament, but I enjoy fishing the lake and it’ll be fun. It’s just the lead-up that gets me – figuring out how to practice, when to use forward-facing sonar and how to adapt. That’s what stresses me out the most. But once we hit the water, it’s all about figuring things out fast enough to stay in productive areas."

Anglers will launch at 7:15 a.m. ET each day from Dreher Island State Park, located at 3677 State Park Road in Prosperity. Each day’s takeout will be held at the same location, beginning at 3:45 p.m. Fans are welcome to attend all launch and takeout events and also encouraged to follow the event online throughout the day on the MLFNOW!® live stream and SCORETRACKER® coverage at  MajorLeagueFishing.com.

On Saturday and Sunday, March 8-9 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. MLF welcomes fans of all ages to visit Dreher Island State Park for the MLF Fan Experience & Watch Party. Fans can watch the pros live on the MLFNOW! big screen, enjoy free food, participate in casting contests, enter to win hourly giveaways and cheer on their favorite pros. The first 50 kids 14 and under will receive a free rod and reel each day. The Bass Pro Tour anglers will be on hand both days to meet and greet fans, sign autographs and take selfies.

The PowerStop Brakes Stage 3 at Lake Murray Presented by Strike King 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 2025 Bass Pro Tour features a field of 66 of the top 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 2026 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 highest two-day total will advance directly to Sunday’s Championship Round. Anglers that finish 2nd through 20th 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 $150,000.

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 live streamed on MajorLeagueFishing.com , the MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) app and Rumble.

Television coverage of the PowerStop Brakes Stage 3 at Lake Murray Presented by Strike King will premiere as a two-hour episode starting at 7 a.m. ET, on Saturday, Oct. 4 on Discovery, with the Championship Round premiering on Sunday, Oct. 5. New MLF episodes premiere each Saturday morning on Discovery, with re-airings on Outdoor Channel.

Proud sponsors of the 2025 MLF Bass Pro Tour include: 7Brew Coffee, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, Bass Force, B&W Trailer Hitches, Bass Pro Shops, Berkley, BUBBA, E3 Sport Apparel, Fishing Clash, Grizzly, Lowrance, Mercury, MillerTech, Mossy Oak Fishing, NITRO, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Power-Pole, Rapala, Star brite, Suzuki and Toyota.

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 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.

by AnglersChannel

PowerStop Brakes Returns as Title Sponsor of Bass Pro Tour Stage 3 at Lake Murray

BENTON, Ky. (Feb. 24, 2025) – Major League Fishing (MLF), the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, announced today that PowerStop Brakes is renewing its sponsorship for the 2025 season, and stepping up as title sponsor of Bass Pro Tour Stage 3 at Lake Murray next week. This renewed partnership showcases PowerStop’s passion for the sport and its commitment to supporting anglers and fans alike.

“We’re thrilled to extend our relationship with Major League Fishing and Edwin Evers into 2025,” said Jake Walenga, Marketing Manager of PowerStop. “Whether it’s our high-performance brake upgrade kits or our new PowerClear™ windshield wiper kits, we’re dedicated to providing the reliability anglers need when towing their boats. MLF is an incredible platform, and we’re excited to see this year’s competition unfold.”

As PowerStop Brakes Stage 3 approaches, anticipation continues to grow following the wave of excitement and digital engagement seen at Stages 1 and 2. Hundreds of thousands of fishing fans tuned in to MLFNOW!^® livestreams, engaged on social media, and visited MLF’s digital platforms, putting the 2025 season on pace to be one of the most-watched seasons in league history. With PowerStop Brakes’ support, and the tremendous fishery known as the Jewel of South Carolina, Lake Murray, serving as the backdrop, Stage 3 is set to deliver more thrilling action and memorable moments for fans worldwide.

“PowerStop Brakes has been a fantastic partner of Major League Fishing,” said Chris Bork, MLF Vice President of Sponsorship and Sales Development. “Their dedication to innovation and reliability resonates with our audience, and their continued support elevates not only the competition but also the overall experience for our fans and anglers. Together, we’re making professional fishing more exciting and accessible than ever before.”

PowerStop Brakes has also renewed its sponsorship of pro angler Edwin Evers, one of the most accomplished and celebrated anglers in MLF history with more than $4 million in career earnings and 79 top-10 finishes – including 13 career victories. During PowerStop Brakes Stage 3 at Lake Murray, fans can visit Edwin Evers’ social media channels to enter the PowerStop Brakes giveaway for a complete brake upgrade kit – the perfect addition for anglers hitting the road with a boat in tow.

The MLFNOW! broadcast team of Chad McKee and J.T. Kenney will break down the extended action live on each day of competition from PowerStop Brakes Stage 3 at Lake Murray Presented by Strike King from 7:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. ET. MLFNOW! is livestreamed on MajorLeagueFishing.com, the MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) app and Rumble.

Television coverage of PowerStop Brakes Stage 3 at Lake Murray Presented by Strike King will premiere on Discovery as a two-hour episode starting at 7 a.m. ET Saturday, Oct. 4, with the Championship Round premiering Sunday, Oct. 5 at 7 a.m. New MLF episodes premiere each Saturday morning on Discovery, with re-airings on Outdoor Channel.

For additional information about MLF, its tournaments and sponsors, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. To learn more about PowerStop Brakes and its entire product line of braking systems, visit PowerStop.com.

About PowerStop® LLC
The PowerStop brand was first introduced in 1995, and over the past 25 years has been the innovative leader in the auto aftermarket brake category. Taking the guesswork out of choosing your brakes, our performance brake kits directly bolt-on your vehicle with ease to get you back on the road quicker with components that outperform standard, off-the-shelf parts. Whether you are towing heavier loads, pushing for more horsepower or simply want a better daily drive, PowerStop offers an affordable upgrade for all driving needs.

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.

by AnglersChannel

2025 Season of the Alabama Bass Trail (ABTTS) Kicks Off the South Division at Lake Martin This Week!

DECATUR, AL (February 20, 2025) - The Alabama Bass Trail Teams Series (ABTTS) is set to kick off its twelfth season of the South Division on Stop #1 at Lake Martin on Saturday, February 22, 2025.

The season's South Division opener will take place at Wind Creek State Park, 4325 AL-128, Alexander City, AL 35010 at 7:00 A.M. or safe daylight, with the first flight due in at 3:00 P.M. for weigh-in.

"It is always good to get to Alexander City, and one reason we love to go there is Wind Creek State Park—they always roll out the red carpet. Sandra Fuller with the Tallapoosa Tourism Bureau does a phenomenal job welcoming our teams in. She is there during the weigh-in, along with the local news media. It is always great to see them, and it is a lot of fun. This facility is well equipped for tournaments," said Kay Donaldson, Director of the Alabama Bass Trail.

This promises to be an exciting and challenging tournament. We invite viewers to tune into our live broadcast on www.alabamabasstrail.org on February 22,nd, at 7:00AM CST for the tournament action. Weigh-ins will be held at Wind Creek State Park, and will be available on live broadcast, beginning at 3:00PM CST.

Named "Event of the Year" by Decatur Morgan Tourism, the Alabama Bass Trail stands as one of the Southeast's most competitive tournament circuits and is the second-largest tournament trail in the United States. Selling out in under 7 minutes, the ABTTS 2025 Season will bring in anglers from across the United States, fishing the best lakes in the state of Alabama. The series maintains a guaranteed first-place prize of $15,000 per tournament, with payouts extending to the top 40 finishers in the regular divisions. Over $750,000 in cash and prizes will be up for grabs this season! The Tournament Trail offers two divisions along with a no-entry-fee championship with a grand prize of $50,000! As a sanctioned tournament series in the B.A.S.S. Team Championship, the ABTTS will qualify 18 teams to fish the BASSMASTER Team Championship in 2025. The top angler fishing the BASSMASTER Team Championship will qualify to fish the 2026 BASSMASTER Classic!

Our South Division angler roster link is below.

https://www.alabamabasstrail.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/ABTTS-2025-South-Division-Roster.pdf

 

For additional questions, photos, and interviews, please contact Angela Cross.

 

The 2024 Alabama Bass Trail Sponsors Include; Phoenix Boats, AMFirst, Landers-McLarty Chevrolet, McGraw-Webb Chevrolet, Rapala, VMC, Crush City, Buffalo Rock, Academy Sports & Outdoors, Jack's, Garmin, Lew’s, Strike King, Alabama State Parks, Halo Fishing, Snag Proof, NetBait, Bait Fuel, TH Marine Supplies, Power-Pole, Pro Guide Batteries, American Trailer Rental, Yamaha, Anheuser-Busch, American Baitworks, E3 Sports Apparel, FishAlabama.org, Sweet Home Alabama, and Alabama Mountain Lakes.

About Alabama Bass Trail Since its inception, the Alabama Bass Trail has generated over $103 million in tourism revenue for Alabama, underscoring its importance as a premier fishing destination.

The Alabama Bass Trail is a program of the Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association. Its mission is to promote Alabama as a year-round fishing destination, to preserve natural resources for generations to come, and to educate high school and college-aged students to be good stewards of natural resources. The 13 bass fishing lakes consist of Lake Guntersville, Wheeler Lake, Pickwick Lake, Lewis Smith Lake, Neely Henry Lake, Weiss Lake, Lake Martin, Lay Lake, Logan Martin Lake, Lake Jordan, Alabama River, Lake Eufaula, and the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta. For more information, visit www.alabamabasstrail.org and www.alabamabasstrail100.org.

by AnglersChannel

Anglers will share small areas during Bassmaster Elite at Lake Okeechobee

Feb. 20, 2025

OKEECHOBEE, Fla. — As Florida’s largest lake and the 10th-largest lake nationally, Lake Okeechobee boasts 730 square miles of surface area. However, when the Champion Power Equipment Bassmaster Elite at Lake Okeechobee visits the storied fishery Feb. 27-March 2, anglers will focus on relatively small sections defined by the right habitat.

As with most Florida lakes, “the right habitat” refers to plant life, both submersed aquatic vegetation (SAV) like hydrilla and emergent species such as lily pads, Kissimmee grass and various reeds. In recent years, Okeechobee has lost vast areas of its vegetation, largely due to high water, which reduces sunlight penetration necessary for photosynthesis and limits plant growth.

Two weeks prior to the tournament’s commencement, Lake Okeechobee’s water level was 14.11 feet. That’s well within the historic average for mid-February, and barring any major influx, that number will be declining.

Florida Elite Series pro Scott Martin, who grew up fishing and guiding on “The Big O,” claimed a wire-to-wire victory at the 2024 St. Croix Bassmaster Open at Lake Okeechobee presented by SEVIIN. Making his home in Clewiston, at the lake’s south end, Martin said Okeechobee will present the upcoming Elite event with a challenging but optimistic scenario.

“The lake is fishing small like usual, but the fishing’s been really good,” Martin said. “I believe that we’ve had a good spawn around the lake due to light winds and warm temperatures for the last three weeks.

“The water is falling .03 feet per day and is targeted to hit 12 feet by May. This will help greatly in increasing our submerged vegetation.”

Typically, productive areas exist at the lake’s upper end where the tournament is based, as well as the southern portion, where the famous Roland Martin Marina resides. Notably, late January saw the 2025 Strike King Bassmaster College Series at Lake Okeechobee presented by Bass Pro Shops won in Pelican Bay at the lake’s southeast side.

“The tournament could be won in the north or south end, but this time of year, if the south end turns on, it’s hard to beat,” said shallow-water stick Drew Cook. “If they’re eating in South Bay, it’s going to be the deal.

“It’s always been that way. South Bay is a long (boat) drive from anywhere, so maybe it’s a little less pressured.”

Balancing the outlook, Martin references his lifetime of experience to note that the lake’s annual cycle ensures a dynamic and challenging scenario. Essentially, summer rains can raise the lake level by several feet until the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers releases the excess through dams on the lake’s west and east sides.

“The lake resets every year,” Martin said. “The water comes up during hurricane season then it comes down, so it’s all a matter of what habitat remains. This year, it’s very different and a lot of habitat has changed. There’s not one single waypoint where I caught them last year that I think I can catch them at this year.”

Adding to this truth, Tyler Rivet, who won the 2023 Elite held on Okeechobee, unveiled the previously underutilized potential found in the Kissimmee River. As the backstory goes, the Louisiana native fished the river prior to the event primarily to catch sac-a-lait (black crappie) for dinner but also located a previously unknown gold mine of unpressured bass.

Rivet got off to a quick start, and, during the first day’s weigh-in, he boldly stated that he was on the winning pattern. Three more days of Kissimmee River productivity earned the win and added a new facet to the Lake Okeechobee mystique — one that will, no doubt, receive serious attention at this year’s event.

While Cook expects a mostly spawn-centered tournament, he’s also aware the southern Florida bass work on a more relaxed schedule than the rest of the country. That could bring a mix, including prespawn and postspawn action that places a premium on prudent positioning.

“Any time in Florida, you’re going to have to have fish coming to you,” Cook said. “Whenever you find that area where they’re coming to you, you’re going to succeed.

“That area used to be a hard reedline, then you’d move back into the ponds to look for spawners. Now there’s not much of that left. If there are any offshore grasslines, they should be absolutely stacked with staging fish.”

Less habitat shared by a full field of 104 competitors means competition for prime areas. Predicting several groups of anglers fishing within sight of one another, Cook said success will require a measured pace and a disciplined focus.

“You’ll have to slow down; and if you think you're going slow, go slower,” Cook said. “You can’t pay attention to what other people are doing, and you can’t worry about fishing behind other people.

“Someone in front of you might catch the males in a spawning area, and then you might come behind them and find the larger females will eat your bait.”

In 2023, Rivet won with a four-day total of 86 pounds, 15 ounces. Cook finished 10th with 66-11 and is expecting similar numbers for this year’s event.

“It’s not going to be a home-run-type spawn, but it will still be good; I think it will take 85 pounds to win,” Cook said. “I think you’ll need about 17 a day to make the Top 10.”

Daily takeoffs for the event will be at C. Scott Driver Park at 7 a.m. ET and weigh-ins each day will be held back at the park at 3 p.m.

Bassmaster LIVE will be streaming on Bassmaster.com all four days, and coverage will also be available on The Roku Channel’s Roku Sports Channel Thursday and Friday as well as on FS1 from 8-11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday from 8-10 a.m. Stay up to date on all tournament coverage at Bassmaster.com/how-to-watch/.

Visit Florida is hosting the event.

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 Bassmaster Elite Series, St. Croix Bassmaster Opens Series presented by SEVIIN, 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, Bassmaster Junior Series, 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.

by AnglersChannel

B.A.S.S. inks deal with Champion Power Equipment as Elite Series event title sponsor

Feb. 20, 2025

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. announced today that Champion Power Equipment has signed on as the title sponsor of the upcoming Champion Power Equipment Bassmaster Elite at Lake Okeechobee to be held in Okeechobee, Fla., Feb. 27-March 2.

Champion Power Equipment is a market leader in power generation equipment, and the Nevada-based company’s product lineup now includes portable generators, home standby generators, inverter generators, lithium-ion power stations, winches, log splitters and other outdoor power equipment.

“At Champion Power Equipment, we’re excited to partner with the Bassmaster Elite Series and celebrate the spirit of adventure that fishing embodies,” said the Director of Marketing at Champion Power Equipment Scott Henning. “While this sponsorship showcases the playful side of our tagline, ‘For home, work, and play,’ it’s also a reminder that our versatile equipment does so much more. From providing backup power during emergencies at home to reliable energy at remote job sites, we make the power that makes people’s lives easier — whether at work, at play, or somewhere in between.”

The Elite Series last visited Lake Okeechobee in 2023, and fans were treated to a victory by Louisiana’s Tyler Rivet when he posted a four-day weight of 86-15 and won by almost 4 pounds over Texas’ Clark Wendlandt, who brought 83 pounds to the scales.

“Champion Power Equipment specializes in outdoor power equipment — something that is used extensively by the fishing demographic, and this partnership is a natural fit,” said B.A.S.S. Chief Operating Officer Phillip Johnson. “We are looking forward to a very successful and exciting event at Lake Okeechobee and a mutually beneficial partnership in 2025.”

Bassmaster LIVE will be streaming on Bassmaster.com all four days, and coverage will also be available on The Roku Channel’s Roku Sports Channel Thursday and Friday as well as on FS1 from 8-11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday from 8-10 a.m. Stay up to date on all tournament coverage at Bassmaster.com/how-to-watch/.

About Champion Power Equipment

Champion Power Equipment is a market leader in power generation equipment. Champion has decades of experience providing dependable and durable power products designed and engineered in the US for the North American and world markets. For home, work or play, Champion products are the standard of performance excellence. We make the power that makes your life easier.

Since 2003 Champion Power Equipment has earned a reputation for designing and producing the market’s finest power equipment. Headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada, Champion's North American footprint also includes facilities in Southern California, Tennessee, Wisconsin and Ontario, Canada.

Today Champion’s product line has expanded to include portable generators, home standby generators, inverter generators, engines, winches and log splitters. With over 4.5 million generators sold in North America, Champion is a market leader in the power equipment field.

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 Bassmaster Elite Series, St. Croix Bassmaster Opens Series presented by SEVIIN, 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, Bassmaster Junior Series, 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.

by AnglersChannel

Major League Fishing BFL Arkie Division Opener on Lake Ouachita Set for Saturday Postponed

WHAT:
The Major League Fishing (MLF) Phoenix Bass Fishing League (BFL) Presented by T-H Marine Arkie division season-opening tournament on Lake Ouachita, scheduled for this Saturday, Feb. 22, has been postponed due to inclement weather.

MLF officials are working to reschedule the tournament at a later date. The rescheduled tournament date and location will be announced very soon, once confirmed.

NOTES:
The top 60 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. 24-25 BFL Regional tournament on Lake Eufaula in Eufaula, Oklahoma. 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 award of $20,000.

The 2025 Phoenix BFL Presented by T-H Marine is a 24-division circuit devoted to weekend anglers, with 134 events throughout the season, five qualifying tournaments in each division. The top 60 boaters and Strike King co-anglers from each division, along with the five qualifying tournament winners, will advance to one of 12 BFL Regional tournaments where they are competing to finish in the top three, which then qualifies them for one of the longest-running championships in all of competitive bass fishing – the BFL All-American. The 2025 BFL All-American will take place May 29-31, 2025, at Lake Hamilton in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and is hosted by hosted by Visit Hot Springs and the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism.

Proud sponsors of the 2025 MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine include: 7Brew, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, BUBBA, Deep Dive, E3, Epic Baits, Fishing Clash, Grizzly, Humminbird, Lew’s, Li Time, Mercury, Minn Kota, Mossy Oak, Mystik Lubricants, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix, Polaris, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Strike King, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, WIX Filters and YETI.

For complete details and updated tournament information, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular Bass Fishing League 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 17 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.

by AnglersChannel

Smith Lake primed to shine during Bassmaster College Series event

Feb. 19, 2025

CULLMAN, Ala. — Smith Lake is as healthy as it’s ever been, according to guide Logan Johnson, which is good news for teams looking to make a splash during the Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops event.

“Really and truly, the lake as a whole health-wise, the population of the fish, is exponentially better than it has been in a while,” the St. Croix Bassmaster Opens presented by SEVIIN pro said. “Every bass you catch is fat, round and happy as they can be. They are healthy. And the clouds of blueback herring seem to get bigger and bigger.”

Tournament days are scheduled for Feb. 26-27 with daily takeoffs at Smith Lake Park in Cullman at 6:30 a.m. CT and weigh-ins to be held back at the park at 2:30 p.m. The top 10% of the field will punch a ticket to the 2025 Strike King Bassmaster College Series National Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops and all teams will earn points toward the Team of the Year race in the Legends Trail. The Strike King Bassmaster High School Series and Bassmaster Junior Series events will follow on March 2.

Located in north-central Alabama, Smith Lake sports an impressive population of big spotted bass as well as lunker largemouth. Last year, the Bassmaster Elite Series showcased that when they took on the Black Warrior River impoundment in early July. Taku Ito won that event thanks in part to a 5 1/2-pound spotted bass he landed on the last day.

Barring a major freeze or flood, Johnson anticipates the lake to be close to full pool with both the spotted bass and largemouth in the prespawn stage. If there is a really impactful warming trend, there might be a couple of bass that find their way to the bank to spawn.

On the whole, though, Johnson expects there to be a lot of offshore fishing using forward-facing sonar.

“There will obviously be a lot of ’Scoping,” he said. “But whoever wins that event will have to have one or two big largemouth every day. You won’t be able to win on straight spotted bass. You can win on straight spots all winter, but once spring arrives, you have to have one or two largemouth.”

Much of the spotted bass population will be chasing blueback herring. Ditches just off the main-lake channel are the best areas to find herring chasers this time of the year, but Johnson says finding the right areas requires a lot of scanning.

“Herring are a little bit unpredictable,” he said. “It takes a lot of seat time and finding as many areas with good herring in them as you can, because they will move on you in a heartbeat.”

Jighead minnows will be key baits for these bass as well as a medium-diving crankbait like a Strike King Gravel Dawg or a Spro RkCrawler. A big glidebait could also come into play if the correct conditions present themselves.

Meanwhile, the largemouth will gravitate to the back thirds of the pockets and secondary points leading into the spawning coves. Isolated rock and wood will give those bass a place to stage. Moving baits like ChatterBaits will be key for getting big bites.

Visit Cullman will host the tournament.

2025 Bassmaster College Series Title Sponsor: Strike King

2025 Bassmaster College Series Presenting Sponsor: Bass Pro Shops

2025 Bassmaster College Series Platinum Sponsor: Toyota
2025 Bassmaster College Series Premier Sponsors: Dakota Lithium, Humminbird, Mercury, Minn Kota, Nitro Boats, Power-Pole, Progressive Insurance, Ranger Boats, Rapala, Skeeter Boats, Yamaha
2025 Bassmaster College Series Supporting Sponsors: AFTCO, Daiwa, Garmin, Lew's, Lowrance, Marathon, Triton Boats, VMC

2025 Bassmaster College Series Youth Sponsors: Seaguar, Shimano

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 Bassmaster Elite Series, St. Croix Bassmaster Opens Series presented by SEVIIN, 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, Bassmaster Junior Series, 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.

by AnglersChannel

B.A.S.S. announces multifaceted partnership with Yokohama Tire

Feb. 19, 2025

B.A.S.S. announces multifaceted partnership with Yokohama Tire

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. and Yokohama Tire announced today that Yokohama has signed an agreement to sponsor multiple events, including title sponsorship of the Yokohama Bassmaster Elite at Lake St. Clair, in Macomb County, Mich., Aug. 7-10.

Other touchpoints of the agreement include Bassmaster supporting-level sponsorship for the Bassmaster Elite Series, St. Croix Bassmaster Opens presented by SEVIIN, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Series presented by Lowrance, Bassmaster Team Championship, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops and Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, as well as presenting sponsors of the Progressive Insurance Bassmaster Classic Celebrity Pro-Am and of the daily weigh-ins at Dickies Arena during the 2025 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour  at Lake Ray Roberts in Fort Worth, Texas, Mar. 21-23.

“We’re excited to partner with Bassmaster again and increase our support and involvement,” said Andrew Briggs, Yokohama Tire’s VP of marketing and product management. “Last year was a hit with our customers, and we really connected with Bassmaster’s incredibly passionate fan base around our wide range of GEOLANDAR truck and CUV/SUV tires. We’re looking forward to an even greater presence this year with more fan-related activities and activations.”

Along with the Bassmaster Classic, Yokohama will have an outdoor experiential activation at several of the Elite Series locations in 2025, which will incorporate an interactive display, giveaways and autograph sessions with Team Yokohama athletes.

“We’re proud to have Yokohama become a supporting sponsor in the 2025 season,” said B.A.S.S. Chief Executive Officer Chase Anderson. “Bassmaster anglers require the best equipment available to them both on and off the water, and Yokohama tires are a constant they can count on to get them safely to every destination during a tournament season. I personally made the switch to Yokohama on my vehicles and can attest to the quality and durability of Yokohama’s tires.”

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 yokohamatire.com and yokohamatruck.com.

Yokohama is a strong supporter of the tire care and safety guidelines established by the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association and the National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration. Details can be found at the “Tires 101” section at yokohamatire.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 Bassmaster Elite Series, St. Croix Bassmaster Opens Series presented by SEVIIN, 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, Bassmaster Junior Series, 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.

by AnglersChannel

Saturday’s Upcoming BFL Tournament on Kentucky/Barkley Lakes Postponed Due to Flooding and Extreme Weather

WHAT:
The Major League Fishing (MLF) Phoenix Bass Fishing League (BFL) Presented by T-H Marine tournament on Kentucky and Barkley lakes, scheduled for this Saturday, Feb. 22 has been postponed due to the recent flooding and extreme weather conditions being forecast by the National Weather Service.

The event, set to be the first event in the BFL LBL Division, has been rescheduled to Sunday, March 16, and will piggyback on the next BFL LBL event at Kentucky and Barkley lakes on Saturday, March 15.

WHEN:
Saturday-Sunday, March 15-16
Takeoff: 7 a.m. CT
Weigh-in: 3 p.m. CT

WHERE:
Moors Resort & Marina, 570 Moors Road, Gilbertsville, Ky.

NOTES:
The top 60 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. 24-25 BFL Regional tournament on Dale Hollow Lake in Byrdstown, 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 award of $20,000.

The 2025 Phoenix BFL Presented by T-H Marine is a 24-division circuit devoted to weekend anglers, with 134 events throughout the season, five qualifying tournaments in each division. The top 60 boaters and Strike King co-anglers from each division, along with the five qualifying tournament winners, will advance to one of 12 BFL Regional tournaments where they are competing to finish in the top three, which then qualifies them for one of the longest-running championships in all of competitive bass fishing – the BFL All-American. The 2025 BFL All-American will take place May 29-31, 2025, at Lake Hamilton in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and is hosted by hosted by Visit Hot Springs and the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism.

Proud sponsors of the 2025 MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine include: 7Brew, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, BUBBA, Deep Dive, E3, Epic Baits, Fishing Clash, Grizzly, Humminbird, Lew’s, Li Time, Mercury, Minn Kota, Mossy Oak, Mystik Lubricants, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix, Polaris, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Strike King, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, WIX Filters and YETI.

For complete details and updated tournament information, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular Bass Fishing League 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 17 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.

by AnglersChannel

Roku becomes the streaming hub of Bassmaster tournaments

Feb. 18, 2025

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Audiences can soon hook free access to live coverage of Bassmaster professional bass fishing tournaments thanks to a new streaming rights partnership between Roku, America’s No. 1 TV streaming platform, and Bassmaster, the world’s leading authority on sportfishing. Upcoming Bassmaster LIVE events will include action from the brand-new Elite Qualifiers (EQ) Series, five Bassmaster Open Series events, which set the field for the EQs, select coverage of all nine Bassmaster Elite Series events, Friday coverage of the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour and a special prime time production of the Progressive Insurance Bassmaster Classic Celebrity Pro-Am presented by Yokohama, all streaming for free on The Roku Channel.

Kicking off with Thursday and Friday coverage of the 2025 Bassmaster Elite Series season on Feb. 20, the Bassmaster tournaments will stream live on The Roku Channel’s Roku Sports Channel. Professional fishing fans can also enjoy replays of the live stream alongside additional on-demand content, clips and highlights across The Roku Channel, Roku Sports Channel and Roku's Sports Zone, plus a dedicated Bassmaster FAST channel launching later this year. The partnership will expand coverage availability of Bassmaster LIVE properties and further bolster Roku's free lineup of exclusive live sports.

“It’s an honor to call Roku the streaming home of Bassmaster, an iconic brand with a decades-spanning history of producing best-in-class professional fishing tournaments,” said Joe Franzetta, head of sports, Roku Media. “We look forward to bringing these events for free to the passionate fanbase of this top outdoor sport, as well as introducing Bassmaster to new audiences, expanding the tournaments’ reach to millions of streaming households in the U.S.”

“We are proud to bring so much live programming to Roku's fast-growing sports channel, and we’re very excited about the creation of a new outlet for posted video content on a dedicated Bassmaster FAST channel on Roku. It’s thrilling to have one of the first streaming-rights partnerships in outdoor sports and the first for professional fishing on America's No. 1 streaming platform,” said B.A.S.S. Chief Operations Officer Phillip Johnson. “This partnership will allow Bassmaster to bring our exciting coverage of the highest level of professional bass fishing to Roku’s enormous audience and introduce our sport to a new fan base.”

Viewers not familiar with Bassmaster events are in for a real treat, as the show follows the best bass anglers on the planet racing against the clock to catch the five biggest bass they can wrangle to end the multiday tournaments with the heaviest weight. Of course, high winds, rainstorms, intense heat waves and the drama of tricking largemouth and smallmouth bass into biting leads to intense moments, as the competitors vie for the coveted trophy and millions of dollars in prize money. New viewers and die-hard fishing fans alike can expect world-class coverage of each storyline as the catches unfold across the competitions.

David Katz and Mike Kelly of ThePostGame, a leading sports media consultancy and content production company, represented Bassmaster in its recent third-party media negotiations and helped secure the partnership with Roku.

The Roku Channel is available to stream for free — no subscription or sign-up required. Audiences can watch it on Roku devices or TVs, and it's also easily accessible online at TheRokuChannel.com, iOS and Android devices, Amazon Fire TVs, Samsung TVs, Google TVs and other Android TV OS devices.

*By hours streamed (Hypothesis Group: Dec 2024)

About The Roku Channel

Launched in 2017, The Roku Channel is the home of free ad-supported streaming television on Roku, and features a diverse lineup of more than 80,000 on-demand movies and programs, more than 500 live linear television channels, and premium subscription offerings in the U.S. It licenses and distributes content from more than 250 partners and features a growing library of Roku Originals. In Q3 2024, The Roku Channel was the #3 app on Roku's platform by both reach and engagement.

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 Bassmaster Elite Series, St. Croix Bassmaster Opens Series presented by SEVIIN, 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, Bassmaster Junior Series, 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.

by AnglersChannel

Lawrence Loads up on Bonus Bucks at Lake Conroe

Courtesy of Dynamic Sponsorships

It took Jake Lawrence exactly one endeavor in Bass Pro Tour competition before he notched a top ten finish in the dynamic format that often throws even the most seasoned pros a curveball. This comes as no surprise to fishing fans who have been following the career of this young fishing phenom who calls Paris, Tennessee home. The BPT rookie left Lake Conroe with a sixth-place finish and strong momentum to start the 2025 season.

Lawrence backed up his Stage One finish with an impressive second-place result in the slugfest that was the Toyota Series on Pickwick Lake. These finishes allowed Lawrence to load up $4,500 of Toyota Bonus Bucks earnings ($3,000 for Lake Conroe, $1,500 on Pickwick), as he was the highest placing angler hauling his boat with a 2021 or newer Toyota tow vehicle in both events.

“This is the third Tundra I have owned, and I absolutely love this thing,” Lawrence said. “More than the added incentive of Bonus Bucks, I believe Toyota makes the safest and most comfortable vehicle on the road. I have two young children, so the safety factor means more to me than anything.”

Before becoming a full-time pro, Lawrence actually competed in the amateur-only Toyota Bonus Bucks Owners Tournament in 2023 on Pickwick Lake and won the event in dominating fashion. It was plain to see then that he was a special angler, and it nearly seemed par for the course when he continued his impressive campaign on the Tackle Warehouse Invitationals last year en route to qualifying for the 2025 Bass Pro Tour.

“Tournament anglers are crazy if they overlook the opportunities with Toyota Bonus Bucks,” Lawrence said. “My wife and I were talking, and I think we paid all but two or three truck payments with Bonus Bucks winnings last year. It’s a great vehicle that literally pays you to fish.”

Well known as a wizard with forward facing sonar, Lawrence caught most of his weight on Lake Conroe employing either a 3-inch or 4-inch Yamamota Scope Shad during the one-period he was allowed to use FFS each day. The other two-thirds of each competition day, Lawrence targeted hydrilla and eelgrass secondary points with a vibrating jig or ¼-ounce Rat-L’Trap.

Much of the BPT field employed a similar one-two punch on Lake Conroe, but Lawrence and the rest of the top ten caught scoreable bass at such a blistering rate it was hard for the field to keep up. Thankfully, you don’t have to out fish Jake Lawrence to reap the rewards of Toyota’s popular fishing contingency program.

Bonus Bucks is paying out on over 620 supported tournaments in 2025, rewarding anglers of all levels for towing their boat with an eligible Toyota tow vehicle. For more information or to get signed up today, visit https://www.toyotatrucksbonusbucks.com/ or shoot an email to [email protected].

by AnglersChannel

Livingston Lures Adds Scott Canterbury to Pro Staff

2019 Bassmaster Angler of the Year to Promote Brand, Help with Product Development

SAN ANTONIO, Tex. – February 14, 2025 –– Livingston Lures, the San Antonio, Tex. based manufacturer of premium fishing lures featuring their patented EBS (Electronic Baitfish Sounds) Technology introduce the addition of 2019 Bassmaster Angler of the Year Scott Canterbury to their world class Pro Fishing Team.

Canterbury, from Odenville, Ala., who has competed on the FLW Tour and Bassmaster Elite Series since 2008. In his career, Canterbury competed in 257 professional events, claimed two FLW wins, the 2019 Bassmaster Angler of the Year title, 54 top 10 finishes, qualified for 10 trips to the Forrest Wood Cup and four Bassmaster Classics.  He has claimed $1,984,937 in paychecks in his career.

The veteran pro is a shallow water, power fisherman who honed his craft on the famed Coosa River and the legendary fisheries of North Alabama before hitting the tours.  He joins the Livingston Lures team because he has used the lineup throughout his career to put bass in his livewell that equates to being able to feed his family.

Having trust in a product lie is key to the Alabama pro.  “I have had some success in my career with several of the Livingston Lures products before deciding to join with them officially,” said Canterbury.  “I have caught a lot of fish on the Howeller Series of crankbaits, the Walking Boss is a great topwater bait and the Flat Master and Walk ‘n Pop have all been a part of my arsenal for a while.”

He said that he is proud to be joining the Livingston Lures family.  “I am beyond excited to be a part of such a great team,” he said. “The EBS technology is proven to be a great fish catcher and the crew at Livingston is continuously working with their pros to bring out new, fish catching baits; I am thrilled to be a part of this family and be a part of this process.”

Erick Arnoldson, Livingston Lures’ Vice President of Operations knows adding Canterbury is a definitive addition to his team. We are thrilled to welcome Scott Canterbury to the Livingston Lures family,” said Arnoldson. “His exceptional skill, experience, and passion for fishing perfectly align with our mission to push the boundaries of innovation and performance.”

Arnoldson said he trusts Canterbury to contribute to the brand. “As a Livingston Lures Pro Staff member, he will play a key role in product development, serve as a brand ambassador at tournaments and industry events, and contribute to educational content designed to help anglers elevate their skills,” Arnoldson continued. “His insights and expertise will be invaluable as we continue developing cutting-edge solutions for anglers worldwide.”

Canterbury joins a Pro Staff that includes 2014 Bassmaster Classic Champion Randy Howell, five-time Bassmaster Champion Jacob Powroznik, Six-time Major League Fishing winner and the 2014 Forrest Wood Cup Champion Anthony Gagliardi and Bassmaster Opens pro Laker Howell.

About Livingston Lures: Livingston Lures has built a reputation among top freshwater and saltwater anglers for innovation and premium quality baits that flat­ out catch fish. These hard plastic lures are designed to call the fish and meet the highest standards for swimming action with quality construction. Every Livingston Lures’ bait features EBS™, Electronic Baitfish Sound Technology™. For more information visit www.LivingstonLures.com or visit a retailer near you.

by AnglersChannel

Yamaha Welcomes Accomplished Bassmaster Elite Angler Randy Howell to Pro Fishing Team

KENNESAW, Ga.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Yamaha Marine today announced the addition of veteran BASS^® angler Randy Howell to the freshwater Pro Fishing Team for the 2025 season. Requalifying via the Legends invitations, Howell will join current Yamaha Pro Team members to compete in the 2025 Bassmaster^® Elite Series, representing Yamaha’s premium brand position and serving as an ambassador for the sport of competitive fishing.

“Not only is Randy an outstanding competitive angler, he also lends support to his community through Kings Home, an Alabama-based independent charity that houses over 160 youth, teens, ladies and moms with children suffering from severe abuse, abandonment, neglect or homelessness,” said Connor Megan, Pro Staff and Sponsorship Supervisor, Yamaha Marine Business Unit. “Overall, Randy exemplifies the Yamaha Angler Code of Ethics and his passion for competitive fishing aligns with our commitment to excellence. We look forward to supporting him as he returns to the Bassmaster^® Elite Series.”

Howell, the 2014 Bassmaster Classic^® champion, has more than four decades of experience under his belt. Amassing more than $1.9 million in career earnings, the elite series angler boasts four first place finishes, 37 Top 10 finishes and 125 Top 30 finishes. The Guntersville, Alabama native returns to BASS^® from the Major League Fishing^® (MLF), where he broke the Bass Pro Tour record twice, two days in a row during Stage One of the 2022 Bass Pro Tour.

The 2025 Bassmaster^® Elite season kicks off at St. Johns River in Palatka, Florida, Feb. 20-23. Fans can follow Howell during the season on bassmaster.com.

by AnglersChannel

The Ultimate Angler World Championship Bass Fishing Tournament Announces Sanctioned Qualifiers by Ikon Boats

Date: February 14, 2025

The Ultimate Angler World Championship Bass Fishing Tournament is proud to announce its partnership with Ikon Boats to sanction two of the qualifying events for the prestigious competition. The Ikon Tailgate Tour presented by Mercury Outboards, a highly anticipated grassroots team bass fishing tournament series for amateur anglers, will feature four qualifying events, with two of them taking place at iconic fishing destinations—Lake of the Ozarks (June 7, 2025) and Lake Guntersville (September 6, 2025). These events will provide an opportunity for anglers to earn a spot in the Ultimate Angler World Championship, which will take place at Lake Guntersville, Alabama from October 5-11, 2025.

The Ultimate Angler World Championship is the most prestigious and inclusive bass fishing competition ever created. It is set to crown a World Champion by bringing together top anglers from all leagues and backgrounds, providing a platform for every level of angler to compete for the ultimate title. The championship will feature the best of the best, with the world’s top anglers competing for bragging rights and a grand prize.

Details of the Qualifying Ikon Events:

• Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri – June 7, 2025
• Lake Guntersville, Alabama – September 6, 2025
• Entry Fee: $200 per team + $95 for membership
• Expected Participation: 150-200 boats per event
• Prize Structure: 100% of entry fees paid back to anglers, with a guaranteed $10,000 for 1st place

The Ikon Tailgate Tour presented by Mercury Outboards is a grassroots tournament series focused on offering amateur anglers a chance to compete in team-based events, with substantial cash prizes. The series is open to all anglers who meet the eligibility requirements, and teams are not required to fish more than one event. The tournaments are designed to provide a level playing field for non-professional anglers, with a structure that promotes competition, community, and fun.

Each event will feature a conventional 5-fish weigh-in format, hosted through Fishing Chaos, a leading tournament management platform. Ikon Boats, Ikon Dealers, and well-known professional anglers such as Jacob Wheeler, Kyle Welcher, and Hunter Shryock will promote and support the events, alongside other Ikon pro-staffers.

Tournament weigh-ins will be held in an event-style manner, with additional attractions including food, raffles, boat demos, and sponsor booths for a family-friendly atmosphere.

About Ikon Boats:

Ikon Boats is a premier manufacturer of high-performance bass fishing boats that combine cutting-edge technology, durability, and precision engineering. Known for their versatility and exceptional performance, Ikon Boats provides anglers with the tools they need to compete at the highest level. The 2025 Ikon VLX20 is the latest model from the brand, offering unmatched reliability and fishing capabilities. Through their support of grassroots events like the Ikon Tailgate Tour presented by Mercury Outboards, Ikon Boats demonstrates its commitment to fostering the next generation of bass anglers.

About The Ultimate Angler World Championship:

The Ultimate Angler World Championship is a revolutionary event designed to bring anglers from every corner of the bass fishing world together to compete for a world title. Taking place in the bass-fishing capital of the world, Lake Guntersville, Alabama, this event will crown the Ultimate Angler, a true champion of the sport. With teams from all leagues and skill levels competing, the Ultimate Angler World Championship will become the pinnacle of bass fishing and the ultimate proving ground for anglers everywhere.

Media Contact: Susan Carothers
VP of Communications
Unified Pros
[email protected]

www.theultimateangler.org

by AnglersChannel

Major League Fishing to Host Celebration for Local Fans with Watch Party and Championship Trophy Ceremony at Ski Beach

• Watch MLF pros LIVE on the big screen on MLFNOW!
• FREE food – first 100 fans each day
• Youth fishing derby – gear provided/worms donated by DMF Bait Company
• Casting contest
• Hourly giveaways
• MLF merchandise

• Sat. – Soundscaper (Rock/Classic Rock)
• Sun. – Harrison Davis (Country)

• First 50 kids 14 and under receive a FREE Abu Garcia rod and reel each day
• Autographs and photos from Bass Pro Tour finalists
• Hourly giveaways

by AnglersChannel

High winds lead to shortened competition at Bassmaster Open at Sam Rayburn Reservoir

JASPER, Texas — Due to severe weather threats and high winds forecast for Saturday, B.A.S.S. tournament officials have canceled Saturday’s competition day at the St. Croix Bassmaster Open at Sam Rayburn Reservoir presented by SEVIIN. The decision was made after officials consulted with local meteorologists.

“The National Weather Service is forecasting sustained winds out of the SSW of 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 25 mph,” said Executive Director of Tournaments Hank Weldon. “In addition, there is a significant threat of severe weather. The meteorologist I just spoke with is confident a severe line will come through early- to midafternoon, which will be before we can complete weigh-in for a full field.”

As a result, Friday will be the only day of competition for the Bassmaster Open at Sam Rayburn Reservoir, and the tournament will conclude at the end of the day.

Takeoff will be Friday at 7 a.m. CT at Umphrey Family Pavilion in Brookeland, Texas, with weigh-in at 3 p.m. at the same location.

The event is being sponsored by the Jasper County (Texas) Development District No. 1.

2025 Bassmaster Opens Series Title Sponsor: St. Croix

2025 Bassmaster Opens Series Presenting Sponsor: SEVIIN

2025 Bassmaster Opens Series Platinum Sponsor: Toyota
2025 Bassmaster Opens Series Premier Sponsors: Bass Pro Shops, Dakota Lithium, Humminbird, Mercury, Minn Kota, Nitro Boats, Power-Pole, Progressive Insurance, Ranger Boats, Rapala, Skeeter Boats, Yamaha
2025 Bassmaster Opens Series Supporting Sponsors: AFTCO, Daiwa, Garmin, Lew's, Lowrance, Marathon, Triton Boats, VMC

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 Bassmaster Elite Series, St. Croix Bassmaster Opens Series presented by SEVIIN, 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, Bassmaster Junior Series, 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.

by AnglersChannel

MLF Pros Make a Difference in Leesburg with a Day of Service, Fan Engagement and Youth Outreach

LEESBURG, Fla. (Feb. 13, 2025) – On Wednesday, before the Major League Fishing (MLF) pros hit the Harris Chain of Lakes for the Bass Pro Tour Suzuki Marine Stage 2, many spent their “off day”  giving back to the Leesburg, Florida, community in a series of impactful events. From volunteering at the Leesburg Food Bank to meeting fans at Bass Pro Shops Orlando and mentoring young anglers at a student angler clinic, the day was filled with meaningful connections and memorable moments.

At sunrise, four MLF pros – Justin Cooper, Alton Jones Jr., Fred Roumbanis and Jeff Sprague – arrived at the Leesburg Food Bank, ready to roll up their sleeves and serve. Food was dispensed to more than 65 families Wednesday morning, thanks in part to the anglers, who sorted, weighed and distributed shopping carts full of essentials.

"Growing up, I knew that need personally, and taking the opportunity to give back to people who are struggling to make ends meet is something very important to me,” Sprague said. “Fishing and competing is a lot of fun, but this is the kind of thing that hits me right in the heart."

Beyond the hands-on work, the pros connected with longtime food bank volunteers, including a couple of military veterans who have dedicated years to the organization. The morning was not without its lighthearted moments, as the veteran volunteers took advantage of the “young guns’” strong backs and one of the pros tried their hands at maneuvering a forklift – resulting in a few mishaps but plenty of laughs.

Roumbanis said he was impressed by the scale of the food bank’s operation – over 700,000 pounds of food pass through the food bank each year, ran solely by volunteers – and encouraged members of the Florida community to get involved.

"As we walked through room after room full of food and saw the full scope of the organization, it was obvious how much pride and determination is put in by each of these volunteers,” said Roumbanis. “With more than 7,200 shopping carts of food distributed each year, the need is great and any donations – time, food, money, drivers – is a huge necessity to help keep the wheels turning.”

By midday, the action shifted to Bass Pro Shops in Orlando, where fans gathered to meet some of the biggest names in professional fishing. Nine MLF pros – Dustin Connell, Justin Cooper, Mark Daniels Jr., Ott DeFoe, Brent Ehrler, Edwin Evers, Chris Lane, Andy Montgomery and Skeet Reese – signed autographs, took photos and even helped feed the fish in the store’s massive tank. One redfish put on a show, slamming bait at the surface and soaking fans in the splash zone.

The day wrapped up at the Venetian Center, where 25 students from the Florida Teen Sportfishing Association gathered for the MLF Student Angler Clinic. The young anglers spent over an hour peppering MLF pros Matt Becker, Wesley Strader and Jacob Wall with questions, learning tips and tricks from the Bass Pro Tour anglers.

"Being able to share our experiences and foster the love for bass fishing with these young anglers is so important,” said Wall. “I love seeing the excitement and joy on their faces as they ask questions or laugh about mishaps on the water."

Thanks to MLF sponsors, the students didn’t leave empty-handed. Many went home with Abu Garcia rods and reels, as well as MLF signed angler jerseys, bait packs and merchandise – a fun end to an unforgettable day.

While the Bass Pro Tour competition began on the Harris Chain of Lakes Thursday, Wednesday’s community events left a lasting impression on the pros, volunteers, fans and students alike. Whether handing out food, signing autographs or inspiring the next generation, MLF’s day of service reinforced that professional bass fishing is about more than just competition—it’s about community.

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 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.

by AnglersChannel

Water and weather foretell favorable fishing for Bassmaster Elite at St. Johns River

Feb. 13, 2025

PALATKA, Fla. —  “Cold” typically is a four-letter word in Florida, but Bassmaster Elite Series pro Drew Benton said winter weather in the right measure and with the right timing could unleash an eruption of Sunshine State potential during the 2025 FXR Pro Fish Bassmaster Elite at St. Johns River.

Competition days will be February 20-23 with daily takeoffs from Palatka City Dock and Boat Ramp at 7 a.m. ET and weigh-ins each day at Palatka Riverfront Park at 3 p.m.

“The big thing that is going to positively influence this event is the cold weather we had leading up to the (recent) warming trend,” Benton said. “Any time we get cold weather in Florida, and it warms up, it makes these lakes explode.

“The power of weather on these Florida fisheries is incredible. When we have a good, cold winter and the fish can’t just trickle spawn and do their thing whenever they want to, it makes them flood the bank all at the same time. They don’t all spawn at once, but they get up there where you can catch them all at once.”

Acknowledging late winter’s notoriously fickle nature, Benton wisely hedges his prediction. Late January saw a historic winter storm drop 8 inches of snow at his home in Panama City, Fla., so he’s taking nothing for granted.

“That was unheard of, but barring any (extreme) weather, all things are pointing to two strong Florida events (at St. Johns on Feb. 20-23 and at Lake Okeechobee Feb. 27-March 2),” Benton said. “People think cold weather is a bad thing in Florida, but it can really set up the fishing.”

Last year’s Elite at the St. Johns was held mid-April and saw Canadian hammer Cory Johnston win by targeting spawning bass in the Salt Springs area of the fishery. Even though this year’s tournament takes place approximately two months earlier in the year, Benton expects the warming trend to again highlight the spawn.

Benton, who has placed fourth at the St. Johns twice (2024, 2016), also points to water level as a key factor. The St. Johns suffered a tremendous loss of submersed aquatic vegetation (SAV) — mostly eelgrass — during past hurricanes, with winds ripping up much of the vegetation and lingering high water choking out any resurgence.

While it takes years to regrow the eelgrass that once carpeted much of the system and made areas like Crescent Lake and Lake George spawning meccas, Benton said the current scenario will deliver immediate impacts.

“One thing I’ve been watching is the water level, and it has been down this year, which is a positive,” Benton said. “That’s what has negatively affected the grass growth. I don’t know if the current water level is going to impact the grass growth, but as a whole, it’s going to make the river healthier.

“Typically, as long as it’s not high it’s going to be clear. And (the Florida Fish and  Wildlife Conservation Commission) put in a lot of work on the fishery with eelgrass planting and (protective fencing around planted areas). From what I’ve seen online, some of those planted areas have taken off. That little bit of grass will help with water quality.”

Despite a major change in fishable waters, Benton believes anglers will find significant opportunities throughout tournament waters. Last year, competitors were allowed to fish Rodman Reservoir — a man-made reservoir on the Ocklawaha River that connects to the St. Johns through a canal south of Palatka.

This year, Rodman is off-limits, but Benton remains optimistic. Tournament boundaries stretch from the Fuller Warren Bridge (I-95) in Jacksonville down to State 44 in DeLand. Past events have seen anglers push far north of Palatka and nearly to the southern boundary.

With the combination of lower water and favorable weather, Benton believes competitive bags could come from both extremes and all points in between.

“Initially, I didn’t like that Rodman was out of the equation this year, because in the past it attracted a lot of boats and kept them off the river,” he said. “I was afraid that would make the river fish extremely small this year, but because of that weather we’ve had, I think it’s going to spread guys out.

“I think the entire range is hitting the magical water temp. I think that as far as you want to go north or south could be in play.”

Sight fishing likely will make up a large portion of the angling effort, but Benton said late prespawners preparing to move up will also present solid opportunities. He’s also pondering the potential for a traditional postspawn pattern.

“Shellbeds always play, because not all the fish are gonna bed at the same time,” Benton said. “If a guy finds a place where they’re pulling up before they spawn and they’re stopping on a shellbed or a little drop on that river, that’s what’s gonna win this tournament. That’s because you’ll have fish coming to you and fish stopping on their way back out.

“The guys doing the shellbed game will have a rotation of jerkbaits, Carolina rigs, Ned rigs and rattling baits, depending on tide and depth. It’s a little early, but any time water temperatures are in the 70s, you have the potential to have a shad spawn.”

Benton went on to say that in the absence of any significant SAV, spawning bass will utilize any hard cover, including wood and lily pad root systems standing above the bottom substrate. Past events have seen anglers targeting spawning fish on cypress tree roots. That also could be in play this time around, but Benton warned of navigational challenges.

“Some of that stuff is deceptively shallow,” he said. “You may be 100 yards out trying to get in, and your trolling motor is hitting the bottom. Finding that stuff with the right amount of water on it is going to be the big deal.”

Benton said he’s looking for a four-day winning total of 88 pounds, with 19 pounds a day making the Top 10 cut. Johnston won with 93-6 last year, so if weather and water factors remain as Benton expects, the field should easily meet or exceed those numbers.

Bassmaster LIVE will be streaming on Bassmaster.com all four days, and coverage will also be available on FS1 on Saturday and Sunday. Stay up-to-date on all tournament coverage at Bassmaster.com/how-to-watch/.

Florida’s Putnam County Chamber of Commerce is hosting the event.

2025 Bassmaster Elite Series Platinum Sponsor: Toyota
2025 Bassmaster Elite Series Premier Sponsors: Bass Pro Shops, Dakota Lithium, Humminbird, Mercury, Minn Kota, Nitro Boats, Power-Pole, Progressive Insurance, Ranger Boats, Rapala, Skeeter Boats, Yamaha
2025 Bassmaster Elite Series Supporting Sponsors: AFTCO, Daiwa, Garmin, Lew's, Lowrance, Marathon, Triton Boats, VMC

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 500,000-member 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 Bassmaster Elite Series, St. Croix Bassmaster Opens Series presented by SEVIIN, 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, Bassmaster Junior Series, 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.

by AnglersChannel

High winds force postponement of Bassmaster Open at Sam Rayburn Reservoir

Feb. 13, 2025

JASPER, Texas — Due to unsafe, sustained high winds, Day 1 of the St. Croix Bassmaster Open at Sam Rayburn Reservoir presented by SEVIIN has been postponed to ensure the safety of anglers. Tournament officials made the decision after examining conditions and the body of water early this morning.

“Post-frontal conditions have made navigation unsafe for our competitors,” said Executive Director of Tournaments Hank Weldon. “We are experiencing sustained northerly winds of 15-20 mph, with gusts reaching 25-30 mph. These conditions are expected to persist until later this afternoon. The full field will compete tomorrow.”

The tournament will resume Friday at 7 a.m. at Umphrey Family Pavilion in Brookeland, Texas, with weigh-in at 3 p.m. at the same location.

The event is being sponsored by the Jasper County (Texas) Development District No. 1.

2025 Bassmaster Opens Series Title Sponsor: St. Croix

2025 Bassmaster Opens Series Presenting Sponsor: SEVIIN

2025 Bassmaster Opens Series Platinum Sponsor: Toyota
2025 Bassmaster Opens Series Premier Sponsors: Bass Pro Shops, Dakota Lithium, Humminbird, Mercury, Minn Kota, Nitro Boats, Power-Pole, Progressive Insurance, Ranger Boats, Rapala, Skeeter Boats, Yamaha
2025 Bassmaster Opens Series Supporting Sponsors: AFTCO, Daiwa, Garmin, Lew's, Lowrance, Marathon, Triton Boats, VMC

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 Bassmaster Elite Series, St. Croix Bassmaster Opens Series presented by SEVIIN, 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, Bassmaster Junior Series, 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.

by AnglersChannel

B.A.S.S., FXR Pro Fish announce Elite Series title sponsorship

Feb. 12, 2025

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. announced today that FXR Pro Fish, a leader in high-performance apparel, has signed on as the title sponsor for the upcoming FXR Pro Fish Bassmaster Elite at St. Johns River to be held in Palatka, Fla., Feb. 20-23.

FXR Pro Fish produces gear that integrates top-of-the-line technical features and fabrics everywhere possible, with a high-octane lifestyle in mind. FXR clothing, outerwear and accessories are designed by people who share that lifestyle and passion.

“We are excited that FXR will be the title sponsor for the FXR Pro Fish Bassmaster Elite at St. Johns River in Florida,” said FXR Pro Fish Brand Director Chris Meyeraan. “This prestigious event marks a significant milestone, and we are thrilled that all of our anglers have the opportunity to chase the ultimate prize — the iconic blue trophy — at the end of the week. With the talent and dedication of our team, we are confident that the FXR anglers will be a force to be reckoned with in the Elite Series this season.”

“We are looking forward to the partnership between the Bassmaster Elite Series and FXR Pro Fish,” said B.A.S.S. Chief Operating Officer Phillip Johnson. “Our Elite Series athletes face some very taxing conditions on the water, and having FXR join us as the title sponsor for the Elite Series event at Palatka is a welcome addition to the tournament.”

The Elite Series last visited the St. Johns River in 2024 when Canadian Cory Johnston won in stellar fashion with a total weight of 93 pounds, 6 ounces. Johnston’s winning weight was 21 pounds, 2 ounces over Texan Brad Whatley, who placed second.

“Our partnership with the Bassmaster organization as the title sponsor for the first event of the season exemplifies our dedication to the sport,” said FXR Pro Fish and FXR Racing Chief Executive Officer Brian Danielson. “It also comes at a perfect time for the FXR Pro Fish brand, as it follows the launch of our Spring 2025 lineup. We are excited to see our Elite roster take to the water in their fresh gear.”

Live coverage of all four days of the FXR Pro Fish Bassmaster Elite at St. Johns River will begin Feb. 20 on Bassmaster.com as well as the FOX Sports digital platforms. FS1 will also broadcast the event live Feb. 22-23 at 8 a.m. ET.

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

About B.A.S.S.

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

The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Bassmaster Elite Series, St. Croix Bassmaster Opens Series presented by SEVIIN, 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, Bassmaster Junior Series, 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.

by AnglersChannel

BFL Tournament on Toledo Bend Postponed Due to High Winds

WHAT:
The Major League Fishing (MLF) Phoenix Bass Fishing League (BFL) Presented by T-H Marine tournament on Toledo Bend Reservoir, scheduled for this Saturday, Feb. 15 has been postponed due to the extremely high winds and lightning being forecast by the National Weather Service.

The event, set to be the third event in the BFL Cowboy Division, has been rescheduled to Sunday, April 6, and will piggyback on the next BFL Cowboy event at Sam Rayburn Reservoir on April 5.

WHEN:
Saturday-Sunday, April 5-6
Takeoff: 7 a.m. CT
Weigh-in: 3 p.m. CT

WHERE:
Umphrey Family Pavilion, 5438 Sam Rayburn Parkway, Brookeland, Texas

NOTES:
The top 60 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. 24-25 BFL Regional tournament on Lake Eufaula in Eufaula, Oklahoma. 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 award of $20,000.

The 2025 Phoenix BFL Presented by T-H Marine is a 24-division circuit devoted to weekend anglers, with 134 events throughout the season, five qualifying tournaments in each division. The top 60 boaters and Strike King co-anglers from each division, along with the five qualifying tournament winners, will advance to one of 12 BFL Regional tournaments where they are competing to finish in the top three, which then qualifies them for one of the longest-running championships in all of competitive bass fishing – the BFL All-American. The 2025 BFL All-American will take place May 29-31, 2025, at Lake Hamilton in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and is hosted by hosted by Visit Hot Springs and the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism.

Proud sponsors of the 2025 MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine include: 7Brew, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, BUBBA, Deep Dive, E3, Epic Baits, Fishing Clash, Grizzly, Humminbird, Lew’s, Li Time, Mercury, Minn Kota, Mossy Oak, Mystik Lubricants, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix, Polaris, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Strike King, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, WIX Filters and YETI.

For complete details and updated tournament information, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular Bass Fishing League 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 17 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.

by AnglersChannel

Kissimmee Chain of Lakes set to host Tackle Warehouse Invitational Stop 1 Presented by Vosker

KISSIMMEE, Fla. (Feb. 11, 2025) –The first Major League Fishing (MLF) Tackle Warehouse Invitational tournament of the 2025 season is set to kick off next week, Feb. 21-23, at Lake Toho and the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes – the Tackle Warehouse Invitationals Stop 1 Presented by Vosker.

The three-day tournament, hosted by Experience Kissimmee, will feature a field of pro anglers competing for a top prize of up to $115,000. Anglers will take to the water to catch their five biggest bass each day, and the winner will be determined by the heaviest three-day cumulative total.

"We are excited to welcome the Major League Fishing Tackle Warehouse Invitationals to Lake Toho and the Kissimmee area,” said Tyler Weyant, Director of Sports Development at Experience Kissimmee. “It's an honor to continue our relationship with MLF, building on the success of our past collaborations. To all participants, families, and friends joining us for the tournament, I encourage you to explore our local shops, diverse flavors of our restaurants, and rich heritage that makes Kissimmee a must-see destination.”

Although Lake Toho and the Kissimmee Chain have played host to dozens of MLF tournaments over the years – including four Bass Pro Tour events since 2019 – this event marks the first time since 2019 that a professional-level MLF tournament with the five-fish weigh-in format will be held.

Known for its sprawling waterways and healthy bass populations, the Kissimmee Chain should offer anglers the chance to catch fish in all phases of the spawn, setting the stage for an extremely competitive tournament, according to pro Blake Smith of Lakeland, Florida, who will be among the competitors.

“Since December, we’ve already seen a few waves of fish spawning,” Smith said. “Guys are going to be able to catch some prespawn, some spawning, and some postspawn fish in this one.”

Smith said that he expects Lake Toho, where the tournament launches, to remain the most popular destination on the chain for anglers, but he predicts that some anglers may venture further due to the dense vegetation.

“Toho is always pretty good, even though right now it is a little choked out,” Smith explained. “There’s a lot of topped-out vegetation, so it’s really going to be a pick-your-poison kind of deal. You can fish Toho and punch and flip grass, or head to the other lakes like Kissimmee, Cypress or Hatchineha. Those lakes absolutely will play in this one. Especially for the guys that don’t like flipping.”

Recent weather fluctuations have added another layer of complexity.

“We’ve had some crazy weather in Florida this year,” Smith said. “It’s not been taking tons of weight to win tournaments lately, but somebody is usually in the mid-twenties for the top bag.”

When it comes to bait choices, Smith shared some standout picks.

“The first thing I’ll throw, without a doubt, is a Yamamoto Senko – it’s a staple here,” he said. “I think we’ll see a lot more of the bigger glide baits playing, now, as well. They’re getting to be pretty popular down here. I’ll have a Bucca Trick Shad tied on. And I think the traditional Florida favorites like ChatterBaits, swim baits, and (Yamamoto) Speed Senkos will all come into play.”

For this event, Smith said he expects the winner to average about 25 pounds per day, with a final three-day total of 75 pounds likely to take the crown.

“If you can get to 20 pounds a day, you’re going to be in good shape,” Smith went on to say.

Anglers will launch at 7 a.m. ET each day from Big Toho Marina, located at 69 Lakeview Drive in Kissimmee, Florida. Weigh-ins will be held at the marina and will begin at 3 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 2025 Tackle Warehouse Invitationals feature a field of professional anglers competing across six invitational tournaments around the country, for a total purse of $4.3 million and valuable Fishing Clash Angler of the Year (AOY) points to qualify for the Invitationals Championship, set for Sept. 5-7 on the Mississippi River in La Crosse, and a coveted spot on the MLF Bass Pro Tour – the sport’s top circuit.

In Tackle Warehouse Invitational competition, the full field compete in the two-day opening round on Days 1 and 2 in a five-fish, weigh-in format. Only the top 30 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 $115,000. The winner of the Tackle Warehouse Invitational Stop 1 at the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes Presented by Vosker will be determined by the heaviest three-day cumulative weight.

New this season, forward-facing and/or 360-degree sonar is limited to only days 1 and 3 of competition. No forward-facing and/or 360-degree sonar will be allowed on day 2 of competition.

The MLFNOW! broadcast team of Chad McKee and Rob Newell will break down the extended action live all three days of competition from 7 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. ET. MLFNOW! will be live streamed on MajorLeagueFishing.com, the MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) app and Rumble.

Television coverage of the MLF Tackle Warehouse Invitationals Stop 1 at the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes Presented by Vosker will air as a two-hour episode, premiering at 9 a.m. ET, on Saturday, Oct. 4 on CBS Sports Network.

Proud sponsors of the 2025 MLF Tackle Warehouse Invitationals include: 7Brew, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, Bubba, Deep Dive App, E3 Sports Apparel, Epic Baits, Fishing Clash, Grizzly, Humminbird, Lew’s, Mercury, Minn Kota, Mossy Oak, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, Polaris, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Strike King, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, Vosker, WIX Filters and YETI.

For complete details and updated information visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular Tackle Warehouse Invitationals 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 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.

by AnglersChannel