Hartman eyeing second title in Bassmaster Elite lead at Lake Guntersville
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Drew Gill Jumps to Day 2 Lead at Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches
Mount Carmel, Illinois pro paces field into Championship Sunday with 7-pound, 15-ounce lead
LEESBURG, Fla. (Feb. 7, 2026) – Day 2 of the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech Stop 1 on the Harris Chain Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches finished better than Day 1, with quite a bit better weather. The field managed 54 limits on the day, up from 46 on Day 1, and the pros caught 906 pounds of bass, up from 878 pounds – certainly not up to the usual Florida standards, but definitely better on a tough Harris Chain.
Consistency was tough to come by, and those who stayed steady were rewarded. The best of the bunch, Drew Gill backed up his three-bass, 21-pound effort from Day 1 with a limit for 19-4, bringing his total to 40-4 – nearly 8 pounds ahead of second place. Brody Campbell rolled up the leaderboard with 17-11 to claim the second position at 32-5, while Keith Poche maintained his third place position with another limit to get to 30 pounds even.
To make the 50-angler cut and advance to Championship Sunday, it took 14-8 for two days. Lucas Black, who caught three bass for less than 3 pounds on Day 1 and backed it up with five for 11-12 on Day 2, claimed the final spot.
Coming in off a win in the first Bass Pro Tour derby of the year at Lake Guntersville, it’s looking highly likely that Gill will bank over $200,000 in the first two events of the season. Fishing offshore and mostly making hay during his three hours of forward-facing sonar use, the young pro is in the midst of proving yet again that nobody ‘Scopes like he does.
Fishing roughly the same area as several other anglers on Day 1, Gill caught three giants to start out in second place. On Day 2, with at least as many competitors around, he again outstripped his competition.
“There was an absolute horde of boats in the area where I’d planned on starting. It took me an hour and 45 minutes to catch one fish – I was way off pace,” he said of his start to the day. “It was pretty rough, but I was able to rally and put some solid ones in the boat to end my ‘Scope period.”
Then, Gill hit the bank, winding a vibrating jig up shallow, where he caught two bass, including a 5-pounder. Without that fish, Gill probably still leads, but his ability to manufacture bites the old-fashioned way gave him a lot more breathing room.
As for Day 3, Gill doesn’t think anything is guaranteed, as the fish are far from reliable at the moment.
“Day 1, I saw six bass in three hours,” he explained. “Today, I saw almost 30. There’s more fish now than there were. The problem is, the reason there are more fish is not that there are more showing up. Fish that were out deep are getting pulled up by the boat traffic. They’re engaging with baits, they’re engaging with boats, and they become very hard to catch. The problem tomorrow is probably not going to be seeing fish; it’s going to be getting them to bite.”
Plenty of other pros had that issue Saturday – there were anglers fishing the same water as Gill who only caught one or two fish. But if Gill can be himself for one more day, he stands a good chance to take home his fifth major win since February 2024.
“I’ve fished my areas pretty hard the last couple days, and I don’t think there will be a lack of boat traffic there tomorrow,” he said. “So, I’ve got a pretty good gap, but I’m not remotely ready to call this. The Harris Chain has been very unpredictable this week. I could believe it if I had 4 pounds tomorrow, and I’d honestly believe it if I had 26. It’s really, really hard to tell, but by about 11 o’clock, I should have a good idea of how the day is going.”
Last year on the Tackle Warehouse Invitationals, Campbell finished one point away from qualifying for the Bass Pro Tour. This week, he’s showing again that he’s bound for the next level sooner or later, having put together a very clean couple days of fishing.
“I started in Lake Harris; I caught four bass and lost two,” he outlined. “I’ve got a little starting spot where I can catch a couple. Then, I rolled out to Beauclair and caught a big one ‘Scoping. Then, I came back to Harris and culled three times.”
On both Days 1 and 2, plying Bird Dog Rods, Campbell has weighed four fish from Harris, which he caught without LiveScope, and one from Beauclair. He’ll follow the same blueprint on Day 3.
“I’m going to run the same plan,” he said. “It’s what got me here. I’m going to start on a hole; it’s guaranteed that I’ll catch a couple. Then, I’ll head down there and hope to crack a bag. And hopefully somebody cuts Drew Gill’s LiveScope cords or something.”
Though Campbell knows a win might be a longshot, he’s not totally counting himself out, and he loves the points regardless.
“We’ll see tomorrow. I need to catch 29 1/2 pounds to win,” he said. “But I can catch a limit, no doubt, to maintain. And the main goal is qualifying for the Bass Pro Tour, so I want to stay up there and not sacrifice any points. If Drew Gill messes up, hey, I might catch 20.”
The top 20 pros advancing to Championship Sunday on the Harris Chain of Lakes are:
1st: Drew Gill, Mount Carmel, Ill., eight bass, 40-4
2nd: Brody Campbell, Oxford, Ohio, 10 bass, 32-5
3rd: Keith Poche, Pike Road, Ala., 10 bass, 30-0
4th: Aaron Yavorsky, Palm Harbor, Fla., six bass, 29-14
5th: Marshall Robinson, Landrum, S.C., 10 bass, 27-12
6th: Broderick Luckey, Lynchburg, Va., nine bass, 27-8
7th: Ryan Lachniet, Gum Spring, Va., 10 bass, 27-0
8th: Caz Anderson, Haysville, N.C., 10 bass, 25-8
9th: Colby Miller, Elmer, La., six bass, 24-14
10th: Marshall Hughes, Hemphill, Texas, 10 bass, 24-11
11th: Drew Boggs, Lebanon, Tenn., 10 bass, 24-6
12th: Jared Lintner, Covington, Ga., 10 bass, 24-5
13th: Jack Daniel Williams, Kingsport, Tenn., 10 bass, 23-13
14th: Connor Jacob, Peoria, Ill., 10 bass, 22-12
15th: Dylan Nutt, Nashville, Tenn., eight bass, 21-2
16th: Chad Mrazek, Montgomery, Texas, nine bass, 21-2
17th: Mike Mayo, Athens, Texas, seven bass, 21-1
18th: Will Harkins, Blairsville, Ga., 10 bass, 21-1
19th: Teimuraz (Tom) Balachvili, Brooklyn, N.Y., 10 bass, 20-13
20th: Gary Klein, Mingus, Texas, 10 bass, 20-8
To view all 50 competitors advancing to Championship Sunday and complete results for the entire field, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com.
Overall, there were 447 bass weighing 906 pounds, 3 ounces caught by 145 pros Saturday. The catch included 54 five-bass limits.
Pro Bobby Bakewell of Orlando, Florida, earned the Day 2 Berkley Big Bass award of $500 after bringing a bass that weighed 8 pounds, 14 ounces to the scale.
The three-day Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 at the Harris Chain of Lakes Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches is hosted by Discover Lake County Florida and features professional bass anglers competing for a top prize of up to $135,000.
“We are thrilled to be hosting Major League Fishing in Lake County this week as part of the region’s expanding lineup of premier sporting events,” said Jason Siegel, President & CEO of the Greater Orlando Sports Commission. “Events of this caliber reinforce the strength of our community’s venues and our ability to deliver a first-class experience. As the second day of competition comes to a close, we’re confident the anglers and their families will continue to enjoy their time here, and we thank the City of Leesburg and Discover Lake County for their ongoing partnership and collaboration.”
In Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit competition, the full field competed in the two-day opening round on Friday and Saturday in a five-fish, weigh-in format. Only the top 50 pros, based on their two-day cumulative weight, now advance to the final round on Championship Sunday, where they will compete for the grand prize of up to $135,000. The winner of the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 at the Harris Chain of Lakes Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches will be determined by the heaviest three-day cumulative weight.
Anglers will launch at 7:30 a.m. ET on Championship Sunday from Ski Beach at Venetian Gardens, located at 201 E. Lake Harris Drive in Leesburg, Florida. Weigh-ins will be held at the same location and will begin at 3:30 p.m. Fans are welcome to attend all launch and weigh-in events and also encouraged to follow the event online throughout the day on the MLFNOW!® live stream and coverage at MajorLeagueFishing.com .
The MLFNOW! broadcast team of Chad McKee and Rob Newell will break down the extended action live on Championship Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET. MLFNOW! will be live streamed on MajorLeagueFishing.com, the MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) app and Rumble.
Television coverage of the MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech Stop 1 at the Harris Chain Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches will air as a two-hour episode, premiering at 9 a.m. ET, on Sunday, Sept. 6 on VICE TV.
Proud sponsors of the 2026 MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech include: 7Brew Coffee, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, Bubba, Cigars International, Epic Baits, Grizzly, Mercury, MillerTech, OFF! Deep Woods, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, PiranhO2, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, VOSKER, YETI and Yuengling.
For complete details and updated information visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the MLF5 social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery, Outdoor Channel, VICE, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network, RFD-TV and Game & Fish TV, and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
Riser on top after Day 1 of Kayak Series opener at Kissimmee Chain
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Adam Riser can’t remember many practices less productive than the ones he had leading up to the Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series at Kissimmee Chain presented by Native Watercraft.
But fortune changed for the 41-year-old Riser in the final minutes of Friday’s practice when he found an area in the north end of Lake Tohopekaliga that had a steady stream of pre-spawn bass swimming through it. He caught a few sizable fish, then slipped away, carrying high hopes into the start of competition on Saturday.
Riser found the fish again on Day 1, catching a limit of five bass that measured exactly 100 inches. That put the Knoxville, Tenn., resident in the lead on the Kissimmee Chain — the first of six regular-season Kayak Series events in 2026. A total of 242 anglers from around the U.S. are competing this weekend in central Florida for a total of $48,400 in prize money, including $11,500 guaranteed to the winner.
Riser was, without a doubt, pleased with Saturday’s catch. He said the difference between nearly three days of practice and Day 1 of competition was “night and day”.
“As difficult as practice was, it wasn’t surprising,” he said, referencing the massive cold front that buried much of the East Coast a few days before anglers arrived for the tournament. “Freezing cold weather and Florida bass do not go hand in hand. But what I stumbled upon really set up the way I like to fish.”
Riser said he found an inconspicuous area of Toho that was an ideal pre-spawn staging area. He quickly caught bass there measuring 22 and 19 inches to close Friday’s practice and arrived again Saturday morning to find more bass funneling into the same area.
“I got on the LiveScope and I could see the fish, in a single-file line, loading into this area,” he said. “About a half-dozen would come in at a time. I’d fish for them, catch a few nice ones, and then there would be a lull of about 30 minutes to an hour. But then, here comes another group of half-dozen sliding into the same corridor. I was able to take advantage of that and put some in the boat.”
Riser caught 11 keepers on Saturday, according to TourneyX results. That was a remarkable feat, considering only 40 anglers among the 242 entered managed a limit on Day 1 of the derby. The Florida bass seem to be stunned by air temperatures near freezing at sunrise and water temperatures yet to climb back above 60 degrees this week.
Riser used a variety of JDM baits to trigger his best bites, but offered few specifics.
“I’m thinking a little outside the box,” he said. “Each bait I used had a different look and sound, but the bass responded positively to all of them. Honestly, I don’t think it would have mattered what color lure I threw.”
Now, he awaits the second and final day of the tournament, and hopes good fortune finds him again.
“I realize how valuable this spot is,” Riser said. “I know how hard it has been to find bass this week. That gives me every reason to go back there tomorrow.”
Rounding out the Top 5 after Day 1 are, second, Pennsylvania’s Ryan Matylewicz, 98.75 inches; third, Connecticut’s Ryan Nye, 94.5; fourth, North Carolina’s Wyatt Hammond, 94; and fifth, Pennsylvania’s Greg Polec, 91.25.
The Top 5 anglers in each of this year’s kayak tournaments will advance to the 2026 Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series Championship presented by Native Watercraft, to be held later this year at a location not yet announced. The Bassmaster College Kayak Series will be held in conjunction with that championship.
Garin Butler, of Duluth, Ga., caught a 24.75-inch bass on Saturday, the longest of the day.
A Big Bass Award of $500 will be presented, and for the first time in the Bassmaster Kayak Series, a $100 Hourly Big Bass prize is being awarded to the competitor who catches the longest bass in each hour of the tournament.
The second and final day of the Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series at Kissimmee Chain presented by Native Watercraft will begin Sunday with a 6:15 a.m. ET launch. Fishing time is from 6:45 a.m. ET to 2:45 p.m. ET, and there’s a 3:45 p.m. ET deadline to enter bass into the tournament scoring system. Awards will be presented at 4:30 p.m. ET and can be seen on Bassmaster.com.
Scoring for the week will be available via TourneyX.
The Kissimmee Sports Commission is hosting the event.
2026 Bassmaster Kayak Series
2026 Bassmaster Kayak Series Presenting Sponsor: Native Watercraft
2026 Bassmaster Kayak Series Angler of the Year Sponsor: Pro-Guide Batteries
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
Tough Tournament Takeaways with Swindle and Fothergill
Courtesy of Dynamic Sponsorships
After the day two weigh-in concluded for the FXR Bassmaster Elite on Lake Guntersville, Gerald Swindle and Easton Fothergill found themselves on the wrong side of the day three cut line. It’s not how they hoped to start their 2026 seasons, but it’s the reality they faced after waking up to no alarm Saturday morning. Coming up short is something that all Elite Series competitors must deal with. These are 101 of the best anglers in the world but only one will leave Goose Pond a winner on Sunday afternoon.
If you tournament bass fish at any level, the fact is you are going to lose a lot more than you’ll win. The mental side of fishing is a major factor in what separates pros like Swindle and Fothergill from the average angler. In this case, what lessons can they take away from a disappointing tournament finish?
Fothergill and Swindle are at very different points in their career, have contrasting fishing strengths and come from opposite sides of the country, but there are common threads to take away from their post-tournament process. These two graciously provided their point of view just hours after a frustrating finish.
Swindle: Decisions and Don’t Dwell
2026 is year 32 as a full-time professional angler for two-time AOY Gerald Swindle. At this point in his career, he has seen it all, done it all, and probably came back for seconds. Swindle has also spent countless hours on Lake Guntersville, but even with all his experience there are key takeaways.
“After all these years there is still something to learn and take away from every event,” Swindle said. “This week, I’m pinpointing one decision I made on day two after I had caught a small limit, I ended up leaving those fish biting to run around and look for a big bite. I had three hours, but I never got that bigger bite, even with local knowledge on my side. Man, I wish I wish I could make that decision over again.
“I should have rotated through some baits and stayed put for a while, but that’s hard to do when you are only getting seven or eight bites a day. But… I’ve learned after 32-years you can’t dwell on it. Practice for Lake Martin starts Monday and you gotta treat your brain like an Etch-And-Sketch. Make some mental notes and use it to improve, sure, but don’t you dwell on it.”
Swindle’s advice is good medicine for all fishermen. The Team Toyota pro stood in as a co-host on Bassmaster LIVE Mix this morning, which allowed him to watch the leaders and pick up on some nuances he missed on his home fishery.
“Specific to Guntersville this week, it was mostly an area and depth deal that I missed,” Swindle said. “I focused a little too deep, which sounds crazy when we’re talking water temps in the upper 30s. But I watched Cooper Gallant catch ‘em this morning out of pad stems that were covered with a layer of ice on during practice. I never looked at that area again after I saw that ice and I obviously should have. There weren’t any real secrets this time around, it was small, key decisions that made all the difference.”
Swindle explained that most competitors were throwing the same baits and had the same general idea of how to excel on Guntersville, but it came down to small decisions, with late afternoon decisions being paramount as the water warmed slightly and the mood of the fish improved.
Fothergill: Damage Control and Coverage Review
2026 is Fothergill’s sophomore season on the Elites, which is hard to believe as the Yamaha Outboards pro has already accomplished so much in his young career. Fothergill is as cerebral of an angler as you’ll come across and even with the success he’s experienced, he knows he still has a lot to learn on both a macro and micro level of tournament fishing.
Because of this, the Toyota Bonus Bucks pro has an entirely different process than Swindle. Easton has an old soul but he’s representative of the youth invasion at the top level of tournament competition.
“I’ve already moved on from Guntersville,” Fothergill said. “We have another tournament starting in just a few days, so I’m already back to baseline and focused on Lake Martin, but I will look back at both events after the Alabama swing is over. I’ll watch Bassmaster LIVE, review some of the coverage and see what intricacies I missed.
“I haven’t watched any LIVE yet, but I know from talking to peers that I should have spent some time in the B.B. Comer section of the river. It’s pretty common knowledge that area is historically good, but I tend to try and avoid fishing in crowds. A lot of big fish ended up being caught in that stretch, and I obviously shouldn’t have ignored it just because it was a community hole. I’m sure I’ll learn even more when I go back and watch the coverage.”
Another take away Fothergill spoke on came in the form of damage control, which is something fans don’t always see from the outside looking in. Easton is wise beyond his years when it comes to catching bass, but his maturity in terms of mindset is just as impressive.
“59th isn’t a great finish by any means but based off my practice you could call this a win,” Fothergill explained. “I literally caught zero bass during the first day (of practice) and felt like I was on nothing Thursday morning. Something I learned from Brandon Palaniuk last year was damage control... I finished just about dead last in the first two events of 2025 and BP took me aside and provided some perspective on salvaging those bombs to earn some valuable AOY points. Just as importantly, learn from the disappointment and move on.”
Disappointment is bound to find you if you tournament bass fish, but how you compartmentalize that adversity is what separates the best from the rest. With the right perspective, there is always room to learn and grow.
Swindle and Fothergill may be at different points in their careers, but their mindset is extremely similar. They’ll be better equipped to excel next week at Lake Martin because of it and their advice can help to make you a better angler, too.
Welcher’s uncharacteristic patience delivers Bassmaster Elite lead at Lake Guntersville
SCOTTSBORO, Ala. — Kyle Welcher doesn’t like to stay put, but switching off his core instinct and committing to one area delivered a big Day 2 improvement that put him atop the leaderboard for the FXR Bassmaster Elite at Lake Guntersville.
After placing 18th on Day 1 with 20 pounds, 7 ounces, the pro from Valley, Ala., sacked up 24-9 and surged into the lead with a two-day total of 45 pounds.
“The moral of the story was hunkering down and staying put,” Welcher said. “I did better than I did yesterday; I didn’t run around as much and that was the way to catch ’em.”
Welcher, who won the 2025 St. Croix Bassmaster Elite at Pasquotank River by parking in one key area, knew he’d have to employ the same uncomfortable strategy on Guntersville.
“It’s the hardest thing for me to do; it goes against everything that I want to do,” Welcher said. “But when it’s tough and it’s hard to run around and get bites, sometimes that’s the best thing to do.
“That’s something I’ve had to learn by fishing on the Elites. I didn’t have the patience whenever I first started out here.”
Welcher said he fished south of the takeoff site at Goose Pond and focused on a 3-acre stretch. He tried the same area he fished on Day 1, but when the bites failed to materialize, he repositioned and relocated his fish.
“They had slid 150 yards away and I caught them there today,” Welcher said. “The majority of what I’m fishing is eelgrass, but every now and then, I’ll pull up some coontail or some hydrilla, but it’s 90% eel grass.”
Welcher stuck with the same lipless bait/bladed jig combo that much of the field has been throwing. His choice was a 1/2-ounce Rapala Snare and an unnamed bladed jig with a Crush City Freeloader trailer.
Describing his presentations, Welcher said: “It was early-slow and late-fast. That was the biggest adjustment I’d make throughout the day. I think they get up higher in the water column as the sun gets up.”
A gloomy Day 1 brought mostly overcast skies, light breezes and air temperatures that struggled to reach the low 40s. By contrast, the second round saw bright, sunny conditions, stronger afternoon wind and a high of 61.
“I think the sun is the major thing, but the wind could’ve helped a little” Welcher said. “I caught a couple big ones after it started blowing today, but I caught most of the fish I weighed in before the wind started blowing. I definitely think the sun helps you get more bites.
“I had my limit probably at, like, 10 o’clock and I had the last one I weighed in at 2.”
Looking ahead to Semifinal Saturday, Welcher said he’ll give his area another shot, but he expects he’ll need to continue narrowing down his focus.
“There’s a lot of dead water this week; I’ve never seen Lake Guntersville with so much dead water,” Welcher said. “It’s very difficult to get a bite just covering water. They’re definitely schooled up in small little areas.
“I think that’s what’s going to win this event — schools in small little areas.”
Jamie Hartman of Newport, N.Y., is in second place with 44 pounds. On Day 1, he caught 20-12 and placed 14th. A second-round limit of 23-4, moved Hartman up a dozen spots.
“I’m still grinding them,” said Hartman, who won the 2019 Elite event at Lake Guntersville. “They’re coming slow but they’re coming steady. God blessed me yesterday and He really blessed me today.
“I backed off of them again today. I think I have a lot of fish in the area. I don’t know, but I’m not leaning on them too much, so I hope I get to crack another bag like that and fish on Championship Sunday.”
Hartman said he expected the day’s warming conditions would move more fish into his area, but he was careful not to conserve productivity for at least one more day.
“I can’t take that chance and keep leaning on them,” Hartman said. “I’m only making one pass and then I’m leaving.”
Hartman attributed his success to a specific technique predicated on precise casts. He kept the details guarded, but noted that he could run the lake and use a particular bait and presentation in other areas.
“I just have it zoned so good in my area that I called my shots several times today,” Hartman said.
Hunter Shryock of Ooltewah, Tenn., is in third place with 41-14. His daily weights were 21-1 and 20-13.
“Yesterday, it was fast and heavy, but today, we had to nickel and dime ’em, bounce around and learn some things,” Shryock said. “I think I found a special bait and a special color that’s working right now. I’m gonna ride with it and see what happens tomorrow.”
Shryock said he based his bait choice on the lake’s clarity level and the common choices he’s seen other competitors using. Standing out from the crowd, he said, boosts his confidence.
“Overall, it’s about putting yourself around fish and having to settle down and fish,” he said. “You start running around on this place and you can get (spun out) in a hurry.”
Cooper Gallant of Bowmanville Ontario is in the lead for Phoenix Boats Big Bass honors with his 8-4.
Saturday’s takeoff is scheduled for 7 a.m. CT at Goose Pond. The weigh-in will be held at the same location at 3 p.m.
Live coverage of the FXR Bassmaster Elite at Lake Guntersville will be available on FS1 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. before moving to Bassmaster.com from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Championship Sunday coverage can be found on FS1 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with afternoon action to follow on Bassmaster.com.
This event is being hosted by Mountain Lakes Chamber of Commerce.
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
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Media Contact: Mandy Pascal, Communications Manager, 334-414-8677, [email protected]
2026 FXR Bassmaster Elite Series at Lake Guntersville 2/5-2/8
Lake Guntersville, Scottsboro AL.
(PROFESSIONAL) Standings Day 2
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Kyle Welcher Valley, AL 10 45-00 101
Day 1: 5 20-07 Day 2: 5 24-09
2. Jamie Hartman Newport, NY 10 44-00 100
Day 1: 5 20-12 Day 2: 5 23-04
3. Hunter Shryock Ooltewah, TN 10 41-14 99
Day 1: 5 21-01 Day 2: 5 20-13
4. Stetson Blaylock Benton, AR 10 41-10 98
Day 1: 5 18-12 Day 2: 5 22-14
5. Caleb Kuphall Mukwonago, WI 10 41-07 97
Day 1: 5 21-07 Day 2: 5 20-00
6. Brandon Card Salisbury, NC 10 41-02 96
Day 1: 5 21-14 Day 2: 5 19-04
7. Wes Logan Springville, AL 10 41-01 95
Day 1: 5 20-08 Day 2: 5 20-09
8. Justin Atkins Florence, AL 10 41-00 94
Day 1: 5 20-06 Day 2: 5 20-10
9. Cooper Gallant Bowmanville Ontario CAN 10 40-13 93 $1,000.00
Day 1: 5 17-03 Day 2: 5 23-10
10. Cory Johnston Otonabee CANADA 10 40-10 92
Day 1: 5 24-09 Day 2: 5 16-01
11. Bryan Schmitt Deale, MD 10 40-10 91
Day 1: 5 24-05 Day 2: 5 16-05
12. Brock Mosley Collinsville, MS 10 40-10 90
Day 1: 5 23-06 Day 2: 5 17-04
13. Nick Trim Galesville, WI 10 40-08 89
Day 1: 5 19-08 Day 2: 5 21-00
14. Matt Robertson Kuttawa, KY 10 40-00 88
Day 1: 5 23-11 Day 2: 5 16-05
15. Blake Capps Muskogee, OK 10 39-09 87
Day 1: 5 20-09 Day 2: 5 19-00
16. Jeff Gustafson Kenora, ON Ontario CANA 10 39-04 86
Day 1: 5 22-01 Day 2: 5 17-03
17. Evan Kung Pickering Ontario CANAD 10 39-01 85
Day 1: 5 23-06 Day 2: 5 15-11
18. Hank Cherry Jr Lincolnton, NC 10 38-14 84
Day 1: 5 16-03 Day 2: 5 22-11
19. Matt Arey Shelby, NC 10 38-07 83
Day 1: 5 17-00 Day 2: 5 21-07
20. Caleb Hudson Lincolnton, GA 10 38-05 82
Day 1: 5 16-15 Day 2: 5 21-06
21. Taku Ito Dalton GA JAPAN 10 38-04 81
Day 1: 5 20-02 Day 2: 5 18-02
22. Bob Downey Detroit Lakes, MN 10 38-03 80
Day 1: 5 19-15 Day 2: 5 18-04
23. Bryant Smith Roseville, CA 10 38-02 79
Day 1: 5 24-06 Day 2: 5 13-12
24. Matt Messer Warfield, KY 10 38-02 78
Day 1: 5 19-08 Day 2: 5 18-10
25. Cody Meyer Eagle, ID 10 37-15 77
Day 1: 5 18-02 Day 2: 5 19-13
26. Keith Combs Huntington, TX 10 37-14 76
Day 1: 5 18-09 Day 2: 5 19-05
27. John Garrett Union City, TN 10 37-10 75
Day 1: 5 14-14 Day 2: 5 22-12
28. Lee Livesay Longview, TX 10 37-10 74
Day 1: 5 17-06 Day 2: 5 20-04
29. Caleb Sumrall New Iberia, LA 10 37-06 73
Day 1: 5 19-07 Day 2: 5 17-15
30. KJ Queen Catawba, NC 10 37-03 72
Day 1: 5 19-03 Day 2: 5 18-00
31. Brandon Lester Fayetteville, TN 10 36-15 71
Day 1: 5 21-06 Day 2: 5 15-09
32. Chris Johnston Otonabee Ontario CANADA 10 36-15 70
Day 1: 5 17-04 Day 2: 5 19-11
33. Drew Cook Cairo, GA 10 36-07 69
Day 1: 5 17-13 Day 2: 5 18-10
34. Jacob Foutz Charleston, TN 10 36-05 68
Day 1: 5 17-07 Day 2: 5 18-14
35. Jason Christie Dry Creek, OK 10 36-04 67
Day 1: 5 18-05 Day 2: 5 17-15
36. Jacob Powroznik North Prince George, VA 10 36-02 66
Day 1: 5 16-13 Day 2: 5 19-05
37. Drew Benton Panama City, FL 10 36-01 65
Day 1: 5 16-12 Day 2: 5 19-05
38. Dakota Ebare Brookeland, TX 10 36-01 64
Day 1: 5 18-09 Day 2: 5 17-08
39. Brandon Cobb Greenwood, SC 10 35-14 63
Day 1: 5 18-04 Day 2: 5 17-10
40. Jake Whitaker Hendersonville, NC 10 35-11 62
Day 1: 5 16-10 Day 2: 5 19-01
41. Paul Marks Cumming, GA 10 35-11 61
Day 1: 5 18-15 Day 2: 5 16-12
42. Trey McKinney Carbondale, IL 10 35-10 60
Day 1: 5 19-02 Day 2: 5 16-08
43. Tyler Williams Belgrade, ME 10 35-10 59
Day 1: 5 18-13 Day 2: 5 16-13
44. Cliff Pace Ovett, MS 10 35-09 58
Day 1: 5 16-10 Day 2: 5 18-15
45. Jason Williamson Aiken, SC 10 35-07 57
Day 1: 5 19-12 Day 2: 5 15-11
46. Kyle Norsetter Cottage Grove, WI 10 35-06 56
Day 1: 5 17-02 Day 2: 5 18-04
47. Greg Hackney Gonzales, LA 10 35-06 55
Day 1: 5 17-06 Day 2: 5 18-00
48. Cole Sands Johnson City, TN 10 34-14 54
Day 1: 5 17-00 Day 2: 5 17-14
49. Andrew Loberg Guntersville, AL 10 34-10 53
Day 1: 5 13-06 Day 2: 5 21-04
50. Seth Feider Elko New Market, MN 10 34-09 52
Day 1: 5 19-15 Day 2: 5 14-10
51. Tristan McCormick Bon Aqua, TN 10 34-07 51
Day 1: 5 15-15 Day 2: 5 18-08
52. Pat Schlapper Eleva, WI 10 34-04 50
Day 1: 5 13-10 Day 2: 5 20-10
53. Brandon Palaniuk Rathdrum, ID 10 34-02 49
Day 1: 5 18-14 Day 2: 5 15-04
54. Tyler Rivet Raceland, LA 10 33-09 48
Day 1: 5 15-10 Day 2: 5 17-15
55. Patrick Walters Eutawville, SC 10 33-07 47
Day 1: 5 18-01 Day 2: 5 15-06
56. Carl Jocumsen Queensland TN AUSTRALIA 8 33-05 46
Day 1: 5 22-00 Day 2: 3 11-05
57. Brad Whatley Bivins, TX 10 33-03 45
Day 1: 5 15-07 Day 2: 5 17-12
58. John Crews Jr Salem, VA 9 33-02 44
Day 1: 4 12-10 Day 2: 5 20-08
59. Easton Fothergill Grand Rapids , MN 10 33-01 43
Day 1: 5 16-06 Day 2: 5 16-11
60. David Mullins Mt Carmel, TN 10 32-09 42
Day 1: 5 19-01 Day 2: 5 13-08
61. Bryan New Leesville, SC 10 32-09 41
Day 1: 5 16-05 Day 2: 5 16-04
62. Wesley Gore Clanton, AL 9 32-07 40 $1,000.00
Day 1: 5 23-05 Day 2: 4 09-02
63. Scott Canterbury Odenville, AL 10 31-15 39
Day 1: 5 17-08 Day 2: 5 14-07
64. Alex Redwine Blue Ash, OH 10 31-14 38
Day 1: 5 16-12 Day 2: 5 15-02
65. Fisher Anaya Eva, AL 10 31-11 37
Day 1: 5 18-14 Day 2: 5 12-13
66. Logan Parks Auburn, AL 10 31-07 36
Day 1: 5 17-05 Day 2: 5 14-02
67. Pake South Winnsboro, TX 10 30-13 35
Day 1: 5 18-12 Day 2: 5 12-01
68. Cody Huff Ava, MO 10 30-13 34
Day 1: 5 15-02 Day 2: 5 15-11
69. Kyoya Fujita Yamanashi CA JAPAN 10 30-07 33
Day 1: 5 13-08 Day 2: 5 16-15
70. Jay Przekurat Plover, WI 10 30-01 32
Day 1: 5 17-09 Day 2: 5 12-08
71. Steve Kennedy Auburn, AL 10 29-13 31
Day 1: 5 14-12 Day 2: 5 15-01
72. Gerald Swindle Guntersville, AL 10 29-12 30
Day 1: 5 15-06 Day 2: 5 14-06
73. Shane LeHew Catawba, NC 10 29-04 29
Day 1: 5 14-03 Day 2: 5 15-01
74. Will Davis Jr Sylacauga, AL 8 28-10 28
Day 1: 4 13-02 Day 2: 4 15-08
75. JT Thompkins Myrtle Beach, SC 10 28-02 27
Day 1: 5 13-10 Day 2: 5 14-08
76. Kenta Kimura Osaka OK JAPAN 10 27-14 26
Day 1: 5 12-06 Day 2: 5 15-08
77. Mark Menendez Paducah, KY 8 27-10 25
Day 1: 5 17-03 Day 2: 3 10-07
78. Tucker Smith Birmingham, AL 10 27-07 24
Day 1: 5 14-08 Day 2: 5 12-15
79. Russ Lane Prattville, AL 8 27-03 23
Day 1: 5 20-09 Day 2: 3 06-10
80. Robert Gee Knoxville, TN 10 27-02 22
Day 1: 5 13-01 Day 2: 5 14-01
81. Luke Palmer Atoka, OK 9 26-02 21
Day 1: 5 15-10 Day 2: 4 10-08
82. Kyle Patrick Cooperstown, NY 8 26-01 20
Day 1: 3 08-10 Day 2: 5 17-07
83. Jordan Lee Cullman, AL 8 26-00 19
Day 1: 5 17-15 Day 2: 3 08-01
84. Aaron Jagdfeld Rochester Hills, MI 9 24-15 18
Day 1: 5 14-15 Day 2: 4 10-00
85. Justin Hamner Northport, AL 9 24-14 17
Day 1: 5 15-04 Day 2: 4 09-10
86. Chris Zaldain Boyd, TX 9 24-14 16
Day 1: 5 14-10 Day 2: 4 10-04
87. David Gaston Sylacauga, AL 8 24-01 15
Day 1: 3 07-07 Day 2: 5 16-10
88. Austin Felix Eden Prairie, MN 8 23-13 14
Day 1: 3 12-03 Day 2: 5 11-10
89. Beau Browning Hot Springs National Pa 8 22-05 13
Day 1: 3 07-15 Day 2: 5 14-06
90. Michael Iaconelli Pitts Grove, NJ 9 21-09 12
Day 1: 5 12-14 Day 2: 4 08-11
91. Brock Reinkemeyer Warsaw, MO 9 21-05 11
Day 1: 5 10-12 Day 2: 4 10-09
92. Sam Hanggi Knoxville, TN 7 21-00 10
Day 1: 2 06-09 Day 2: 5 14-07
93. Austin Cranford Moore, OK 7 20-08 9
Day 1: 4 13-12 Day 2: 3 06-12
94. Buddy Gross Chattanooga, TN 5 20-07 8
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 5 20-07
95. John Cox Debary, FL 5 16-12 7
Day 1: 0 -01-00 Day 2: 5 17-12
96. Gregory DiPalma Millville, NJ 5 16-09 6
Day 1: 2 06-03 Day 2: 3 10-06
97. Emil Wagner Marietta, GA 6 16-02 5
Day 1: 3 09-07 Day 2: 3 06-11
98. Joey Cifuentes III Clinton, AR 5 13-13 4
Day 1: 4 11-12 Day 2: 1 02-01
99. Randy Howell Guntersville, AL 5 13-04 3
Day 1: 4 11-03 Day 2: 1 02-01
100. Bill Lowen Brookville, IN 3 12-13 2
Day 1: 2 10-03 Day 2: 1 02-10
101. Clifford Pirch Payson, AZ 3 10-05 1
Day 1: 3 10-05 Day 2: 0 00-00
Aaron Yavorsky Takes Lead on Day 1 of Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches
Palm Harbor, Florida pro catches 22-8 limit to grab early lead in three-day event
LEESBURG, Fla. (Feb. 6, 2026) – The Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech opened the season with brutal weather and a tough day of fishing. Kicking off Stop 1 Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches on the Harris Chain , only 46 pros caught a limit, and Miles Smith holds down the cutline in 50th with a meager total of 6 pounds, 15 ounces on three keepers.
At the top of the leaderboard, it didn’t get much easier. In first, Aaron Yavorsky tallied 22-8 on five, and Drew Gill weighed an even 21 pounds on just three bass. Neither angler culled, as Yavorsky landed just five – no more, no less. In third, Keith Poche knocked out 17-12, and Marshall Robinson and Caz Anderson also got over the 17-pound mark.
The Day 1 weather was pretty ruthless by Florida standards, with temperatures starting in the 30s and climbing into the 60s. For most of the day, an extremely blustery wind kept the anglers on their toes. Saturday should be nicer, with a little less wind and slightly warmer temperatures, but it is by no means the sort of big warmup these Florida bass crave.
With the full field hitting the water again and battling to make Day 3 and the Top 50, there should be a ton of movement in the standings. One or two good bites will go a tremendous distance, and while a few pros are already safe above the cut, there’s no limit to how high someone could rise.
Though a rookie on the Pro Circuit, Yavorsky is no rookie to the Harris Chain, so his strong start shouldn’t surprise anyone. Having already fished in the Bassmaster Classic as the youngest ever qualifier, he didn’t have any jitters, but he was very happy to get off on the right foot.
“I’m pretty pumped,” he said. “I was kind of worried going into it with the cold front – a lot of the advantage I have went away with it being so tough. But I’m excited to be leading the first Pro Circuit event of the year, my first one ever. It feels pretty good.”
Fishing an area that has seen plenty of pressure over the years, Yavorsky made a bit of a gamble on Day 1 – it could have gone sideways, as it did for plenty of other Harris Chain regulars in the field.
“There’s a bunch of fish – there’s 35 pounds there on the best five,” he said of his best area. “But it’s a timing thing. I was really debating on if I should go there or not. You either catch them really good, or you’re not going to catch anything. They’re always there – they’re there 365 days a year – but it’s whether or not they are going to bite. Hopefully we can go there tomorrow and catch some more big ones.”
Catching all his weight during his three hours with forward-facing sonar in the morning, the young Floridian hit the bite window perfectly.
“I figured out what I was doing a little too late,” he said. “I probably could have gotten another 20 or 30 minutes out of my forward-facing period. I caught them all in a bite window really early this morning and then ran around all day. The fish I was on left – they don’t really bite after about 10 or 11 o’clock – and I never really figured anything else out.”
Yavorsky is fishing pretty traditional stuff for the Harris Chain, and the end results look great, but it wasn’t easy, and there’s no guarantee he can replicate it.
“The fish are only there until like 10 or 10:30, wanting to bite – and they barely want to bite then,” he said. “I was just using ‘Scope to see their tails above the bottom, and I was using ‘Scope to make a good cast and put a bait in front of them. I don’t think they wanted to eat. Most of them were hooked on the back hook and just swiping at it.”
Key was, he got five to swipe right, and they were exactly what he needed to lead the day.
While Yavorsky managed five fish, Gill ratcheted up the degree of difficulty, catching three giants, including an 8-3 that earned Berkley Big Bass honors.
“We had the right quantity of weight, but not the right quantity of bass,” said Gill. “I’m not going to complain too much, but it’s one of those things, you don’t want to leave meat on the bone, especially in a tournament like this. When you catch a giant limit in Florida, it opens up the door to run away. I had the opportunity to catch a giant bag, a 25-plus day. If I’d caught two 2-pounders, I’d have had 25 pounds, but I couldn’t make it happen.”
Catching all his weight during his three hours of forward-facing sonar use like Yavorsky, Gill thinks he’s around the right fish to do big things again. But he’s not around many of them.
“I think the odds of me catching a couple big ones tomorrow are pretty high,” he said. “I don’t have any real doubts about the quality I’m around, but the quantity is poor. I have to stay pretty mobile, and I can’t fish behind myself very much, because there just aren’t that many there.”
The top 20 pros after Day 1 on the Harris Chain of Lakes are:
1st: Aaron Yavorsky, Palm Harbor, Fla., five bass, 22-8
2nd: Drew Gill, Mount Carmel, Ill., three bass, 21-0
3rd: Keith Poche, Pike Road, Ala., five bass, 17-12
4th: Marshall Robinson, Landrum, S.C., five bass, 17-9
5th: Caz Anderson, Haysville, N.C., five bass, 17-5
6th: Levi Kohl, Edinburg, Ill., five bass, 15-10
7th: Jared Lintner, Covington, Ga., five bass, 15-4
7th: Ty Faber, Pagosa Springs, Colo., five bass, 15-4
9th: Drew Boggs, Lebanon, Tenn., five bass, 14-13
10th: Brody Campbell, Oxford, Ohio, five bass, 14-10
11th: Ryan Lachniet, Gum Spring, Va., five bass, 13-13
12th: Dylan Nutt, Nashville, Tenn., five bass, 13-6
13th: Gary Klein, Mingus, Texas, five bass, 12-0
14th: Connor Jacob, Peoria, Ill., five bass, 11-14
15th: Clint Knight, Russellville, Ky., four bass, 11-1
16th: Marshall Hughes, Hemphill, Texas, five bass, 10-9
17th: Samuel Fish, Chelsea, Ala., five bass, 10-7
18th: Brandon McMillan, Lake Placid, Fla., five bass, 10-6
19th: Mike Surman, Boca Raton, Fla., three bass, 10-5
20th: Keith Carson, DeBary, Fla., five bass, 10-4
Complete results for the entire field can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.
Overall, there were 440 bass weighing 878 pounds, 10 ounces caught by 134 pros Friday The catch included 46 five-bass limits.
Pro Drew Gill of Mount Carmel, Illinois, earned the Day 1 Berkley Big Bass award of $500 after bringing a bass that weighed 8 pounds, 3 ounces to the scale.
The three-day Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 at the Harris Chain of Lakes Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches is hosted by Discover Lake County Florida and features professional bass anglers competing for a top prize of up to $135,000.
“We are honored to host the first stop of the Major League Fishing Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit here in the Lakefront City of Leesburg,” said Mayor Allyson Berry, City of Leesburg. “Hosting a professional organization of this caliber highlights Leesburg as a premier destination for outdoor recreation and competitive sport fishing. Opening day of competition delivered strong economic activity for our local businesses and showcases our community on a national stage.”
In Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit competition, the full field compete in the two-day opening round on Friday and Saturday in a five-fish, weigh-in format. Only the top 50 pros, based on their two-day cumulative weight, advance to the final round on Championship Sunday, where they will compete for the grand prize of up to $135,000. The winner of the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 at the Harris Chain of Lakes Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches will be determined by the heaviest three-day cumulative weight.
Anglers will launch at 7:30 a.m. ET each day from Ski Beach at Venetian Gardens, located at 201 E. Lake Harris Drive in Leesburg, Florida. Weigh-ins will be held at the same location and will begin at 3:30 p.m. Fans are welcome to attend all launch and weigh-in events and also encouraged to follow the event online throughout the day on the MLFNOW!® live stream and coverage at MajorLeagueFishing.com .
The MLFNOW! broadcast team of Chad McKee and Rob Newell will break down the extended action live all three days of competition from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET. MLFNOW! will be live streamed on MajorLeagueFishing.com, the MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) app and Rumble.
On Friday and Saturday, Feb. 6-7, from 3-5 p.m., MLF invites fans of all ages to the Ski Beach Park, located at 109 E. Dixie Ave. in Leesburg, for the MLF Fishing Show. Fans can watch Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit anglers at the live weigh in, enjoy free food for the first 100 fans each day, enter hourly giveaways and cheer on their favorite anglers. Youth of all ages can take part in a fishing derby (gear and bait provided, weather permitting) and casting contest, and the first 50 kids ages 14 and under will receive a free rod and reel combo each day.
Television coverage of the MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech Stop 1 at the Harris Chain Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches will air as a two-hour episode, premiering at 9 a.m. ET, on Sunday, Sept. 6 on VICE TV.
Proud sponsors of the 2026 MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech include: 7Brew Coffee, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, Bubba, Cigars International, Epic Baits, Grizzly, Mercury, MillerTech, OFF! Deep Woods, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, PiranhO2, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, VOSKER, YETI and Yuengling.
For complete details and updated information visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the MLF5 social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery, Outdoor Channel, VICE, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network, RFD-TV and Game & Fish TV, and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
Johnston takes slim lead in Bassmaster Elite at Lake Guntersville
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Iaconelli’s Insights after 30 years of Fishing Lake Guntersville
Courtesy of Dynamic Sponsorships
Mike Iaconelli began the final Elite Series season of his iconic career this morning along with 100 of his peers on Lake Guntersville to kick off the 2026 Bassmaster campaign. It’s fitting for the first stop of Ike’s swan song to take place on Guntersville, a legendary fishery by any measure. If lakes could be voted into the Hall of Fame, Guntersville would be on the first ballot, much like Iaconelli who was inducted into the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame in 2023.
The 31-year tournament veteran has a unique perspective on Guntersville, as he has competed on this body of water over the span of three decades. Longer than many of his Elite Series competitors have been alive. While tournament bass fishing has seemingly moved in the direction of a young man’s game in recent years, there is no way to replace or replicate experience.
Iaconelli has always had an incredible mind for not just bass fishing, but general wildlife biology. Many fans are familiar with one of his signature phrases of, “fish the moment” which really comes from understanding and predicting the seasonal and daily movements of both bass and baitfish as they go about their aquatic lives. The Team Toyota pro has proven to be one of the best in the world at fishing the moment over the duration of his time fishing at the highest level.
This morning, Iaconelli offered some of his hard-earned knowledge and a few insights on Lake Guntersville just minutes before firing up his Yamaha SHO in search of a strong start to his season.
Q – You’ve competed on this fishery over a span of three decades – what is the most notable difference and the biggest similarity between Guntersville today and 30 years ago?
Iaconelli – “The biggest difference to me is the amount of grass. Grass was always important here, but it used to be about finding key patches of milfoil or hydrilla. Now you cannot go anywhere on Guntersville, I’m talking from dam to dam, without seeing massive beds of eelgrass and other aquatic vegetation. Which makes the fishing better and more confusing, all at the same time!”
“The biggest similarity is the size of the fish. It’s always taken big ones to do well here whether we are talking 2006 when I won an Elite Series tournament in April, or February of 2026. There has always been a massive amount of bait here, which keeps the dinner table full for these bass. Even though Guntersville receives a ton of pressure, the bait coupled with the grass allow this fishery to keep pumping out big ones.”
Q – What kind of weight, per day, will it take to make Sunday’s top 10 cut?
Iaconelli – “It will take over 20-pounds per day to make the final day in my opinion. No doubt about it. In fact, you’re probably going to need 21-to-23-pounds per day to secure a Sunday spot.”
Q – You’ve seen it all throughout your 31-year career, but this years’ hybrid forward facing sonar format is a first for you… how do you feel about it?
Iaconelli – “I like it! I think it is a great compromise to the changing world of fishing. There are a lot of fans and competitors who prefer the old way, then there is another group of fans and competitors that love the new way of fishing. And as we’ve seen the past few seasons, both are very vocal about it. I think this will be a good blend.
“I’m so happy they (B.A.S.S.) went to this in my last season. I’m glad I get to experience this before my days as a full-time tournament pro are done.”
Q – You have been known to excel in cold water scenarios and early spring (late winter) tournaments throughout your illustrious career – what is one key tip you’d give to someone who wants to catch bass in frigid conditions?
Iaconelli – “Regardless of where you are in the country, the transition from winter to spring means the bass will be pre-spawn. Down here in Alabama that’s February, but back home that might be late March, April, or even May. When the season is changing, the bass will be transitioning, too. Because of that, I don’t care where you go, you should always be looking for those transition areas. Which to me, basically means the last little bit of deep water that leads to where those bass are going to want to spawn. Find that and you’ll find bass.”
“On Guntersville I’m looking for ‘touch points’, where the last little bit of deep-water touches something like a point, the side of a flat, a hump or some kind of structure those fish will stage near. Another thing I’m keying on this week is ditches. But not massive, deep ditches like many people imagine. I’m talking 8-to-14-inch ditches in a pocket that these fish will use like highways to get to where they want to be.”
Major League Fishing to Host Celebration for Local Fans with MLF Watch Party and Fishing Show at Ski Beach Park
WHAT:
On Friday and Saturday, MLF invites fans of all ages to Ski Beach Park for the MLF Watch Party and Fishing Show. Fans can watch the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit pros live on the MLFNOW! big screen, enjoy free food for the first 100 fans each day, enter hourly giveaways, browse MLF merchandise and the bargain bait bin, and cheer on their favorite anglers.
WHEN:
Friday, Feb. 6 and Saturday, Feb. 7
3 p.m. – MLF Watch Party & Fishing Show
3:30 p.m. – Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 Weigh-In
WHERE:
Ski Beach Park, 201 E. Lake Harris Dr., Leesburg, Fla.
NOTES:
Youth of all ages can take part in a fishing derby (gear and bait provided, weather permitting), inflatables and a casting contest.
The first 50 kids ages 14 and under will receive a free rod and reel each day.
Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit anglers will be on hand both days to meet and greet fans, sign autographs and take selfies.
Hosted by Discover Lake County Florida, the three-day Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 at the Harris Chain of Lakes Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches features 150 of the world’s top professional anglers competing for a top prize of up to $135,000, crucial points in the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Angler of the Year (AOY) race and coveted qualification spots for the Pro Circuit Championship, hosted by Experience Kissimmee , set for Sept. 18-20 on the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes in Kissimmee, Florida. Competitors are also vying for REDCREST 2027 qualification and a coveted spot on the MLF Bass Pro Tour – the sport’s premier circuit.
For complete details and updated information on Major League Fishing and the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the MLF5 social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery, Outdoor Channel, VICE, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network, RFD-TV and Game & Fish TV and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
FISHING/BOATING: A Short Evolution
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Whitewater Fishing’s new Flats Short results from the evolution of familiar, functional, and comfortable gym shorts |
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MUSKEGON, Mich. (Februrary 2, 2026) – The story goes that some of the Whitewater young guns – hardcore angling high schoolers and collegiate athletes – asked for shorts they could wear hard and be comfortable in while practice-fishing before tournaments. Those days are often marked by sunrise to sunset slugfests coupled with oppressive temperatures in the afternoon, so comfort is a must. Whitewater’s challenge was to develop shorts that perform like the best-of-the-best gym shorts, but with fishing features and fabrics. And after final samples were tested and ultimately approved, the new Flats Short was born. |
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“We really ended up with a do-it-all short,” said Whitewater Fishing Merchandise Manager, Doug Veldhuizen. “They’re great for every outdoor pursuit but really exceed expectations for fishing.” Constructed from a distinctly comfortable 175g quick-dry fabric blend, the Flats Short balances performance and stylish, everyday wearability. With built-in stretch and a soft hand feel, they move with you while drying fast after spray, sweat, or a quick rinse. And the stain-release treatment means salt, sunscreen, and fish slime won’t linger – just wash and they’re ready for the next trip. The soft and technical fabric results from a rather complex composition of 40% recycled polyester, 34% polyester, 17% cotton, and 9% spandex. Whitewater didn’t land on that formula by throwing a dart at a board, either. Rather, it came from rigorously testing wide ranging fabrics until arriving at perfection. |
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Intelligent storage keeps essentials secure without getting in the way with two drop-in front pockets for quick grabs and a hook-and-loop back pocket with drainage grommet, which sheds water fast. A zip-closure right-side pocket also keeps keys, wallet, or smartphone locked down and out of the drink. An elastic waistband with adjustable drawcord lets you dial in comfort while fishing and releases some pressure after a second helping of beer-battered fish. And the Flats Short’s 8-inch inseam hits the sweet spot for action, adventure, and a smart look. |
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Flats Short FEATURES:
MSRP $59.99 |
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ABOUT WHITEWATER Whitewater performance fishing apparel gives anglers distinct advantages whenever Mother Nature’s unpredictability conspires to ruin angling adventures. Whether faced with wind, rain, snow, sun, or extreme temperatures, Whitewater apparel equips anglers with the ability and confidence to overcome the elements, so they apply their focus and energies on fighting fish, not the conditions. Whitewater is a brand by Nexus Outdoors, headquartered in Muskegon, Michigan, USA. Learn more and order at whitewaterfish.com. |
CrushCity and Sufix to be Title Sponsors of the Hartwell Slam
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Walters Joins the ChatterBait® Team
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Did Feider catch a 9-pounder at Guntersville with an ice fishing lure?
Courtesy of Vexus Boats
Minnesota pro Seth Feider seems unphased by the frigid temps surrounding the 2026 Bassmaster Elite Series opener on Guntersville, AL. Understandably, given the fact he caught a 9-pounder on the final day of practice Tuesday.
But did he use one of the Rapala ice fishing lures you see him holding here to catch that G’Ville giant?
Q: Let’s start with an easy one. Did you use your Vexus® as an ice breaker ship at any point this week?
Feider: Absolutely! All the shallow bays were totally iced over the first morning of practice when it was 14-degrees. I waited until noon to launch that day.
Q: What’s the coldest water you’ve ever caught a bass from a boat in?
Feider: Right here. This week. Surface temp was 36 degrees.
Q: And you caught 9-pounder yesterday?
Feider: Yup, on a bait that looks a whole lot like this Rapala Rippin Blade. I caught the 9-pounder on a lipless crankbait, working it almost exactly like I slowly “yo-yo” a blade bait off the bottom in cold water.
Q: It’s been an exceptionally cold winter for most Americans. What advice would you give fans on how to catch a largemouth as things first start to thaw out?
Feider: Target the same shallow bays that ice over first. Those shallow bays may ice over first, but they’re also the same places that warm the fastest. Use a lipless crankbait or a ChatterBait.
Q: It may be frigid here, but it’s still Guntersville. How many limits over 20-pounds should fans expect to see weighed-in on Day 1?
Feider: They’ll be 10 to 20 guys with at least a 20-pound limit, and somebody’s probably gonna catch a 30-pound limit.
Arey Welcomes Old-School Test as Elite Series Opens on Lake Guntersville
By Walker Smith, Courtesy of Dynamic Sponsorships
Team Toyota pro Matt Arey pulled into Lake Guntersville with a familiar mix of confidence and urgency, the kind that comes from years of experience and the sting of narrowly missing a goal. As the 2026 Bassmaster Elite Series season opens on one of the Tennessee River’s most storied fisheries, Arey believes this event could feel different from the very first cast.
The biggest reason has nothing to do with water level, weather or seasonal movement. Instead, it’s what won’t be allowed.
“It’s refreshing to not have to worry about forward-facing sonar during this event,” Arey said plainly. “It’s actually a lot of weight on your shoulders during practice for those events (allowing FFS).”
With the season-opening Elite Series tournament designated as a non-forward-facing sonar event, anglers will be forced to rely on instincts, traditional electronics and decision-making. For a veteran like Arey, it’s a welcome change that rewards adaptability rather than screen time.
“I can fish a lot more freely now,” he said. “I can go back to more natural fishing, if that makes sense. I love letting the fish dictate how I need to make my next move.”
Guntersville has long been known as a grass fishery, capable of producing massive limits and dramatic swings. Without forward-facing sonar, Arey expects the lake to fish truer to its roots, where reading water, understanding grass composition and bite windows will matter more than locating and targeting individual fish.
“The fact that Guntersville is not a forward-facing sonar event totally changes how we all fish,” Arey said. “It’s going to be more about versatility now in my opinion.”
That versatility will be tested across miles of submerged vegetation and subtle contour changes. Arey believes multiple patterns will be in play and the winning angler will likely be the one who can adjust on the fly as conditions change throughout the day.
“There will probably be groups of fish in the grass,” he said. “Some will be caught on bluffs and isolated vegetation. High spots in the grass and areas with a hard bottom could play in a big way, too. My Lowrance mapping is going to be a major key during this event.”
Electronics still matter, just not in the same way. For Arey, detailed mapping and understanding bottom composition could be the difference between a good day and a great one. Subtle rises, shell beds and transitions often hold the better-quality fish, especially when bass are grouping up.
Another variable anglers will have to manage is eel grass, which can be both productive and frustrating.
“Eel grass is also going to play a large factor,” Arey said. “It’s hard to fish efficiently. The last few times we’ve been here it was floating everywhere and it’s hard to fish.”
Floating grass can slow anglers down and limit presentations, but it can also position fish in predictable areas. Arey noted that efficiency is always critical fishing against this bunch, particularly during practice when covering water and eliminating unproductive areas is essential.
That sense of discovery is part of what excites him most about this tournament. Without forward-facing sonar, there’s a greater chance that someone stumbles onto something special rather than watching it swim across a screen.
“I have a gut feeling that someone is going to figure out a hidden gem during practice,” Arey said. “This time of year, fish love to group up in the grass and if you run across the right wad of them, you can get right in a hurry.”
Those “wads” of fish can turn an average day into a career-defining moment on Guntersville. Arey has seen it happen before and he’s approaching this event with an open mind and a willingness to cover water.
“I’ve been covering a lot of water in practice,” he said. “I could see someone fishing shallow, dead grass mats with a jig. They won’t get many bites but the ones they get will be big.”
Big bites have never been the issue for Arey, who has built a reputation as one of the Elite Series’ most consistent anglers. Consistency, however, doesn’t guarantee championships, a lesson that hit especially close to home last season.
“I missed my first championship in 15 years in 2025,” Arey said. “It all came down to decision making. People don’t realize how good everyone is. One small, wrong move can cost you a lot of AOY points.”
That near miss has lingered through the offseason, serving as motivation and a reminder of how thin the margins are at the highest level of professional bass fishing. Every decision, from choosing a starting area to leaving biting fish in search of something better, carries weight.
For Arey, the disappointment has sparked reflection rather than regret.
“Maybe I got a little too comfortable,” he said. “But this year I’m as driven as I’ve ever been. I am refreshed and ready to go.”
Arey enters the 2026 season with a clear head, a strong understanding of Guntersville and a format that suits his fishing style. The absence of forward-facing sonar in some events will put a greater emphasis on experience, intuition and pattern recognition. Areas where Arey excels.
As the first Elite Series event of the year gets underway, Lake Guntersville promises to deliver drama, big weights and tough decisions. For Matt Arey, it also represents a fresh start, a chance to fish freely and let the lake reveal its secrets the old-fashioned way.
Progressive Insurance® named Platinum Sponsor and Official Insurance of Bassmaster
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. announced today that Progressive Insurance has been named a Platinum Sponsor and the Official Insurance of Bassmaster, further strengthening a long-standing relationship between the two organizations and underscoring Progressive’s commitment to professional bass fishing and the outdoor lifestyle.
As part of the agreement, Progressive will serve as the title sponsor of the Bassmaster Angler of the Year award, the Bassmaster Elite Series, the Bassmaster Classic Celebrity Pro-Am and the Bassmaster Classic Tailgate. Progressive will also be the title sponsor of one Bassmaster Elite Series tournament during the season.
“As the country’s No. 1 boat insurer, Progressive is thrilled to strengthen its involvement with Bassmaster, an organization that embodies our passion for the outdoors and commitment to community,” said Eric Doubler, Progressive Recreational Lines Direct Business Leader. “With our expanded sponsorship, we look forward to deepening our connection with the amazing angler community while enhancing and delivering memorable experiences to fishing enthusiasts and fans.”
Progressive’s expanded role connects the brand with Bassmaster’s most prestigious competitive honors and marquee fan experiences. The Bassmaster Angler of the Year award is widely regarded as the most respected title in professional bass fishing, recognizing consistent excellence and performance across an entire Elite Series season. Earning Angler of the Year honors requires anglers to compete at the highest level across diverse fisheries and conditions, making the award a defining career achievement.
Progressive will serve as title sponsor of the Bassmaster Elite Series, which features the sport’s best anglers competing across the country on iconic fisheries, with each event drawing national attention through live coverage, broadcast programming and extensive digital storytelling. The series serves as the primary pathway to the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour and showcases the skill, preparation and innovation that define elite-level competition.
Progressive’s title sponsorship of the Bassmaster Elite Series tournament further reinforces its presence on the water. Each Elite Series event is a multi-day competition that brings anglers, fans and local communities together, generating significant economic impact while highlighting fisheries management and conservation efforts in host regions.
The Bassmaster Classic Celebrity Pro-Am, another event sponsored by Progressive, pairs professional anglers with celebrities, industry leaders and notable outdoor enthusiasts in a unique format that blends competition with entertainment. Held during Classic week, the event provides a high-profile platform to introduce new audiences to the sport while celebrating the broader fishing lifestyle.
Progressive will also serve as the title sponsor of the Bassmaster Classic Tailgate, a fan-focused experience that has become a centerpiece of Classic week. The Tailgate offers interactive activities, sponsor exhibits, giveaways and live entertainment, creating a welcoming environment for families and fans to connect with the sport beyond the weigh-in stage.
Progressive and B.A.S.S. share in their focus on innovation, performance and a deep connection to life on the water. Both organizations serve passionate, dedicated audiences — anglers, boaters and outdoor enthusiasts — who depend on reliability, preparation and trust in the brands and institutions that support their lifestyle.
Progressive provides boat insurance for anglers and boaters through comprehensive insurance solutions and easy-to-use digital tools, while B.A.S.S. leads the sport through conservation efforts, angler education and stewardship initiatives designed to preserve bass fishing for future generations.
“Progressive has been an outstanding supporter of B.A.S.S. for many years, and this expanded agreement reflects our shared commitment to the anglers and fans who make this sport so special,” said Phillip Johnson, B.A.S.S. Chief Operating Officer. “Having Progressive as a Platinum Sponsor and the Official Insurance of Bassmaster allows us to elevate our premier events while continuing to deliver exceptional experiences for our audience.”
Through integrated branding across live events, broadcast coverage and digital platforms, Progressive will have an opportunity to engage with millions of fans throughout the season while reinforcing its connection to the fishing and boating community.
For more information on Bassmaster events and sponsorship opportunities, visit Bassmaster.com.
About Progressive Insurance®
Progressive Insurance® makes it easy to understand, buy and use car insurance, home insurance, and other protection needs. Progressive offers choices so consumers can reach us however it's most convenient for them — online at progressive.com, by phone at 1-800-PROGRESSIVE, via the Progressive mobile app, or in-person with a local agent.
Progressive provides insurance for personal and commercial autos and trucks, motorcycles, boats, recreational vehicles, and homes; it is the second largest personal auto insurer in the country, a leading seller of commercial auto, motorcycle
Founded in 1937, Progressive continues its long history of offering shopping tools and services that save customers time and money, like Name Your Price®, Snapshot®, and HomeQuote Explorer®.
The Common Shares of The Progressive Corporation, the Mayfield Village, Ohio-based holding company, trade publicly at NYSE: PGR.
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
South Carolina Readies to Host Major League Fishing’s Columbia PFG College Fishing Presented by Abu Garcia National Championship on Lake Murray
COLUMBIA, S.C. (Feb. 3, 2026) – Hundreds of the nation’s best collegiate bass-fishing anglers from across the country will be in Columbia, South Carolina, next week, Feb. 12-14, for the 2026 Columbia PFG College Fishing Presented by Abu Garcia National Championship on Lake Murray.
Hosted by the Capital City Lake Murray Country Regional Tourism Board , the 17th annual College Fishing National Championship will bring together up to 160 qualified teams from across the country, as the nation’s top collegiate anglers compete for a $43,500 top prize package that includes a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard and an additional $10,000. The second-place team will also earn a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard, meaning two boats are up for grabs in the biggest MLF College Fishing event of the season. Every team that finishes in the top 10 will take home at least $1,000 in the no-entry-fee Championship.
"Capital City/Lake Murray Country is honored to host the MLF College Fishing season kickoff with the Abu Garcia National Championship at Lake Murray, welcoming the top teams from the 2025 season,” said Vickie Davis, Executive Director of Capital City/Lake Murray Country. "This tournament provides a meaningful boost to the local economy, supporting jobs and businesses throughout the region, while showcasing Lake Murray as a premier destination for anglers and visitors alike.”
In addition to the new boats, both members of the winning team and the runners-up at the 2026 Columbia PFG College Fishing National Championship will advance to the 2026 Toyota Series Championship where they will compete as boaters for a top prize of up to $235,000. The winning team’s highest finishing team member at the Toyota Series Championship will also advance to REDCREST 2027 to compete against the world’s best pros for the sport’s top prize of $300,000.
Both members of the third-place team at the College Fishing National Championship will advance to the 2026 Toyota Series Championship to compete as co-anglers for a shot at winning a $33,500 Phoenix 518 pro with a 115-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard.
Few anglers know Lake Murray better than Bass Pro Tour angler Anthony Gagliardi of Prosperity, South Carolina , who lives on the fishery and has stacked up multiple wins and hundreds of thousands of dollars in earnings there over the course of his career. Gagliardi said he expects Murray to demonstrate why it’s one of the best bass-fishing lakes on the planet during the winter-time event next week.
“We’re right in the tough part of winter right now,” Gagliardi said. “We’ve had some really cold weather here – lows down into the 20s. The water temperature is going to be low, but I don’t think that’s going to change much. We’re just going to see a lot of typical wintertime fishing in this one.”
Despite the cold, Gagliardi said Lake Murray no longer fishes strictly as a deep-water reservoir in winter. While offshore structure will certainly factor, he expects a mix of patterns to develop with some shallow fish still in play depending on daily conditions.
“There’s always some shallow fish here now,” Gagliardi explained. “It used to be that most of the bass got caught deep in the winter, but it’s not really like that now. Guys will catch some cranking, flipping a jig, and that probably depends on how cold it actually gets. The crankbait bite is something that’s really fairly consistent this time of year.”
Offshore, forward-facing sonar tactics are expected to be a major player, particularly around baitfish, and Gagliardi anticipates plenty of competitors leaning on their electronics to locate schools holding deeper.
“There are going to be guys who do well just scoping,” Gagliardi said. “They’ll find bait balls, fish around larger trees and shad, and that’s definitely going to be a factor. You’ll also see some fish caught on the bottom deep – dragging a jig, drop-shotting around deeper rock and stuff like that.”
Shallow opportunities won’t disappear entirely, especially if conditions line up with wind or sunshine, and Gagliardi noted that docks could quietly produce throughout the event.
“If the sun gets up, you might see some teams catching fish around docks,” he said. “A jig, a jerkbait – things like that. Nothing off the wall. It’s just a typical wintertime deal where guys are going to have to play the conditions day by day.”
As for what it will take to win over three days, Gagliardi expects strong daily weights, but consistency will be the strongest factor in determining the next National Champion.
“You’ve got to average 20 pounds a day,” Gagliardi said. “Single-day tournaments this time of year are often mid-20s, sometimes upper 20s, but doing that for three consecutive days is tough. If you can average 20 pounds a day for three days, that’s what it’s going to take to win this one.”
Anglers will take off from Dreher Island State Park, located at 3677 State Park Road, in Prosperity, South Carolina, at 7:30 a.m. ET each day of competition. Weigh-ins will be held at the State Park starting at 3:45 p.m. and will be livestreamed daily. Fans are welcome to attend the event or tune in to the weigh-in and follow the online coverage at MajorLeagueFishing.com .
The MLFNOW! broadcast team of Chad McKee and Rob Newell will break down the extended action live on Championship Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. ET. MLFNOW! will be live streamed on MajorLeagueFishing.com, the MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) app and Rumble.
Television coverage of the 2026 MLF Columbia PFG College Fishing Presented by Abu Garcia National Championship on Lake Murray will air as a one-hour episode, premiering at 9 a.m. ET, on Saturday, Aug. 23 on Vice TV.
The 2025 MLF Abu Garcia College Fishing Presented by YETI season featured college teams from across the country competing in six regular-season tournaments. The top 15 percent of teams from each regular-season tournament qualified to compete in the 2026 Columbia PFG College Fishing Presented by Abu Garcia National Championship.
Proud sponsors of the 2026 MLF Columbia PFG College Fishing Presented by Abu Garcia include: 7Brew Coffee, Abu Garcia, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, BUBBA, Columbia PFG, Epic Baits, Lew’s, Mercury, MillerTech, OFF! Deep Woods, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, PirahnO2, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Strike King, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, VOSKER and YETI.
For complete details and updated tournament information, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular College Fishing updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF5’s social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery, Outdoor Channel, VICE, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network, RFD-TV and Game & Fish TV, and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
SITKA GEAR LAUNCHES FISH WITH PURPOSE-BUILT SYSTEMS FOR ALL WATERS
Bringing technical performance and all-waters design to anglers who give a damn.
BOZEMAN, Mont. (Feb. 3, 2026) – SITKA Gear, the industry leader in high-performance hunting apparel, today announced its expansion into the fishing category with SITKA Fish, drawing on more than two decades of technical outdoor expertise. The new category introduces purpose-built systems designed to perform across all waters.
The U.S. fishing market continues to grow, with 57.9 million participants,1 representing a significant opportunity in the fishing apparel segment. With 70 percent of existing SITKA customers already identifying as anglers, the brand is uniquely positioned to serve this growing market. The brand enters this space with advanced technology, rigorous testing across diverse fishing environments, and diverse conservation partnerships built into the business model from day one.
Since SITKA’s founding, the company has continually taken the harder, divergent path solving real problems with advanced innovation and putting the pursuit, not lifestyle, at the center of everything. SITKA is launching Fish with a commitment to entering the category differently by addressing the performance gaps anglers have tolerated for too long. The expansion evolves the brand from a seasonal hunting specialist into a year-round technical apparel company serving the modern sportsman across pursuits.
“Fishing is more than a hobby for our customers—it is part of how they live,” said Matt Carara, Product Line Manager at SITKA Gear. “With SITKA Fish, we’re delivering gear that removes barriers to the pursuit of fishing, so anglers can focus on connecting with the fish, the environment, and the people around them. These purpose-built skin to shell systems perform across all waters, giving every cast and step the attention it deserves.”
SITKA Fish offers a complete suite of products engineered for all-water performance—not just single fishing disciplines. The range is headlined by:
● Crosscurrent Wading System: A complete wading solution featuring zip and non-zip stockingfoot waders ($800–$1,000) built with four-layer GORE-TEX PRO construction, along with purpose-built wading boots ($299 Rubber $249 Felt) that solve the industry’s most persistent pain points—durability through wet/dry cycles, replaceable traction systems, and quick-drying materials.
● CAT-5 Jacket and Bib System: A technical rain and wind system featuring a jacket and bib (Jacket $500, Bib $500) built using GORE-TEX with Stretch technology—rare in fishing outerwear—delivering guaranteed waterproof protection without sacrificing mobility for casting, netting, and all-day wear.
● Guard Sun Hoodie ($99) and Guard LS Shirt ($129): Lightweight warm-weather fishing essentials delivering integrated UPF 50+ sun protection and Insect Shield treatment that won’t wash out, providing breathable, all-day protection on the water.
For more information on this gear, and the full range of products, visit https://www.sitkagear.com/fish
To demonstrate the all-water capability of SITKA Fish gear, the brand produced four cinematic films documenting full time watermen and the gear they rely on across North America. The films include "A Town Called Sitka" (steelhead in Alaska), "Feathers to Fins" (turkey and permit in the Yucatán), "Casting for Ghosts" (musky in the Mid-west), and "Kings to Giants" (tarpon and large mouth bass in Florida). The films will release on a rolling schedule from February through June 2026.
SITKA is not just innovating gear—it is rethinking how products interact with the environment. The same way SITKA engineers gear to work as a system, it invests in conservation efforts that strengthen the entire environment supporting fish, wildlife, and their habitats. SITKA Fish launches with five foundational conservation partnerships: Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership (modernizing access to our public waters), American Rivers (protecting and restoring rivers), Keep Fish Wet (science-based catch-and-release education), Captains for Clean Water (Everglades and clean water restoration), and Backcountry Hunters & Angler’s Armed Forces Initiative with Chesapeake Bay Foundation (habitat restoration). Together, these partnerships safeguard the future of the outdoor pursuits SITKA depends on.
“At SITKA, conservation is not a campaign—it is core to how we show up in the outdoors,” said Lindsey Davis, Director of Conservation at SITKA Gear. “Rooted in science and shared stewardship, our whole-ecosystem approach guides our entry into fishing, supporting partners who protect water ecologies at scale for the benefit of many species.
Together, the product line and conservation work mark SITKA’s commitment to serving anglers with gear built for the water—and for the future of the environments they depend on.
SITKA Fish products will be available starting February 3, 2026, at https://www.sitkagear.com/fish, in SITKA Gear retail locations, and at select specialty retailers nationwide.
About SITKA Gear
SITKA Gear, based in Bozeman, Montana, created and leads the technical hunting apparel category. The company is recognized for its commitment to continually improving the life experience of the hunter and for its support of healthy ecosystems and wildlife populations. SITKA products work together in systems, and each piece is designed and tested rigorously in both the lab and the field. SITKA is owned by W.L. Gore & Associates, an advanced materials company well known for GORE-TEX™ fabrics and many other industry-leading innovations that provide durable comfort and protection to outdoor enthusiasts. Go to sitkagear.com to learn more about how SITKA enhances the full life experience of the hunter.
Yokohama Tire Named presenting sponsor of Bassmaster Classic Celebrity Pro-Am and Classic Weigh-Ins; title sponsor of the Bassmaster Elite at Santee Cooper Lakes
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. has announced a multifaceted partnership with Yokohama Tire, which will serve as the presenting sponsor of the Bassmaster Classic Celebrity Pro-Am, the presenting sponsor of all Bassmaster Classic weigh-ins and the title sponsor of the Bassmaster Elite at Santee Cooper Lakes.
The expanded relationship strengthens Yokohama’s long-standing presence with Bassmaster fans and competitors while highlighting the brand’s rugged, adventure-ready GEOLANDAR® line of truck and CUV/SUV tires.
“Yokohama is once again proud to partner with Bassmaster on several fan-related activities and activations,” said Andrew Briggs, Yokohama Tire's senior vice president of marketing and product management. “We're looking forward to another successful year connecting with Bassmaster's passionate fan base about our wide range of rugged GEOLANDAR® truck and CUV/SUV tires.”
As presenting sponsor of the Bassmaster Classic Celebrity Pro-Am, Yokohama will help kick off one of sportfishing’s most celebrated weeks by pairing celebrities, influencers and top Bassmaster anglers for a fun and high-energy exhibition event. The partnership also elevates the brand’s presence on the sport’s biggest stage as presenting sponsor of the Bassmaster Classic weigh-ins, where thousands of fans gather daily to celebrate the biggest moments of championship week.
Yokohama will also headline the Bassmaster Elite at Santee Cooper Lakes, one of the most anticipated destinations on the 2026 Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series schedule. The South Carolina fishery is known for producing heavyweight largemouth bass and dramatic leaderboard swings — a perfect setting for showcasing a brand built around performance and durability.
“Bassmaster fans are among the most loyal and engaged in sports, and Yokohama has continually demonstrated a commitment to enhancing their experience, both on-site and through our media platforms,” said Phillip Johnson, Chief Operating Officer of B.A.S.S. “Their GEOLANDAR® lineup has become a trusted favorite for anglers and outdoorsmen, and we’re thrilled to expand our partnership across some of the most visible and exciting moments of the Bassmaster season.”
Through on-site activations, digital integration and fan-focused promotions, Yokohama’s expanded sponsorship will provide unique opportunities to engage with the millions of Bassmaster fans who travel, tow and explore the outdoors year-round.
About Yokohama Tire Corporation
Yokohama Tire Corporation is the North American manufacturing and marketing arm of Tokyo, Japan-based The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd., a global manufacturing and sales company of premium tires since 1917. Servicing an extensive sales network throughout the U.S., Yokohama Tire Corporation is a leader in technology, innovation, sustainable manufacturing, and environmentally conscious products. The company’s complete product line includes tires for high-performance, light truck, passenger car, and commercial truck and bus. For more information on Yokohama’s broad product line, visit www.yokohamatire.com and www.yokohamatruck.com.
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
MLF Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats Set to Open Southwestern Division at Sam Rayburn Reservoir
BROOKELAND, Texas (Feb. 3, 2026) – The Major League Fishing (MLF) Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats will continue its 2026 season in Brookeland, Texas, next week, Feb. 12-14, with the first event of the Southwestern division – the Toyota Series at Sam Rayburn Reservoir Presented by Suzuki Marine.
The three-day tournament, hosted by the Jasper-Lake Sam Rayburn Area Chamber of Commerce, will feature a roster of the region’s best bass-fishing pros and co-anglers competing for a top prize of up to $100,000 in the pro division and a new Phoenix 518 Pro boat with a 115-horsepower outboard motor plus $5,000 in the co-angler division.
“It’s Sam Rayburn – I’m sure this one is going to be good,” said Bass Pro Tour angler Marshall Hughes of Hemphill, Texas . “The lake is really low, but I don’t think that’s going to hurt the fish a whole lot. Rayburn’s one of those places that can still show out even when conditions aren’t perfect.”
One noticeable change from past winters is the lack of vegetation, which Hughes believes could push competitors toward more traditional wintertime patterns. With limited grass growth across much of the reservoir, anglers are likely to focus their efforts offshore and along key staging areas as bass begin moving toward the prespawn.
“Since there’s not a whole lot of grass this year, I think it’ll be more of an offshore deal,” Hughes explained. “That prespawn stuff – tapering drains and areas like that, is what I’d be looking at.”
As for what anglers will have tied on, Hughes expects a familiar Rayburn playbook to come into play, built around bottom-contact baits and reaction lures that excel in colder water.
“Definitely a crankbait,” Hughes said. “An A-rig, a Carolina rig like always, and dragging a jig around. That’s usually hard to beat this time of year.”
The event will also be one of the first Toyota Series tournaments contested under new forward-facing sonar guidelines, and Hughes believes those limits will influence strategy in a meaningful way.
“It’ll definitely play a role,” Hughes said. “Guys aren’t going to be able to use forward-facing sonar all day, so they’re going to have to drag something around offshore. It’ll be really interesting to see how it plays out.”
Despite the lower water levels, Hughes expects the field to spread out across the massive reservoir, noting that big bites are always in play no matter where anglers choose to fish.
“Rayburn’s one of those places you’re liable to catch a 10-pounder anywhere,” Hughes said. “The lake being low might group guys up a little, but there’s still plenty of water for people to spread out.”
When it comes to winning weight, Hughes anticipates solid but not outrageous numbers, with consistency being the key over three days of competition.
“I’d guess that about 21 pounds a day will likely win this thing,” Hughes said. “Rayburn will always throw some big bags, but I don’t know if there’ll be as many as usual. Still, if you can average around that, you’ll be right there at the end.”
Anglers will begin each day at 7 a.m. CT, launching from the Umphrey Family Pavilion, located at 5438 Sam Rayburn Parkway in Brookeland. Weigh-ins will take place at the Umphrey Family Pavilion and will start at 3 p.m. daily. Fans are invited to attend in person and can also stay connected by following the “MLF Live” weigh-in broadcasts and daily updates on MajorLeagueFishing.com.
In Toyota Series regular-season competition, payouts are based on the number of participants competing in the event, scaling up for every 20 boats over 160 and scaling down for every boat below 160. With a 160-boat field, pros fish for a top prize of up to $75,000, if Phoenix MLF Bonus qualified. Co-anglers cast for the top prize of a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard (valued at $33,500). With a 260-boat field, pros fish for a top award of up to $100,000, if Phoenix MLF Bonus qualified. Co-anglers cast for the top prize of a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard plus $5,000 cash.
The 2026 Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats consists of five divisions – Central, Northern, Plains, Southern and Southwestern – each holding three regular-season events, along with the International and Wild Card divisions. Anglers who fish in any of the five divisions or the Wild Card division and finish in the top 25 will qualify for the no-entry-fee Toyota Series Championship for a shot at winning up to $235,000 and a qualification to REDCREST 2027. The winning co-angler at the championship earns a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard. The 2026 Toyota Series Championship will be held Nov. 5-7 on Pickwick Lake in Counce, Tennessee, and is hosted by Explore Pickwick Lake & Hardin County Tourism.
Proud sponsors of the 2026 MLF Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats include: 7Brew, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, BUBBA, Cigars International, Epic Baits, Grizzly, Lew’s, Mercury, MillerTech, OFF! Deep Woods, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, PirahnO2, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Strike King, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, VOSKER, YETI and Yuengling.
For complete details and updated information visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular Toyota Series updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the MLF5 social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery, Outdoor Channel, VICE, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network, RFD-TV and Game & Fish TV, and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
REDARC Tow-Pro Link Now Available
The All-New Brake Controller Redefines Towing Safety, Convenience, and Performance.
LONSDALE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA – February 2, 2026 – REDARC, the industry leader in power management systems and towing for over 45 years, introduces the Tow-Pro Link — a next-generation brake controller that makes towing simpler, safer, smarter, and more connected than ever. The dedicated Bluetooth remote delivers dependable braking control on every drive, while the smartphone app and Apple CarPlay/Android integration add additional flexibility. With its true plug-and-play design, the Tow-Pro Link installs effortlessly with no dash modifications required.
As the newest addition to the Tow-Pro family, the Tow-Pro Link sets unprecedented standards in towing convenience, safety, and control, making it an ideal choice for both serious and casual towers alike. The system combines REDARC’s proven reliability with new levels of connectivity and intelligent performance. Through the Tow-Pro app, users can test trailer brake lights, adjust braking sensitivity, and receive over-the-air updates via an intuitive Bluetooth connection. The Tow-Pro Link will also include native Apple CarPlay integration, bringing key Tow-Pro information and select controls directly into the vehicle’s existing infotainment system. Every essential function is also accessible through the included physical Bluetooth remote – ensuring vital functionality is never left solely up to a smartphone or infotainment system.
REDARC has updated its key safety feature for the Tow-Pro Link. SwayStop Plus offers a one-touch trailer sway recovery by automatically applying the trailer's brakes until the sway stops, allowing drivers to keep hands on the wheel. A built-in 6-axis sensor continuously monitors movement, delivering smooth, responsive braking and confident control in any environment. By measuring pitch, roll, and yaw in addition to forward and lateral movement, it provides earlier and more precise brake response than traditional single or dual-axis systems, improving safety on uneven roads and during sudden maneuvers.
Ensuring a simple, less than 15 minute installation process, the Tow-Pro Link does not require drilling or other modifications to the vehicle’s dash or firewall. Simply connect the controller between the vehicle harness and the back of the standard 7-pin connector, then power the Bluetooth remote head via USB. At 55% smaller than the leading competitor, it features a slim design and a waterproof IP rating, allowing several basic mounting options, including a simple cable tie option.
For when the terrain varies, the Tow-Pro Link offers two distinct braking modes: Everyday Mode (proportional braking) for smooth, consistent control in normal driving, and Manual Offroad Mode for steep descents, sand, mud, and uneven terrain, providing drivers with precise braking power in even the toughest conditions.
Manufactured and rigorously tested in Australia, the Tow-Pro Link upholds REDARC’s reputation for building products that perform in the world’s harshest conditions. Its ultrasonic-welded enclosure and moisture-controlled venting protect internal components from water, dust, and debris, ensuring long-term reliability wherever the road or trail leads.
With its blend of smart technology, safety, and simplicity, the Tow-Pro Link represents a new era in towing, empowering drivers with complete confidence and control every mile of the way. For more information about REDARC and the innovative Tow-Pro Link, visit https://www.redarcelectronics.com/us/tow-pro-link-electric-brake-controller
About REDARC
For over 45 years, REDARC has been a trusted name in power management and towing solutions, allowing adventurers to bring the comforts of modern living to the most remote locations. With products engineered, tested, and manufactured in Australia, REDARC delivers power systems that charge and manage batteries through vehicle, solar, or utility power. These systems power everything from essential safety equipment to household appliances, making outdoor adventures safer, longer, and more enjoyable. Whether you're camping, overlanding, or touring REDARC ensures that you have the power to enjoy your outdoor experience with confidence.
About Idea Ranch
Idea Ranch is a full-service advertising, public relations, and consumer insights firm headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with offices in Wichita, Kansas, and Durango, Colorado. The firm has a diversified list of clients across the country and is an industry-leading marketing-communications company building brands in the outdoor recreation, passion sports, and farm & ranch sectors. For more information, please visit www.idearanch.com.
Banks Shaw Wins Toyota Series Season Opener at Lake Okeechobee by 3 Ounces
CLEWISTON, Fla. (Feb. 1, 2026) – One of the hottest anglers in bass fishing, Banks Shaw of Harrison, Tennessee, earned his third major win in three years with Major League Fishing (MLF), edging out Kyle Cortiana Saturday for the top spot at the Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats Southern Division event on Lake Okeechobee. Weighing 13 pounds, 12 ounces on the final day, Shaw totaled up 49-5 to beat out Cortiana by 3 ounces and earn $79,250, which included the Phoenix MLF Bonus and Tackle Warehouse Rewards.
The win also qualified Shaw for the Toyota Series Championship this fall on Pickwick Lake, which will give him a little wiggle room in an already packed schedule. This season, Shaw is fishing his rookie year on the Bass Pro Tour, and looking to defend his Angler of the Year (AOY) season on the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit – a full plate for someone still taking classes at the University of North Alabama.
With cold weather affecting the bite all week, it didn’t take big weights to win this round on Okeechobee. But Shaw was just a bit better than Cortiana in the end, and the pair stood head and shoulders over the rest of the field when the scales closed on the final day.
It’s not uncommon for anglers to be bunched up in areas in Florida; in fact, fishing alone is sometimes a bad thing. But when it’s good, it tends to be very good, and Shaw caught the bulk of his weight this week from one area that nobody else was fishing.
“I found fish in two areas, but I knew one was going to have a ton of pressure,” Shaw said. “I kind of focused on the one area where I knew there wouldn’t be many people. I caught ‘em the first day, a big one right off the bat, and then after that it was tough to even get a limit.”
On Day 1, Shaw caught two of his limit fish with forward-facing sonar on, and three without. On Day 2, he played things a little smarter.
“Day 2, I had a better idea when they would turn on and start feeding,” he said. “So, I was able to use my forward-facing to target those fish. The second day went super smooth, other than losing fish – I had a chance to have a good lead.”
On Day 2, Shaw weighed five fish caught on forward-facing sonar and even used some of his three hours to practice – which turned out to be key for Day 3.
“I mixed it up today a little bit, I thought for sure I could catch some more fish in my main area, but with having such tough mornings, I decided to start in my secondary area,” Shaw said. “That’s what produced most of my weight today – I caught four of my fish there.”
Plying a jerkbait and a finesse presentation, Shaw abandoned his secondary area halfway through the day and turned his forward-facing sonar on, only to be victimized by the contrary weather.
“Luckily my main area was clean right when I pulled up to it, and I caught my biggest fish in there – a 3 1/2-pounder,” he said. “Right after that, the wind picked up. I made one pass, saw some really big ones and didn’t get them to bite, and then all of a sudden the water just dirtied up. You couldn’t really even see the fish, and they weren’t acting right.”
On Day 3, only one of Shaw’s fish came when he had his sonar turned on, and he spent a good deal of time with a Rapala Mavrik 110 jerkbait in hand, with 12-pound Sufix Advance and a 6-foot, 10-inch, medium 13 Fishing Myth rod.
Coming off a Top 10 to start the year on the Bass Pro Tour and a string of Top-10 finishes on the Invitationals and Toyota Series in 2025, Shaw was itching to seal the deal again.
“I was on the way down here, and I told Josh, my cameraman, ‘I’m due for a win,’” Shaw admitted. “It felt good to finally get a win. I know I won Pickwick, but it was so close from there on, for quite a while. It wasn’t the best feeling before it happened. Usually when I win it’s by a decent margin, so this was nerve-racking. But I’m glad to pull it away, way down south on Okeechobee.”
Of course, the win is probably bad news for anyone signed up to fish against him in the near future, as Shaw shows no signs of slowing down.
“I’m feeling really good, I’m definitely off to a good start, riding the momentum from last year,” he said, referring to the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit opener Feb. 6-8. “The Harris Chain is one of my favorite fisheries in Florida, and it’s kind of my wheelhouse of fishing – shell bars and offshore grass. I’m pumped up for the Harris Chain.”
Tune in for that one – when Stop 1 Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches on the Harris Chain fires up on Friday, you’ll be able to tune in to MLFNOW! on Day 1 to watch Shaw and the other Pro Circuit pros get to work.
The top 10 pros at the Toyota Series at Lake Okeechobee finished:
1st: Banks Shaw, Harrison, Tenn., 15 bass, 49-5, $79,250 (includes $35,000 Phoenix MLF bonus)
2nd: Kyle Cortiana, Broken Arrow, Okla., 15 bass, 49-2, $17,000
3rd: Val Osinski, Fort Lauderdale, Fla., 14 bass, 44-11, $12,750
4th: Tim Wilson, Marion, Ind., 13 bass, 42-2, $10,750
5th: Parker Knudsen, Shakopee, Minn., 15 bass, 40-4, $9,750
6th: Doug Wooldridge, Williston, S.C., 15 bass, 39-11, $8,375
7th: Adriano Theriot, Lake Charles, La., 15 bass, 38-12, $7,300
8th: Brian Holder, Conover, N.C., 15 bass, 37-9, $6,300
9th: Connor Macdougall, Cape Coral, Fla., 15 bass, 37-5, $5,300
10th: Tyler Nekolny, Coral Springs, Fla., 15 bass, 36-15, $4,700
Complete results can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.
Pro Anthony Hunt of Coconut Creek, Florida, earned Thursday’s $500 Berkley Big Bass Award with a bass weighing 9 pounds, 13 ounces, while pro Tyler Nekolny of Coral Springs, Florida, won Friday’s $500 Berkley Big Bass, weighing in an 8-pound, 2-ounce bass to earn the $500 award.
Kenny Garand of Holiday, Florida, won the co-angler division Saturday at Lake Okeechobee with a three-day total of 13 bass weighing 27 pounds, 12 ounces. Garand earned the top co-angler prize package worth $34,000, including a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard motor.
The top 10 co-anglers at the Toyota Series at Lake Okeechobee finished:
1st: Kenny Garand, Holiday, Fla., 13 bass, 27-12, Phoenix 518 Pro boat w/115-hp Mercury outboard
2nd: William Lewis, Jacksonville, Fla., seven bass, 25-8, $5,375
3rd: Ray Ruiz, Boca Raton, Fla., nine bass, 25-8, $4,400
4th: Bob Morin, Seymour, Tenn., 12 bass, 25-2, $3,650
5th: Marlei Hunt, Wesley Chapel, Fla., 12 bass, 23-3, $3,150
6th: Jeff Morgan, Newnan, Ga., 10 bass, 22-13, $2,650
7th: Eric Stong, Leesburg, Fla., six bass, 20-7, $2,150
8th: David Williams, Fredericksburg, Va., seven bass, 19-15, $1,925
9th: Stephen Draghi, Sparrowbush, N.Y., eight bass, 19-1, $1,530
10th: John Hicks, Winter Garden, Fla., six bass, 18-14, $1,290
Co-angler Brad Moore of Cape Coral, Florida, earned the first Berkley Big Bass co-angler award of the week on Thursday with a 7-pound, 12-ounce bass to earn the $150 prize, while Friday’s Day 2 $150 co-angler award went to Steve Barnett of Mount Holly, North Carolina, who weighed in a bass totaling 8 pounds, 7 ounces.
The Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats at Lake Okeechobee was hosted by the Hendry County Tourism Development Council. It was the first of three regular-season tournaments for the Toyota Series Southern Division. The next event for Toyota Series anglers will be the Toyota Series at Sam Rayburn Reservoir Presented by Suzuki Marine, Feb. 12-14, in Brookeland, Texas. For a complete schedule of events, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com.
The 2026 Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats consists of five divisions – Central, Northern, Plains, Southern and Southwestern – each holding three regular-season events, along with the International and Wild Card divisions. Anglers who fish in any of the five divisions or the Wild Card division and finish in the top 25 will qualify for the no-entry-fee Toyota Series Championship for a shot at winning up to $235,000 and a qualification to REDCREST 2027. The winning co-angler at the championship earns a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard. The 2026 Toyota Series Championship will be held Nov. 5-7 on Pickwick Lake in Counce, Tennessee, and is hosted by Explore Pickwick Lake & Hardin County Tourism.
Proud sponsors of the 2026 MLF Toyota Series include: 7Brew, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, BUBBA, Cigars International, Epic Baits, Grizzly, Mercury, MillerTech, OFF! Deep Woods, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, PiranhO2, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, VOSKER, YETI and Yuengling.
For complete details and updated information visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular Toyota Series updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the MLF5 social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery, Outdoor Channel, VICE, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network, RFD-TV and Game & Fish TV, and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
Stahl’s perfect plan yields wire-to-wire win at Kissimmee Chain
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Intuition plus determination plus execution equalled a dominant victory for Cody Stahl, who tallied a three-day total of 74 pounds, 6 ounces and earned the wire-to-wire victory in the Turtlebox Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain presented by Battery Tender.
“That is one heckuva way to start the season,” Stahl said. “It was just an unbelievable week.”
With all due respect to Stahl’s Top 10 competitors, the Barnsville, Ga., pro could’ve slept in this morning and still won the event, as he caught a Championship Saturday limit of 17-13 and finished with a 22-1 margin over second-place Stephen Browning.
En route to that enviable position, Stahl took the Day 1 lead with the event’s heaviest bag — a limit of 28-9. He’d back up that strong performance with an even 28 pounds to hold the lead and head into the final round with a 19-pound, 7-ounce advantage.
“If you would’ve told me I’d be sitting in first place with a 19-pound lead going into the third day, I’d put every single dollar in my bank account on saying that’s not possible,” Stahl said. “Ultimately, things just worked out and God blessed me with an amazing week.”
Clearly, Stahl would’ve lost that bet, but being wrong meant adding $38,731 to his account — and receiving an invitation to fish the 2027 Bassmaster Classic.
All week, Stahl focused on a prespawn staging area at the south end of Lake Toho. A good mix of grass species provided what he believed would offer appealing habitat that would attract the right size fish.
Stahl located this area in practice and, even though he caught only small male bass prior to the event, he believed the week’s weather and the approaching full moon (Feb. 1) would invite the larger prespawn females.
“In practice, I only found the bucks; I caught three in the 1-pound range right there, but I just had a feeling that this is where it’s gonna go down,” Stahl said. “I just made a gut call that this is the stopping point where they’re gonna fatten up before they go lay their eggs.
“On Day 1, I put my trolling motor down right there and made it work for three days.”
Stahl caught the majority of this fish by ripping a 3/4-ounce lipless crankbait through the grass with a 7-5 Fenwick extra-heavy, extra-fast rod and an 8.1:1 Abu Garcia STX reel carrying 20-pound fluorocarbon. That setup, he said, proved critical to his success.
“That setup really keeps your bait clean, especially with that 3/4-ounce bait,” Stahl said. “You have to keep your bait clean in a short amount of distance when you hit those grass clumps. Those bass are on the other side of those clumps and they’re not going to hit a bait when it’s full of grass.”
Championship Saturday’s weather complexion strongly contrasted that of Days 1 and 2. A severe cold from dropped air and water temperatures during practice and draped the tournament’s first two rounds with calm, clear “bluebird” conditions.
Day 3 dawned with gloomy gray skies, which drizzled occasional showers ahead of the next approaching front. Air temperatures only reached the mid-50s, nearly 10 less than the previous day’s warm afternoon, and the last three hours of the day saw 20-mph winds whipping local waters.
The first angler to catch a limit, Stahl had five keepers estimated at 14 1/2 pounds by 8:45. He caught plenty of quality fish, but he did not see a big kicker like the 9- and 8-pounder he caught on Days 1 and 2, respectively.
Adding another trophy to the one he earned in the 2024 St. Croix Bassmaster Open at Mississippi River presented by SEVIIN, Stahl said he’s delighted to start the year qualified for the sport’s most prestigious event.
“I’m excited to get back to the Classic,” Stahl said.
Hailing from Hot Springs, Ark., Browning finished second with 52-5. His daily weights were 18-13, 17-4 and 16-4.
Taking a tip from Terry Scroggins, who finished seventh with 46 pounds, Browning spent most of his time fishing within eyesight of the tournament site at Lake Front Park - Big Toho Marina.
“Scroggins told me, ‘Somebody will make the Top 10 right here,’ and I said, ‘There’s no better person in the world to make the Top 10 right here than me!’” Browning chuckled. “I burned up a lot of gas the first day, but the last two days, I just made a big circle right out here.
“The Good Lord blessed me with enough bites to settle me down. I used my Garmin Force trolling motor way more than my Mercury engine.”
Browning caught his fish by crawling a Rapala DT-6 crankbait over grass in 6-7 feet. He did most of his work with the river shad color, but when he broke the bill on that bait, he switched to the chartreuse blue back pattern.
Bo Thomas of Edwardsburg, Mich., finished third with 49-6. Thomas weighed daily limits of 12-2, 20-6 and 16-14.
For most of the final day, Thomas caught his fish by slow rolling a homemade swim jig with a 3.8 Keitech swimbait trailer. A late-day decision yielded an upgrade that would lift him several spots on the leaderboard.
“It got really windy out there today, so with about 2 hours to go, I decided to leave my main area and head back toward the ramp and fish some community holes,” Thomas said. “I started throwing a jerkbait and I caught a 3-5 and culled out a 1-pounder. It was just making the right decisions and doing the right things.”
Jonathan Kelley of Old Forge, Pa., won the $500 Phoenix Boats Big Bass award for his 10-7.
Visit Kissimmee hosted this event.
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series P
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
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Connect with #Bassmaster on Facebook, Instagram, Twitte
Media Contact: Mandy Pascal, Communications Manager, 334-414-8677, [email protected]
2026 Turtlebox Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain presented by Battery Tender 1/29-1/31
Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, Kissimmee FL.
(BOATER) Standings Day 3
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Cody Stahl Barnsville, GA 15 74-06 200 $38,731.00
Day 1: 5 28-09 Day 2: 5 28-00 Day 3: 5 17-13
2. Stephen Browning Hot Springs, AR 15 52-05 199 $15,492.00
Day 1: 5 18-13 Day 2: 5 17-04 Day 3: 5 16-04
3. Bo Thomas Edwardsburg, MI 15 49-06 198 $11,619.00
Day 1: 5 12-02 Day 2: 5 20-06 Day 3: 5 16-14
4. Jonathon VanDam Gobles, MI 15 48-14 197 $10,845.00
Day 1: 5 17-06 Day 2: 5 19-11 Day 3: 5 11-13
5. Jonathan Kelley Old Forge, PA 13 48-01 196 $10,570.00
Day 1: 3 15-10 Day 2: 5 18-00 Day 3: 5 14-07
6. Freddy Palmer Estill Springs, TN 14 47-11 195 $9,295.00
Day 1: 4 13-01 Day 2: 5 20-02 Day 3: 5 14-08
7. Terry Scroggins San Mateo, FL 15 46-00 194 $8,521.00
Day 1: 5 20-11 Day 2: 5 11-07 Day 3: 5 13-14
8. Niko Romero Coldspring, TX 14 43-06 193 $7,746.00
Day 1: 5 10-12 Day 2: 5 21-03 Day 3: 4 11-07
9. Cliff Prince Palatka, FL 13 41-02 192 $7,746.00
Day 1: 5 26-02 Day 2: 5 11-00 Day 3: 3 04-00
10. Noah Winslow Naugatuck, CT 13 37-06 191 $7,746.00
Day 1: 5 18-12 Day 2: 5 14-00 Day 3: 3 04-10
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BIG BASS OF TOURNAMENT
Jonathan Kelley Old Forge, PA 10-07 $500.00
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Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 95 682 1552-06
2 106 690 1554-15
3 7 45 125-10
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208 1417 3232-15
Steady Stahl stays atop Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Two of the hardest things to find in Florida: a parking spot close to the main attraction and early-year bass fishing consistency.
Cody Stahl found both and handily maintained his lead in the Turtlebox Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain presented by Battery Tender. After leading Day 1 with a 28-pound, 9-ounce limit, the Barnsville, Ga., pro added a 28-pound bag to tally 56-9 and establish a mammoth lead of 19-7 over Cliff Prince.
“This is just one of those events where you prep for it in practice, you mentally prepare for the conditions and where these fish are headed and it actually pans out,” Stahl said. “Not too many times do you find a place in practice where you catch 1-pounders and you have a feeling that this is where it’s gonna go down; this is where you think the fish are moving, and you put yourself in that spot.
“I’m fishing a stopping point for prespawn bass, but I know there probably are some fish spawning out there, just because of how shallow it is. The majority of these fish are feeding up before they go spawn.”
Stahl, who anchored his bag with an 8-14, stuck to his Day 1 script and fished one particular area at the lower end of Lake Toho. While his practice results were far from impressive, it was the site’s promising potential that prompted Stahl’s commitment.
Winter Storm Fern, which blasted much of the nation with extreme conditions, lowered air and water temperatures right before the event began. Stahl, however, was undeterred, as the event’s warming direction and the approaching full moon (Feb. 1) told him big things were coming.
“I caught better weight and way bigger fish up shallow on the bank, but based on history and experience, I knew what was gonna happen with the conditions that we’re having, the (rising) water temperature and how those fish were gonna react,” Stahl said. “I put myself in a position to find one of the places where the big fish go and in two and a half days of practice and I found one.
“That spot met all the requirements, it had all the ingredients for it to go down. It had the bucks (smaller male bass) there in practice and all I was waiting for was that weather to come in and push those females right there on the edge. That’s exactly what happened.”
Day 1 saw Stahl rotate between two baits, but a single presentation — a lipless crankbait — produced all of his Day 2 fish. Stahl also narrowed down key sections within his spot.
Tournament note: This event does not allow anglers to use forward facing sonar, so Stahl has had to break down his area by fishing it.
“When I found my area in practice, I didn’t expand on it at all,” Stahl said. “I just planned on giving myself time on Day 1 to expand, to learn the area and figure out the sweet spots in the area.
“Yesterday, I started in a spot that’s not as good as where I started today. Yesterday morning ended up being a little slower, but late in the day, I found that magical sweet spot where I started this morning.”
Stating that he had his weight before 9 a.m., Stahl said he intends to see if his area has one more day of productivity to offer. He’s optimistic, but he’s also aware of how fleeting Florida consistency can be.
“I think the biggest factor will be the wind in the afternoon; how hard it’s gonna blow and when it’s gonna start blowing hard,” Stahl said of the next cold front forecast to arrive on Saturday. “Another factor will be tonight’s overnight low.
“If it drops really low and really cools down the water temperature, the fish might pull out. I’m just going into tomorrow with an open mind and I’m gonna try and follow the fish. If they’re not there and it’s not happening, I’m gonna have to make some adjustments and get something done.”
Hailing from Palatka, Fla., Prince is in second place with 37-2. After placing second on Day 1 with 26-2, Prince saw his productivity slip with a second-round limit of 11-0.
“In Florida, you catch ’em when they’re biting,” Prince said. “I did all I could yesterday and all I could today and I didn’t lay off of ‘em yesterday.”
Prince had been catching most of his fish on a bladed jig, but a tip from a fellow angler fishing nearby led him to catch a couple of good ones on a swim jig.
“I caught a couple that helped me, but if I had made that change earlier in the day, I probably would have been better off,” Prince said.
Jonathon VanDam of Gobles, Mich., is in third place with 37-1. VanDam placed 10th on Day 1 with 17-6. He added a Day 2 limit of 19-11.
“It was just fishing a big flat where you kinda have to mill around a little bit, but there’s definitely little key zones where it seems the fish are concentrated,” VanDam said. “It definitely seems like there are some bite windows.”
Moving baits produced most of VanDam’s fish. He also caught one of his limit fish on a finesse presentation.
Jonathan Kelley of Old Forge, Pa., is in the lead for Phoenix Boats Big Bass honors with his 10-7.
Saturday’s takeoff is scheduled for 7 a.m. ET at Kissimmee Lake Front Park. The weigh-in will be held at the park at 3 p.m.
Bassmaster LIVE can be found on Bassmaster.com and Roku from 8-11 a.m. ET and from Noon-3 p.m.
Follow along with all of the action from the Turtlebox Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain of Lakes presented by Battery Tender on Bassmaster.com.
Visit Kissimmee is hosting this event.
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series P
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
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Connect with #Bassmaster on Facebook, Instagram, Twitte
Media Contact: Mandy Pascal, Communications Manager, 334-414-8677, [email protected]
2026 Turtlebox Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain presented by Battery Tender 1/29-1/31
Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, Kissimmee FL.
(BOATER) Standings Day 2
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Cody Stahl Barnsville, GA 10 56-09 200
Day 1: 5 28-09 Day 2: 5 28-00
2. Cliff Prince Palatka, FL 10 37-02 199
Day 1: 5 26-02 Day 2: 5 11-00
3. Jonathon VanDam Gobles, MI 10 37-01 198
Day 1: 5 17-06 Day 2: 5 19-11
4. Stephen Browning Hot Springs, AR 10 36-01 197
Day 1: 5 18-13 Day 2: 5 17-04
5. Jonathan Kelley Old Forge, PA 8 33-10 196
Day 1: 3 15-10 Day 2: 5 18-00
6. Freddy Palmer Estill Springs, TN 9 33-03 195
Day 1: 4 13-01 Day 2: 5 20-02
7. Noah Winslow Naugatuck, CT 10 32-12 194
Day 1: 5 18-12 Day 2: 5 14-00
8. Bo Thomas Edwardsburg, MI 10 32-08 193
Day 1: 5 12-02 Day 2: 5 20-06
9. Terry Scroggins San Mateo, FL 10 32-02 192
Day 1: 5 20-11 Day 2: 5 11-07
10. Niko Romero Coldspring, TX 10 31-15 191
Day 1: 5 10-12 Day 2: 5 21-03
11. Timothy Reams Morgantown, WV 10 31-15 190 $6,972.00
Day 1: 5 14-01 Day 2: 5 17-14
12. Brett Hite Phoenix, AZ 10 31-13 189 $5,422.00
Day 1: 5 17-05 Day 2: 5 14-08
13. Zac Ridenhour Salisbury, NC 10 31-10 188 $4,648.00
Day 1: 5 11-10 Day 2: 5 20-00
14. Hayden Gaddis Dandridge, TN 8 31-02 187 $3,873.00
Day 1: 3 12-11 Day 2: 5 18-07
15. Buddy Benson Dahlonega, GA 10 30-15 186 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 17-11 Day 2: 5 13-04
16. Lucas Toliver Paw Paw, MI 10 30-15 185 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 13-07 Day 2: 5 17-08
17. CJ Maddux Birmingham, AL 9 30-11 184 $3,873.00
Day 1: 4 11-01 Day 2: 5 19-10
18. Adam Rasmussen Sturgeon Bay, WI 10 30-02 183 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 19-02 Day 2: 5 11-00
19. Tyler Conde Chepachet, RI 10 29-12 182 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 16-10 Day 2: 5 13-02
20. Billy Gilbert Hamburg, NY 10 29-01 181 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 14-15 Day 2: 5 14-02
21. Brady Vernon Sterrett, AL 10 28-13 180 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 11-15 Day 2: 5 16-14
22. Steve Dimatteo Lancaster, PA 10 27-09 179 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 12-07 Day 2: 5 15-02
23. Jack Dice Lynchburg, VA 10 27-07 178 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 15-03 Day 2: 5 12-04
24. Brock Bila Republic, MO 7 27-00 177 $3,873.00
Day 1: 2 04-13 Day 2: 5 22-03
25. Dillon Falardeau Hixson, TN 10 26-14 176 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 10-02 Day 2: 5 16-12
26. Matt Mosby Dryden, MI 10 26-11 175 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 18-13 Day 2: 5 07-14
27. Ed Powell Sandyville, WV 10 26-10 174 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 14-10 Day 2: 5 12-00
28. Ty Austin Rush, NY 10 26-01 173 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 09-07 Day 2: 5 16-10
29. Kaden Buchmann Troutman, NC 10 25-13 172 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 15-02 Day 2: 5 10-11
30. Bryson Osteen Live Oak, FL 10 25-13 171 $3,873.00
Day 1: 5 10-14 Day 2: 5 14-15
31. Grant Neubauer Medford, WI 10 25-11 170 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 16-06 Day 2: 5 09-05
32. Garrett Smith Mount Holly, NC 10 25-07 169 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 14-07 Day 2: 5 11-00
33. Cody Abbott Woodruff, SC 10 25-03 168 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 14-06 Day 2: 5 10-13
34. Alex Heintze Denham Springs, LA 9 25-01 167 $3,098.00
Day 1: 4 09-10 Day 2: 5 15-07
35. Darold Gleason Leesville, LA 10 24-12 166 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 13-11 Day 2: 5 11-01
36. Destry Ford Tuscaloosa, AL 10 24-11 0 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 09-10 Day 2: 5 15-01
37. David Williams Maiden, NC 10 24-05 165 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 13-12 Day 2: 5 10-09
38. John Branch Magnolia, KY 10 24-00 164 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 09-01 Day 2: 5 14-15
39. Chase Carey Hoschton, GA 10 23-10 163 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 12-01 Day 2: 5 11-09
40. Connor Jacob Peoria, IL 8 23-08 162 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 18-13 Day 2: 3 04-11
41. Tripp Berlinsky Florence, AL 10 23-05 161 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 12-04 Day 2: 5 11-01
42. Robert Davenport Brooksville, FL 8 22-14 160 $3,098.00
Day 1: 4 09-10 Day 2: 4 13-04
43. Donald Tripoli Webster, NY 10 22-14 159 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 11-05 Day 2: 5 11-09
44. Brooks Anderson Marietta, GA 10 22-11 158 $3,098.00
Day 1: 5 08-06 Day 2: 5 14-05
45. Bernie Schultz Gainesville, FL 9 22-11 157 $3,098.00
Day 1: 4 12-01 Day 2: 5 10-10
46. Ryan Lachniet Gum Spring, VA 10 22-08 156
Day 1: 5 14-12 Day 2: 5 07-12
47. Robert Hoyt Union Hall, VA 10 22-07 155
Day 1: 5 12-02 Day 2: 5 10-05
48. Justin Kimmel Athens, GA 8 22-00 154
Day 1: 3 04-01 Day 2: 5 17-15
49. Laker Howell Guntersville, AL 8 22-00 153
Day 1: 5 17-05 Day 2: 3 04-11
50. Clayton Batts Warner Robins, GA 10 22-00 152
Day 1: 5 12-10 Day 2: 5 09-06
51. Chase Clarke Virginia Beach, VA 10 21-15 151
Day 1: 5 09-11 Day 2: 5 12-04
52. Michael Corbishley Raleigh, NC 10 21-15 150
Day 1: 5 11-11 Day 2: 5 10-04
53. George Hirapetian Lancaster, SC 10 21-12 149
Day 1: 5 09-15 Day 2: 5 11-13
54. Lucas Lindsay Auburn , AL 10 21-11 148
Day 1: 5 13-15 Day 2: 5 07-12
55. Rich Howes Oviedo, FL 10 21-11 147
Day 1: 5 09-08 Day 2: 5 12-03
56. Jaron Burr Bowling Green, KY 9 21-06 146
Day 1: 5 13-13 Day 2: 4 07-09
57. Aaron Yavorsky Palm Harbor, FL 10 21-06 145
Day 1: 5 08-07 Day 2: 5 12-15
58. Chris Lighthizer Zanesville, OH 10 21-03 0
Day 1: 5 09-05 Day 2: 5 11-14
59. Whitney Stephens Waverly, OH 9 21-00 144
Day 1: 4 06-03 Day 2: 5 14-13
60. Tyler Shawger Zanesville, OH 7 21-00 0
Day 1: 5 13-11 Day 2: 2 07-05
61. Brayden Rakes Winston Salem, NC 10 20-15 143
Day 1: 5 07-08 Day 2: 5 13-07
62. Gary Clouse Winchester, TN 9 20-15 142
Day 1: 5 09-03 Day 2: 4 11-12
63. Blaine Bunney Claremore, OK 8 20-12 141
Day 1: 3 04-06 Day 2: 5 16-06
64. Allen Williford Paducah, KY 6 20-11 0
Day 1: 1 01-10 Day 2: 5 19-01
65. Lucas Murphy West Columbia, MI 10 19-14 140
Day 1: 5 11-08 Day 2: 5 08-06
66. Blake Milligan Nashville, TN 10 19-13 139
Day 1: 5 10-06 Day 2: 5 09-07
67. Seiji Kato Forney TX JAPAN 10 19-11 138
Day 1: 5 08-06 Day 2: 5 11-05
68. Logan Johnson Nauvoo, AL 10 19-07 137
Day 1: 5 06-00 Day 2: 5 13-07
69. Charlie Hartley Grove City, OH 9 19-06 136
Day 1: 4 08-07 Day 2: 5 10-15
70. Zach Goutremout Chaumont, NY 10 19-06 135
Day 1: 5 08-10 Day 2: 5 10-12
71. Brandon Pilling Clermont, FL 9 19-05 0
Day 1: 4 08-08 Day 2: 5 10-13
72. Cole McAusland Tuscaloosa, AL 10 19-04 134
Day 1: 5 10-06 Day 2: 5 08-14
73. Greg Alexander Hebron, MD 8 18-15 133
Day 1: 5 14-13 Day 2: 3 04-02
74. Wyatt Burkhalter Coker, AL 6 18-11 132
Day 1: 5 15-09 Day 2: 1 03-02
75. Alex Wetherell Middletown, CT 7 18-11 131
Day 1: 2 06-11 Day 2: 5 12-00
76. John Pollard Eclectic, AL 10 18-10 130
Day 1: 5 07-04 Day 2: 5 11-06
77. River Lee Diboll, TX 9 18-03 129
Day 1: 4 09-10 Day 2: 5 08-09
78. Chris Miller Spirit Lake, IA 7 17-15 128
Day 1: 5 07-06 Day 2: 2 10-09
79. Ricky Basey Warrenville, SC 7 17-12 127
Day 1: 3 06-08 Day 2: 4 11-04
80. Jeremy Sadowski Voluntown, CT 9 17-10 126
Day 1: 4 07-12 Day 2: 5 09-14
81. Ish Monroe Oakdale, CA 10 17-10 125
Day 1: 5 08-06 Day 2: 5 09-04
82. Derek Rodriguez Jr. Okemos, MI 10 17-09 124
Day 1: 5 10-06 Day 2: 5 07-03
83. Nathan Quince Imperial, PA 10 17-09 123
Day 1: 5 10-05 Day 2: 5 07-04
84. Ryan Michl Newton, IL 7 17-08 122
Day 1: 4 09-02 Day 2: 3 08-06
85. Dylan Akins Flowery Branch, GA 10 17-07 121
Day 1: 5 09-01 Day 2: 5 08-06
86. Bubba Baker Ridgeway, SC 10 17-04 0
Day 1: 5 08-01 Day 2: 5 09-03
87. Dylan Fogarty Mechanicsburg, PA 8 17-03 120
Day 1: 5 09-02 Day 2: 3 08-01
88. Jamie Fountain East Dublin, GA 10 17-02 119
Day 1: 5 08-04 Day 2: 5 08-14
89. Jack Daniel Williams Kingsport, TN 9 16-13 118
Day 1: 5 11-14 Day 2: 4 04-15
90. Damian Szlachta Dawsonville, GA 9 16-12 117
Day 1: 4 08-02 Day 2: 5 08-10
91. Brian Hatfield Spring City, TN 9 16-08 116
Day 1: 4 06-14 Day 2: 5 09-10
92. Ryan Salzman Huntsville, AL 10 16-06 115
Day 1: 5 08-13 Day 2: 5 07-09
93. Chad Pipkens Dewitt, MI 10 16-06 114
Day 1: 5 08-01 Day 2: 5 08-05
94. Jay Schoenfelder Sarasota, FL 9 16-04 0
Day 1: 4 04-10 Day 2: 5 11-10
95. Michael Webster Gastonia, NC 9 16-03 113
Day 1: 5 09-09 Day 2: 4 06-10
96. Josh Hubbard Citrus Springs, FL 8 16-01 112
Day 1: 5 11-07 Day 2: 3 04-10
97. Stu Martel Northbrook, IL 9 16-01 111
Day 1: 4 09-12 Day 2: 5 06-05
98. Cody Detweiler Guntersville, AL 9 15-15 110
Day 1: 5 10-05 Day 2: 4 05-10
99. Jacob Thompkins Myrtle Beach, SC 10 15-14 109
Day 1: 5 07-13 Day 2: 5 08-01
100. Doug Chapin Tigerton, WI 7 15-13 108
Day 1: 5 13-03 Day 2: 2 02-10
101. Willie Mcmullen Covington, GA 4 15-11 107
Day 1: 1 02-09 Day 2: 3 13-02
102. Brandon Parson Erwin, NC 9 15-07 106
Day 1: 4 07-15 Day 2: 5 07-08
103. Kevin Jones Valley, AL 9 15-04 105
Day 1: 4 08-09 Day 2: 5 06-11
104. Mike McClelland Blue Eye, MO 7 15-00 104
Day 1: 5 11-08 Day 2: 2 03-08
105. Evan White Roanoke Rapids, NC 8 14-13 103
Day 1: 4 08-10 Day 2: 4 06-03
106. Daniel Lanier Jr. Winter Springs, FL 5 14-12 0
Day 1: 2 07-00 Day 2: 3 07-12
107. Parker Guy Ocilla, GA 7 14-11 102
Day 1: 5 10-13 Day 2: 2 03-14
108. Yukihiro Sawamura Harker Heights, TX 10 14-11 101
Day 1: 5 07-02 Day 2: 5 07-09
109. Joshua Weaver Macon, GA 8 14-09 100
Day 1: 3 06-07 Day 2: 5 08-02
110. Trey Thompson Sanford, NC 5 14-08 99
Day 1: 2 03-15 Day 2: 3 10-09
111. Lee Harper Abbeville, AL 5 14-07 0
Day 1: 2 09-09 Day 2: 3 04-14
112. Easton Lindus Woodville, WI 10 14-02 98
Day 1: 5 06-15 Day 2: 5 07-03
113. Rick Greene Ocala, FL 6 14-00 97
Day 1: 1 05-12 Day 2: 5 08-04
114. Alex Johnson Milltown, NJ 8 13-13 96
Day 1: 5 08-06 Day 2: 3 05-07
115. Jake Maddux Alpharetta, GA 7 13-13 95
Day 1: 4 07-13 Day 2: 3 06-00
116. Ben Quisno Oakwood, OH 9 13-12 94
Day 1: 5 07-15 Day 2: 4 05-13
117. Teb Jones Yalaha, MS 8 13-11 93
Day 1: 5 08-06 Day 2: 3 05-05
118. Bobby Bakewell Orlando, FL 8 13-11 92
Day 1: 3 05-08 Day 2: 5 08-03
119. Fred Roumbanis Russellville, AR 9 13-09 91
Day 1: 4 06-05 Day 2: 5 07-04
120. Kyle Walters Palm Bay, FL 5 13-05 0
Day 1: 5 13-05 Day 2: 0 00-00
121. Kenny Mittelstaedt Minnetonka, MN 9 13-05 90
Day 1: 4 04-09 Day 2: 5 08-12
122. Jeremy Radford Huntly, VA 7 13-01 89
Day 1: 2 03-00 Day 2: 5 10-01
123. Dave Miller Stratford, CT 6 12-09 88
Day 1: 1 03-03 Day 2: 5 09-06
124. Johnathan Crossland Chapin, SC 9 12-08 87
Day 1: 5 06-12 Day 2: 4 05-12
125. Timmy Sheridan Troy, VA 10 12-03 86
Day 1: 5 06-15 Day 2: 5 05-04
126. Jeremy Goodwyn Bowling Green, FL 6 11-15 0
Day 1: 4 09-02 Day 2: 2 02-13
127. Nic Rand Paw Paw, MI 8 11-15 85
Day 1: 4 05-12 Day 2: 4 06-03
128. Charles Sim Wasaga Beach Ontario CA 7 11-14 84
Day 1: 2 02-05 Day 2: 5 09-09
129. Neal Gilmore Magnolia, TX 7 11-12 83
Day 1: 2 03-12 Day 2: 5 08-00
130. Colt Blanton Piketon, OH 8 11-12 82
Day 1: 4 06-09 Day 2: 4 05-03
131. Ron Farrow Rock Hill, SC 8 11-10 81
Day 1: 3 05-05 Day 2: 5 06-05
132. Brien Vaughn Lampe, MO 8 11-05 80
Day 1: 3 04-14 Day 2: 5 06-07
133. Guy Eaker Sr Cherryville, NC 6 11-04 79
Day 1: 5 10-06 Day 2: 1 00-14
134. Ryan Broughman Corapeake, NC 8 11-02 78
Day 1: 5 08-01 Day 2: 3 03-01
135. Yusuke Miyazaki Forney, TX 8 11-02 77
Day 1: 3 04-01 Day 2: 5 07-01
136. Chris Kingree Inverness, FL 5 11-02 76
Day 1: 2 07-01 Day 2: 3 04-01
137. Pete Pisello Phillipsburg, NJ 8 11-00 75
Day 1: 3 04-04 Day 2: 5 06-12
138. Troy Coney Owego, NY 8 10-10 74
Day 1: 5 07-03 Day 2: 3 03-07
139. Shayne Berlo Mclean, VA 6 10-09 73
Day 1: 3 05-08 Day 2: 3 05-01
140. Caden Vincent Cross Junction, VA 7 10-04 0
Day 1: 5 07-11 Day 2: 2 02-09
141. Bill Rea Greenfield, OH 5 10-02 0
Day 1: 5 10-02 Day 2: 0 00-00
142. Anastasia Patterson Sumter, SC 3 09-10 72
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 3 09-10
143. Phil Kroll Otego, NY 7 09-10 71
Day 1: 2 03-04 Day 2: 5 06-06
144. Trent Palmer Cumming, GA 4 09-09 70
Day 1: 2 02-12 Day 2: 2 06-13
145. Cory Mcglamery Madisonville, TN 4 09-08 69
Day 1: 1 01-15 Day 2: 3 07-09
146. Cody Ross Livingston, TX 5 09-07 68
Day 1: 5 09-07 Day 2: 0 00-00
147. Colden Baker Ridgeway, SC 6 09-06 67
Day 1: 1 01-14 Day 2: 5 07-08
148. Tanner Hadden Appling, GA 6 09-03 66
Day 1: 5 06-09 Day 2: 1 02-10
149. Paul Tabisz Livonia, MI 6 08-11 65
Day 1: 2 02-07 Day 2: 4 06-04
150. Byron Kenney Jr Monticello, GA 6 08-10 64
Day 1: 1 00-15 Day 2: 5 07-11
151. Mikey Weems Hull, TX 5 08-10 0
Day 1: 3 03-01 Day 2: 2 05-09
152. Colton Trotter Dothan, AL 3 08-08 63
Day 1: 2 04-12 Day 2: 1 03-12
153. Trey Schroeder Theodosia, MO 6 08-03 62
Day 1: 1 01-10 Day 2: 5 06-09
154. Joey Hanna Corsicana, TX 5 07-14 61
Day 1: 2 03-13 Day 2: 3 04-01
155. Kenneth Sharkey Grand Haven, MI 5 07-13 0
Day 1: 1 01-09 Day 2: 4 06-04
156. Kristian Johnson Belvidere, NJ 5 07-11 60
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 5 07-11
157. Tommy Dunaway Havana, FL 3 07-06 59
Day 1: 2 05-10 Day 2: 1 01-12
158. Tommy Dickerson Orange, TX 5 07-03 0
Day 1: 5 07-03 Day 2: 0 00-00
159. Bryden Mugleston Lebanon, TN 5 06-09 58
Day 1: 1 01-05 Day 2: 4 05-04
160. Tyler Lubbat Naples, FL 3 06-09 57
Day 1: 1 02-02 Day 2: 2 04-07
161. Parker Mott Winter Garden, FL 4 06-08 0
Day 1: 4 06-08 Day 2: 0 00-00
162. Blake Thompson Conway, SC 3 06-07 56
Day 1: 2 04-08 Day 2: 1 01-15
163. Nick Mandes North Stonington, CT 3 05-15 55
Day 1: 3 05-15 Day 2: 0 00-00
164. Yuming Gao Waterloo CANADA 3 05-12 54
Day 1: 2 02-11 Day 2: 1 03-01
165. Luke Chichetto Land O Lakes, FL 3 05-09 0
Day 1: 1 03-14 Day 2: 2 01-11
166. Mike Blevins Burnsville, NC 3 04-10 53
Day 1: 3 04-10 Day 2: 0 00-00
167. David Perdue Wirtz, VA 4 04-10 52
Day 1: 1 01-11 Day 2: 3 02-15
168. Stephen Burlington Jupiter, FL 3 04-09 0
Day 1: 3 04-09 Day 2: 0 00-00
169. Grae Buck Green Lane, PA 4 04-05 51
Day 1: 1 01-05 Day 2: 3 03-00
170. Allen Brooks Canton, GA 3 04-01 50
Day 1: 3 04-01 Day 2: 0 00-00
171. Matt Keezer Kirkland Quebec CANADA 3 03-11 49
Day 1: 2 02-02 Day 2: 1 01-09
172. Michael Johns Waynesville, GA 2 03-05 48
Day 1: 1 02-02 Day 2: 1 01-03
173. Chris McCarthy Woonsocket, RI 3 03-02 47
Day 1: 2 02-00 Day 2: 1 01-02
174. Lance Owen Greer, SC 2 02-08 46
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 2 02-08
175. Steven Eastman Eustis, FL 1 02-00 0
Day 1: 1 02-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
176. Gregg Johnson Ocala, FL 1 01-12 0
Day 1: 1 01-12 Day 2: 0 00-00
177. Darrell Ivey Lebanon, MO 1 01-11 45
Day 1: 1 01-11 Day 2: 0 00-00
178. Bryan Hoffman Andrews, TX 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
178. Johno Roberts Golden, CO 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
178. Casey Smith Victor, NY 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
178. Tommy Young Orlando, FL 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
------------------------------
Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 95 682 1552-06
2 106 690 1554-15
------------------------------
201 1372 3107-05
Bassmaster introduces Fan Cam for Elite Series LIVE coverage
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. is excited to announce the launch of the Bassmaster Fan Cam, an innovative new initiative designed to give fans a direct role in shaping Bassmaster LIVE coverage throughout the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series season, including the sport’s biggest stage at the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
The Bassmaster Fan Cam allows fans to vote on which Elite Series pro will receive a Day 1 LIVE spotlight at every Elite Series event, including Friday coverage at the Bassmaster Classic. The fan-selected angler will be featured prominently during LIVE broadcasts, offering viewers deeper access to the competitor they are most excited to follow as the tournament unfolds. Once an angler is selected, they will not be eligible for Fan Cam at the following event.
The first-of-its-kind, fan-driven selection marks a significant evolution in Bassmaster LIVE coverage, creating a new level of audience participation, interactivity and social engagement during the most high-impact moments of the season.
“Bassmaster fans are some of the most passionate and knowledgeable in all of sports, and the Fan Cam gives them a meaningful voice in our LIVE coverage,” said Phillip Johnson, Chief Operating Officer of B.A.S.S. “By allowing fans to help decide which angler we spotlight on Day 1, we’re strengthening the connection between our audience and the athletes they follow while enhancing the overall LIVE viewing experience. This is another step forward in how we continue to innovate and engage our fans.”
The Fan Cam will be integrated across Bassmaster’s digital and social platforms, giving fans a simple and accessible way to participate while encouraging ongoing interaction throughout the season. By blending real-time voting with LIVE tournament coverage, Bassmaster is creating a more dynamic broadcast experience that reflects the voices and interests of its audience.
For anglers, the Fan Cam adds a new layer of excitement and exposure. Being selected by fans for the Day 1 LIVE spotlight provides an opportunity to connect with viewers early in the event, showcase strategy and personality, and build momentum with audiences following the action at home.
By debuting the Fan Cam across the Elite Series schedule — including the Bassmaster Classic — B.A.S.S. is reinforcing its focus on elevating the fan experience while maintaining the integrity and competitiveness that define professional bass fishing.
Voting for the Bassmaster Fan Cam is now open and will remain available through Wednesday, Feb. 4, at noon. Fans can cast their votes by clicking HERE or visiting Bassmaster.com to help determine which Elite Series pro will receive the Day 1 LIVE spotlight at the FXR Bassmaster Elite at Lake Guntersville.
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
Kayak Series’ return to Kissimmee Chain should be spawn showdown
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — For the second year in a row, the Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft will be visiting the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes during the spawning time. How good fishing is will depend on the weather.
Tournament days are scheduled for Feb. 7-8 with home base located in Kissimmee, Fla. Anglers will be able to launch from any approved public landing on the chain in this catch-weigh-release event. The Top 5 finishers will punch their ticket to the 2026 Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series Championship presented by Native Watercraft, and all anglers will earn points toward the Pro-Guide Batteries Bassmaster Kayak Series Angler of the Year race.
This will be the third time the Kayak Series has visited Central Florida. Last February, the weather worked in the anglers' favor. Multiple 100-inch bags were recorded both days of the event, and Sherman Bishop took home the title with 204.75 total inches.
While not as vast as last year, the playing field for this event is quite large. Kissimmee, Toho, Hatchineha, Tiger and Cypress are the give legal fisheries for this tournament, and all five have the potential to produce winning stringers.
Early February is prime time to catch bass that have moved up to spawn in the warm Florida waters, but there is always the chance that a cold front will move through the week of the tournament. Lower temperatures would result in a much tougher bite, while a warming trend should get the bass moving toward the shallows and their spawning grounds.
A variety of vegetation plays a role throughout the Kissimmee Chain. In Lake Toho, consistent hydrilla growth has been noticeable, a promising sign for anglers who enjoy fishing offshore grass. Kissimmee grass, lily pads, hyacinth and eelgrass are spread out throughout the rest of the lakes.
If a cold front does come through, those hyacinth mats will become important pieces of cover to target.
Expect the classic Florida staples to play once again. Texas-rigged Yamamoto Senkos, Z-Man ChatterBaits, Zoom Speed Worms and creature baits will likely produce important bites, as will lipless crankbaits, Carolina rigs and jerkbaits.
Scoring for the week will be available via TourneyX.
The Kissimmee Sports Commission is hosting the event.
2026 Bassmaster Kayak Series
2026 Bassmaster Kayak Series Presenting Sponsor: Native Watercraft
2026 Bassmaster Kayak Series Angler of the Year Sponsor: Pro-Guide Batteries
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
Bass Fishing Hall of Fame - 2026 Ballot Revealed
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — For immediate release—Jan. 29, 2026 — World championship and exemplary pro anglers, legendary boat and tackle manufacturers, and all-around trailblazers of the sport form the diverse lineup comprising the 2026 Bass Fishing Hall of Fame ballot.
Twelve people who have made a lasting and meaningful impact on the sport bass fishing have reached the final doorstep of enshrinement into the Hall of Fame with the ballot announcement.
| Name | Category | Location |
| Terry Brown | Media | Normal, Ill. |
| Edwin Evers | Angler | Talala, Okla. |
| Don Iovino | Angler | Burbank, Calif. |
| Pam Martin-Wells | Angler | Bainbridge, Ga. |
| Andy Morgan | Angler | Dayton, Tenn. |
| John Murray | Angler | Spring City, Tenn. |
| Takahiro Omori | Angler | Tokyo, Japan |
| Rick Pierce | Industry | Mountain Home, Ark. |
| Lynn Reeves | Industry | Ozark, Mo. |
| Hal Schramm | Educator | Counce, Tenn. |
| Clark Wendlandt | Angler | Leander, Texas |
| Mike Whitaker | Industry | Gilbertsville, Ky. |
“These folks have spent most of their lives contributing to the lifestyle and sport of bass fishing,” said Bruce Stanton, President of the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame Board of Directors. “It is a high honor just to be nominated to the final ballot. And a few of these individuals will be immortalized forever in our hall in Springfield, Missouri.”
The 10-person Nominations Committee, comprised of members of the Hall’s Board of Directors, selected the final ballot from the organization’s master list of eligible candidates, identifying top nominees based on committee input and prior ballot consideration, with those selections reviewed collectively to shape a final ballot reflecting both sustained recognition and new consideration.
“We refined our selection process to consider top vote getters from previous ballots while considering new nominees,” said Craig Lamb, chair of the Board’s nominations committee and a 2025 Hall inductee. “The 2026 ballot represents our best effort to honor the worthiest individuals who also support our mission to celebrate, promote and preserve the sport of bass fishing.”
The slate of nominees will be considered and voted on by the 30-member Hall of Fame Selection Panel and the 50 living members of the Hall. Each voter will choose five names and rank them in order of preference with the top choice receiving five (5) points, second receiving four (4) points, and so on. Voting will conclude on Feb. 13.
The Class of 2026 will be announced in March. The inductees will be honored during “Celebrate Bass Fishing Week” when the Hall of Fame holds its annual induction ceremony and banquet on Sept. 24, at Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium in Springfield, Mo.
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About the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame (BFHOF)
The Bass Fishing Hall of Fame is a nonprofit organization led by a volunteer board of directors, dedicated to celebrating, promoting, and preserving the sport of bass fishing. The Hall’s inductees and historical memorabilia are showcased in Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife Museum and Aquarium in Springfield, Missouri. For more information about the road to induction, the Hall’s impact on the community, or to get involved, visit www.BassFishingHOF.com.
or contact BFHOF executive director Barbara Bowman at [email protected].
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Barbara Bowman
Executive Director
BassFishingHOF.com
P.O. Box 26584
Little Rock, AR 72221
501-541-6660
We are dedicated to celebrating, promoting and preserving the sport of bass fishing
Be Social - @BassFishingHOF
2026 AFTCO x B.A.S.S. Conservation Grants
SANTA ANA, Ca, January 15 , 2026– The AFTCO x B.A.S.S. Nation Conservation Grant Program continues in 2026 to support conservation initiatives throughout the country. The Conservation Grant Program was created in 2018 to help provide funds to approved freshwater bass conservation projects proposed by B.A.S.S. Nation clubs. To date, AFTCO’s total contribution to this program has exceeded $177,000 in grants. This partnership with B.A.S.S. Nation Conservation has actively contributed to the shared goals of AFTCO and B.A.S.S., fostering community and youth-oriented conservation projects that positively impact local fisheries.
The Grant Program provides financial support for stocking bass, habitat enhancements, and ensuring that bass are properly cared for and returned to lakes and rivers in the best possible condition for future generations to enjoy. These efforts are coordinated locally with the aid of B.A.S.S Nation chapters, governmental fishery management agencies, local businesses, and the valuable support of volunteers and youth organizations contributing their time and labor to the cause. “Conservation has always been at the heart of who we are at AFTCO, and continuing the AFTCO x B.A.S.S. Nation Conservation Grant Program into 2026 reflects that long-term commitment,” said AFTCO President Casey Shedd. “Since 2018, this program has helped fund meaningful, grassroots conservation efforts—from habitat enhancement to bass stocking and proper fish care—by empowering local B.A.S.S. Nation clubs, agencies, and volunteers. We’re proud to have contributed more than $177,000 to projects that strengthen fisheries, engage youth, and ensure our lakes and rivers remain healthy for future generations of anglers.”
“AFTCO’s continued support of these B.A.S.S. Nation grass roots projects shows their commitment to the preservation of our aquatic resources and to make bass fishing better,” — Gene Gilliland, B.A.S.S. Conservation Director.
Website page with full program details HERE. You can directly submit your conservation proposal HERE.
The deadline for entries is March 31, 2026. Proposals will be judged by a panel that includes representatives from B.A.S.S. and AFTCO. Please direct any questions to Gene Gilliland at [email protected].
About AFTCO
Family owned and operated, the American Fishing Tackle Company (AFTCO) represents unparalleled quality, performance, and reliability when it counts most. Worn across the globe, AFTCO's fishing clothing and fishing rain gear is designed to handle the harshest elements. Whether you're a tournament bass angler looking to stay dry in a late fall downpour or an offshore weekend warrior seeking protection from the sun's harmful UV rays, AFTCO keeps you fishing comfortably.
AFTCO reflects a legacy of firsts. From former company Chairman Milt Shedd's pioneering conservation achievements, to the invention of the roller guide and the introduction of the world's first pair of true fishing shorts, AFTCO provides conservation leadership and innovative products proven to deliver performance on the water. Our passion for the outdoors goes beyond our product offering because of an unwavering commitment to help protect our fishing resources and angler rights. Through our 10% Pledge to Protect and Conserve, your purchase of any AFTCO product directly supports conservation initiatives.
Suzuki Marine Rewards: Fueling Grassroots Success Across the BFL and Toyota Series
In tournament bass fishing, every decision matters — the cast you make, the water you run, and the engine you trust to carry you through long days on the water. For anglers competing in the Phoenix Bass Fishing League and the Toyota Series, Suzuki Marine has become a powerful ally, backing their performance with one of the most straightforward and rewarding contingency programs in the sport.
Across both tours, Suzuki Marine Rewards is putting real money into the hands of anglers who choose Suzuki reliability and proudly represent the brand on tournament day.
Big Incentives for BFL Anglers
For thousands of anglers competing through BFL Qualifiers, Regionals, and Wild Cards, Suzuki’s support is both meaningful and attainable.
At every BFL event:
- $500 goes to the winning boater who meets all Suzuki Marine Rewards requirements.
- At the All-American, that payout jumps to $2,000.
If the event winner isn’t Suzuki-qualified, the program still rewards loyalty:
- The highest-finishing qualified boater earns $250 at each Qualifier, Regional, and Wild Card.
- At the All-American, that amount increases to $1,000.
For many anglers, that’s fuel money, entry fees, or the difference between breaking even and turning a profit — all for running the outboard they already trust.
Toyota Series Pros See Even Bigger Rewards
The Toyota Series is a proving ground for the next generation of top-tier anglers, and Suzuki Marine Rewards scales up accordingly.
At each Toyota Series qualifier:
- The highest-finishing pro running a qualifying Suzuki outboard earns $1,000.
At the Toyota Series Championship:
- That reward climbs to $3,000, one of the most generous contingency payouts in the field.
For pros chasing points, championships, and career momentum, these payouts can be game-changing.
Simple Requirements, Serious Rewards
Suzuki keeps the program accessible with clear, straightforward criteria:
- Angler must own and compete with a Suzuki 4-stroke outboard of 115 HP or larger.
- The outboard must be registered through Suzuki’s warranty process (813-687-5900).
- The Suzuki Marine logo must be displayed on the front of the jersey or hat on stage.
- Angler must receive weight credit in the event.
- Eligibility must be declared to MLF prior to the tournament start.
- MLF reports winners to Suzuki for verification.
- Suzuki has final approval on all payouts and may modify the program at any time.
- Limit: five wins per year (Toyota Series Championship excluded).
- Elite Series and Bass Pro Tour anglers are not eligible.
These requirements ensure the rewards go to the anglers who truly represent the brand — the grassroots competitors who rely on Suzuki power day in and day out.
A Program Built for the Anglers Who Grind
Suzuki Marine Rewards isn’t just a contingency program — it’s a statement. It says that the anglers who tow long distances, practice for days, and compete with passion deserve support. It says that loyalty matters. And it says that the anglers who choose Suzuki should have every opportunity to earn more for their efforts.
Whether you’re chasing your first BFL check or fishing your way toward the Toyota Series Championship, Suzuki Marine is ready to reward the anglers who run with them.
Healthy Guntersville set to kick off 2026 Bassmaster Elite season
SCOTTSBORO, Ala. — Call it bass fishing’s version of “curb appeal,” the condition of a lake’s grass plays a big role in determining its value and that’s precisely the formula awaiting anglers in the FXR Bassmaster Elite at Lake Guntersville.
Competition days will be February 5-8 with daily takeoffs from Goose Pond Colony Resort at 7 a.m. CT and weigh-ins each day at the same location at 3 p.m.
Speaking two weeks prior to the tournament, local guide and Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens presented by Battery Tender pro Laker Howell said he’s optimistic about what the season-opener will offer. He couched that sentiment with a thought of how near-term weather patterns might affect the vast acreage of healthy eel grass carpeting much of Guntersville.
A major winter storm moved through the region in late January and brought significant temperature declines. The level of impact Guntersville sustains will play a big role in how the tournament unfolds.
“I think the No. 1 thing you’re gonna really have to pay attention to will be the effects of the cold front,” Howell said. “Normally, a cold front wouldn’t matter on Guntersville, but I’ll want to know what happens to the grass.
“The whole condition of the lake is phenomenal. I’ve been guiding just about every day since New Years and the clarity is flawless. I haven’t seen the grass fishing this fun in a long time.”
Submersed aquatic vegetation always factors into the late-winter picture, as fish start transitioning from deeper cold-season haunts to progressively shallower prespawn staging areas. Fitting the fish’s needs, grass offers concealment, feeding opportunities and some degree of heat retention.
If the Guntersville grass remains as healthy as it was before the recent weather event, Howell expects tremendous fishing action. Any declines won’t necessarily stymie that potential; it will simply limit some of the shallower grass opportunities.
“I really think the guys are gonna whack ’em,” Howell predicts. “The only thing that might hinder them a little bit is if that water temp gets below 44 degrees. The water had been around 52 before the front and it had been warming up, so if it tanks, it’s gonna get really weird on the lake.”
Referencing a similar scenario a dozen years ago, Howell said extreme temperatures would likely halt the seasonal progression and turn this into more of an offshore event. That would present a challenging scenario, as this tournament is one of four on the 2026 schedule that will not allow the use of forward facing sonar (often colloquially called ’Scope, for Garmin’s LiveScope).
“If it drops below 42, I think we would see conditions similar to the 2014 Classic on Guntersville when it got so cold,” Howell said. “A lot of the guys struggled just because of how cold the water was.
“Right now, all those big females are moving into the grass humps in 3-6 feet and it’s getting really easy to catch a big bag. If that water temp tanks, it could send those fish back out to the floating stage where they’re out there chasing bait balls. That would be harder with no ’Scope.”
An offshore event would likely see a mix of jerkbaits, swimbaits, jighead minnows and possibly some topwater action for isolated schooling opportunities. If the cold weather brings minimal impact and anglers find the grass game in full swing, the event will see a lot of lipless baits, bladed jigs and spinnerbaits.
Notably, Howell’s father, Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series pro Randy Howell won the 2014 Bassmaster Classic at Lake Guntersville. During that late-February event, a significant warming trend ushered a group of fish onto the Spring Creek Bridge riprap, where Howell sacked up a Day 3 limit of 29-2 and made a big move from 11th place to win the sport’s most prestigious award.
The younger Howell said that, while a similar occurrence is not out of the question, he’s anticipating more of a winter grass event. It’s entirely possible, however, to find a couple of the Top 10 finishers doing, at least, some of their work around bridges.
As Howell points out, Guntersville’s entirety will be in play. Along with the grass, docks, riprap and bluffs could also produce. The one consistent requirement, though, will be intentionality.
“It’s pretty rare to see a guy do well off random fish on Guntersville,” Howell said. “The guy that does well will have to find a couple of zones with big fish.”
Sizing up the leaderboard potential, Howell said he’s looking for an average of at least 24 pounds a day to win. If the water temperature falls into the low 40s, he’d back that down to 22. In any scenario, he believes Guntersville will offer plenty of widely distributed opportunity.
“There are big fish top to bottom,” Howell said. “I guide from the north bridge to the dam and it doesn’t matter what zone you’re in if you’re in the right habitat. The lake is just so healthy.”
Live coverage of the FXR Bassmaster Elite at Lake Guntersville will be available on Bassmaster.com and Roku Thursday and Friday beginning at 8 a.m. ET and running until 3 p.m. Coverage on Saturday will be available on FS1 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. before moving to Bassmaster.com from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Championship Sunday coverage can be found on FS1 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with afternoon action to follow on Bassmaster.com.
This event is being hosted by Mountain Lakes Chamber of Commerce.
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
2026 Bassmaster Elite Series
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
Stahl’s confidence delivers Day 1 lead in Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — When you know, you know; and Cody Stahl knew his spot had the potential to deliver a big bag, like the 28-pound, 9-ounce limit that leads Day 1 of the Turtlebox Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain presented by Battery Tender.
“All week, I was paying attention to the conditions and what the weather was calling for,” said the pro from Barnsville, Ga. “In practice, I caught three little fish where I caught those fish today. But looking at the conditions, I said, ‘This is where it’s gonna go down and gosh, it went down!’
“Obviously, tomorrow’s a different day and I might have to make some adjustments, but overall, today was a phenomenal day.”
Following a cold front that sent Central Florida temperatures into the mid-30s, Day 1 began in the low 40s, with the afternoon warming by about 20 degrees. Despite the shivering start, Stahl enjoyed an early day-maker, with another kicker about five hours later.
“I caught my biggest one, a 9-6, first thing in the morning and I caught another big one late in the day,” Stahl said. “It was a mental grind today; I only caught eight fish.
“With the full moon (Feb. 1) and the cold front, these fish want to be up (near the spawning zone). I looked at my spot and said, ‘This is textbook.’ I just trusted my gut and it went down.”
Stahl said he’s fishing a grass-oriented scenario on Lake Toho. He kept the particulars guarded, but noted that his spot presented a mix of prespawn and spawning habitat.
“It’s a place where I’ve caught them before, so I know what lives there,” Stahl said. “It’s kind of a catch-all place, but it was kinda overlooked by a lot of boats.”
Stahl said he caught his fish on two baits. Casting accuracy always matters in bass fishing, but Stahl said confidence also impacted his success.
“One thing I’ve learned out of all my trips to Florida is confidence in your cast,” he said. “I only caught eight fish today and having confidence in every single cast and every decision I made really played a key role in catching those fish today.”
Stahl, who won the 2024 St. Croix Bassmaster Open at Mississippi River presented by SEVIIN, said he’s delighted with his opening performance on the Kissimmee Chain, a fishery that gave him trouble during his previous visit in 2022.
“The last time I was here, I zeroed on Day 1 and caught the biggest bag of Day 2,” said Stahl, who placed 48th in that 2022 event. “Hopefully, this is gonna be a good week and we can finish it out tomorrow and make it to Championship Saturday.”
Cliff Prince of Palatka, Fla., is in second place with 26-2. He also fished in Toho and found his fish in offshore grass. Targeting mostly prespawn staging fish, Prince alternated between lipless baits and jerkbaits.
“I was fishing medium to fast retrieves; I was trying to make them react,” Prince said.
Anchoring his bag with a 6 1/2-pounder, Prince said he found good fish in practice, but he knew the week’s cold front would stall any spawning movement.
“Where I got my bites the first day of practice, which was the warmest day of the week is where I caught them today,” Prince said. “Why the big ones showed up, I don’t know. I caught some good ones in practice, but I didn’t expect to catch ’em like I caught ’em.
“I didn’t figure they were going in. If anything, they were going to stay put or push out. I stayed on the outside of everything, fished as deep as I could and stayed close to the edge of the grass.”
Terry Scroggins of San Mateo, Fla., is in third place with 20-11. He did all of his work on shellbars in 6 to11 feet, but that success came after Plan A. fell flat.
“All practice, long, I tried to make a flipping bite happen, but it didn’t happen, so I started looking offshore to some deeper stuff,” Scroggins said. “I found one shellbar that had a lot of fish on it and I caught 20 pounds before 11 o’clock.
“I caught a little more and just tried to protect the spot because I had some other boats around. When they left, I left and just kinda went practicing the rest of the day.”
Scroggins caught his offshore fish on lipless baits, a flutter spoon, a hair jig and a jighead minnow. After securing his bag, he tested the flipping potential in various areas of matted vegetation. That bite did materialize on Day 1, but Scroggins remains optimistic that the seasonal pattern will eventually ignite.
“That should be the deal here, and it’s not the deal, but anytime it could be,” Scroggins said. “We have the high sun, the high (atmospheric) pressure and everything is setting up for that.
“If I can get a couple big flipping bites, it’ll make a difference. In Florida, you catch three or four good ones and a big one goes a long way. That’s what I’m looking for — that big bite. I don’t think I can get it offshore, so that’s why I keep looking for that flipping bite.”
Jonathan Kelley of Old Forge, Pa., is in the lead for Phoenix Boats Big Bass honors with his 10-7.
Friday’s takeoff is scheduled for 7 a.m. ET at Kissimmee Lake Front Park. The weigh-in will be held at the park at 3 p.m.
Follow along with all of the action from the Turtlebox Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain of Lakes presented by Battery Tender on Bassmaster.com.
Visit Kissimmee is hosting this event.
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series P
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
2026 Bassmaster Opens Series
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
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Connect with #Bassmaster on Facebook, Instagram, Twitte
Media Contact: Mandy Pascal, Communications Manager, 334-414-8677, [email protected]
2026 Turtlebox Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain presented by Battery Tender 1/29-1/31
Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, Kissimmee FL.
(BOATER) Standings Day 1
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Cody Stahl Barnsville, GA 5 28-09 200
Day 1: 5 28-09
2. Cliff Prince Palatka, FL 5 26-02 199
Day 1: 5 26-02
3. Terry Scroggins San Mateo, FL 5 20-11 198
Day 1: 5 20-11
4. Adam Rasmussen Sturgeon Bay, WI 5 19-02 197
Day 1: 5 19-02
5. Stephen Browning Hot Springs, AR 5 18-13 196
Day 1: 5 18-13
5. Connor Jacob Peoria, IL 5 18-13 196
Day 1: 5 18-13
5. Matt Mosby Dryden, MI 5 18-13 196
Day 1: 5 18-13
8. Noah Winslow Naugatuck, CT 5 18-12 193
Day 1: 5 18-12
9. Buddy Benson Dahlonega, GA 5 17-11 192
Day 1: 5 17-11
10. Jonathon VanDam Gobles, MI 5 17-06 191
Day 1: 5 17-06
11. Brett Hite Phoenix, AZ 5 17-05 190
Day 1: 5 17-05
11. Laker Howell Guntersville, AL 5 17-05 190
Day 1: 5 17-05
13. Tyler Conde Chepachet, RI 5 16-10 188
Day 1: 5 16-10
14. Grant Neubauer Medford, WI 5 16-06 187
Day 1: 5 16-06
15. Jonathan Kelley Old Forge, PA 3 15-10 186
Day 1: 3 15-10
16. Wyatt Burkhalter Coker, AL 5 15-09 185
Day 1: 5 15-09
17. Jack Dice Lynchburg, VA 5 15-03 184
Day 1: 5 15-03
18. Kaden Buchmann Troutman, NC 5 15-02 183
Day 1: 5 15-02
19. Billy Gilbert Hamburg, NY 5 14-15 182
Day 1: 5 14-15
20. Greg Alexander Hebron, MD 5 14-13 181
Day 1: 5 14-13
21. Ryan Lachniet Gum Spring, VA 5 14-12 180
Day 1: 5 14-12
22. Ed Powell Sandyville, WV 5 14-10 179
Day 1: 5 14-10
23. Garrett Smith Mount Holly, NC 5 14-07 178
Day 1: 5 14-07
24. Cody Abbott Woodruff, SC 5 14-06 177
Day 1: 5 14-06
25. Timothy Reams Morgantown, WV 5 14-01 176
Day 1: 5 14-01
26. Lucas Lindsay Auburn , AL 5 13-15 175
Day 1: 5 13-15
27. Jaron Burr Bowling Green, KY 5 13-13 174
Day 1: 5 13-13
28. David Williams Maiden, NC 5 13-12 173
Day 1: 5 13-12
29. Darold Gleason Leesville, LA 5 13-11 172
Day 1: 5 13-11
29. Tyler Shawger Zanesville, OH 5 13-11 0
Day 1: 5 13-11
31. Lucas Toliver Paw Paw, MI 5 13-07 171
Day 1: 5 13-07
32. Kyle Walters Palm Bay, FL 5 13-05 0
Day 1: 5 13-05
33. Doug Chapin Tigerton, WI 5 13-03 170
Day 1: 5 13-03
34. Freddy Palmer Estill Springs, TN 4 13-01 169
Day 1: 4 13-01
35. Hayden Gaddis Dandridge, TN 3 12-11 168
Day 1: 3 12-11
36. Clayton Batts Warner Robins, GA 5 12-10 167
Day 1: 5 12-10
37. Steve Dimatteo Lancaster, PA 5 12-07 166
Day 1: 5 12-07
38. Tripp Berlinsky Florence, AL 5 12-04 165
Day 1: 5 12-04
39. Robert Hoyt Union Hall, VA 5 12-02 164
Day 1: 5 12-02
39. Bo Thomas Edwardsburg, MI 5 12-02 164
Day 1: 5 12-02
41. Chase Carey Hoschton, GA 5 12-01 162
Day 1: 5 12-01
42. Bernie Schultz Gainesville, FL 4 12-01 161
Day 1: 4 12-01
43. Brady Vernon Sterrett, AL 5 11-15 160
Day 1: 5 11-15
44. Jack Daniel Williams Kingsport, TN 5 11-14 159
Day 1: 5 11-14
45. Michael Corbishley Raleigh, NC 5 11-11 158
Day 1: 5 11-11
46. Zac Ridenhour Salisbury, NC 5 11-10 157
Day 1: 5 11-10
47. Mike McClelland Blue Eye, MO 5 11-08 156
Day 1: 5 11-08
47. Lucas Murphy West Columbia, MI 5 11-08 156
Day 1: 5 11-08
49. Josh Hubbard Citrus Springs, FL 5 11-07 154
Day 1: 5 11-07
50. Donald Tripoli Webster, NY 5 11-05 153
Day 1: 5 11-05
51. CJ Maddux Birmingham, AL 4 11-01 152
Day 1: 4 11-01
52. Bryson Osteen Live Oak, FL 5 10-14 151
Day 1: 5 10-14
53. Parker Guy Ocilla, GA 5 10-13 150
Day 1: 5 10-13
54. Niko Romero Coldspring, TX 5 10-12 149
Day 1: 5 10-12
55. Guy Eaker Sr Cherryville, NC 5 10-06 148
Day 1: 5 10-06
55. Cole McAusland Tuscaloosa, AL 5 10-06 148
Day 1: 5 10-06
55. Blake Milligan Nashville, TN 5 10-06 148
Day 1: 5 10-06
55. Derek Rodriguez Jr. Okemos, MI 5 10-06 148
Day 1: 5 10-06
59. Cody Detweiler Guntersville, AL 5 10-05 144
Day 1: 5 10-05
59. Nathan Quince Imperial, PA 5 10-05 144
Day 1: 5 10-05
61. Dillon Falardeau Hixson, TN 5 10-02 142
Day 1: 5 10-02
61. Bill Rea Greenfield, OH 5 10-02 0
Day 1: 5 10-02
63. George Hirapetian Lancaster, SC 5 09-15 141
Day 1: 5 09-15
64. Stu Martel Northbrook, IL 4 09-12 140
Day 1: 4 09-12
65. Chase Clarke Virginia Beach, VA 5 09-11 139
Day 1: 5 09-11
66. Destry Ford Tuscaloosa, AL 5 09-10 0
Day 1: 5 09-10
67. Robert Davenport Brooksville, FL 4 09-10 138
Day 1: 4 09-10
67. Alex Heintze Denham Springs, LA 4 09-10 138
Day 1: 4 09-10
67. River Lee Diboll, TX 4 09-10 138
Day 1: 4 09-10
70. Michael Webster Gastonia, NC 5 09-09 135
Day 1: 5 09-09
71. Lee Harper Abbeville, AL 2 09-09 0
Day 1: 2 09-09
72. Rich Howes Oviedo, FL 5 09-08 134
Day 1: 5 09-08
73. Ty Austin Rush, NY 5 09-07 133
Day 1: 5 09-07
73. Cody Ross Livingston, TX 5 09-07 133
Day 1: 5 09-07
75. Chris Lighthizer Zanesville, OH 5 09-05 0
Day 1: 5 09-05
76. Gary Clouse Winchester, TN 5 09-03 131
Day 1: 5 09-03
77. Jeremy Goodwyn Bowling Green, FL 4 09-02 0
Day 1: 4 09-02
77. Ryan Michl Newton, IL 4 09-02 130
Day 1: 4 09-02
79. Dylan Akins Flowery Branch, GA 5 09-01 129
Day 1: 5 09-01
79. John Branch Magnolia, KY 5 09-01 129
Day 1: 5 09-01
79. Dylan Fogarty Mechanicsburg, PA 5 09-01 129
Day 1: 5 09-01
82. Ryan Salzman Huntsville, AL 5 08-13 126
Day 1: 5 08-13
83. Zach Goutremout Chaumont, NY 5 08-10 125
Day 1: 5 08-10
84. Evan White Roanoke Rapids, NC 4 08-10 124
Day 1: 4 08-10
85. Kevin Jones Valley, AL 4 08-09 123
Day 1: 4 08-09
86. Brandon Pilling Clermont, FL 4 08-08 0
Day 1: 4 08-08
87. Aaron Yavorsky Palm Harbor, FL 5 08-07 122
Day 1: 5 08-07
88. Charlie Hartley Grove City, OH 4 08-07 121
Day 1: 4 08-07
89. Brooks Anderson Marietta, GA 5 08-06 120
Day 1: 5 08-06
89. Alex Johnson Milltown, NJ 5 08-06 120
Day 1: 5 08-06
89. Teb Jones Yalaha, MS 5 08-06 120
Day 1: 5 08-06
89. Seiji Kato Forney TX JAPAN 5 08-06 120
Day 1: 5 08-06
89. Ish Monroe Oakdale, CA 5 08-06 120
Day 1: 5 08-06
94. Jamie Fountain East Dublin, GA 5 08-04 115
Day 1: 5 08-04
95. Damian Szlachta Dawsonville, GA 4 08-02 114
Day 1: 4 08-02
96. Bubba Baker Ridgeway, SC 5 08-01 0
Day 1: 5 08-01
96. Ryan Broughman Corapeake, NC 5 08-01 113
Day 1: 5 08-01
96. Chad Pipkens Dewitt, MI 5 08-01 113
Day 1: 5 08-01
99. Ben Quisno Oakwood, OH 5 07-15 111
Day 1: 5 07-15
100. Brandon Parson Erwin, NC 4 07-15 110
Day 1: 4 07-15
101. Jacob Thompkins Myrtle Beach, SC 5 07-13 109
Day 1: 5 07-13
102. Jake Maddux Alpharetta, GA 4 07-13 108
Day 1: 4 07-13
103. Jeremy Sadowski Voluntown, CT 4 07-12 107
Day 1: 4 07-12
104. Caden Vincent Cross Junction, VA 5 07-11 0
Day 1: 5 07-11
105. Brayden Rakes Winston Salem, NC 5 07-08 106
Day 1: 5 07-08
106. Chris Miller Spirit Lake, IA 5 07-06 105
Day 1: 5 07-06
107. John Pollard Eclectic, AL 5 07-04 104
Day 1: 5 07-04
108. Troy Coney Owego, NY 5 07-03 103
Day 1: 5 07-03
108. Tommy Dickerson Orange, TX 5 07-03 0
Day 1: 5 07-03
110. Yukihiro Sawamura Harker Heights, TX 5 07-02 102
Day 1: 5 07-02
111. Chris Kingree Inverness, FL 2 07-01 101
Day 1: 2 07-01
112. Daniel Lanier Jr. Winter Springs, FL 2 07-00 0
Day 1: 2 07-00
113. Easton Lindus Woodville, WI 5 06-15 100
Day 1: 5 06-15
113. Timmy Sheridan Troy, VA 5 06-15 100
Day 1: 5 06-15
115. Brian Hatfield Spring City, TN 4 06-14 98
Day 1: 4 06-14
116. Johnathan Crossland Chapin, SC 5 06-12 97
Day 1: 5 06-12
117. Alex Wetherell Middletown, CT 2 06-11 96
Day 1: 2 06-11
118. Tanner Hadden Appling, GA 5 06-09 95
Day 1: 5 06-09
119. Colt Blanton Piketon, OH 4 06-09 94
Day 1: 4 06-09
120. Parker Mott Winter Garden, FL 4 06-08 0
Day 1: 4 06-08
121. Ricky Basey Warrenville, SC 3 06-08 93
Day 1: 3 06-08
122. Joshua Weaver Macon, GA 3 06-07 92
Day 1: 3 06-07
123. Fred Roumbanis Russellville, AR 4 06-05 91
Day 1: 4 06-05
124. Whitney Stephens Waverly, OH 4 06-03 90
Day 1: 4 06-03
125. Logan Johnson Nauvoo, AL 5 06-00 89
Day 1: 5 06-00
126. Nick Mandes North Stonington, CT 3 05-15 88
Day 1: 3 05-15
127. Nic Rand Paw Paw, MI 4 05-12 87
Day 1: 4 05-12
128. Rick Greene Ocala, FL 1 05-12 86
Day 1: 1 05-12
129. Tommy Dunaway Havana, FL 2 05-10 85
Day 1: 2 05-10
130. Bobby Bakewell Orlando, FL 3 05-08 84
Day 1: 3 05-08
130. Shayne Berlo Mclean, VA 3 05-08 84
Day 1: 3 05-08
132. Ron Farrow Rock Hill, SC 3 05-05 82
Day 1: 3 05-05
133. Brien Vaughn Lampe, MO 3 04-14 81
Day 1: 3 04-14
134. Brock Bila Republic, MO 2 04-13 80
Day 1: 2 04-13
135. Colton Trotter Dothan, AL 2 04-12 79
Day 1: 2 04-12
136. Jay Schoenfelder Sarasota, FL 4 04-10 0
Day 1: 4 04-10
137. Mike Blevins Burnsville, NC 3 04-10 78
Day 1: 3 04-10
138. Kenny Mittelstaedt Minnetonka, MN 4 04-09 77
Day 1: 4 04-09
139. Stephen Burlington Jupiter, FL 3 04-09 0
Day 1: 3 04-09
140. Blake Thompson Conway, SC 2 04-08 76
Day 1: 2 04-08
141. Blaine Bunney Claremore, OK 3 04-06 75
Day 1: 3 04-06
142. Pete Pisello Phillipsburg, NJ 3 04-04 74
Day 1: 3 04-04
143. Allen Brooks Canton, GA 3 04-01 73
Day 1: 3 04-01
143. Justin Kimmel Athens, GA 3 04-01 73
Day 1: 3 04-01
143. Yusuke Miyazaki Forney, TX 3 04-01 73
Day 1: 3 04-01
146. Trey Thompson Sanford, NC 2 03-15 70
Day 1: 2 03-15
147. Luke Chichetto Land O Lakes, FL 1 03-14 0
Day 1: 1 03-14
148. Joey Hanna Corsicana, TX 2 03-13 69
Day 1: 2 03-13
149. Neal Gilmore Magnolia, TX 2 03-12 68
Day 1: 2 03-12
150. Phil Kroll Otego, NY 2 03-04 67
Day 1: 2 03-04
151. Dave Miller Stratford, CT 1 03-03 66
Day 1: 1 03-03
152. Mikey Weems Hull, TX 3 03-01 0
Day 1: 3 03-01
153. Jeremy Radford Huntly, VA 2 03-00 65
Day 1: 2 03-00
154. Trent Palmer Cumming, GA 2 02-12 64
Day 1: 2 02-12
155. Yuming Gao Waterloo CANADA 2 02-11 63
Day 1: 2 02-11
156. Willie Mcmullen Covington, GA 1 02-09 62
Day 1: 1 02-09
157. Paul Tabisz Livonia, MI 2 02-07 61
Day 1: 2 02-07
158. Charles Sim Wasaga Beach Ontario CA 2 02-05 60
Day 1: 2 02-05
159. Matt Keezer Kirkland Quebec CANADA 2 02-02 59
Day 1: 2 02-02
160. Michael Johns Waynesville, GA 1 02-02 58
Day 1: 1 02-02
160. Tyler Lubbat Naples, FL 1 02-02 58
Day 1: 1 02-02
162. Chris McCarthy Woonsocket, RI 2 02-00 56
Day 1: 2 02-00
163. Steven Eastman Eustis, FL 1 02-00 0
Day 1: 1 02-00
164. Cory Mcglamery Madisonville, TN 1 01-15 55
Day 1: 1 01-15
165. Colden Baker Ridgeway, SC 1 01-14 54
Day 1: 1 01-14
166. Gregg Johnson Ocala, FL 1 01-12 0
Day 1: 1 01-12
167. Darrell Ivey Lebanon, MO 1 01-11 53
Day 1: 1 01-11
167. David Perdue Wirtz, VA 1 01-11 53
Day 1: 1 01-11
169. Trey Schroeder Theodosia, MO 1 01-10 51
Day 1: 1 01-10
169. Allen Williford Paducah, KY 1 01-10 0
Day 1: 1 01-10
171. Kenneth Sharkey Grand Haven, MI 1 01-09 0
Day 1: 1 01-09
172. Grae Buck Green Lane, PA 1 01-05 50
Day 1: 1 01-05
172. Bryden Mugleston Lebanon, TN 1 01-05 50
Day 1: 1 01-05
174. Byron Kenney Jr Monticello, GA 1 00-15 48
Day 1: 1 00-15
175. Bryan Hoffman Andrews, TX 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
175. Kristian Johnson Belvidere, NJ 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
175. Lance Owen Greer, SC 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
175. Anastasia Patterson Sumter, SC 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
175. Johno Roberts Golden, CO 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
175. Casey Smith Victor, NY 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
175. Tommy Young Orlando, FL 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
------------------------------
Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 95 682 1552-05
------------------------------
95 682 1552-05
Warm-water surprise boosts Emmanuel University’s Dunn & Mcguffin to Okeechobee win
OKEECHOBEE, Fla. — After Peyton Dunn and Luke Mcguffin found a “magical spot” and grabbed the Day 1 lead in the Strike King Bassmaster College Series at Lake Okeechobee presented by Bass Pro Shops, their greatest fear was that other anglers might fish the same area and disrupt their momentum.
Other teams did fish nearby on Thursday in the second and final day of the derby, but none found the weight needed to knock the Emmanuel University duo from the pole position.
Dunn and Mcguffin caught a two-day total of 10 bass weighing 32 pounds, 14 ounces to claim the tournament title here in south Florida. They caught a limit of 12 pounds, 5 ounces on Thursday – considerably less than the 20-9 limit they sacked on Wednesday, but easily enough to hold off the field off the field of 219 teams fishing on legendary Lake Okeechobee this week.
Dunn and Mcguffin netted $6,921 for the Emmanuel University bass team, part of a cash purse of $23,269 that was split among the Top 10 duos.
The victors finished more than five pounds ahead of their closest competitors , but the win didn’t come as easily as it might seem. Dunn and Mcguffin said they caught only 10 keeper fish on Day 2, relying heavily on an early-morning flurry that got a limit in the livewell. They upgraded only a couple times and said Thursday’s best bass weighed about 3 1/2 pounds.
“We battled all day long and really struggled to get the fish we needed,” said Mcguffin, a 19-year-old freshman from Seneca, SC. “We knew the right fish were there, it was just getting them to bite or not. We thought we might pick off a big one or two, but it didn’t happen. When we were making the (40-minute) run back, we thought we were gonna come up short by a pound or two. But when we got to the tanks and saw what was in front of us, we realized we had a shot.
“You go from completely stressed to holding the trophy,” Mcguffin added.
Dunn and Mcguffin fished in the Indian Prairie area of Lake Okeechobee. Dunn said the key was a small pipe beneath the surface that warmed the water they fished, and with 35-degree temperatures to start both mornings, the extra heat helped them turn up the heat on the largemouth bass.
“We kept hearing water temperature in the main lake was 56, 58 degrees,” Dunn said. “But we were fishing in water that was 65 degrees. It’s not much, but it made a huge difference.”
Still, others fished the area but didn’t manage the weight needed to catch the Emmanuel tandem.
“We saw six boats yesterday and today it was about 40,” Dunn said. “The traffic ruined the water color today and made it challenging to get them in the boat.”
Dunn and Mcguffin caught their best fish on a black/blue 6-inch Senko worm on a 5/0 Gamakatsu wide gap hook. They also used white and clear Berkley Stunna jerkbaits and a Berkley General stickbait.
“There were about 30 yards of reeds near the bank by this pipe,” Dunn said. “It was just a great set up.”
Rounding out the Top 5 teams at Okeechobee are second, Joe Vaulton and Walker Larue, Carson-Newman University, 27-8; third, Lane Clark and Tallis Morrison, Erskine College, 26-9; fourth, Bryson Dotson and Victor Alford, Tennessee Wesleyan University, 25-4; and fifth, Nolan Gray and Riley Brown, Carson-Newman University, 25-0.
The Big Bass Award went to Carson-Newman’s Kaden Casey and Collin French who boated an 8-14 largemouth on Day 1, good enough to split a $200 prize. They finished 40th in the tournament.
The Top 22 teams at Okeechobee (10% of the field) earned a spot in the Strike King Bassmaster College Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops later this year. This was the first of three tournaments on the Lunkers Trail this year. B.A.S.S. has a two-division format (both the Legends and Lunkers trails each have three tournaments) which is designed to give college anglers additional opportunities to compete.
Okeechobee County Tourist Development Center hosted this event.
2026 Bassmaster College Series
2026 Bassmaster College Series
2026 Bassmaster College Series
2026 Bassmaster College Series
2026 Bassmaster College Series
2026 Bassmaster College Series
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
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2026 Strike King Bassmaster College Series at Lake Okeechobee - Lunkers 1/28-1/29
Lake Okeechobee, Okeechobee City FL.
(BOATER) Standings Day 2
Angler Club/School Pts
1. Peyton Dunn - Luke Mcguffin Emmanuel University 250
Day 1: 5 20-09 Day 2: 5 12-05 Total: 10 32-14
2. Joe Vaulton - Walker LaRue Carson-Newman University 249
Day 1: 5 11-10 Day 2: 5 15-14 Total: 10 27-08
3. Lane Clark - Tallis Morrison Erskine College 248
Day 1: 5 14-15 Day 2: 5 11-10 Total: 10 26-09
4. Bryson Dotson - Victor Alford Tennessee Wesleyan University 247
Day 1: 5 13-02 Day 2: 5 12-02 Total: 10 25-04
5. Nolan Gray - Riley Brown Carson-Newman University 246
Day 1: 5 12-12 Day 2: 5 12-04 Total: 10 25-00
6. Ethan Burnette - Cameron Dials Kentucky Christian University 245
Day 1: 5 11-04 Day 2: 5 13-11 Total: 10 24-15
7. Anderson Jones - Lander University 244
Day 1: 5 12-00 Day 2: 5 12-12 Total: 10 24-12
8. Szymon Piton - Riley Faulkner Carson-Newman University 243
Day 1: 5 09-07 Day 2: 5 15-03 Total: 10 24-10
9. Graham Flaherty - Nathan Preston Auburn University 242
Day 1: 5 11-15 Day 2: 5 12-00 Total: 10 23-15
10. Caleb Neu - Jakob Dreher Bethel University 241
Day 1: 3 04-15 Day 2: 5 16-11 Total: 8 21-10
11. Ryan Small - David Buccafuri Penn State University 240
Day 1: 5 10-06 Day 2: 3 11-00 Total: 8 21-06
12. Will Wester - Jackson Thomas Emmanuel University 239
Day 1: 2 08-01 Day 2: 5 13-03 Total: 7 21-04
13. Bryson Gurley - Ethan Evatt USC - Union 238
Day 1: 5 11-09 Day 2: 4 09-07 Total: 9 21-00
14. Noah Haas - Jace French Purdue University 237
Day 1: 5 16-12 Day 2: 1 03-12 Total: 6 20-08
15. Brycen Williamson - Reed Rooke Erskine College 236
Day 1: 5 16-07 Day 2: 2 04-00 Total: 7 20-07
16. Elijah Kelley - Kyle Smith Kentucky Christian University 235
Day 1: 5 13-09 Day 2: 2 06-07 Total: 7 20-00
17. Andrew Terry - Kole Weir Bryan College 234
Day 1: 5 10-11 Day 2: 4 09-02 Total: 9 19-13
18. Max Hondorp - Ridge Faircloth Troy University 233
Day 1: 5 09-07 Day 2: 5 10-04 Total: 10 19-11
19. Cole Petroff - Noah Loxley Tennessee Tech University 232
Day 1: 5 19-04 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 19-04
20. Quinn Williams - Emery Burnett Georgia Southern University 231
Day 1: 5 08-15 Day 2: 4 10-02 Total: 9 19-01
21. Jackson Fuller - Grant Steinauer Auburn University 230
Day 1: 5 09-14 Day 2: 3 08-15 Total: 8 18-13
22. Cole Russell - Ty Trentham University of Tennessee 229
Day 1: 5 14-08 Day 2: 1 04-00 Total: 6 18-08
23. Reece Keeney - Brantley Anders Kentucky Christian University 228
Day 1: 5 08-14 Day 2: 5 09-10 Total: 10 18-08
24. John Cooper - Daxton Wammack University of North Alabama 227
Day 1: 5 13-05 Day 2: 3 05-02 Total: 8 18-07
25. Luke Wyle - Trey Richardson III Auburn University 226
Day 1: 4 07-15 Day 2: 5 09-12 Total: 9 17-11
26. Jaxon Leverette - Austin Sawyer Troy University 225
Day 1: 5 10-05 Day 2: 3 07-05 Total: 8 17-10
27. Colin Oldfield - Jack Miner Michigan State University 224
Day 1: 5 10-10 Day 2: 3 06-14 Total: 8 17-08
28. Cole Moulton - Jared Hubbard Lander University 223
Day 1: 3 05-15 Day 2: 2 11-08 Total: 5 17-07
29. Brendin Simich - Carter Stambelos Auburn University 222
Day 1: 2 07-06 Day 2: 4 10-01 Total: 6 17-07
30. CJ Chavous Jr. - Landon Bannister USC - Union 221
Day 1: 2 10-00 Day 2: 4 07-05 Total: 6 17-05
31. Joe Mcnamara - Grady Mcclendon University of North Alabama 220
Day 1: 5 08-08 Day 2: 5 08-12 Total: 10 17-04
32. Brayden Ruckman - Zach Wolfe Carson-Newman University 219
Day 1: 3 10-08 Day 2: 2 06-04 Total: 5 16-12
33. Drew Pitts - Nicholas DellaPorta Carson-Newman University 218
Day 1: 3 08-04 Day 2: 5 08-06 Total: 8 16-10
34. Landen Parsons - Brayden Wilson Bethel University 217
Day 1: 2 03-03 Day 2: 5 13-06 Total: 7 16-09
35. Fischer Barber - Troy University 216
Day 1: 5 12-05 Day 2: 2 04-03 Total: 7 16-08
36. Andrew Turner - Evan Powell Carson-Newman University 215
Day 1: 3 09-13 Day 2: 2 06-09 Total: 5 16-06
37. Carter Steed - Brewton-Parker College 214
Day 1: 4 08-10 Day 2: 2 07-03 Total: 6 15-13
38. Jake Brown - Nathan Reynolds University of North Alabama 213
Day 1: 4 08-12 Day 2: 3 07-00 Total: 7 15-12
39. Quade Lobo - Jerry Brumbaugh Jr. Adrian College 212
Day 1: 2 03-01 Day 2: 5 12-05 Total: 7 15-06
40. Kaden Casey - Collin French Carson-Newman University 211
Day 1: 3 11-13 Day 2: 2 03-07 Total: 5 15-04
41. Tanner Herndon - Mason Taylor Bryan College 210
Day 1: 2 04-07 Day 2: 5 10-12 Total: 7 15-03
42. Robie Vines Jr - Colby Bryan Catawba Valley Community College 209
Day 1: 1 04-11 Day 2: 5 10-07 Total: 6 15-02
43. Ryan Wiener - Max Meyer Alexandria Technical And Communi 208
Day 1: 5 14-14 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 14-14
44. Nick Fashho - Mason Stidwill Oakland University 207
Day 1: 5 10-11 Day 2: 2 04-03 Total: 7 14-14
45. Gavin Seewald - Drew Turnbull University of North Alabama 206
Day 1: 3 05-11 Day 2: 5 09-03 Total: 8 14-14
46. Anderson Keim - Adam Hyder Clemson University 205
Day 1: 2 09-04 Day 2: 3 05-06 Total: 5 14-10
47. Will Kimbrough - Mac Nail Georgia Southern University 204
Day 1: 5 14-03 Day 2: 3 00-00 Total: 8 14-03
48. Drew Kuhnle - Landon Rollison Lander University 203
Day 1: 5 10-03 Day 2: 1 04-00 Total: 6 14-03
49. Hayden Williams - Chase Rogers USC - Union 202
Day 1: 4 10-02 Day 2: 2 03-15 Total: 6 14-01
50. Will Hammond - John Such Lander University 201
Day 1: 2 06-13 Day 2: 4 07-02 Total: 6 13-15
51. Hunter Starling - William Vickery Georgia Southern University 200
Day 1: 1 01-11 Day 2: 4 12-00 Total: 5 13-11
52. Colin Chavers - Preston Barnett Auburn University 199
Day 1: 1 02-07 Day 2: 5 11-01 Total: 6 13-08
53. Trenton Carey - Cody Abbott Lander University 198
Day 1: 2 04-04 Day 2: 2 09-02 Total: 4 13-06
54. Cameron Seay - Nate Campbell USC - Union 197
Day 1: 4 13-01 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 4 13-01
55. Zach Helton - Blake Wheat Carson-Newman University 196
Day 1: 3 08-10 Day 2: 1 04-06 Total: 4 13-00
56. Skyler Stevens - Grant McCraney Faulkner University 195
Day 1: 1 06-14 Day 2: 2 06-02 Total: 3 13-00
57. Brady Osborn - Connor Racine Adrian College 194
Day 1: 2 07-02 Day 2: 1 05-11 Total: 3 12-13
58. Nick Hawkins - Chase Wollam Southeastern University 193
Day 1: 5 12-07 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 12-07
59. Cooper Hughes - Brett Bucolo Florida Gulf Coast University 192
Day 1: 4 12-07 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 4 12-07
60. Diego Alea - Carter Teune Southeastern University 191
Day 1: 2 03-08 Day 2: 5 08-15 Total: 7 12-07
61. Richard Johnson III - Tanner Hamilton Troy University 190
Day 1: 3 05-06 Day 2: 3 07-00 Total: 6 12-06
62. Wes Smith II - Caden Gettys Catawba Valley Community College 189
Day 1: 5 12-05 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 12-05
63. Spencer Grooms - Auburn University 188
Day 1: 2 03-07 Day 2: 3 08-08 Total: 5 11-15
64. Carson Peeters - Drew Wagner University of Wisconsin - Steven 187
Day 1: 1 08-04 Day 2: 2 03-11 Total: 3 11-15
65. Jackson Mitchell - Will Shepherd Carson-Newman University 186
Day 1: 3 08-10 Day 2: 1 03-04 Total: 4 11-14
66. Jake Lovingood - Bryson Hatcher Bryan College 185
Day 1: 5 09-09 Day 2: 1 02-03 Total: 6 11-12
67. Jackson Shore - Fletcher Allen Unc - Charlotte 184
Day 1: 1 04-09 Day 2: 3 07-03 Total: 4 11-12
68. Garrett Sullivan - Hayes Pate Faulkner University 183
Day 1: 3 06-02 Day 2: 2 05-05 Total: 5 11-07
69. Hunter Owens - Jackie Hatfield Carson-Newman University 182
Day 1: 4 08-04 Day 2: 1 03-02 Total: 5 11-06
70. Zion Dunaway - Andrew Krintz Purdue University 181
Day 1: 3 06-05 Day 2: 3 05-01 Total: 6 11-06
71. A
Back to Balance: Palaniuk Recharges with Family, Eyes Guntersville to Open 2026
By Walker Smith, Courtesy of Dynamic Sponsorships
By any measure, Brandon Palaniuk’s offseason was anything but quiet. For the Team Toyota pro, the months between seasons were a blur of travel, content creation and preparation. All layered on top of the responsibilities that come with being one of the most recognizable anglers in professional bass fishing. Yet somewhere between the business meetings and camera lenses, Palaniuk managed to do something just as important as any on-the-water prep: slow down.
“I spent a lot of time the past few months preparing for the upcoming 2026 season,” Palaniuk said. “It was one of the busiest offseasons I’ve ever had, to be honest. There was a bunch of business stuff going on and I had a lot of content to film and photograph. I was part of several new-product launches, and it was a bunch of fun to do it. But it sure does keep a man busy.”
That balance between professional obligation and personal fulfillment has become a defining theme of Palaniuk’s career as he’s matured as a competitor and as a family man. The work never truly stops for an Elite Series angler, especially one with Palaniuk’s profile. Sponsors expect excellence. Fans expect insight. And the sport itself demands relentless preparation. Still, even the most driven competitors need moments to unplug.
This offseason, Palaniuk made that a priority.
“I took the family to Hawaii to get away for a little bit,” Palaniuk said. “I’ve always tried to create a career from which I don’t need a vacation but this year it was more needed than normal. I just really wanted to put my phone down and spend a while on the beach in warm weather with my wife and little girls. The girls love the beach and just giggle like crazy when the waves crash on them. All those laughs do a dad’s heart good. They made sandcastles, forts out of driftwood we found on the beach. And there were a bunch of chickens on the island that our little girls got a kick out of chasing around.”
It’s a glimpse into a side of Palaniuk fans don’t always see. A father soaking in laughter, sunscreen and sandy feet. Those moments are grounding. They provide perspective and fuel that can’t be found in a tackle box or on a graph screen. As the 2026 Bassmaster Elite Series season approaches, that clarity is shaping how Palaniuk plans to compete.
“My mindset going into the 2026 Elite Series season is very detail oriented,” Palaniuk said. “I want all the controllables taken care of far in advance of every event. I refuse to go into an event with my mind unorganized or scrambled. I have made sure everyone in the family is on the same page so I can focus on the task at hand when Guntersville comes around.”
That approach has long been a hallmark of Palaniuk’s success. Known for his preparation and adaptability, he thrives when he can fish with a clear head and an open playbook. The season-opening event on Alabama’s Lake Guntersville sets up perfectly for that philosophy, especially given one key rule wrinkle.
“I think the fact that the Guntersville event doesn’t allow forward-facing sonar is great because it opens up so many different ways to win,” Palaniuk offered. “It would be dominated with forward-facing technology if it were allowed. It would also severely limit techniques. I never want to feel like I’m strapped to something that I have to do to win or compete. I want to fish freely and use my instincts. I am going to attack this lake with an open mind and I’m so excited to do so.”
Guntersville has always been a thinking-man’s fishery. It’s a place where grass, current, timing and decision-making matter just as much as raw fish-finding technology. Without FFS in play, the field will be forced to rely on experience, intuition and versatility. Few anglers embrace that challenge as comfortably as Palaniuk.
Beyond the strategic intrigue, there’s also genuine excitement about the fishery itself. Guntersville has shown signs of resurgence in recent seasons and Palaniuk believes the lake is poised to put on a show.
“It seems to me that Guntersville is on a major upswing,” Palaniuk said. “It has an incredibly healthy population of 3- to 4-pounders. There will be a pile of 17- to 18-pound bags but there is a real potential for someone to break 30 pounds. The fish are fresh this time of year, they’re clean, they’re fat and happy. It will be an awesome event for us anglers and spectators.”
The combination of explosive weights, diverse techniques and a level playing field makes the opener one of the most anticipated events on the schedule. For Palaniuk, it’s also a chance to immediately put his offseason work to the test. Every hour spent organizing gear, refining systems and aligning expectations with his family now funnels toward those first competitive casts of 2026.
There’s a quiet confidence in how he talks about the season ahead. Not bravado, not prediction. Just readiness. The kind that comes from knowing the details are handled and the priorities are straight. Family first. Preparation always. Then, let instinct take over.
As Palaniuk loads up and heads toward northern Alabama, he does so carrying more than rods and reels. He brings with him the echoes of laughter on a Hawaiian beach, the satisfaction of a busy offseason well managed and the hunger of a competitor eager to fish freely once the clock starts.
When the Elite Series launches on Lake Guntersville, Brandon Palaniuk will be exactly where he wants to be. Focused, balanced and ready to let the lake tell him what to do next.
Emmanuel’s Dunn & McGuffin make late move, shoot to top of Okeechobee leaderboard
OKEECHOBEE, Fla. — The temperature fell 30 degrees overnight at Lake Okeechobee, but the fortune of Emmanuel University’s Peyton Dunn and Luke Mcguffin was climbing Wednesday on Day 1 of the Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops.
The duo caught a five-bass limit weighing 20 pounds, 9 ounces, to jump atop the leaderboard in this two-day tournament in south Florida. That gave them a 1-5 edge over Tennessee Tech’s Cole Petroff and Noah Loxley, who are in second place after weighing a 19-4 limit.
In all, 219 tandems are competing in the derby on Okeechobee, which at a staggering 730 square miles is the second largest freshwater lake in the lower 48 states.
The storied Okeechobee was a bit of a puzzle for Dunn and Mcguffin early on Day 1, and that’s not unexpected when they practiced in 65-degree weather but hit the water Wednesday morning with the thermometer sitting at 35 degrees. The duo started out on the LiveScope, but their bites were infrequent. By noon, they only had two bass totaling about eight pounds in the livewell.
But as quickly as the cold crept in overnight, the weather warmed just as rapidly Wednesday afternoon. That led the Emmanuel anglers to change tactics.
“We stuck with the ’Scoping for a good while because we thought the fish would push off the banks in this colder weather,” Dunn said. “But as we started taking layers off when the sun came out, we decided to get to the bank.”
Mcguffin caught a 6-pounder along the bank to anchor their bag and get momentum in their favor. They boated a pair of 3- to 4-pounders in the final minutes to vault into the lead.
“I was stressing at about noon, I’m not gonna lie,” said Mcguffin, a 19-year-old freshman from Seneca, S.C. “You’re just fishing and not talking to one another because you’re both stressed. But hey, it’s Florida. You can turn things around quick here. We proved it today.”
The pair didn’t divulge the lures they used to mount their late rally, but they acknowledged the bites were coming from 4 feet deep or less. And with winds gusting as high as 20 mph at times on Day 1, they were looking for the calmest water they could find — a comfort not only to them, but to the Okeechobee bass they figured might be staging to spawn.
“The water was pretty muddy, and it was hard to see much of anything,” said Dunn. “I think the 6-pounder was spawning, but I’m not sure on the others.”
Regardless, bass like that capped Day 1 on a high note. Now the young aces from Emmanuel, located in Franklin Springs, Ga., will try to duplicate their production on the second and final day of the tournament.
“It was a magical day,” Mcguffin said. “You pray for miracles and sometimes you get them … Having the lead won’t help me sleep any easier, but I feel a bit better because we didn’t find a lucky place. We found a good place. It has fish and there should be fish there tomorrow.”
Rounding out the Top 5 teams on Day 1 at Okeechobee are third, Noah Haas and Jace French, of Purdue University, 16-12; fourth, Brycen Williamson and Reed Rooke, Erskine College (S.C.), 16-7; and fifth, Lane Clark and Tallis Morrison, Erskine College (S.C.), 14-15.
The Top 22 teams in the tournament (10% of the field) will earn a spot in the Strike King Bassmaster College Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops later this year. This was the first of three tournaments on the Lunkers Trail this year. B.A.S.S. has a two-division format (both the Legends and Lunkers trails each have three tournaments) which is designed to give college anglers additional opportunities to compete.
The Top 10 teams at Okeechobee will split a cash purse of $23,069 that will be awarded to their respective college bass fishing programs.
The second and final day of the Strike King Bassmaster College Series at Lake Okeechobee presented by Bass Pro Shops will begin Thursday with a 7 a.m. ET takeoff from C. Scott Driver Park. Weigh-in is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET. Fans can follow the action on Bassmaster.com.
Okeechobee County Tourist Development Center is hosting this event.
2026 Bassmaster College Series
2026 Bassmaster College Series
2026 Bassmaster College Series
2026 Bassmaster College Series
2026 Bassmaster College Series
2026 Bassmaster College Series
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
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Connect with #Bassmaster on Facebook, Instagram, Twitte
Media Contact: Mandy Pascal, Communications Manager, 334-414-8677, [email protected]
2026 Strike King Bassmaster College Series at Lake Okeechobee - Lunkers 1/28-1/29
Lake Okeechobee, Okeechobee City FL.
(BOATER) Standings Day 1
Angler Club/School Pts
1. Peyton Dunn - Luke Mcguffin Emmanuel University 250
Day 1: 5 20-09 Total: 5 20-09
2. Cole Petroff - Noah Loxley Tennessee Tech University 249
Day 1: 5 19-04 Total: 5 19-04
3. Noah Haas - Jace French Purdue University 248
Day 1: 5 16-12 Total: 5 16-12
4. Brycen Williamson - Reed Rooke Erskine College 247
Day 1: 5 16-07 Total: 5 16-07
5. Lane Clark - Tallis Morrison Erskine College 246
Day 1: 5 14-15 Total: 5 14-15
6. Ryan Wiener - Max Meyer Alexandria Technical And Communi 245
Day 1: 5 14-14 Total: 5 14-14
7. Cole Russell - Ty Trentham University of Tennessee 244
Day 1: 5 14-08 Total: 5 14-08
8. Will Kimbrough - Mac Nail Georgia Southern University 243
Day 1: 5 14-03 Total: 5 14-03
9. Elijah Kelley - Kyle Smith Kentucky Christian University 242
Day 1: 5 13-09 Total: 5 13-09
10. John Cooper - Daxton Wammack University of North Alabama 241
Day 1: 5 13-05 Total: 5 13-05
11. Bryson Dotson - Victor Alford Tennessee Wesleyan University 240
Day 1: 5 13-02 Total: 5 13-02
12. Cameron Seay - Nate Campbell USC - Union 239
Day 1: 4 13-01 Total: 4 13-01
13. Nolan Gray - Riley Brown Carson-Newman University 238
Day 1: 5 12-12 Total: 5 12-12
14. Nick Hawkins - Chase Wollam Southeastern University 237
Day 1: 5 12-07 Total: 5 12-07
15. Cooper Hughes - Brett Bucolo Florida Gulf Coast University 236
Day 1: 4 12-07 Total: 4 12-07
16. Fischer Barber - Troy University 235
Day 1: 5 12-05 Total: 5 12-05
16. Wes Smith II - Caden Gettys Catawba Valley Community College 235
Day 1: 5 12-05 Total: 5 12-05
18. Anderson Jones - Lander University 233
Day 1: 5 12-00 Total: 5 12-00
19. Graham Flaherty - Nathan Preston Auburn University 232
Day 1: 5 11-15 Total: 5 11-15
20. Kaden Casey - Collin French Carson-Newman University 231
Day 1: 3 11-13 Total: 3 11-13
21. Joe Vaulton - Walker LaRue Carson-Newman University 230
Day 1: 5 11-10 Total: 5 11-10
22. Bryson Gurley - Ethan Evatt USC - Union 229
Day 1: 5 11-09 Total: 5 11-09
23. Ethan Burnette - Cameron Dials Kentucky Christian University 228
Day 1: 5 11-04 Total: 5 11-04
24. Nick Fashho - Mason Stidwill Oakland University 227
Day 1: 5 10-11 Total: 5 10-11
24. Tucker Sutherland - Brier Hardy Faulkner University 227
Day 1: 5 10-11 Total: 5 10-11
24. Andrew Terry - Kole Weir Bryan College 227
Day 1: 5 10-11 Total: 5 10-11
27. Colin Oldfield - Jack Miner Michigan State University 224
Day 1: 5 10-10 Total: 5 10-10
28. Brayden Ruckman - Zach Wolfe Carson-Newman University 223
Day 1: 3 10-08 Total: 3 10-08
29. Ryan Small - David Buccafuri Penn State University 222
Day 1: 5 10-06 Total: 5 10-06
30. Jaxon Leverette - Austin Sawyer Troy University 221
Day 1: 5 10-05 Total: 5 10-05
31. Drew Kuhnle - Landon Rollison Lander University 220
Day 1: 5 10-03 Total: 5 10-03
32. Hayden Williams - Chase Rogers USC - Union 219
Day 1: 4 10-02 Total: 4 10-02
33. Cameron Yates - Harrison McCall Lander University 218
Day 1: 5 10-00 Total: 5 10-00
34. CJ Chavous Jr. - Landon Bannister USC - Union 217
Day 1: 2 10-00 Total: 2 10-00
35. Jackson Fuller - Grant Steinauer Auburn University 216
Day 1: 5 09-14 Total: 5 09-14
36. Andrew Turner - Evan Powell Carson-Newman University 215
Day 1: 3 09-13 Total: 3 09-13
37. Jake Lovingood - Bryson Hatcher Bryan College 214
Day 1: 5 09-09 Total: 5 09-09
38. Max Hondorp - Ridge Faircloth Troy University 213
Day 1: 5 09-07 Total: 5 09-07
38. Szymon Piton - Riley Faulkner Carson-Newman University 213
Day 1: 5 09-07 Total: 5 09-07
40. Drew Moss - Reece Knight Auburn University 211
Day 1: 3 09-07 Total: 3 09-07
41. Anderson Keim - Adam Hyder Clemson University 210
Day 1: 2 09-04 Total: 2 09-04
42. Dan Maciejczyk - John Meyer Penn State University 209
Day 1: 4 09-02 Total: 4 09-02
43. Hunter Barrow - Kanton Trull Catawba Valley Community College 208
Day 1: 5 09-01 Total: 5 09-01
43. Emerson Petty - Carson Falk Tennessee Wesleyan University 208
Day 1: 5 09-01 Total: 5 09-01
45. Quinn Williams - Emery Burnett Georgia Southern University 206
Day 1: 5 08-15 Total: 5 08-15
46. Reece Keeney - Brantley Anders Kentucky Christian University 205
Day 1: 5 08-14 Total: 5 08-14
47. Jake Brown - Nathan Reynolds University of North Alabama 204
Day 1: 4 08-12 Total: 4 08-12
48. Emory Carver - Colby Clayton Auburn University 203
Day 1: 3 08-11 Total: 3 08-11
49. Carter Steed - Brewton-Parker College 202
Day 1: 4 08-10 Total: 4 08-10
50. Zach Helton - Blake Wheat Carson-Newman University 201
Day 1: 3 08-10 Total: 3 08-10
50. Jackson Mitchell - Will Shepherd Carson-Newman University 201
Day 1: 3 08-10 Total: 3 08-10
52. Joe Mcnamara - Grady Mcclendon University of North Alabama 199
Day 1: 5 08-08 Total: 5 08-08
53. Trey Marco - Jake Rowlands Carson-Newman University 198
Day 1: 3 08-06 Total: 3 08-06
54. Logan Greeno - Ty Kreis University of Nebraska - Lincoln 197
Day 1: 1 08-05 Total: 1 08-05
55. Hunter Owens - Jackie Hatfield Carson-Newman University 196
Day 1: 4 08-04 Total: 4 08-04
56. Drew Pitts - Nicholas DellaPorta Carson-Newman University 195
Day 1: 3 08-04 Total: 3 08-04
57. Dane Leopold - Chris Veitch Coastal Carolina University 194
Day 1: 2 08-04 Total: 2 08-04
58. Carson Peeters - Drew Wagner University of Wisconsin - Steven 193
Day 1: 1 08-04 Total: 1 08-04
59. Hampton Shull - Landon Surrett Lander University 192
Day 1: 5 08-01 Total: 5 08-01
60. Will Wester - Jackson Thomas Emmanuel University 191
Day 1: 2 08-01 Total: 2 08-01
61. Luke Wyle - Trey Richardson III Auburn University 190
Day 1: 4 07-15 Total: 4 07-15
62. Ryan Soles - Alexander Karp Georgia Southern University 189
Day 1: 4 07-14 Total: 4 07-14
63. Landon Myers - Lane Parker Carson-Newman University 188
Day 1: 3 07-13 Total: 3 07-13
64. Mason Sills - Catawba Valley Community College 187
Day 1: 1 07-12 Total: 1 07-12
65. Caleb Dugger - King University 186
Day 1: 2 07-08 Total: 2 07-08
66. Robert Miller - Levi Bolton Emmanuel University 185
Day 1: 2 07-07 Total: 2 07-07
67. Brendin Simich - Carter Stambelos Auburn University 184
Day 1: 2 07-06 Total: 2 07-06
68. Alex Thigpen - University of Alabama 183
Day 1: 1 07-06 Total: 1 07-06
69. Hunter Slone - Wilson Greenwood Tennessee Tech University 182
Day 1: 3 07-02 Total: 3 07-02
70. Brady Osborn - Connor Racine Adrian College 181
Day 1: 2 07-02 Total: 2 07-02
71. James Lamberth - Carter Burdette Troy University 180
Day 1: 3 07-01 Total: 3 07-01
72. Brendan Ellis - Parker Mckee Faulkner University 179
Day 1: 3 07-00 Total: 3 07-00
73. Skyler Stevens - Grant McCraney Faulkner University 178
Day 1: 1 06-14 Total: 1 06-14
74. Will Hammond - John Such Lander University 177
Day 1: 2 06-13 Total: 2 06-13
75. Benjamin Travis - Auburn University 176
Day 1: 3 06-06 Total: 3 06-06
76. Zion Dunaway - Andrew Krintz Purdue University 175
Day 1: 3 06-05 Total: 3 06-05
77. Austin Denmark - Matthew Bennett Faulkner University 174
Day 1: 4 06-04 Total: 4 06-04
78. Grant Rice - Blake Marcum Morehead State University 173
Day 1: 2 06-03 Total: 2 06-03
79. Garrett Sullivan - Hayes Pate Faulkner University 172
Day 1: 3 06-02 Total: 3 06-02
Pro-Guide Batteries named title sponsor of Bassmaster Elite Series Rookie of the Year, Bassmaster Kayak Angler of the Year
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. today announced that Pro-Guide Batteries has been named the title sponsor of the Bassmaster Elite Series Rookie of the Year award and will also sponsor the Bassmaster Kayak Series Angler of the Year award, further expanding the company’s presence across professional bass fishing while reinforcing its commitment to innovation, performance and the next generation of anglers.
The Bassmaster Elite Series Rookie of the Year race is one of the most closely followed storylines of the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series season, recognizing first-year competitors who demonstrate consistency, adaptability and competitive excellence at the sport’s highest level. As title sponsor, Pro-Guide Batteries will be integrated across Elite Series events, media coverage and points race updates throughout the season.
In addition, Pro-Guide Batteries’ support of the Bassmaster Kayak Angler of the Year award highlights the brand’s investment in one of the fastest-growing segments of competitive fishing. Kayak anglers depend on lightweight, efficient and reliable power solutions to run electronics and accessories in compact, demanding environments, making Pro-Guide’s lithium battery technology a natural fit for the discipline.
“Pro-Guide is proud to be the title sponsor for the Rookie of the Year points race,” said Pate Shumaker, Pro-Guide Batteries Chief Product and Marketing Officer. “The fishing world is changing fast, and these young guns are coming in and shaking things up. We believe the rookie class is one of the most exciting stories in the Elite Series each year, and we’re thrilled to be right there with them as they chase their dreams.”
The partnership aligns Pro-Guide Batteries with anglers who represent the future of professional bass fishing across multiple platforms. Rookie Elite Series competitors and kayak anglers alike rely heavily on dependable power to support advanced electronics during long, high-pressure competition days. Pro-Guide’s lithium battery technology is designed to deliver consistent performance, faster charging and reduced weight — advantages that translate directly into competitive confidence.
Pro-Guide Batteries has rapidly established itself as a leader in marine power solutions, offering products engineered specifically for the demands of modern competitive fishing. Its focus on durability, efficiency and innovation mirrors the mindset of Elite Series rookies and kayak anglers who must adapt quickly and perform at a high level on diverse fisheries.
“The Rookie of the Year and Kayak Angler of the Year races both represent innovation, adaptability and the future of our sport,” said Phillip Johnson, Chief Operating Officer of B.A.S.S. “Pro-Guide Batteries is a natural fit for these awards because their technology supports anglers who are pushing the limits of performance across multiple formats. Their expanded involvement helps elevate two of the most exciting pursuits in competitive fishing.”
As sponsor of both awards, Pro-Guide Batteries will engage fans and anglers through on-site activations, digital storytelling and season-long coverage tracking the progress of Elite Series rookies and kayak competitors. The partnership also provides opportunities to educate anglers on the importance of reliable power management across all fishing platforms.
The Bassmaster Rookie of the Year and Kayak Angler of the Year awards have a long history of identifying anglers who go on to become champions and ambassadors for the sport, making each race a key indicator of future success.
For more information on Pro-Guide Batteries sponsorships and season-long points races, visit Bassmaster.com.
About Pro-Guide Batteries
Pro-Guide Batteries is a premier manufacturer of high-performance marine batteries, dedicated to powering outdoor adventures with reliability and innovation since 1980. Based in Golden, Missouri, the company specializes in advanced lithium-ion solutions, including the cutting-edge Alpha line, which delivers unmatched energy density, safety features, and efficiency for trolling motors, marine electronics, and demanding deep-cycle applications. With a commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction, Pro-Guide Batteries ensures that anglers, boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts have the dependable power they need to elevate their experiences on the water. For more information, visit proguidebatteries.com.
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
Seaguar renews Youth Sponsorship of Bassmaster Junior, High School and College Series for 2026
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. today announced that Seaguar, a leader in fishing line innovation, has renewed its youth sponsorship of the Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series and the Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops for the 2026 season.
The continued partnership underscores Seaguar’s long-standing commitment to youth, family fishing and angler development, supporting thousands of young competitors and coaches nationwide as they progress through the Bassmaster youth pipeline.
Seaguar’s emphasis on education, accessibility and performance aligns naturally with B.A.S.S. youth programs, which introduce anglers to organized competition while emphasizing conservation, sportsmanship and lifelong participation in the sport. By investing in Junior, High School and College anglers, Seaguar helps ensure young fishermen and women have access to trusted products and meaningful engagement as they advance through each competitive level.
“We are committed to supporting youth and family fishing adventures and helping to lure in the next generation of anglers through our relationship with BASS and sponsorship of Bassmaster Youth Fishing events,” said John Whelan, Seaguar Marketing Manager. “We look forward to meeting fishing teams and coaches at the events and encourage coaches to sign-up for our VIP Scholastic Fishing Program.”
As part of the 2026 renewal, Seaguar will continue to engage directly with youth anglers and coaches at events across the country, providing product education and opportunities to learn more about line selection, technique and on-the-water preparation.
“Seaguar has been an outstanding partner in our youth programs because they share our passion for growing the sport the right way,” said Phillip Johnson, Chief Operating Officer of B.A.S.S. “Their continued support of the Junior, High School and College Series reflects a genuine commitment to young anglers, families and coaches who represent the future of competitive fishing. We’re proud to continue working together to create positive, lasting experiences at every level of youth competition.”
The Bassmaster Junior, High School and College Series collectively form the foundation of B.A.S.S.’s youth and scholastic fishing programs, providing clear pathways for young anglers to develop skills, compete nationally and pursue future opportunities within the sport.
Visit Bassmaster.com for more information on the Bassmaster Junior, High School and College Series programs.
About Seaguar
Seaguar invented fluorocarbon fishing lines in 1971 and offers one of the industry's most comprehensive selection of high-performance fluorocarbon mainlines, leaders and braided fishing lines. From billfish to bluegill anglers and everyone in between, Seaguar is the trusted, go-to name for premium fishing lines.
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
Harris Chain of Lakes Set to Host Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches
| LEESBURG, Fla. (Jan. 27, 2026) – The Major League Fishing (MLF) Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech is set to kick off the first event of the 2026 season in Leesburg, Florida, next week, Feb. 6-8, on the Harris Chain of Lakes at the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches.
The three-day tournament, hosted by Discover Lake County Florida, will feature professional bass anglers competing for a top prize of up to $135,000. Anglers will take to the Harris Chain to catch their five biggest bass each day, and the winner will be determined by the heaviest three-day cumulative total. The Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech launches the 2026 season with a renewed identity, including enhanced payouts and a refined structure designed to strengthen its role as the premier pathway to the MLF Bass Pro Tour. Returning under the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit banner, the six-event season features a $135,000 first-place prizes at every stop – including a $35,000 Phoenix MLF Bonus for qualified anglers – a $50,000 Phoenix 819 Pro powered by a 200 horsepower outboard for the 7 Brew Angler of the Year (AOY) and direct qualification to REDCREST 2027 for the winner of each stop and the championship. Anglers will also be competing with newly implemented forward-facing sonar and 360 imaging usage limits that restrict the technology to three consecutive hours per day, helping to promote competitive balance and a broader mix of techniques. “The Major League Fishing Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit represents exactly the type of high-impact event we strive to attract,” said Kirby Smith, Lake County Commissioner & Tourist Development Council Chairman. “This tournament will drive overnight visitation, support local businesses and elevate Lake County’s profile on a national stage. We’re proud to support this partnership and continue investing in events that strengthen our economy and showcase Lake County as a premier destination for outdoor recreation.” A consistent field of 150 top professional anglers is set to compete in all six stops this season. The field features a blend of established veterans and an impressive rookie class eager to make their mark. Past Pro Circuit winners including Matt Becker, Drew Gill and Banks Shaw headline the roster, while several first-year competitors arrive with strong résumés from the Toyota Series, Phoenix Bass Fishing League and collegiate circuits. With early AOY points and REDCREST 2027 qualification on the line, Stop 1 offers an immediate proving ground for both seasoned stars and rising newcomers. This event will mark the 50th MLF tournament on the Harris Chain, providing a storied history on what the chain can produce over multiple days of competition. In 2025, pro Bobby Lane won Bass Pro Tour Stage 2 on the fishery, making the trek to Apopka Lake and catching 19 scorable bass for 56 pounds, 5 ounces on the final day. Then, in March, Dylan Quilatan boated 83-8 over three days in the Toyota Series event – the heaviest weight ever for a three-day Toyota Series event in Florida. Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit pro Bobby Bakewell of Orlando, Florida , said weather is expected to play a major role in how Stop 1 on the Harris Chain unfolds. With unseasonably cold temperatures forecast in the days leading up to competition, Bakewell said the event could hinge on whether the bass are able to complete their spawning transition or remain in a prespawn holding pattern. “This tournament is really going to depend on the weather,” said Bakewell. “We’ve got several consistent days in the 30s, which just doesn’t happen very often in Florida. The bass are trying to spawn, but that steady cold really affects it. If the water temperatures get high enough, it could be a spawning tournament. If not, it’ll be as prespawn as they can get.” Bakewell explained that a warming trend would open up more of the Harris Chain, with anglers targeting fish on the banks and around spawning cover. “If it’s a spawning event, everybody’s going to be up shallow,” continued Bakewell. “There will be a lot of flipping and winding ChatterBaits around the scattered vegetation. When the bass pull up to spawn, it opens up more of the chain and gives anglers more places to catch them.” If cold conditions persist, Bakewell said he expects a completely different approach. “If it stays cold, it’ll be a mix of guys catching prespawn fish offshore during their three-hour forward-facing sonar window or targeting fish that are staging on their way in,” he said. “Typical prespawn baits like big worms, jerkbaits and minnow-style presentations will definitely come into play.” Navigation across the sprawling Harris Chain could also influence strategy. With the Griffin Lock closed, access to Lake Griffin is cut off, and long runs to Apopka carry added risk. “That run can be absolutely hellacious,” Bakewell said. “Sometimes guys don’t make it back in time for the weigh-in. It’s high risk, high reward. If you can find them without making the run, that’s probably the way to go.” As for weights, Bakewell said he expects 68 to 70 pounds to win the event. Anglers will launch at 7:30 a.m. ET each day from Ski Beach at Venetian Gardens, located at 201 E. Lake Harris Drive in Leesburg, Florida. Weigh-ins will be held at the same location and will begin at 3:30 p.m. Fans are welcome to attend all launch and weigh-in events and also encouraged to follow the event online throughout the day on the MLFNOW!® live stream and coverage at MajorLeagueFishing.com. On Friday and Saturday, Feb. 6-7, from 3-5 p.m., MLF invites fans of all ages to the Ski Beach Park, located at 109 E. Dixie Ave. in Leesburg, for the MLF Fishing Show. Fans can watch Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit anglers at the live weigh in, enjoy free food for the first 100 fans each day, enter hourly giveaways and cheer on their favorite anglers. Youth of all ages can take part in a fishing derby (gear and bait provided, weather permitting) and casting contest, and the first 50 kids ages 14 and under will receive a free rod and reel combo each day. The 2026 Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech features a total purse of $4.5 million and valuable AOY points to qualify for the Pro Circuit Championship, hosted by Experience Kissimmee, set for Sept. 18-20 on the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes in Kissimmee, Florida, as well as REDCREST 2027 qualification and a coveted spot on the MLF Bass Pro Tour – the sport’s premier circuit. In Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech competition, the full field competes in the two-day opening round on Friday and Saturday in a five-fish, weigh-in format. Only the top 50 pros, based on their two-day cumulative weight, advance to the final round on Championship Sunday, where they will compete for the grand prize of up to $135,000. The MLFNOW! broadcast team of Chad McKee and Rob Newell will break down the extended action live all three days of competition from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. ET. MLFNOW! will be live streamed on MajorLeagueFishing.com, the MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) app and Rumble. Television coverage of the MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech Stop 1 at the Harris Chain Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches will air as a two-hour episode, premiering at 9 a.m. ET, on Sunday, Sept. 6 on VICE TV. Proud sponsors of the 2026 MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech include: 7Brew Coffee, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, Bubba, Cigars International, Epic Baits, Grizzly, Mercury, MillerTech, OFF! Deep Woods, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, PiranhO2, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, VOSKER, YETI and Yuengling. |
For complete details and updated information visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the MLF5 social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery, Outdoor Channel, VICE, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network, RFD-TV and Game & Fish TV, and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
Skeeter Boats extends multi-year partnership with B.A.S.S.
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. today announced that Skeeter Boats has extended its premier sponsorship with B.A.S.S. through 2028, continuing a long-standing relationship that has helped define performance, innovation and reliability at the highest levels of competitive fishing. Under the renewed agreement, Skeeter will remain the Official Boat Sponsor of B.A.S.S., while also serving as the presenting sponsor of the Redfish Cup Championship and the Bassmaster High School Combine.
The multi-year extension reinforces Skeeter’s commitment to anglers competing across all B.A.S.S. platforms, from youth development initiatives to the most prestigious professional tournaments in the sport. Skeeter boats have long been synonymous with tournament performance, offering anglers the speed, stability and fishability required to compete in demanding conditions across diverse fisheries.
“At Skeeter, performance boating isn’t just what we build, it’s who we are,” said John Clark, General Manager, Skeeter Boats. “Our boats represent a legacy of innovation, precision and passion on the water, and there’s no better stage to showcase that performance than Bassmaster events. We look forward to watching our Skeeter pros compete over the next three years, and we are equally excited to introduce new boaters and anglers to the sport through our continued partnership with B.A.S.S.”
As Official Boat Sponsor of B.A.S.S., Skeeter will continue to have a prominent presence across Bassmaster tournaments, media platforms and fan engagement initiatives. The brand’s boats are relied upon by Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series pros and aspiring anglers alike, reflecting Skeeter’s focus on engineering solutions that translate directly into competitive advantages on the water.
Skeeter’s role as presenting sponsor of the Redfish Cup Championship expands its footprint beyond freshwater bass fishing into competitive inshore angling, highlighting the versatility and performance of its lineup in saltwater environments. The Redfish Cup Championship showcases some of the best anglers in the sport and provides a high-profile platform for Skeeter to connect with a broader audience of anglers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The partnership also includes Skeeter’s continued support of youth development through its presenting sponsorship of the Bassmaster High School Combine, a key component of B.A.S.S.’s commitment to fostering the next generation of competitive anglers. The Combine provides high school anglers with educational opportunities, on-the-water skill development and exposure to the values of sportsmanship, conservation and preparation that define competitive fishing.
“Skeeter Boats has been a foundational partner of B.A.S.S. for decades, and their continued investment through 2028 speaks to the strength of our shared vision for the sport,” said Phillip Johnson, Chief Operating Officer of B.A.S.S. “As the Official Boat Sponsor of B.A.S.S., Skeeter delivers the performance and reliability our anglers depend on, while their support of the Redfish Cup Championship and the High School Combine demonstrates a genuine commitment to growing fishing at every level. We’re proud to extend this premier partnership and continue building the future of the sport together.”
The extended agreement ensures that Skeeter Boats will remain integrated across B.A.S.S. competitions, live coverage and fan-facing experiences through the 2028 season. From youth anglers discovering competitive fishing for the first time to seasoned professionals pursuing championship titles, Skeeter’s involvement helps elevate the overall Bassmaster experience.
Together, Skeeter Boats and B.A.S.S. will continue to showcase innovation, inspire participation and celebrate the passion that drives anglers and fans across the country.
Visit Bassmaster.com for more information.
About Skeeter
Skeeter Products, Inc., a Yamaha boat company and leader of performance fishing boats, is proud to support America’s fishing consumer since 1948. Skeeter is the recipient of 23 consecutive NMMA® C.S.I. Customer Satisfaction Index awards, and its boats are certified to meet strict U.S. Coast Guard, NMMA®, and American Boat & Yacht® Council standards. For more information visit www.skeeterboats.com. EAT. SLEEP. FISH.
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
Weather Postpones Two More Major League Fishing BFL Tournaments This Upcoming Weekend
WHAT:
The Major League Fishing (MLF) Phoenix Bass Fishing League (BFL) Presented by T-H Marine Ozark division tournament on Table Rock Lake and Savannah River division tournament on Lake Keowee, both scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 31, have been postponed due to the inclement weather across the region that makes travel difficult and potentially hazardous due to accumulating snow and ice.
NOTES:
The tournaments have been rescheduled.
The Ozark division tournament on Table Rock Lake has been rescheduled to Saturday, May 2. Anglers will now launch from Drake Harbor, located at 180 P. Drake Harbor Drive in Warsaw, Missouri.
The Savannah River division tournament set for Lake Keowee has been rescheduled to Sunday, April 26, and will be the second event of a back-to-back BFL Savannah River division tournament weekend. Anglers in those events will launch from the South Cove County Park in Seneca, South Carolina.
The top 45 boaters and co-anglers in each division based on point standings, along with the five tournament winners of each qualifying event, will qualify for one of six BFL Regional tournaments this fall. Boaters will fish for a top award of a new Phoenix 819 Pro with a 200-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard worth $50,000, while co-anglers will compete for a top prize of a new Phoenix 518 pro with a 115-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard, worth $33,500.
The 2026 Phoenix BFL Presented by T-H Marine is a 24-division circuit devoted to weekend anglers, with 128 events throughout the season, five qualifying tournaments in each division. The top 45 boaters and co-anglers from each division, along with the five qualifying tournament winners, will advance to one of six BFL Regional tournaments where they are competing to finish in the top seven, which then qualifies them for one of the longest-running championships in all of competitive bass fishing – the BFL All-American. The 2026 BFL All-American will take place May 28-30, at Lake Murray in Columbia, South Carolina, and is hosted by Capital City Lake Murray Country Regional Tourism.
Proud sponsors of the 2026 MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine include: 7 Brew, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, BUBBA, Cigars International, Epic Baits, Grizzly, Lew’s, Mercury, MillerTech, Mystik Lubricants, OFF! Deep Woods, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, PirahnO2, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Strike King, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, VOSKER, YETI and Yuengling.
For complete details and updated tournament information, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular BFL updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF5’s social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery, Outdoor Channel, VICE, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network, RFD-TV and Game & Fish TV, and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
No Ordinary Joe
Roughly 37 years ago a boy named Joe cast a live crawfish he’d caught in a nearby canal into Long Beach, California’s El Dorado Park pond with his first ever baitcasting rod, a pistol grip model of course.
A 5-pound largemouth tugged at his offering soon after, and ultimately grabbed his young soul in a manner that set forth a lifetime of highly admirable bass fishing success, including over $700,000 in tournament winnings the past 20 years, along with 8 prize boats, and a direct hand in selling around 5,000 boats to other anglers and recreationalists.
Obviously, the boy was no ordinary Joe.
Instead, the son of an avid angler named Joe Uribe Sr., is not only one of the top competitive anglers in the Western United States, but also regarded as one of the top fulltime boat salesmen in the United States the past 20 years.
At age 46, Joe Uribe Jr. is beginning 2026 with what promises to be another year of positive vibes, helping others chase their dreams, selling dozens of boats, and yes, hauling not one but two 5-bass limits to the scales over 36-pounds recently at the WON Bass Winter Open on Clear Lake.
“I love it all. From 10” swimbaits to punching vegetation or casting a squarebill shallow, but in that event, I knew after a couple days of practice the only way to win was with forward-facing sonar. So, I took everything out of my Vexus® except what I needed to catch them that way, and that’s how I caught those two massive back-to-back limits,” says Uribe Jr.
So, if catching not one but two limits of bass over 36 pounds seems hard to imagine, how about one man selling roughly 5,000 boats in his career? That seems hard to imagine too. But it’s true.
“Not all of those have been bass boats, but the cool part is my fulltime job as Sales Manager for Complete Marine directly relates to my passion for tournament fishing, and that’s helped me cultivate a big network of folks who buy bass boats,” says Uribe.
“I pride myself on always being accessible to folks and believe whole heartedly in the product I’m selling. There’s no stronger evidence of that than the fact every one of the six Vexus® boats I’ve competed in have been bought by co-anglers who rode with me and fell in love with features like the smooth riding AirWave® seats, massive floor space in the cockpit, and a top-notch cooler,” he adds.
“The story of Vexus® is an easy one to believe in. It’s a brand built by master craftsman boat builders like Keith Daffron, Randy Hopper, Ryan Patterson, and former dealer and salesman, Keith Tripp, who have decades of experience as innovators who do things the right way. I’m a man of faith and I care about treating people right. So, my core values fit well with theirs,” concludes Uribe Jr.
It’s just the way Joe Uribe Sr. raised him. Honest, passionate about fishing, and to be kind to others. But by no means destined to be just another ordinary Joe.
Toyota Expands Bonus Bucks Contingency Program for 2026
Bigger Rewards for Anglers Who Tow with a Toyota
Plano, TX – [1-21-26] – Toyota Motor North America is proud to announce the expansion of the popular , which will reward more anglers with bigger payouts during the 2026 tournament season.
Toyota Bonus Bucks offers cash rewards to anglers who tow their boat with a 2022 or newer Toyota tow vehicle and compete in one of the over 600+ supported tournaments. Bonus Bucks will now contribute additional payouts to the top three highest-placing anglers in notable tournament series, including the Bassmaster Elite Series and the Major League Fishing (MLF) Bass Pro Tour.
In addition to expanding the pool of anglers eligible for payouts at each event, Toyota is increasing payout amounts for anglers competing in Bassmaster Elite Series and MLF Bass Pro Tour competition. The highest placing eligible Toyota Bonus Bucks member will now receive a $4,000 payout in regular season Elite and BPT tournaments, up from $3,000 in previous years. Under the new structure, Toyota Bonus Bucks will provide payouts to the top three anglers in each of these prestigious tournament trails, rewarding more anglers with bigger payouts.
Bassmaster Open payouts have increased to $2,500 and $2,000 for the top two finishers, from $1,500 and $1,000 in the past. MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit and Toyota Series payouts have also increased. Toyota will now reward $3,000 and $2,000 to the two highest finishing Pro Circuit anglers along with $2,500 and $2,000 to the highest placing Toyota Series boaters. These updates build on Toyota’s longstanding commitment to the sport of bass fishing and further strengthens its support for anglers who trust Toyota for their towing needs.
“Toyota has been a trusted partner for anglers for years, and we’re proud to offer greater rewards to those who choose our vehicles to tow their boats through the Toyota Bonus Bucks program,” said Katherine Helffrich, Sr. Manager for Sports & Lifestyle Sponsorships, Toyota Motor North America. “Bass fishing is more than a sport – it’s a treasured pastime for so many and a lifestyle for competitive anglers. This expansion is another way to show our support for the bass fishing community and recognize the loyalty anglers have given the Toyota brand.”
Bonus Bucks benefits more than just anglers who fish at the highest level, too. There are cash bonuses available for hundreds of weekend series, team tournament trails, and college series events. Several new team trails and kayak tournaments have been added for 2026 and are now eligible for Bonus Bucks incentives.
With increased payouts and expanded eligibility in 2026, more anglers will have the opportunity to earn Bonus Bucks than ever before. To qualify, anglers must register for the Toyota Bonus Bucks program and tow their boats with a 2022 or newer Toyota tow vehicle while competing in supported tournament trail.
If you fish bass tournaments, you should be towing your boat with a Toyota. For a full list of eligible events, for more information on the program and how to register, visit https://www.toyotatrucksbonusbucks.com/.
Yamaha, B.A.S.S. extend partnership focused on competition and conservation
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. has announced that Yamaha Marine has extended its premier partnership with B.A.S.S. through 2028, continuing a long-standing relationship that spans decades and plays a significant role across competitive fishing, conservation and angler development. As part of the extension, Yamaha will remain the Official Engine Sponsor of B.A.S.S. and the Official Motor Sponsor of B.A.S.S. Conservation, while also serving as the title sponsor of the Redfish Cup Championship and continuing the popular Yamaha Power Pay Contingency Program.
The multi-year agreement reinforces Yamaha’s deep-rooted commitment to competitive fishing and its investment in anglers at every level — from youth and grassroots participation to the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series and the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour. Yamaha outboards are a trusted presence across Bassmaster events, powering anglers who rely on performance, reliability and efficiency in demanding tournament environments.
“B.A.S.S.’s reach, from high-school and grass-roots circuit events all the way to the Elite Series and Classic, embodies the passion and community that define bass fishing,” said Ben Speciale, President, Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit. “The quality of competition, the connection to anglers of all ages and the role B.A.S.S. plays in growing participation across the country align perfectly with Yamaha’s commitment to delivering exceptional performance and experiences on the water. Together, we’re helping strengthen the sport at every level and inspiring the next generation of anglers.”
As Official Engine Sponsor of B.A.S.S., Yamaha will continue to be integrated across Bassmaster tournament platforms, on-site activations and media coverage. The brand’s continued presence underscores its dedication to anglers who compete across B.A.S.S. trails, including Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series and Championship-level events.
Yamaha’s role as Official Motor Sponsor of B.A.S.S. Conservation highlights a shared commitment to protecting fisheries and ensuring access for future generations. Through support of conservation initiatives, habitat enhancement efforts and education programs, Yamaha and B.A.S.S. work together to promote responsible stewardship of aquatic resources while growing participation in fishing nationwide.
The partnership extension also includes Yamaha’s title sponsorship of the Redfish Cup Championship, further expanding the brand’s footprint beyond freshwater bass fishing into competitive inshore angling. The Redfish Cup Championship showcases top-level saltwater competition while connecting Yamaha with anglers and fans across multiple fishing disciplines.
In addition, Yamaha will continue the Yamaha Power Pay Contingency Program, one of the most recognizable and impactful angler incentive programs in the sport. Power Pay rewards eligible anglers competing in select B.A.S.S. events for on-the-water success, providing financial bonuses that support tournament participation and reinforce Yamaha’s commitment to anglers’ livelihoods.
“Yamaha has been an integral partner in the growth of B.A.S.S. and the success of our anglers for decades,” said Phillip Johnson, Chief Operating Officer of B.A.S.S. “Their continued investment as our Official Engine Sponsor, their leadership in conservation initiatives and their support of programs like Power Pay demonstrate a genuine commitment to the sport and the people who make it thrive. We’re proud to extend this premier partnership through 2028 and continue working together to elevate fishing at every level.”
The extended partnership will be visible across tournament venues, live-streamed coverage, conservation programs and fan engagement initiatives through the 2028 season. Together, Yamaha and B.A.S.S. will continue to support competitive excellence, promote conservation and inspire anglers of all ages to pursue their passion on the water.
Visit Bassmaster.com for more information.
About Yamaha
Yamaha Marine, based in Kennesaw, Ga., markets and supports a full line of four-stroke outboards for bass and other boats. Skeeter, based in Kilgore, Texas, is a leading manufacturer of high-performance fishing boats. B.A.S.S., based in Ala., is the most prestigious fishing tournament organization in the world, as well as a membership organization of more than 500,000 avid bass anglers. The agreement also gives Yamaha the ability to reach fishing fans through other B.A.S.S. properties including Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times magazines, Bassmaster.com and B.A.S.S. tournament coverage on FS1®, FS2® and FOX® Broadcasting.
Yamaha Marine products are marketed throughout the United States and around the world. Yamaha Marine Engine Systems, based in Kennesaw, Ga., supports its 2,000 U.S. dealers and boat builders with marketing, training and parts for Yamaha’s full line of products and strives to be the industry leader in reliability, technology and customer service. Yamaha Marine is the only outboard brand to have earned NMMA®’s C.S.I. Customer Satisfaction Index award every year since its inception. Visit www.yamahaoutboards.com.
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
Georgia’s Deen Gets ‘Surprise’ Win at Phoenix Bass Fishing League Event at Lake Okeechobee
Florida’s Anstead Earns Victory in Co-Angler Division
CLEWISTON, Fla. (Jan. 26, 2026) – Boater Michael Deen of Waycross, Georgia, caught five bass weighing 24 pounds, 6 ounces, to win the MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League (BFL) Presented by T-H Marine on Lake Okeechobee. The tournament, hosted by the Hendry County Tourism Development Council, was the first of five events of the season for the BFL Gator Division Presented by Merman’s Revenge. Deen earned $6,170 for his victory.
“I usually fish the Bulldog Division events, but these Florida tournaments really set up well for me,” said Deen, who earned the first victory of his career in MLF competition. “I just like grass fishing.”
Deen started out in an area where he had fished with poor results in practice, but he had confidence in his game plan and knew fish were holding there. He targeted reeds and grass in Coot Bay and had a limit by 9:30.
“I took a week’s vacation and came and fished that same area in December and caught 19 pounds in that same area just fun fishing. Those fish stayed in there at least a month,” Deen said.
Deen then decided to move to the Observation Island area to flip, where he caught the tournament’s big bass – an 8-pound, 2-ounce Okeechobee giant – around 12:30. Then he returned to his starting area and caught one that Deen estimated weighed between 6 and 7 pounds on a custom-made spinnerbait.
“I have a buddy who owns Bert’s Jigs and Things in Waycross, Georgia, and I told him I needed a big spinnerbait with big blades,” Deen said. “He came up with a ½-ounce spinnerbait with No. 5 willow-leaf blades. I didn’t use a trailer hook because I was throwing it in the reeds.”
Deen said he knew he had more than 20 pounds of bass in the boat at the end of the day, but he didn’t think it would be near enough to win.
“I was surprised,” Deen went on to say about his first win. “I was hoping to finish in in the top 25 coming down here and fishing against guys who live down here and fish it regularly. It’s a one-day tournament, and it’s hard to compete in one-day tournaments against guys who live there. So, this feels great.”
The top 10 boaters finished the tournament:
1st: Michael Deen, Waycross, Ga., five bass, 24-6, $6,170
2nd: Tanner Seabolt, Okeechobee, Fla., five bass, 22-14, $2,910
3rd: Dylan Quilatan, Windermere, Fla., five bass, 20-8, $1,380
4th: Brady Lunsmann, Citrus Springs, Fla., five bass, 19-2, $1,070
5th: Fred Chivington Jr., San Mateo, Fla., five bass, 18-14, $920
6th: Greg Jones, Bradenton, Fla., five bass, 18-1, $760
7th: Chris McBeath, Bradenton, Fla., five bass, 17-12, $1,330 (includes $500 Phoenix bonus)
8th: Drew Bradstreet, Lutz, Fla., five bass, 17-8, $690
9th: John Riddling, Melrose, Fla., five bass, 17-7, $650
10th: Mark Knight, McDonough, Ga., five bass, 17-4, $610
Complete results can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.
Deen, the tournament winner, also earned the Berkley Big Bass Boater award with his 8-pound, 2-ounce bass, worth $200.
Michael Anstead of Clermont, Florida, won the co-angler division and the top prize of $2,985 Saturday after bringing three bass to the scale that totaled 18 pounds, 9 ounces.
The top 10 co-anglers finished:
1st: Michael Anstead, Clermont, Fla., three bass, 18-9, $2,985
2nd: Jordan Elmore, Saint Petersburg, Fla., three bass, 14-3, $1,555
3rd: Alex Belmonte, Cape Coral, Fla., three bass, 12-7, $690
4th: Justin Girdner, Wetumpka, Ala., three bass, 11-5, $535
5th: Steve Hatch, Long Beach Miss., three bass, 10-11, $460
6th: J.P. Sims, Port St. Lucie, Fla., three bass, 10-9, $380
7th: Danny Hinton, Saint Cloud, Fla., three bass, 10-6, $370
8th: Michael Robel, Bradenton, Fla., three bass, 10-5, $345
9th: Barry Nagle, Allentown, Pa., three bass, 10-3, $317
9th: Sanford Hooker, Wellston, Okla., three bass, 10-3, $317
Jordan Elmore of Saint Petersburg, Florida, earned the Berkley Big Bass co-angler award after landing a 7-pound, 4-ounce bass worth $100.
The top 45 boaters and co-anglers in the division based on the Gator Division Presented by Merman’s Revenge point standings, along with the five tournament winners of each qualifying event, will qualify for the Oct. 8-10 BFL Regional tournament on Lake Eufaula in Eufaula, Alabama. Boaters will fish for a top award of a new Phoenix 819 Pro with a 200-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard worth $50,000, while co-anglers will compete for a top prize of a new Phoenix 518 pro with a 115-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard, worth $33,500.
The 2026 Phoenix BFL Presented by T-H Marine is a 24-division circuit devoted to weekend anglers, with 128 events throughout the season, five qualifying tournaments in each division. The top 45 boaters and co-anglers from each division, along with the five qualifying tournament winners, will advance to one of six BFL Regional tournaments where they are competing to finish in the top seven, which then qualifies them for one of the longest-running championships in all of competitive bass fishing – the BFL All-American. The 2026 BFL All-American will take place May 28-30, at Lake Murray in Columbia, South Carolina, and is hosted by Capital City Lake Murray Country Regional Tourism.
Proud sponsors of the 2026 MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine include: 7 Brew, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, BUBBA, Cigars International, Epic Baits, Grizzly, Lew’s, Mercury, MillerTech, Mystik Lubricants, OFF! Deep Woods, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, PirahnO2, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Strike King, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, VOSKER, YETI and Yuengling.
For complete details and updated tournament information, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular BFL updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF5’s social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery, Outdoor Channel, VICE, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network, RFD-TV and Game & Fish TV, and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
The New Vexus® Defender Series: Features & Benefits That Redefine Aluminum Performance
At a recent Vexus Roundup we got the chance to really dig into the all-new Defender Series from Vexus. The Defender Series marks a bold evolution in Vexus design — a lineup built for anglers who demand high‑level performance in a lighter, tougher, more versatile aluminum platform.
It’s packed with several premium features we’ve come to love in our AVX Dream Rigs here at Anglers Channel, but priced to provide the most bang for your buck on the water.
Like all Vexus rigs, the Defender Series in cradled in a custom-built and matched Vexus trailer and includes custom aluminum wheels, including a road-ready spare…no donuts here!
The Defender platform sits on a Hybrid Performance Hull, which includes a pad design, with lifting strakes formed into the 0.125 inch hull bottom.
During our 189 demo runs on a choppy Bull Shoals, all these features together left us with an AVX-like ride and performance; a FAR cry from the “jon” boats of the past. With standard hydraulic steering, driving and maneuvering feels effortless, even “sporty”. A quick hole shot, tight cornering without skips and or slips, and a dry quiet ride are all things you can expect from the cockpit of a Defender.
In terms of the cockpit, there is a lot to love there as well. A color-matched FIBERGLASS console, like the AVX line, houses all the necessary gauges and instruments and still has plenty of room for electronics. In terms of electronics, Vexus gives you the power of choice with the “Big 3 manufacturers” for both the console and bow, as well as trolling motor options. You can also count on good clean reliable power, as the Defenders still feature premium Vexus wiring harnesses, as well 4 ga trolling motor wiring up to the bow.
You won’t find ANY wood in the Defender Series, but you do find a lot of nice “touches” with the Vexus fit and finish evident throughout. The fiberglass console and recessed trolling motor pedal trays look sleek, and the fiberglass storage boxes and livewells are built to last. You won’t find cheap plastic parts in the Defender Series. In addition to being well built, the packages look great! The entire boat features Vexus’ proprietary 3 stage hard case paint and comes in several color choices.
Speaking of choices, at Vexus YOU have the power of choice too. Suzuki, Mercury, and Yamaha powered packages are all available, in addition to electronics and trolling motors of your choice. At Vexus you can still get a true custom boat!
The Defender Series consists of three models, the 181, 189, and 201.
The Defender 181 specs out as follows:
Length: 18' 1" / Max HP: 75 / Beam: 94" / Fuel: 26 gallons
If you're looking for a little more room and power, the Defender 189 may fit the bill.
The Defender 189 specs out as follows:
Length 18' 7" / Max HP 115 / Beam: 94" / Fuel: 26 gallons
If you are more at home in the marsh, or like multi-species fishing, the 201 is in a class of it's own!
The Defender 201 specs out as follows:
Length: 20' / Max HP 150 / Beam: 95" / Fuel: 30 gallons
If you are on the hunt for quality fishing boat in 2026, do yourself a favor, and give a good look at the Vexus Defender Series. These boats close the gap between aluminum and fiberglass in a way few boats ever have. It’s built for anglers who want:
- Serious performance
- Tournament‑ready layouts
- Lower weight and easier ownership
- Premium feel without the fiberglass price tag
It’s a boat that works as hard as you do—and looks good doing it. Learn more by visiting: https://vexusboats.com/series/defender/overview/
Late-day heroics push Montevallo’s Ring and Antunes to Bassmaster College win at Kissimmee Chain
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Committing to a long run and capitalizing on a late-day opportunity allowed Garrett Ring and Trace Antunes III of University of Montevallo to start their season with a win at the Strike King Bassmaster College Series at Kissimmee Chain presented by Bass Pro Shops.
After placing sixth on Day 1 with a 20-pound limit, Ring and Antunes, both junior marketing majors, sacked up a final-round limit of 27-12. Tallying a two-day total of 47-12, they edged Day 1 leaders Scooter Ligon Jr. and Logan Fisher of Emmanuel College by a 1-pound, 2-ounce margin.
Taking in the magnitude of his team’s achievement, Ring said: “This feeling is so great. My heart was pumping 100 mph waiting for (Ligon and Fisher) to come up.”
Ring said he and his partner spent most of their time in Lake Kissimmee, the lowermost of the namesake chain. After spending one practice day each in lakes Toho, Cypress and Kissimmee, they determined that the latter held the best habitat and the warmest water.
“We had some offshore staging spots in 8 feet of water,” Antunes said. “There were some hydrilla patches and they were a lot greener than the other stuff we found.
“We had three areas and we just rotated in and out. One was pretty specific, it was one clump of grass, and the other two were bigger. That one specific spot was good for one big fish a day.”
Antunes said their Day 2 kicker came around noon after they heeded what he and his partner considered a divine intervention.
“We didn’t have anything until 11:30 today when we caught one keeper and then it was slow until noon,” Antunes said. “We went to this one area that we really hadn’t spent a lot of time in and saw one good bass in practice and we ended up catching it in the exact same spot.
“That was a gut feeling. We call it ‘God whispers’ that we needed to go check this spot. That fish was a giant, it was 8-12.”
The winners caught all of their fish on 6th Sense Provoke jerkbaits. They spotted several of their fish on forward facing sonar, but they also caught key fish blind casting to good looking spots within the grass.
Ring said he and Antunes had their limit at 1:30, but securing the win took the rest of the fishing day. As Ring recounted, two significant late-day culls pushed them into their winning weight.
“We were driving in and when we passed two of our teammates, Daylon Milam and James Duvose, on Lake Toho, they waved us over,” Antunes said. “They asked us what we had and I said, ‘We have 22 pounds but I don’t know if it’s enough.’
“They said, ‘Ya’ll need to fish around here, there’s some big ones here, so y’all can try to cull.’ We ended up catching one over 5 and one over 4 right there.”
Ligon and Fisher finished second with 46-10. After taking the Day 1 lead with 25-15, they turned in another solid performance with a limit that went 20-11.
Repeating the routine that delivered their first-round success, Ligon and Fisher spent all of their time on a single spot on the east side of Lake Toho.
“There was a ditch that ran thought some sparse hydrilla and those fish were using it as a highway,” Ligon said. “This ditch had clear water and the fish were using it for pre- and postspawn movement.”
Ligon and Fisher caught all of their fish both days with a 7-inch minnow on a 1/8-ounce head. This oversized presentation tilted the odds in their favor.
“It just seemed to have more drawing power and it increased our chances of catching a bigger fish,” Ligon said. “We found some fish in practice with a Berkley Chop Block. We would get them to show themselves in some of the thicker clumps of grass and some of the bigger fish we caught were actually in those clumps.”
Ben Burns and Grant Pursifull of Stephen F. Austin State University finished third with 43-0. Their daily weights were 21-11 and 21-5.
Trent Gilmore and Cooper Moon of University of Montevallo won the Phoenix Boats Big Bass award with a 9-13. On Day 2, Gilmore and Moon weighed the event’s heaviest bag — 29-5 — and finished eighth with 38-12.
Experience Kissimmee, Florida hosted this events.
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
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Connect with #Bassmaster on Facebook, Instagram, Twitte
Media Contact: Mandy Pascal, Communications Manager, 334-414-8677, [email protected]
2026 Strike King Bassmaster College Series at Kississmee Chain - Legends 1/22-1/23
Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, Kissimmee FL.
(BOATER) Standings Day 2
Angler Club/School Pts
1. Garrett Ring - Trace Antunes III University of Montevallo 250
Day 1: 5 20-00 Day 2: 5 27-12 Total: 10 47-12
2. Scooter Ligon Jr - Logan Fisher Emmanuel College 249
Day 1: 5 25-15 Day 2: 5 20-11 Total: 10 46-10
3. Ben Burns - Grant Pursifull Stephen F Austin State Universit 248
Day 1: 5 21-11 Day 2: 5 21-05 Total: 10 43-00
4. Kolby Angell - Bryson Dover University of Montevallo 247
Day 1: 5 20-07 Day 2: 5 21-12 Total: 10 42-03
5. Brody Robison - Peyton Sorrow University of Montevallo 246
Day 1: 4 15-12 Day 2: 5 25-06 Total: 9 41-02
6. Brady Biles - Cody Mullis St Johns River State College 245
Day 1: 5 19-15 Day 2: 5 20-13 Total: 10 40-12
7. Daylon Milam - James Dubose University of Montevallo 244
Day 1: 5 18-07 Day 2: 5 22-03 Total: 10 40-10
8. Trent Gilmore - Cooper Moon University of Montevallo 243
Day 1: 4 09-07 Day 2: 5 29-05 Total: 9 38-12
9. Brice Hudler - Roy Crush IV Texas A&M University 242
Day 1: 5 23-00 Day 2: 5 15-02 Total: 10 38-02
10. Seth Prather - Jacob Longlois Drury University 241
Day 1: 5 18-04 Day 2: 5 18-05 Total: 10 36-09
11. Owen Nepple - Eli Jaime Iowa Youth Fishing League High S 240
Day 1: 5 19-08 Day 2: 5 16-13 Total: 10 36-05
12. Will Wester - Jackson Thomas Emmanuel University 239
Day 1: 5 12-12 Day 2: 5 23-01 Total: 10 35-13
13. Tucker McCoy - Connor Bell University of Montevallo 238
Day 1: 5 13-11 Day 2: 5 22-00 Total: 10 35-11
14. Emerson Petty - Carson Falk Tennessee Wesleyan University 237
Day 1: 5 16-00 Day 2: 5 19-00 Total: 10 35-00
15. Dylan Sorrells - Thomas Turnbull University of Montevallo 236
Day 1: 5 15-05 Day 2: 5 18-06 Total: 10 33-11
16. Caden Williamson - Bryce Distefano LSU - Shreveport 235
Day 1: 5 16-12 Day 2: 5 16-07 Total: 10 33-03
17. Patrick Monahan - Spencer Shemwell Murray State University 234
Day 1: 5 11-09 Day 2: 5 21-00 Total: 10 32-09
18. Wes Kinard - Drew Lee University of Alabama 233
Day 1: 5 16-15 Day 2: 5 15-09 Total: 10 32-08
19. Dillon Robertshaw - Jake Mantovani Missouri State University 232
Day 1: 5 13-07 Day 2: 5 18-10 Total: 10 32-01
20. Ethan Fields - Lane Stephens McKendree University 231
Day 1: 5 17-14 Day 2: 5 14-00 Total: 10 31-14
21. Storm Clark - Elisha Colley University of Montevallo 230
Day 1: 5 17-07 Day 2: 5 14-06 Total: 10 31-13
22. Brennan Berglund - Colton White University of Montevallo 229
Day 1: 5 12-04 Day 2: 5 19-02 Total: 10 31-06
23. Xander Patton - Stephen Brooks Emmanuel College 228
Day 1: 5 18-02 Day 2: 5 13-02 Total: 10 31-04
24. Peyton Harris - Dalton Head University of Montevallo 227
Day 1: 5 15-12 Day 2: 5 14-12 Total: 10 30-08
25. Barrett Bennefield - Kaden Mueck Stephen F Austin State Universit 226
Day 1: 3 11-08 Day 2: 5 18-14 Total: 8 30-06
26. Drake Sturgill - Asa Putnam University of Montevallo 225
Day 1: 5 19-02 Day 2: 5 11-00 Total: 10 30-02
27. Brooks Parker - Cole Edwards University of Montevallo 224
Day 1: 5 14-01 Day 2: 5 16-01 Total: 10 30-02
28. Tyler Gentry - Nicholas Cernosek Texas A&M University 223
Day 1: 5 16-04 Day 2: 5 13-10 Total: 10 29-14
29. Kaden Raichel - Luke Davis University of Montevallo 222
Day 1: 4 10-03 Day 2: 5 19-10 Total: 9 29-13
30. Mason Kornegay - Miller Dowling University of Montevallo 221
Day 1: 5 13-09 Day 2: 5 16-01 Total: 10 29-10
31. Trenton Underwood - Lane Grogan Northeastern State University 220
Day 1: 5 14-12 Day 2: 5 14-13 Total: 10 29-09
32. Hudson Choquette - Wyatt Wood University of Montevallo 219
Day 1: 5 17-09 Day 2: 5 11-05 Total: 10 28-14
33. Hunter Bright - Brandon Berry University of Montevallo 218
Day 1: 5 13-01 Day 2: 5 14-15 Total: 10 28-00
34. Cooper Gilroy - Jack Wilson University of Alabama 217
Day 1: 5 09-14 Day 2: 5 17-15 Total: 10 27-13
35. Miles Smith - William Tew LSU - Shreveport 216
Day 1: 5 14-05 Day 2: 5 13-06 Total: 10 27-11
36. Curt Ferguson - Noah Wells Drury University 215
Day 1: 5 17-00 Day 2: 5 10-09 Total: 10 27-09
37. Drew Bates - Fisher Edwards Georgia College 214
Day 1: 5 15-11 Day 2: 5 11-08 Total: 10 27-03
38. Ben Puckwtt - Collin Foley Mississippi State University 213
Day 1: 5 14-03 Day 2: 5 13-00 Total: 10 27-03
39. Ethan Burnette - Cameron Dials Kentucky Christian University 212
Day 1: 5 09-00 Day 2: 5 17-14 Total: 10 26-14
40. Chandler Pruett - Jaxon Sherfield Blue Mountain Christian Universi 211
Day 1: 5 10-11 Day 2: 5 16-03 Total: 10 26-14
41. Cooper Hughes - Brett Bucolo Florida Gulf Coast University 210
Day 1: 5 14-05 Day 2: 5 12-05 Total: 10 26-10
42. Grayson Wilson - Jaxon Funneman Wabash Valley College 209
Day 1: 5 21-09 Day 2: 3 04-14 Total: 8 26-07
43. Dalton DeFelice - Evan Ludlow University of Montevallo 208
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 5 26-06 Total: 5 26-06
44. Phillip Herring - Parker O'Bryan University of Montevallo 207
Day 1: 3 04-12 Day 2: 5 21-07 Total: 8 26-03
45. Connor Dunn - Cullum Brown Texas A&M University 206
Day 1: 5 12-01 Day 2: 5 13-14 Total: 10 25-15
46. Alex Facundo - Jack Gano Southwestern Michigan College 205
Day 1: 5 13-11 Day 2: 5 11-15 Total: 10 25-10
47. Hunter Russell - Brogan Gregg Wabash Valley College 204
Day 1: 5 13-06 Day 2: 5 12-02 Total: 10 25-08
48. Cade Lipham - Caleb Coleman Drury University 203
Day 1: 5 11-00 Day 2: 5 14-03 Total: 10 25-03
49. Elijah Kelley - Kyle Smith Kentucky Christian University 202
Day 1: 5 09-10 Day 2: 5 15-06 Total: 10 25-00
50. Ridge Rutledge - Lake Hatfield Campbellsville University 201
Day 1: 5 14-11 Day 2: 5 10-01 Total: 10 24-12
51. Carter Lanclos - Mo Katz IV LSU - Shreveport 200
Day 1: 5 12-04 Day 2: 5 12-00 Total: 10 24-04
52. Colten Dickerson - Pete Johnson Southwestern Michigan College 199
Day 1: 4 08-04 Day 2: 5 15-05 Total: 9 23-09
53. Michael Witherup - Connor Bower University of Montevallo 198
Day 1: 5 13-07 Day 2: 4 09-12 Total: 9 23-03
54. Peyton Matherne - Beau Landry LSU 197
Day 1: 5 13-13 Day 2: 2 09-05 Total: 7 23-02
55. Silas Jones - Ethan Elliott University of Pikeville 196
Day 1: 5 13-04 Day 2: 5 09-09 Total: 10 22-13
56. Dallas Copeland - Mario Botan Texas A&M University 195
Day 1: 5 09-14 Day 2: 5 12-15 Total: 10 22-13
57. Blake Bullock - Caden Alexander Blue Mountain Christian Universi 194
Day 1: 5 12-03 Day 2: 5 10-09 Total: 10 22-12
58. Colby Carrier - Justin Frey Bethel University 193
Day 1: 5 13-09 Day 2: 5 09-02 Total: 10 22-11
59. RJ Sanger IV - Noah Dabney Campbellsville University 192
Day 1: 5 16-14 Day 2: 3 05-10 Total: 8 22-08
60. Easton Bouma - Riley Petrone Drury University 191
Day 1: 5 10-09 Day 2: 5 11-15 Total: 10 22-08
61. Angelo Malek - Jack Stephens McKendree University 190
Day 1: 5 09-08 Day 2: 5 12-15 Total: 10 22-07
62. Matthew Tucker - Wilson York Jc Calhoun Community College 189
Day 1: 5 15-06 Day 2: 2 07-00 Total: 7 22-06
63. Kai Barnett - Maxwell Trotter McKendree University 188
Day 1: 5 10-10 Day 2: 5 11-11 Total: 10 22-05
64. Cade McBride - Steven Deschene Blue Mountain Christian Universi 187
Day 1: 5 13-05 Day 2: 5 08-14 Total: 10 22-03
65. Evan Fieldd - Briley West Campbellsville University 186
Day 1: 5 12-11 Day 2: 5 09-08 Total: 10 22-03
66. Riley Meinke - Atlan Pfluger Texas A&M University 185
Day 1: 2 05-07 Day 2: 5 16-11 Total: 7 22-02
67. Matt Manners - Braden Lankford Murray State College 184
Day 1: 5 14-11 Day 2: 3 07-07 Total: 8 22-02
68. Clayton Easter - Tarleton State University 183
Day 1: 4 09-11 Day 2: 4 12-07 Total: 8 22-02
69. Presley Warden - Hunter Stuckey East Texas Baptist University 182
Day 1: 5 12-05 Day 2: 4 09-04 Total: 9 21-09
70. Kyle Schnabel - Garrett Phalen Texas A&M University 181
Day 1: 5 12-08 Day 2: 5 08-10 Total: 10 21-02
71. Matthew Dettling - Michael Canonica University of Tennessee 180
Day 1: 5 11-08 Day 2: 5 09-08 Total: 10 21-00
72. Harley Strickland - Kaleb Arnold Jc Calhoun Community College 179
Day 1: 3 10-02 Day 2: 5 10-13 Total: 8 20-15
73. Ethan Thoele - Brody Thoele Drury University 178
Day 1: 4 07-15 Day 2: 4 12-14 Total: 8 20-13
74. Bryson Dotson - Victor Alford Tennessee Wesleyan University 177
Day 1: 4 10-11 Day 2: 5 09-10 Total: 9 20-05
75. Brooker Revell - Carson Yero University of Montevallo 176
Day 1: 5 13-05 Day 2: 3 06-15 Total: 8 20-04
76. Austin Russell - Kaden Abmeyer Oklahoma State University 175
Day 1: 4 08-04 Day 2: 5 12-00 Total: 9 20-04
77. Carrson Sizemore - Luke Pierce University of Pikeville 174
Day 1: 5 12-11 Day 2: 4 07-08 Total: 9 20-03
78. Barrett Newton - Wesley Kent Tennessee Tech University 173
Day 1: 3 04-15 Day 2: 5 15-02 Total: 8 20-01
79. Sam Ausbrooks - Grace Olsen Wabash Valley College 172
Day 1: 5 10-13 Day 2: 4 09-04 Total: 9 20-01
80. Peyton Attinger - Connor Moon Southwestern Michigan College 171
Day 1: 4 08-15 Day 2: 5 10-15 Total: 9 19-14
81. Colton Caskey - Mason Mccormick LSU - Shreveport 170
Day 1: 4 08-03 Day 2: 5 11-08 Total: 9 19-11
82. Trey McMeen - Dylan Armstrong East Texas Baptist University 169
Day 1: 4 06-10 Day 2: 5 12-13 Total: 9 19-07
83. Johnny Hudson Jr - Triston Richardson LSU - Shreveport 168
Day 1: 5 11-09 Day 2: 4 07-13 Total: 9 19-06
84. Luke Bennett - Seth Shamblin Tarleton State University 167
Day 1: 3 06-05 Day 2: 5 12-15 Total: 8 19-04
85. Connor Foreman - Joe Krejci Texas A&M University 166
Day 1: 5 12-00 Day 2: 4 07-01 Total: 9 19-01
86. Cole Mcdaniel - Logan Cargle Georgia College 165
Day 1: 2 09-04 Day 2: 5 09-11 Total: 7 18-15
87. Garrett Cromer - Brett Mouw University of Montevallo 164
Day 1: 1 01-10 Day 2: 5 17-02 Total: 6 18-12
88. Charlie Mathis - Dominik Steinmetz Florida Gateway College 163
Day 1: 5 09-12 Day 2: 4 09-00 Total: 9 18-12
89. Logan Howarter - Scotty Hagan Kentucky Christian University 162
Day 1: 5 12-07 Day 2: 2 06-04 Total: 7 18-11
90. Bryce Balentine - Connor Koch Florida Gateway College 161
Day 1: 5 07-05 Day 2: 5 11-06 Total: 10 18-11
91. Tyler Covington - Brantley Tate LSU 160
Day 1: 5 10-09 Day 2: 5 07-12 Total: 10 18-05
92. Tanner Wolf - Ethan Furlan Southwestern Michigan College 159
Day 1: 4 09-11 Day 2: 3 08-05 Total: 7 18-00
93. Dalton Blakley - Eli Ward University of Pikeville 158
Day 1: 5 14-14 Day 2: 2 02-15 Total: 7 17-13
94. Matthew Nichols - Luke Honda University of Nebraska - Lincoln 157
Day 1: 5 12-14 Day 2: 2 04-13 Total: 7 17-11
95. Hunter Hamilton - Tyler Morris LSU - Shreveport 156
Day 1: 4 08-00 Day 2: 5 09-11 Total: 9 17-11
96. Jay Shires - Cole Muenzer Southwestern Michigan College 155
Day 1: 2 03-06 Day 2: 5 14-03 Total: 7 17-09
97. Mason Thompson - Cody Domingos University of Tennessee 154
Day 1: 5 11-13 Day 2: 2 05-12 Total: 7 17-09
98. Caden Crutchfield - Christian Bales Murray State University 153
Day 1: 3 06-07 Day 2: 5 11-01 Total: 8 17-08
99. Chandler Howell - Clayton Ellis Blue Mountain Christian Universi 152
Day 1: 5 11-09 Day 2: 3 05-14 Total: 8 17-07
100. Dylan Mcgee - Elisha Toller Kentucky Christian University 151
Day 1: 5 08-05 Day 2: 4 09-01 Total: 9 17-06
101. Jase White - Brady Horton Drury University 150
Day 1: 5 11-02 Day 2: 3 05-08 Total: 8 16-10
102. Ways Raasch - Sam Sutter Drury University 149
Day 1: 4 06-10 Day 2: 5 10-00 Total: 9 16-10
103. Carson Hoots - Cade Silvertooth Texas A&M University 148
Day 1: 5 08-07 Day 2: 5 08-02 Total: 10 16-09
104. Carsen Adcock - Will Powell LSU - Shreveport 147
Day 1: 5 09-06 Day 2: 4 07-01 Total: 9 16-07
105. JD McBroom - University of Alabama 146
Day 1: 4 10-05 Day 2: 3 05-12 Total: 7 16-01
106. Noah Ortiz - Fernando Martinez Sam Houston State University 145
Day 1: 4 10-05 Day 2: 2 05-09 Total: 6 15-14
107. Mason Sudermann - Nikolas Vlach University of Arkansas 144
Day 1: 5 14-03 Day 2: 1 01-10 Total: 6 15-13
108. Tyler Chmelar - Kase Kramer Tarleton State University 143
Day 1: 3 05-08 Day 2: 5 10-02 Total: 8 15-10
109. Coleman Henke - Mason Clark Tarleton State University 142
Day 1: 4 08-01 Day 2: 3 07-08 Total: 7 15-09
110. Sawyer Brady - Waylin Hardison Blue Mountain Christian Universi 141
Day 1: 5 13-09 Day 2: 1 01-14 Total: 6 15-07
111. Trent Allen - Gabe Amburgey Campbellsville University 140
Day 1: 3 15-03 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 3 15-03
112. Brady Bateman - Carter Broussard LSU 139
Day 1: 3 08-10 Day 2: 2 06-02 Total: 5 14-12
113. Caleb Neu - Jakob Dreher Bethel University 138
Day 1: 1 02-00 Day 2: 5 12-09 Total: 6 14-09
114. Joe Williams - Alex Wood Missouri State University 137
Day 1: 5 11-02 Day 2: 1 03-06 Total: 6 14-08
115. Seth Salcido - Kooper Counts Murray State College 136
Day 1: 1 05-10 Day 2: 5 08-14 Total: 6 14-08
116. Reece Keeney - Brantley Anders Kentucky Christian University 135
Day 1: 3 07-07 Day 2: 3 07-01 Total: 6 14-08
117. Stone Robertson - Luka Strepacki University of Tennessee 134
Day 1: 5 10-12 Day 2: 2 03-10 Total: 7 14-06
118. Chance Shelby - Champ Morales Southeastern Louisiana Universit 133
Day 1: 2 04-15 Day 2: 4 09-06 Total: 6 14-05
119. Landon Hernandez - Gavin Gomez Texas A&M University 132
Day 1: 3 06-06 Day 2: 4 07-15 Total: 7 14-05
120. Zach Thompson - John Whetter Oklahoma State University 131
Day 1: 4 07-00 Day 2: 4 07-05 Total: 8 14-05
121. Matthew Wilson - Gus Dietrich University of Alabama 130
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 5 13-15 Total: 5 13-15
122. Noah Parrish - Braydon Kelley East Texas Baptist University 129
Day 1: 2 10-06 Day 2: 2 03-08 Total: 4 13-14
123. Josh Route - August Kukis University of Wisconsin - Steven 128
Day 1: 2 03-14 Day 2: 2 09-09 Total: 4 13-07
124. Chase Garrison - Hudson Windham Florida Gateway College 127
Day 1: 5 13-06 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 13-06
125. Trevor Alexander - Fletch Titus Missouri State University 126
Day 1: 4 08-14 Day 2: 3 04-06 Total: 7 13-04
126. Josh Richardson - Lawson Moller University of Nebraska - Lincoln 125
Day 1: 4 07-13 Day 2: 2 05-07 Total: 6 13-04
127. Devan Perkins - Kade Palmer LSU 124
Day 1: 5 12-12 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 12-12
128. Jackson Wyatt - Breckett Long Texas A&M University 123
Day 1: 5 12-08 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 12-08
129. Carson Owen - Jackson Roumbanis Murray State College 122
Day 1: 2 04-08 Day 2: 3 07-07 Total: 5 11-15
130. Aiden Hamblin - Tarleton State University 121
Day 1: 3 07-15 Day 2: 2 03-15 Total: 5 11-14
131. Anderson Jones - Lander University 120
Day 1: 5 11-13 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 11-13
132. Nathan Kallstrand - Mark Bixler Murray State University 119
Day 1: 1 02-08 Day 2: 4 09-04 Total: 5 11-12
133. Lane Argo - Kyson Bradley Wabash Valley College 118
Day 1: 5 11-11 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 11-11
134. Will Cali - Wyatt Stamper Wabash Valley College Bass Warri 117
Day 1: 3 06-06 Day 2: 3 04-15 Total: 6 11-05
135. Will Boyd Jr - Jeremy Monda Florida Gateway College 116
Day 1: 3 05-00 Day 2: 3 06-04 Total: 6 11-04
136. Eli Dickerson - Hunter King Murray State University 115
Day 1: 5 09-02 Day 2: 1 02-01 Total: 6 11-03
137. Bennett McBride - Gavin Robinson Tarleton State University 114
Day 1: 3 07-02 Day 2: 1 03-13 Total: 4 10-15
138. Connor Hall - Carson Belville McKendree University 113
Day 1: 5 10-14 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 10-14
139. Colton Combs - Andy Jenks Northeastern State University 112
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 4 10-14 Total: 4 10-14
140. Farren Todd III - Brady Cornwell Northeastern State University 111
Day 1: 3 06-12 Day 2: 2 04-02 Total: 5 10-14
141. Dustin Michek - Josh Morrow University of Wisconsin - Platte 110
Day 1: 5 10-11 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 10-11
142. Henry Fleddermann - Ryan Foster McKendree University 109
Day 1: 5 10-08 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 10-08
143. Tal Barnes - Jesse Schleff Murray State College 108
Day 1: 4 06-04 Day 2: 2 04-01 Total: 6 10-05
144. Josiah Shockley - Landon Watts Northwestern State University 107
Day 1: 3 07-06 Day 2: 2 02-13 Total: 5 10-03
145. Camden Kozikoski - Dayne Kobriger Drury University 106
Day 1: 5 09-12 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 09-12
146. Hunter King - Caleb Bass Blue Mountain Christian Universi 105
Day 1: 5 09-09 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 09-09
147. Ryan Mizee - Oklahoma State University 104
Day 1: 1 01-11 Day 2: 4 07-09 Total: 5 09-04
148. Brayden Hoehn - Luke Rokavec Campbellsville University 103
Day 1: 5 09-00 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 09-00
149. Andrew Oswalt - Evan Mabrey University of Montevallo 102
Day 1: 3 07-02 Day 2: 1 01-13 Total: 4 08-15
150. John Mullins - Jacob Sledge Middle Tennessee State Universit 101
Day 1: 3 08-11 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 3 08-11
151. Caleb Johnston - Dawson Cowden Northwestern State University 100
Day 1: 1 01-12 Day 2: 3 06-13 Total: 4 08-09
152. Brayden Wilson - Joseph Senn Bethel University 99
Day 1: 3 06-05 Day 2: 1 02-03 Total: 4 08-08
153. John Mizell - Tarleton State University 98
Day 1: 4 08-07 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 4 08-07
154. Brenden Bankston - Carson Dillinger Texas A&M University 97
Day 1: 2 04-07 Day 2: 2 04-00 Total: 4 08-07
155. Cooper Lobek - Colten Starnes Wabash Valley College 96
Day 1: 4 08-06 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 4 08-06
156. Zach Pocos - Tucker Siminak McKendree University 95
Day 1: 4 08-04 Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 4 08-04
157. Nick Hawkins - Chase Wollam Southeastern University 94
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 3 08-04 Total: 3 08-04
158. Braxton Davis - Cole Sanor Murray State College 93
Day 1: 0 00-00
FXR named title sponsor of the 2026 Elite Series season opener on Lake Guntersville
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. is excited to announce that FXR®, a leading performance apparel brand for anglers and outdoor athletes, will serve as the title sponsor of the 2026 Bassmaster Elite at Lake Guntersville, the season-opening event of the 2026 Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series.
Lake Guntersville, one of the most storied fisheries in tournament bass fishing, will provide the backdrop as the world’s best anglers launch their new season. The February event is expected to draw massive crowds and intense competition as pros return to one of the Tennessee River’s most dynamic and productive bass fisheries.
FXR has built a strong reputation for designing high-performance outerwear engineered for extreme climates, making the brand an increasingly popular choice among anglers who demand durability, warmth and mobility on the water. With deep roots in motorsports, action sports and outdoor recreation, FXR has expanded aggressively into competitive fishing, developing apparel built to withstand long days, changing weather and the fast-paced environment of tournament competition. Their commitment to technical innovation aligns closely with the needs of Elite Series anglers and the expectations of Bassmaster fans.
“This event checks all the boxes for us — it’s high energy, highly competitive and sets the tone for the entire season, just like our brand,” said Chris Meyeraan, Pro Fish Brand Director at FXR. “We’re proud to partner with B.A.S.S. on a marquee event that showcases the passion, preparation and performance that define both competitive fishing and FXR gear.”
As title sponsor, FXR will bring enhanced on-site presence, digital integration and angler-focused engagement opportunities to one of the year’s most anticipated tournaments. Guntersville’s early-season conditions make high-quality performance gear essential, offering FXR a natural environment to highlight its products in action.
“FXR’s dedication to innovation and performance makes them an ideal partner for an event as iconic as the season opener on Lake Guntersville,” said Phillip Johnson, Chief Operating Officer of B.A.S.S. “Their gear is trusted by anglers who require comfort and reliability on the water, and we’re excited to welcome them as a title sponsor for a tournament that will set the pace for another incredible Elite Series season.”
The 2026 FXR Bassmaster Elite at Lake Guntersville, to be held Feb. 5-8, will kick off a full slate of Elite Series tournaments across the country, with fans able to follow every moment through Bassmaster LIVE on Bassmaster.com, FS1 and the FOX Sports digital platforms.
About FXR
FXR is a leader in high-performance apparel, designed for anglers who demand the best in quality, durability and comfort. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, FXR continues to be a trusted name in the fishing community.
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
Nominations now open for 2026 C.A.S.T. for Kids B.A.S.S. Humanitarian Award
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. and the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation are now accepting nominations for the annual C.A.S.T. for Kids B.A.S.S. Humanitarian Award, recognizing the meaningful work being done by B.A.S.S. members to serve others in their communities.
The award honors a B.A.S.S. member who has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to helping fragile populations such as children with special needs, veterans, abuse survivors or others who need extra support and care.
“Partnering with the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation to recognize the selfless work of our members is something we value greatly at B.A.S.S. This award highlights how many anglers in our community use their passion for fishing to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”
The 2025 Humanitarian Award winner, Jimmy Bennett, was recognized for his work through the JMB Fishing Foundation, which provides outdoor adventures for disabled and disadvantaged youth.
“Jimmy Bennett, the 2025 winner of the Humanitarian Award, was a great addition to the list of outstanding individuals who’ve won this award,” said Jay Yelas, Executive Director of the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation and former Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series pro. “Jimmy’s JMB Fishing Foundation makes a positive difference in the lives of many children that are disabled or disadvantaged. His outdoor adventures with youth change lives for the better.”
To be considered for the award, a B.A.S.S. member must be nominated by Feb. 20. Any member doing exemplary community service will be considered. The nomination form can be found at Bassmaster.com/award.
Judges from both B.A.S.S. and the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation will review all nominations and verify the humanitarian work of the honoree. While C.A.S.T. for Kids focuses on providing fishing opportunities for children with special needs, nominations are open to B.A.S.S. members doing any form of good work to help those in need.
The 2026 award recipient will be honored during the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour festivities in Knoxville, Tenn., where the Classic will be contested on the Tennessee River March 13-15.
“The sport of bass fishing is full of people with big hearts who enjoy serving others; we see it all the time at C.A.S.T. for Kids events,” Yelas said. “This award exists to recognize and show appreciation to those in the B.A.S.S. family who serve their community well.”
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
Off-Season Obsession: Muskie Pursuits with Kristine Fischer
Courtesy of Dynamic Sponsorships
Kristine Fischer spends most of her year chasing bass and competing in tournaments out of her kayak or Ranger Boat, but in the fall and winter she has a special affinity for musky. If you follow Fischer on social media, you’ve probably watched videos of her in close-quarter combat with big muskies while balancing like an Olympic gymnast on her kayak.
“I’ve always been a person who craves a challenge, whether it’s physical or mental, and musky definitely check that box,” Fischer said. “Walleye fishing was my first love growing up in Nebraska but I’ve always been an angler who fished for everything that would bite. I love bass fishing, but I don’t think I’ve ever caught a bass that makes me shake like a big musky does.”
From early November through the end of January, Fischer spends any free time she can find searching for those musky induced shakes across the southern United States. When most people think about muskellunge, they associate this apex predatory freshwater fish with large, cool fisheries of the northern U.S.
While the upper Midwest may be the capitol of musky fishing, Fischer targets muskies in small backwaters, rivers, and creeks through states like Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia and West Virginia. A self-described adrenaline junky, Fischer says that her musky pursuits satisfy her spirit for adventure while also allowing her time to decompress from the hustle and bustle of a busy tournament season.
“Musky fishing out of my kayak is the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for me and how I’m wired,” Fischer explained. “Between kayak events, LBAA tournaments, Bassmaster Opens, and BassmastHER obligations my schedule is wide open from February through October. Chasing muskies in the fall and winter allows me to slow down, focus on one cast at a time and enjoy the beauty and solitude around me.”
The lack of fishing pressure Fischer encounters is no accident. While she acknowledges that the time of year has a lot to do with it, as many anglers are focused on hunting or football in the fall and winter, she also spends countless hours studying water levels, weather patterns, and Google Maps searching for waters off-the-beaten path that she can get her Hobie kayak into.
The Team Toyota pro deliberately seeks out area that require a four-wheel drive truck to access and bodies of water that traditional boats simply can’t reach. These remote hidey holes take time to locate, an adventurous spirit to reach and complete confidence in your equipment – something that only comes through time in the field and on the water.
“It really is a challenge unique to itself,” Fischer said enthusiastically. “My Tundra is a TRD Pro and the added suspension really helps me navigate roads and trails that aren’t exactly maintained. Add in the 360-degree cameras, which let me see my surroundings and avoid boulders, trees, or anything else off-road, and it makes accessing extremely remote fisheries so much easier.”
Navigating to these bodies of water is often half the battle, and Fischer takes full advantage of her equipment to make it happen, but once she’s arrived the BassmastHER ambassador embraces the simplicity and quiet.
“I usually only take one or two rods, a YETI to stay hydrated and a TurtleBox for some jams,” Fischer said. “Other than that, it’s just me, my kayak, and the fish. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a jam-packed calendar and 40,000 miles on the road bouncing from event to event.”
Fischer estimates she’s caught over 100 muskies out of her kayak, but she’s had ten times as many follows over the years. People call muskellunge the fish of 10,000 casts, which puts the volume of Fischer’s success into perspective. But Fischer doesn’t target muskies to chase numbers or notoriety, instead it’s about the challenge, the solitude, and the connection to places few anglers ever see.
Millertech Energy Selected as the Official “Power” of Anglers Channel
Columbia, SC (1/23/26) — Anglers Channel, the nation’s leading source for bass fishing tournament coverage, news, and industry insights, is proud to announce a partnership with Millertech Energy, a rapidly growing leader in advanced lithium battery technology for anglers, boaters, and outdoor professionals.
Beginning in 2026, Millertech Energy will serve as the Official Lithium Battery of Anglers Channel, supporting the platform’s expanding tournament coverage, digital content, and on‑water storytelling, as well as powering the Vexus AC Dream Rig. The collaboration brings together two brands committed to elevating the performance, reliability, and education available to competitive anglers nationwide.
“Millertech has built a reputation for dependable power solutions that serious anglers trust. A quick look at the anglers that have chosen Millertech speaks volumes to their reliability” according to Danny Blandford, of Anglers Channel. “Their commitment to innovation and customer support aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver the most accurate, timely, and engaging tournament coverage in the sport. We’re excited to showcase how Millertech’s batteries help anglers stay powered, confident, and competitive.”
Through this partnership, Millertech Energy will be featured across Anglers Channel’s digital ecosystem, including tournament results, video series, gear reviews, and educational content. The collaboration will highlight Millertech’s industry‑leading lithium batteries and power‑management systems designed to withstand the demands of tournament fishing.
“Anglers Channel has become a trusted voice for competitive anglers, and we’re thrilled to join forces with a platform that shares our passion for performance and reliability,” said Lester Miller, Owner of Millertech Energy. “This partnership allows us to connect directly with the anglers who rely on dependable power every time they hit the water.”
About MillerTech Energy
Millertech Energy is a U.S.‑based innovator in lithium battery technology, offering high‑performance power solutions for marine, RV, off‑grid, and outdoor applications. Known for durability, safety, and long service life, Millertech products are engineered to deliver consistent power in the most demanding environments.
About Anglers Channel
Anglers Channel is the premier destination for bass fishing tournament news, results, and coverage. With a robust online platform, video content, and real‑time reporting, Anglers Channel connects anglers nationwide with the latest insights, gear, and stories from the water.
Media Contact: Danny Blandford ([email protected])
Emmanuel College’s Ligon and Fisher take Day 1 lead in Bassmaster College event at Kissimmee Chain of Lakes
Emmanuel College’s Ligon and Fisher take Day 1 lead in Bassmaster College event at Kissimmee Chain of Lakes
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — The later flights benefitted from Florida’s typical afternoon warm-up bite, but Emmanuel College’s Scooter Ligon Jr. and Logan Fisher got it done early to lead Day 1 of the Strike King Bassmaster College Series at Kissimmee Chain of Lakes presented by Bass Pro Shops.
On a day that saw six teams break the 20-pound mark, Ligon and Fisher sacked up 25-15 and head into Day 2 with nearly a 3-pound lead.
“We left in the third flight and once we got to our spot, it took us about 10 minutes to find them,” said Fisher, a senior business major. “We caught them for about an hour and a half to two hours straight. We caught about 10 and then we laid off them.
“We tried to sit there until about 12 and then, when all the boats that were close to us made their way out of the area, we moved out and looked around for something that might help us tomorrow.”
Ligon, a senior majoring in business administration with a minor in mathematics, said he and Fisher secured a limit at 8 a.m. and had their day’s weight at 10. Time management was important to their day’s fast start and that meant remaining in Lake Toho where the tournament is based.
“We practiced in Lake Kissimmee the first day we were here and just couldn’t get anything going, so we decided to spend the next two days practicing in Toho,” Ligon said. “We felt like we could be more consistent there.”
The leaders were understandably guarded with their details, but Ligon said they caught their fish around sparse hydrilla in 10 feet.
“We caught them all off one hole today,” he said. “There were a few boats around us, but they seemed to be either deeper or shallower than we were.
“Clean water, I would say, was the biggest thing (for our spot).”
As Fisher noted, he and Ligon mixed up their presentations, but one bait produced all of their bites.
“The key was hitting the fish on the head,” Ligon said. “It seems like the ones that wanted it would come eat it rather quickly.”
Ligon went on to say that he and Fisher kept one another focused on the task at hand. For the most part, their day unfolded as they had expected.
“The most memorable thing was how perfect it all went,” Fisher said. “We lost two fish that would have helped us, but no complaints.”
Looking ahead to the final day of competion, Fisher said he and his partner plan on repeating what worked for Day 1. They’ll have a later flight on Day 2, so they’re hopeful their spot will be available when they arrive.
“I sure hope we can get on our spot,” Fisher said. “We have other spots, but where we caught them today is a pretty special place.”
Brice Hudler and Roy Crush IV of Texas A&M University are in second place with 23-0
Ben Burns and Grant Pursifull of Stephen F. Austin State University are in third with 21-11.
Hudler and Crush lead the Phoenix Boats Big Bass standings with an 8-14.
Friday’s takeoff is scheduled for 7 a.m. ET at Lakefront Park - Big Lake Toho Marina. The weigh-in will be held at the park at 3 p.m.
Follow along with all of the action from the Strike King Bassmaster College Series at Kissimmee Chain of Lakes presented by Bass Pro Shops on Bassmaster.com.
Experience Kissimmee, Florida is hosting these events.
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
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Connect with #Bassmaster on Facebook, Instagram, Twitte
Media Contact: Mandy Pascal, Communications Manager, 334-414-8677, [email protected]
2026 Strike King Bassmaster College Series at Kississmee Chain - Legends 1/22-1/23
Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, Kissimmee FL.
(BOATER) Standings Day 1
Angler Club/School Pts
1. Scooter Ligon Jr - Logan Fisher Emmanuel College 250
Day 1: 5 25-15 Total: 5 25-15
2. Brice Hudler - Roy Crush IV Texas A&M University 249
Day 1: 5 23-00 Total: 5 23-00
3. Ben Burns - Grant Pursifull Stephen F Austin State Universit 248
Day 1: 5 21-11 Total: 5 21-11
4. Grayson Wilson - Jaxon Funneman Wabash Valley College 247
Day 1: 5 21-09 Total: 5 21-09
5. Kolby Angell - Bryson Dover University of Montevallo 246
Day 1: 5 20-07 Total: 5 20-07
6. Garrett Ring - Trace Antunes III University of Montevallo 245
Day 1: 5 20-00 Total: 5 20-00
7. Brady Biles - Cody Mullis St Johns River State College 244
Day 1: 5 19-15 Total: 5 19-15
8. Owen Nepple - Eli Jaime Iowa Youth Fishing League High S 243
Day 1: 5 19-08 Total: 5 19-08
9. Drake Sturgill - Asa Putnam University of Montevallo 242
Day 1: 5 19-02 Total: 5 19-02
10. Daylon Milam - James Dubose University of Montevallo 241
Day 1: 5 18-07 Total: 5 18-07
11. Seth Prather - Jacob Longlois Drury University 240
Day 1: 5 18-04 Total: 5 18-04
12. Xander Patton - Stephen Brooks Emmanuel College 239
Day 1: 5 18-02 Total: 5 18-02
13. Ethan Fields - Lane Stephens McKendree University 238
Day 1: 5 17-14 Total: 5 17-14
14. Hudson Choquette - Wyatt Wood University of Montevallo 237
Day 1: 5 17-09 Total: 5 17-09
15. Storm Clark - Elisha Colley University of Montevallo 236
Day 1: 5 17-07 Total: 5 17-07
16. Curt Ferguson - Noah Wells Drury University 235
Day 1: 5 17-00 Total: 5 17-00
17. Wes Kinard - Drew Lee University of Alabama 234
Day 1: 5 16-15 Total: 5 16-15
18. RJ Sanger IV - Noah Dabney Campbellsville University 233
Day 1: 5 16-14 Total: 5 16-14
19. Caden Williamson - Bryce Distefano LSU - Shreveport 232
Day 1: 5 16-12 Total: 5 16-12
20. Tyler Gentry - Nicholas Cernosek Texas A&M University 231
Day 1: 5 16-04 Total: 5 16-04
21. Emerson Petty - Carson Falk Tennessee Wesleyan University 230
Day 1: 5 16-00 Total: 5 16-00
22. Peyton Harris - Dalton Head University of Montevallo 229
Day 1: 5 15-12 Total: 5 15-12
23. Brody Robison - Peyton Sorrow University of Montevallo 228
Day 1: 4 15-12 Total: 4 15-12
24. Drew Bates - Fisher Edwards Georgia College 227
Day 1: 5 15-11 Total: 5 15-11
25. Matthew Tucker - Wilson York Jc Calhoun Community College 226
Day 1: 5 15-06 Total: 5 15-06
26. Dylan Sorrells - Thomas Turnbull University of Montevallo 225
Day 1: 5 15-05 Total: 5 15-05
27. Trent Allen - Gabe Amburgey Campbellsville University 224
Day 1: 3 15-03 Total: 3 15-03
28. Dalton Blakley - Eli Ward University of Pikeville 223
Day 1: 5 14-14 Total: 5 14-14
29. Trenton Underwood - Lane Grogan Northeastern State University 222
Day 1: 5 14-12 Total: 5 14-12
30. Matt Manners - Braden Lankford Murray State College 221
Day 1: 5 14-11 Total: 5 14-11
30. Ridge Rutledge - Lake Hatfield Campbellsville University 221
Day 1: 5 14-11 Total: 5 14-11
32. Cooper Hughes - Brett Bucolo Florida Gulf Coast University 219
Day 1: 5 14-05 Total: 5 14-05
32. Miles Smith - William Tew LSU - Shreveport 219
Day 1: 5 14-05 Total: 5 14-05
34. Ben Puckwtt - Collin Foley Mississippi State University 217
Day 1: 5 14-03 Total: 5 14-03
34. Mason Sudermann - Nikolas Vlach University of Arkansas 217
Day 1: 5 14-03 Total: 5 14-03
36. Brooks Parker - Cole Edwards University of Montevallo 215
Day 1: 5 14-01 Total: 5 14-01
37. Peyton Matherne - Beau Landry LSU 214
Day 1: 5 13-13 Total: 5 13-13
38. Alex Facundo - Jack Gano Southwestern Michigan College 213
Day 1: 5 13-11 Total: 5 13-11
38. Tucker McCoy - Connor Bell University of Montevallo 213
Day 1: 5 13-11 Total: 5 13-11
40. Sawyer Brady - Waylin Hardison Blue Mountain Christian Universi 211
Day 1: 5 13-09 Total: 5 13-09
40. Colby Carrier - Justin Frey Bethel University 211
Day 1: 5 13-09 Total: 5 13-09
40. Mason Kornegay - Miller Dowling University of Montevallo 211
Day 1: 5 13-09 Total: 5 13-09
43. Dillon Robertshaw - Jake Mantovani Missouri State University 208
Day 1: 5 13-07 Total: 5 13-07
43. Michael Witherup - Connor Bower University of Montevallo 208
Day 1: 5 13-07 Total: 5 13-07
45. Chase Garrison - Hudson Windham Florida Gateway College 206
Day 1: 5 13-06 Total: 5 13-06
45. Hunter Russell - Brogan Gregg Wabash Valley College 206
Day 1: 5 13-06 Total: 5 13-06
47. Cade McBride - Steven Deschene Blue Mountain Christian Universi 204
Day 1: 5 13-05 Total: 5 13-05
47. Brooker Revell - Carson Yero University of Montevallo 204
Day 1: 5 13-05 Total: 5 13-05
49. Silas Jones - Ethan Elliott University of Pikeville 202
Day 1: 5 13-04 Total: 5 13-04
50. Hunter Bright - Brandon Berry University of Montevallo 201
Day 1: 5 13-01 Total: 5 13-01
51. Matthew Nichols - Luke Honda University of Nebraska - Lincoln 200
Day 1: 5 12-14 Total: 5 12-14
52. Devan Perkins - Kade Palmer LSU 199
Day 1: 5 12-12 Total: 5 12-12
52. Will Wester - Jackson Thomas Emmanuel University 199
Day 1: 5 12-12 Total: 5 12-12
54. Evan Fieldd - Briley West Campbellsville University 197
Day 1: 5 12-11 Total: 5 12-11
54. Carrson Sizemore - Luke Pierce University of Pikeville 197
Day 1: 5 12-11 Total: 5 12-11
56. Kyle Schnabel - Garrett Phalen Texas A&M University 195
Day 1: 5 12-08 Total: 5 12-08
56. Jackson Wyatt - Breckett Long Texas A&M University 195
Day 1: 5 12-08 Total: 5 12-08
58. Logan Howarter - Scotty Hagan Kentucky Christian University 193
Day 1: 5 12-07 Total: 5 12-07
59. Presley Warden - Hunter Stuckey East Texas Baptist University 192
Day 1: 5 12-05 Total: 5 12-05
60. Brennan Berglund - Colton White University of Montevallo 191
Day 1: 5 12-04 Total: 5 12-04
60. Carter Lanclos - Mo Katz IV LSU - Shreveport 191
Day 1: 5 12-04 Total: 5 12-04
62. Blake Bullock - Caden Alexander Blue Mountain Christian Universi 189
Day 1: 5 12-03 Total: 5 12-03
63. Connor Dunn - Cullum Brown Texas A&M University 188
Day 1: 5 12-01 Total: 5 12-01
64. Connor Foreman - Joe Krejci Texas A&M University 187
Day 1: 5 12-00 Total: 5 12-00
65. Anderson Jones - Lander University 186
Day 1: 5 11-13 Total: 5 11-13
65. Mason Thompson - Cody Domingos University of Tennessee 186
Day 1: 5 11-13 Total: 5 11-13
67. Lane Argo - Kyson Bradley Wabash Valley College 184
Day 1: 5 11-11 Total: 5 11-11
68. Chandler Howell - Clayton Ellis Blue Mountain Christian Universi 183
Day 1: 5 11-09 Total: 5 11-09
68. Johnny Hudson Jr - Triston Richardson LSU - Shreveport 183
Day 1: 5 11-09 Total: 5 11-09
68. Patrick Monahan - Spencer Shemwell Murray State University 183
Day 1: 5 11-09 Total: 5 11-09
71. Matthew Dettling - Michael Canonica University of Tennessee 180
Day 1: 5 11-08 Total: 5 11-08
72. Barrett Bennefield - Kaden Mueck Stephen F Austin State Universit 179
Day 1: 3 11-08 Total: 3 11-08
73. Jase White - Brady Horton Drury University 178
Day 1: 5 11-02 Total: 5 11-02
73. Joe Williams - Alex Wood Missouri State University 178
Day 1: 5 11-02 Total: 5 11-02
75. Cade Lipham - Caleb Coleman Drury University 176
Day 1: 5 11-00 Total: 5 11-00
76. Connor Hall - Carson Belville McKendree University 175
Day 1: 5 10-14 Total: 5 10-14
77. Sam Ausbrooks - Grace Olsen Wabash Valley College 174
Day 1: 5 10-13 Total: 5 10-13
78. Stone Robertson - Luka Strepacki University of Tennessee 173
Day 1: 5 10-12 Total: 5 10-12
79. Dustin Michek - Josh Morrow University of Wisconsin - Platte 172
Day 1: 5 10-11 Total: 5 10-11
79. Chandler Pruett - Jaxon Sherfield Blue Mountain Christian Universi 172
Day 1: 5 10-11 Total: 5 10-11
81. Bryson Dotson - Victor Alford Tennessee Wesleyan University 170
Day 1: 4 10-11 Total: 4 10-11
82. Kai Barnett - Maxwell Trotter McKendree University 169
Day 1: 5 10-10 Total: 5 10-10
83. Easton Bouma - Riley Petrone Drury University 168
Day 1: 5 10-09 Total: 5 10-09
83. Tyler Covington - Brantley Tate LSU 168
Day 1: 5 10-09 Total: 5 10-09
85. Henry Fleddermann - Ryan Foster McKendree University 166
Day 1: 5 10-08 Total: 5 10-08
86. Noah Parrish - Braydon Kelley East Texas Baptist University 165
Day 1: 2 10-06 Total: 2 10-06
87. JD McBroom - University of Alabama 164
Day 1: 4 10-05 Total: 4 10-05
87. Noah Ortiz - Fernando Martinez Sam Houston State University 164
Day 1: 4 10-05 Total: 4 10-05
89. Kaden Raichel - Luke Davis University of Montevallo 162
Day 1: 4 10-03 Total: 4 10-03
90. Harley Strickland - Kaleb Arnold Jc Calhoun Community College 161
Day 1: 3 10-02 Total: 3 10-02
91. Dallas Copeland - Mario Botan Texas A&M University 160
Day 1: 5 09-14 Total: 5 09-14
91. Cooper Gilroy - Jack Wilson University of Alabama 160
Day 1: 5 09-14 Total: 5 09-14
93. Camden Kozikoski - Dayne Kobriger Drury University 158
Day 1: 5 09-12 Total: 5 09-12
93. Charlie Mathis - Dominik Steinmetz Florida Gateway College 158
Day 1: 5 09-12 Total: 5 09-12
95. Clayton Easter - Tarleton State University 156
Day 1: 4 09-11 Total: 4 09-11
95. Tanner Wolf - Ethan Furlan Southwestern Michigan College 156
Day 1: 4 09-11 Total: 4 09-11
97. Elijah Kelley - Kyle Smith Kentucky Christian University 154
Day 1: 5 09-10 Total: 5 09-10
98. Hunter King - Caleb Bass Blue Mountain Christian Universi 153
Day 1: 5 09-09 Total: 5 09-09
99. Angelo Malek - Jack Stephens McKendree University 152
Day 1: 5 09-08 Total: 5 09-08
100. Trent Gilmore - Cooper Moon University of Montevallo 151
Day 1: 4 09-07 Total: 4 09-07
101. Carsen Adcock - Will Powell LSU - Shreveport 150
Day 1: 5 09-06 Total: 5 09-06
102. Cole Mcdaniel - Logan Cargle Georgia College 149
Day 1: 2 09-04 Total: 2 09-04
103. Eli Dickerson - Hunter King Murray State University 148
Day 1: 5 09-02 Total: 5 09-02
104. Ethan Burnette - Cameron Dials Kentucky Christian University 147
Day 1: 5 09-00 Total: 5 09-00
104. Brayden Hoehn - Luke Rokavec Campbellsville University 147
Day 1: 5 09-00 Total: 5 09-00
106. Peyton Attinger - Connor Moon Southwestern Michigan College 145
Day 1: 4 08-15 Total: 4 08-15
107. Trevor Alexander - Fletch Titus Missouri State University 144
Day 1: 4 08-14 Total: 4 08-14
108. John Mullins - Jacob Sledge Middle Tennessee State Universit 143
Day 1: 3 08-11 Total: 3 08-11
109. Brady Bateman - Carter Broussard LSU 142
Day 1: 3 08-10 Total: 3 08-10
110. Carson Hoots - Cade Silvertooth Texas A&M University 141
Day 1: 5 08-07 Total: 5 08-07
111. John Mizell - Tarleton State University 140
Day 1: 4 08-07 Total: 4 08-07
112. Cooper Lobek - Colten Starnes Wabash Valley College 139
Day 1: 4 08-06 Total: 4 08-06
113. Dylan Mcgee - Elisha Toller Kentucky Christian University 138
Day 1: 5 08-05 Total: 5 08-05
114. Colten Dickerson - Pete Johnson Southwestern Michigan College 137
Day 1: 4 08-04 Total: 4 08-04
114. Zach Pocos - Tucker Siminak McKendree University 137
Day 1: 4 08-04 Total: 4 08-04
114. Austin Russell - Kaden Abmeyer Oklahoma State University 137
Day 1: 4 08-04 Total: 4 08-04
117. Colton Caskey - Mason Mccormick LSU - Shreveport 134
Day 1: 4 08-03 Total: 4 08-03
118. Coleman Henke - Mason Clark Tarleton State University 133
Day 1: 4 08-01 Total: 4 08-01
119. Hunter Hamilton - Tyler Morris LSU - Shreveport 132
Day 1: 4 08-00 Total: 4 08-00
120. Ethan Thoele - Brody Thoele Drury University 131
Day 1: 4 07-15 Total: 4 07-15
121. Aiden Hamblin - Tarleton State University 130
Day 1: 3 07-15 Total: 3 07-15
122. Josh Richardson - Lawson Moller University of Nebraska - Lincoln 129
Day 1: 4 07-13 Total: 4 07-13
123. Corey Yarish - Brock Catlett Campbellsville University 128
Day 1: 4 07-07 Total: 4 07-07
124. Reece Keeney - Brantley Anders Kentucky Christian University 127
Day 1: 3 07-07 Total: 3 07-07
125. Josiah Shockley - Landon Watts Northwestern State University 126
Day 1: 3 07-06 Total: 3 07-06
126. Bryce Balentine - Connor Koch Florida Gateway College 125
Day 1: 5 07-05 Total: 5 07-05
127. Carson Holbrook - Phoenix Parks University of Pikeville 124
Day 1: 3 07-02 Total: 3 07-02
127. Bennett McBride - Gavin Robinson Tarleton State University 124
Day 1: 3 07-02 Total: 3 07-02
127. Andrew Oswalt - Evan Mabrey University of Montevallo 124
Day 1: 3 07-02 Total: 3 07-02
130. Collin Burgess - Reagan Smith Tarleton State University 121
Day 1: 4 07-01 Total: 4 07-01
131. Zach Thompson - John Whetter Oklahoma State University 120
Day 1: 4 07-00 Total: 4 07-00
132. Elijah Coleman - Merrick Diaz Campbellsville University 119
Day 1: 4 06-14 Total: 4 06-14
133. Jeff Giffen - Dylan Mladick University of Alabama 118
Day 1: 4 06-13 Total: 4 06-13
134. Farren Todd III - Brady Cornwell Northeastern State University 117
Day 1: 3 06-12 Total: 3 06-12
135. Trey McMeen - Dylan Armstrong East Texas Baptist University 116
Day 1: 4 06-10 Total: 4 06-10
135. Ways Raasch - Sam Sutter Drury University 116
Day 1: 4 06-10 Total: 4 06-10
137. Caden Crutchfield - Christian Bales Murray State University 114
Day 1: 3 06-07 Total: 3 06-07
138. Will Cali - Wyatt Stamper Wabash Valley College Bass Warri 113
Day 1: 3 06-06 Total: 3 06-06
138. Landon Hernandez - Gavin Gomez Texas A&M University 113
Day 1: 3 06-06 Total: 3 06-06
140. Luke Bennett - Seth Shamblin Tarleton State University 111
Day 1: 3 06-05 Total: 3 06-05
140. Brayden Wilson - Joseph Senn Bethel University 111
Day 1: 3 06-05 Total: 3 06-05
142. Tal Barnes - Jesse Schleff Murray State College 109
Day 1: 4 06-04 Total: 4 06-04
143. Logan Greeno - Ty Kreis University of Nebraska - Lincoln 108
Day 1: 3 05-12 Total: 3 05-12
144. Cade Smith - Axel Pierce Murray State College 107
Day 1: 3 05-11 Total: 3 05-11
145. Josy Cook - Zech Honey Evangel University 106
Day 1: 2 05-11 Total: 2 05-11
146. Seth Salcido - Kooper Counts Murray State College 105
Day 1: 1 05-10 Total: 1 05-10
147. Tyler Chmelar - Kase Kramer Tarleton State University 104
Day 1: 3 05-08 Total: 3 05-08
148. Riley Meinke - Atlan Pfluger Texas A&M University 103
Day 1: 2 05-07 Total: 2 05-07
149. Brock Blazier - Peyton Rose Wabash Valley College 102
Day 1: 3 05-06 Total: 3 05-06
150. Carter Martin - Declan Schmidt University of Tennessee 101
Day 1: 3 05-03 Total: 3 05-03
151. Will Boyd Jr - Jeremy Monda Florida Gateway College 100
Day 1: 3 05-00 Total: 3 05-00
152. Bennett Glessner - Bryce Potter University of Wisconsin - Platte 99
Day 1: 2 05-00 Total: 2 05-00
153. Barrett Newton - Wesley Kent Tennessee Tech University 98
Day 1: 3 04-15 Total: 3 04-15
154. Chance Shelby - Champ Morales Southeastern Louisiana Universit 97
Day 1: 2 04-15 Total: 2 04-15
155. Michael Wiebelhaus - Brett Lubeck University of Nebraska - Lincoln 96
Day 1: 2 04-14 Total: 2 04-14
156. Keith Gallagher - Ayden Slack Northwestern State University 95
Day 1: 2 04-13 Total: 2 04-13
157. Phillip Herring - Parker O'Bryan University of Montevallo 94
Day 1: 3 04-12 Total: 3 04-12
158. Matt Demott - Florida Gulf Coast University 93
Day 1: 2 04-11 Total: 2 04-11
159. Liam Bonnett - Parker Welch McKendree University 92
Day 1: 1 04-09 Total: 1 04-09
160. Carson Owen - Jackson Roumbanis Murray State College 91
Day 1: 2 04-08 Total: 2 04-08
161. Brenden Bankston - Carson Dillinger Texas A&M University 90
Day 1: 2 04-07 Total: 2 04-07
162. Caden Pearson - Ty Leak Wabash Valley College 89
Day 1: 2 04-06 Total: 2 04-06
163. Matthew Qualich - Kyle Hopping McKendree University 88
Day 1: 2 04-05 Total: 2 04-05
164. Evan Mccormick - Zach Widelski McKendree University 87
Day 1: 2 04-02 Total: 2 04-02
165. Hayden Hurst - Karson Denton Tarleton State University 86
Day 1: 2 03-15 Total: 2 03-15
165. Rhiauna Switzer - Macy Weaver Murray State College 86
Day 1: 2 03-15 Total: 2 03-15
167. Josh Route - August Kukis University of Wisconsin - Steven 84
Day 1: 2 03-14 Total: 2 03-14
168. Jay Shires - Cole Muenzer Southwestern Michigan College 83
Day 1: 2 03-06 Total: 2 03-06
169. Cole Divin - John Schindler Tarleton State University 82
Day 1: 2 03-02 Total: 2 03-02
170. Riley Motrych - Carl Robbins Murray State College 81
Day 1: 1 03-02 Total: 1 03-02
171. Chase Logue - Mason Darling McKendree University 80
Day 1: 1 03-00 Total: 1 03-00
172. Hayden Short - Mason Lyons Kentucky Christian University 79
Day 1: 1 02-13 Total: 1 02-13
173. Ian Carter - Hayden Davis LSU - Shreveport 78
Day 1: 1 02-09 Total: 1 02-09
174. Nathan Kallstrand - Mark Bixler Murray State University 77
Day 1: 1 02-08 Total: 1 02-08
175. Hunter Stuart - Ryan Rhodes Tarleton State University 76
Day 1: 1 02-07 Total: 1 02-07
175. Jacob Yarbrough - Tarleton State University 76
Day 1: 1 02-07 Total: 1 02-07
177. Alexander Blanchard - Sportsman Fishing Club At Lsu 74
Day 1: 1 02-05 Total: 1 02-05
178. Jackson Kulijof - Murray State University 73
Day 1: 1 02-03 Total: 1 02-03
178. Rhett Miller - Emmarie Bires Wabash Valley College 73
Day 1: 1 02-03 Total: 1 02-03
180. Carson Stevens - Parker Emery East Texas Baptist University 71
Day 1: 1 02-02 Total: 1 02-02
181. Logan Clark - Zane Stroman East Texas Baptist University 70
Day 1: 1 02-01 Total: 1 02-01
181. Andrew Waters - Warren Pierce Murray State College 70
Day 1: 1 02-01 Total: 1 02-01
183. John Klanchar - Zachary Mcmillan LSU - Shreveport 68
Day 1: 1 02-00 Total: 1 02-00
183. Caleb Neu - Jakob Dreher Bethel University 68
Day 1: 1 02-00 Total: 1 02-00
185. Ethan Powell - Otto Cornett Texas A&M University 66
Day 1: 1 01-14 Total: 1 01-14
185. Kanyon Russom - Grant Young East Texas Baptist University 66
Day 1: 1 01-14 Total: 1 01-14
187. Hinesley Bryant -
Weather patterns could deliver lights-out action for Bassmaster Open at Central Florida’s Kissimmee Chain
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — The Sunshine State’s a little behind in seasonality, but Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series pro John Cox believes winter’s late arrival might be setting up an absolute smash fest for the Turtlebox Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain presented by Battery Tender.
Competition days will be January 29-31 with daily takeoffs from Lake Front Park - Big Toho Marina at 7 a.m. ET and weigh-ins each day at the same location at 3 p.m.
With prolonged warmth reaching well into December and significant cold fronts mostly waiting until after the New Year’s Eve confetti had long since disappeared, mid-January finally saw the kind of serious Southern cold that painted much of the state in weather map blue. The Florida Panhandle received a rare snowfall.
While such weather patterns make Central Florida strawberry farmers nervous, they do the opposite for anglers like Cox. The Elite pro from DeBary knows that, while Florida bass love their warm, stable water, the ecosystem actually needs a solid cold spell to crack the whip on spawning instincts.
“I think this tournament will be more prespawn and spawners,” Cox said. “We’ve had a few little (spawning) waves but they didn’t really go, because it hadn’t gotten cold enough. But this recent cold is gonna put them in the mood.
“With the cold fronts of mid-January, if it warms up, we could see some really big bags.”
With a note of measured optimism, Cox said he’s not counting out potential record-breaking catches. With no shortage of quality fish in the 5- to 7-pound range, the Kissimmee Chain (lakes Toho, Cypress, Hatchineha and Kissimmee) also holds many of those double-digit day-makers with game-changing potential.
Teasing a sniff at one of bass fishing’s most impressive records, Cox points to similarities in the Open’s timing and that of Dean Rojas’ astounding five-bass limit of a 45-pounds, 2-ounces. Caught Jan. 17, 2001, during a Bassmaster Top 150 event on Lake Toho, Rojas’ achievement was made possible by a sudden wave of spawning giants that rushed the Shingle Creek shallows.
“The tournament will only be a couple weeks off from when Dean Rojas caught that big stinger,” Cox said. “That year was similar to 2026. It had been very cold, then there was a sudden warm-up and the fish ran to the bank."
Cox said the entire Kissimmee Chain holds healthy habitat with lots of options from hydrilla and Kissimmee grass to lily pads and hyacinth. As he explained, the middle two lakes often see the first hints of spawning action because their shallower depths tend to warm up the fastest.
“Really anything can happen in any of the lakes,” Cox said of the chain’s widespread potential. “Your flippers typically are going to Lake Kissimmee, the open-water grass fishermen are often in Toho and the middle two lakes could be a mix of both.”
Notably, the canals linking the four main lakes also hold fishable habitat, while their levees offer protective wind breaks during blustery conditions. On January 18, the Strike King Bassmaster High School event at the Kissimmee Chain saw winners Eli Scroggins and Drew Berling of the Park Hills Athletic Club catch their biggest fish — a 6-13 — in the canal between Toho and Cypress while midday winds blasted main-lake waters.
When Opens competitors hit the Kissimmee Chain, a mix of wacky worms and Texas-rigged worms, craws and creature baits will handle any bed fishing opportunities that arise. Those looking for prespawners will be throwing lipless baits, bladed jigs, swimbait and Carolina rigs.
“Those prespawn fish will be right there on the verge of bedding,” Cox predicts. “I think we could see a guy sit in one little area and have fresh fish coming to him.”
A key factor that will undoubtedly impact the way many anglers fish is the no-forward-facing sonar rule. This season will see half of the Opens events allowing live sonar and half prohibiting its use. With forward-facing sonar left out of the picture, Kissimmee Chain competitors will have to rely on local experience and tried-and-true fishing techniques.
“I think without FFS, knowledge of the lakes will help more,” Cox said. “You might see some of the guys who’ve fished the lakes for many years do really well. This could be right in their wheelhouse.”
Taking an educated guess at the leaderboard, Cox said: “To make the Top 10, I would think it will take close to 20 pounds a day. I think we’re gonna see some really big bags, so the winning three-day weight will be about 65, but it might take 70.
“Somebody might catch 30 one day, then back it up with two more good days. This will be an exciting event.”
Follow along with all of the action from the Turtlebox Bassmaster Open at Kissimmee Chain of Lakes presented by Battery Tender on Bassmaster.com.
Visit Kissimmee is hosting this event.
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
Major League Fishing Renews Sponsorship with Piranh02
Oxygenation systems to reinforce industry-leading fish care standards at MLF5 events
BENTON, Ky. (Jan. 22, 2026) – Major League Fishing (MLF), the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, announced today the renewal of its partnership with PiranhO2, a leading provider of oxygen enrichment systems designed to protect the health and longevity of fish and bait, for the 2026 season. The continued collaboration strengthens MLF’s ongoing commitment to advancing fish health, conservation and sustainable tournament practices across every level of competition.
As part of the renewed agreement, PiranhO2 oxygenation systems will be utilized at every level of MLF5 competition in 2026, expanding MLF’s investment in live-release technology and fish care protocols. PiranhO2 will continue to play an integral role in MLF’s Fisheries Management Division (FMD) Fish Care program, supporting the organization’s mission to responsibly manage fisheries and enhance post-release fish survival during tournaments nationwide.
“Protecting the resource is at the core of everything we do, and continuing our partnership with PiranhO2 allows us to raise the bar even higher for fish care across our events,” said Steven Bardin, Fisheries Biologist and Director of MLF’s Fisheries Management Division. “Their oxygenation technology has proven to be an invaluable tool in reducing fish stress and improving vitality. Expanding its use across more MLF5 events in 2026 is a major step forward for tournament conservation.”
PiranhO2’s patented delivery system diffuses pure oxygen while stabilizing water conditions in livewells and holding tanks. The result is healthier fish, reduced handling stress and stronger post-release survival rates – priorities that remain central to MLF’s conservation-focused tournament model.
"After an incredibly successful 2025 season working alongside Major League Fishing, PiranhO2 is thrilled to continue our partnership as the “Live Release Sponsor” for the MLF5 organizations into 2026,” said Joseph Krawczyk, Piranh02 General Manager. “What we've accomplished together this past year has helped validate how important proper fish care and aeration are to the longevity of the fish during competition.
“We couldn't have been more thrilled with the results we saw firsthand across all the tournaments that introduced our medical-grade oxygen generating systems, and the feedback we received working with a trusted partner like MLF has truly helped us to further refine our offerings to provide the best possible aeration solutions to anglers and tournament organizers alike. We look forward to continuing to work hand-in-hand with the great team at MLF as we continue to revolutionize fish care across the sport fishing industry and help ensure future generations can enjoy our nation’s lakes and waterways.”
PiranhO2 will receive prominent visibility across MLF5 circuits, including the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech, Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats, Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine, Columbia PFG College Fishing Presented by Abu Garcia and Abu Garcia High School Fishing Presented by Tackle Warehouse. The brand will receive exposure in MLF press releases and media coverage, MLF5 eNewsletters, digital and social content, live-streaming productions and television broadcasts. PiranhO2 will also engage directly with fans on-site at select events and provide product integration at key championship tournaments throughout the season.
For more information about PiranhO2, visit PiranhO2.com. To learn more about MLF and its conservation efforts, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com.
About PRO O2
As a pioneering subsidiary of Nidek Medical Products, Inc., PRO O2, LLC was established in 2017 to revolutionize oxygen-based solutions across all nonmedical industries. With a footprint spanning over 50 countries on six continents, PRO O2 delivers cutting-edge oxygen concentrators and other gas separation systems tailored across a wide array of applications, including water treatment, food processing/agriculture, aquaculture, veterinary care and beyond. Our acclaimed product lines exemplify engineering excellence, combining innovation with dependability to exceed industry demands, while we remain at the forefront of continuing innovation & scientific advancements in our realms of operation. Manufactured exclusively in Birmingham, Alabama, USA using EPA-compliant components, PRO O2 is dedicated to advancing oxygen technology through our collective 39 years of design & engineering experience while also maintaining a steadfast commitment to quality and sustainability.
About PiranhO2 systems:
The oxygen concentrator systems provide the weigh-in tanks with 95% medical-grade oxygen, generated on-site from a small and highly mobile device. The oxygen implementation will not only result in lower stress rates to fish, but it will also support much larger fish weights in confined spaces while also ensuring clean and odor-free water for the duration of the tournament. PiranhO2 will be partnering with MLF to bring these same oxygen-generating solutions onto their live-release boats, as well as ensuring continual high-quality care is provided to fish even after weigh-in.
About Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery, Outdoor Channel, VICE, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network, RFD-TV and Game & Fish TV and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.
