Bass Angler Magazine (BAM Trail) is expanding its commitment to western tournament anglers with a major new partnership for the 2026 season.  BAM, Vexus Boats, and Mercury Marine have joined forces to deliver one of the most significant prize offerings in modern western bass fishing.

“Six” New Vexus/Mercury Prize Boats Awarded at BAM Pro-Am’s

Beginning in 2026, the first-place pro at every BAM Pro-Am event will receive a brand-new Vexus AVX1880 powered by Mercury.  The prize boats will be on-site at each event, showcased for anglers and fans, and delivered directly to the winner at the tournament.  This premium aluminum performance boat, combined with Mercury’s reliability and power, marks a major step forward for the BAM Trail and significantly elevates the value of each Pro-Am victory.

Strong Vexus Dealer Network Supporting the West

Vexus Boats maintains a strong dealer network across the western United States, and those dealers are enthusiastic about partnering with BAM throughout the season. Their support adds depth to the partnership and provides local backing for anglers, events, and regional promotion.

BAM Leadership on the Strategic Partnership

Mark Lassagne, CEO of BAM, said the agreement helps move the trail to the next level.
“Vexus builds a premium product and has a strong presence in the West. Teaming up with Vexus and Mercury allows us to provide an outstanding prize while strengthening our trail, our anglers, and the long-term growth of western tournament fishing.”

Vexus Boats Perspective

Keith Daffron, President of Vexus Boats, shared why the partnership is a natural fit.  “We’re excited to partner with BAM and support a trail that is truly investing in its anglers. The BAM team is committed to doing things the right way, and our western dealers are looking forward to being part of the season. Putting a Vexus/Mercury package on the line at every Pro-Am is something special, and we’re proud to help lead that effort.”

Looking Ahead to the 2026 BAM Season

The 2026 BAM Pro-Am schedule will feature multiple opportunities for anglers to compete for the Vexus/Mercury prize package, along with expanded media coverage, on-site activation, and national-level visibility across BAM’s print, digital, video, and livestream platforms.

More details, schedules, and registration information will be posted at BAMTrail.com.

About Vexus Boats

Vexus Boats is a U.S.-based manufacturer known for building high-performance fiberglass and aluminum fishing boats designed for serious anglers. Founded by longtime industry leaders in Flippin, Arkansas, Vexus focuses on innovation, durability, and real on-the-water performance across its AVX aluminum and VX fiberglass lines.

With a growing dealer network nationwide — including strong representation across the West — Vexus delivers premium boats backed by hands-on customer support and a commitment to quality craftsmanship. #vexusboats

About Mercury Marine

Mercury Marine is a global leader in marine propulsion, known for building reliable, high-performance outboards trusted by anglers, boaters, and manufacturers worldwide. Founded in 1939 and headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, Mercury designs and engineers advanced four-stroke engines, propulsion systems, and marine technologies focused on efficiency, durability, and exceptional on-water performance.

With a long history of innovation and industry-leading support, Mercury continues to power top tournament trails, boat brands, and anglers across the country. #mercurymarine

About BAM Tournament Trail

The Bass Angler Magazine Tournament Trail (BAM Trail) is the West Coast’s fastest-growing premier pro-level bass fishing circuit, built to showcase top anglers and connect leading brands directly with the fishing community.

Powered by Bass Angler Magazine’s national print and digital reach, BAM delivers year-round exposure through tournaments, the magazine, email campaigns, podcasts, social media, YouTube, and our televised Super 60 series — offering unmatched marketing opportunities for anglers and sponsors.

BAM Super 60 title sponsor – Bass Boat Technologies presented by Tackle Warehouse.

BAM Pro-Am title sponsor –  Vexus Boats presented by Tackle Warehouse.

The trail is supported by industry leaders including Mercury Outboards along with Storquest Storage Solutions, Chicken Ranch Casino Resort, Ford Fairfield, Power Pole, Black Bear Diner, Bridgford Foods, Bob’s Machine, Anderson Auto Group, Sticky Graphics, and our conservation sponsor Fisherman’s Warehouse.

Tourism partners include; Lake Don Pedro, City of Oakley, and the Boardman Community Development .

Tournament series include the BAM Super 60 Pro Tour, Pro-Am, Scholastic, and Kayak Trail. Events are available to watch on YouTube. Learn more here: BAM TRAIL, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Media / Advertising Contact: Mark Lassagne

#bamtrail #bassanglermagazine #bamsuper60