SCOTTSBORO, Ala. — The Ultimate Angler World Championship will return to Lake Guntersville and Goose Pond Colony from Sept. 27 through Oct. 3, bringing seven days of elite competition, outdoor entertainment, and family activities to Scottsboro.

The weeklong event will feature 200 professional and amateur anglers competing for more than $1 million in payouts, including a $500,000 first-place prize.

Championship competition will conclude Saturday, Oct. 3, with the crowning of the 2026 Ultimate Angler champion.

Running alongside the final days of competition, the Ultimate Angler Outdoor Expo will take place Friday, Oct. 2, and Saturday, Oct. 3. The expo is free and open to the public.

Visitors can expect exhibitor booths, product demonstrations, meet-and-greets with professional anglers, conservation exhibits, food vendors, family activities, and a free concert following the championship finale on Saturday evening.

Event organizers expect anglers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts from across the country to travel to Scottsboro for the championship, generating a significant economic impact for local businesses, restaurants, hotels, and tourism partners.

“The Ultimate Angler was created to bring together the best anglers in sport while creating an experience the entire community can enjoy,” said Lori Waller, Event Director for the Ultimate Angler World Championship.

“Whether you’re a serious angler, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a great family event, there will be something for everyone. From the competition on the water to the expo and free concert, this week is about celebrating the outdoor lifestyle and showcasing everything our region has to offer.”

Vendor registration for the Outdoor Expo is now open. Businesses and organizations in the fishing, boating, hunting, outdoor recreation, tourism, and lifestyle industries are encouraged to participate.

Companies interested in partnership opportunities can contact the Ultimate Angler team at 256-934-9330.

Vendor registration information is available at www.TheUltimateAngler.org/vendor-registration.

Additional details, including the concert lineup, event schedule, and participating exhibitors, will be announced in the coming months.

About the Ultimate Angler World Championship

Hosted by Unified Pros, the Ultimate Angler World Championship brings together 200 of the top professional and amateur anglers from across the country to compete on Lake Guntersville. The event combines elite competition with conservation initiatives, youth education programs, and community engagement while highlighting Scottsboro and Jackson County as premier outdoor destinations.

Media Contact:

Lori Waller
Event Director, Ultimate Angler World Championship
256-934-9330
www.TheUltimateAngler.org