Friday, December 27, 2024

Daiwa Elite Travel Series

 DAIWA’s new ARDITO travel rod series includes a premium telescoping model that morphs into its own case and fits in your backpack or briefcase. 



Of special note are the new ARDITO ‘Jitte’ casting and spinning rods, with a self-contained telescoping rod design concept that will have most anglers saying, “I’ve never seen anything like it.”

The groundbreaking design of the ARDITO travel rod is how the 6’7’ARD67B-TR casting and ARD67S-TR spinning rods – each with a full train of eight guides – can telescope into themselves with the handle used to make it completely protected and self-contained. Collapsed and contained, it’s like holding a baton.

Since first touch, DAIWA’s staff has been coming up with new locations and ways to travel with the ARDITO Jitte telescoping travel rods. 


“In our discussions with product development, sales, and marketing staff about the Jitte rod introduction at ICAST, our talks always drifted into unique ways and where these rods would be ideal to use,” said DAIWA’s Field Marketing Specialist Chris Martin. “Those ideas went everywhere from packing them in your Harley saddlebags for a ride to Sturgis and chasing northern pike, yellow perch and crappie in Bear Butte Lake – it’s a short 8 miles from DAIWA headquarters – to that lake or creek you keep seeing on your business travels and daydream about. Now, you have legitimate, packable rod that’ll put you on the water after a long day of meetings.”


Jitte might be the flagship ARDITO travel rod, but there’s an entire series behind it. DAIWA’s technology and construction features are evident throughout the ARDITO telescoping and multi-piece family, making them the new standard in travel rod design and performance.

The 6’8” ARD684MLSF-TR ARDITO Premium Travel Rod is a medium-light, 4-piece spinning rod for use with 5- to 12-pound test with a split-grip cork handle. There’s a full cork handle on the 6’10” ARD6104MHFB-TR medium-heavy casting rod, which is rated for up 20-pound test to tackle big bass and more.

Wednesday, December 25, 2024

Merry Christmas

 

Wish all our devoted readers and wonderful holiday and a very blessed 2025!

Monday, December 23, 2024

B.A.S.S. shutters Bassmaster Opens Co-Angler Program

Low enrollment linked to cancellation of Co-Anglers

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The longstanding co-angler program within the Bassmaster Opens has been eliminated for the 2025 season, B.A.S.S. announced today. Due to multiple reasons, including fairness to the field of boaters and reduced interest since COVID, the program has been shuttered.


Co-anglers have been a staple in the Bassmaster Opens since the inception of the league. Not only did these anglers get to compete for great prizes, but they were able to learn from veteran anglers while competing. When COVID struck our nation in 2020, the number of anglers signing up to compete as co-anglers diminished due to state restrictions and general health concerns during that time. The numbers have remained low since.

Last year, boaters expressed concerns that there was a fairness issue if they had a co-angler, and competed against a portion of the field who did not have co-anglers. Out of an abundance of caution to maintain the integrity of the sport for the Opens boaters, the elimination of co-anglers became a topic of discussion. This concern, paired with the reduction of non-boaters since 2020 led to the final decision.

 


Friday, December 20, 2024

B.A.S.S. releases 2025 Kayak Series schedule


BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – B.A.S.S. has announced the schedule for the 2025 Bassmaster Kayak Series. The schedule features six stops across six states.

“In 2024 we saw the anglers’ continued commitment to the series, and for 2025 we wanted to add some fisheries that had never hosted a national-level kayak event or maybe hadn’t held one in several years,” said Bassmaster Kayak Series Tournament Director Steve Owens. “And we made our best effort to align those events with prime fishing times.”

The schedule will begin the season Jan. 18-19 at Lake Havasu in Havasu City, Ariz., a first for the series. Lake Havasu is formed by Parker Dam on the Colorado River on the border between San Bernardino County, Calif., and Mohave County, Ariz. Lake Havasu City sits on the Arizona side of the lake, and Havasu Lake is the California counterpart. Havasu features a healthy smallmouth and largemouth bass population in a desert setting.

DATES AND LOCATIONS BELOW

Wednesday, December 18, 2024

Taku Ito reveals how to make secret bait marinade

 

Shown here is the recipe for the secret marinade pro Taku Ito uses 
to top the Elite leaderboards.


It’s long been one of the biggest mysteries in bass fishing. Now, Takumi Ito is ready to share his secret marinade recipe called “Takumizuke.” 


LINK OVER HERE

Monday, December 16, 2024

Abu Garcia Max SX Spinning Reel

 

Abu Garcia adds impressive upgrades to the Max lineup with the new Abu Garcia Max SX



Drawing from the advanced V-rotor and V-spool technology found in the Abu Garcia Zenon series of spinning reels, the Max SX delivers the same exceptional performance that has made Abu Garcia reels a favorite among anglers. Utilizing Abu Garcia's lightweight graphite a-symmetric body, the Max SX reel offers a streamlined and ergonomic design along with a 6+1 stainless steel bearing system for smooth and reliable action on every cast. 


“We are beyond excited to finally have the updated Max lineup of spinning reels on the market,” said Director of Brand and Product at Abu Garcia, Andrew Wheeler. “We have spent countless hours perfecting the look, feel, and performance of these reels to go above and beyond what anglers expect in a reel at this price.”

The Max SX incorporates Abu Garcia’s Rocket Line Management system and Rocket Spool Lip treating anglers to less wind knots and improved line control. Also available as a rod and reel combo, the Max SX combo incorporates a 24-ton graphite blank and a high-density EVA handle for all day comfort while on the water. The combo also features an Abu-designed reel seat for increased hand and blank contact, resulting in better feel and bite detection while on the water.

Friday, December 13, 2024

Elites Get Advisory Board, Payout Modifications


By B.A.S.S. Communications Staff

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – In an effort to facilitate better communication and collaboration with Elite Series anglers, the Bassmaster Elite Angler Board of Professionals has been created, B.A.S.S. announced today. The Advisory Board consists of six Elite anglers who were voted on by their peers and who will speak on behalf of the entire field in communicating with B.A.S.S. in order to provide a more direct and efficient way of discussing current challenges and future opportunities.

The Advisory Board was assembled to include competitors who represent every career phase within the Elite Series ranks: rookies, sophomores, multi-year competitors and veterans. The 2025 Advisory Board roster is comprised of Ben Milliken, Alex Wetherell, Lee Livesay, John Crews, Drew Benton and Mark Menendez.

Thursday, December 12, 2024

Bass Anglers Have Your Say!



Do you fish for bass in FMZ 18 (eastern Ontario)?  Your knowledge on the state of bass populations in key lakes/rivers and perspectives on bass management supplement traditional fisheries sampling conducted by MNR.  Please share with others and complete this survey.  The survey link is: https://tinyurl.com/Bass-Survey-Link 

The purpose of this survey is to help our research team understand trends in Black Bass (Smallmouth and Largemouth bass) populations and understand current angler attitudes towards existing regulations and management techniques. These results will help inform future management decisions for the long-term conservation of these species. All participants will remain anonymous. If you change your mind about your participation, you have until April 30th, 2025 to withdraw from this study. We are excited to hear from you: individuals who are directly impacted by black bass management in FMZ 18 of Eastern Ontario.

Tuesday, December 10, 2024

New from Humminbird®: XPLORE™ Fish Finders and MEGA Live 2



Join fishing legends Mark Zona, Ed Zyak, Kevin VanDam and Bryan Thrift as we unveil our two groundbreaking new products: XPLORE Fish Finders and the much-anticipated debut of MEGA Live 2 Forward-Facing Sonar.

XPLORE™ SERIES Break down the water like never before with a lightning-fast user interface, best-in-class imaging, the industry’s best maps and revamped waypoint management. Available in 9, 10.1 and 12.1-inch displays. ➡️ https://humminbird.johnsonoutdoors.co... MEGA LIVE 2 Watch every catch unfold in epic detail with enhanced bait tracking, clear target separation, three view modes and 15 optimized color palettes. Compatible with XPLORE, SOLIX® G3 and APEX fish finders. ➡️ https://humminbird.johnsonoutdoors.co... Both products will be available for purchase in January of 2025. Learn more: https://www.humminbird.com

Monday, December 9, 2024

Humminbird North American Product Launch!

 


Humminbird is having a live, via the web, product release at 12:09pm EST today. Get ready for their announcement of the new Xplorer units and much more. 

(click the logo to jump to Humminbird) 

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

Berkley PowerBait Drip Swimmer

 

Up your finesse swimbait game with the Berkley PowerBait Drip Swimmer



The Drip Swimmer was meticulously designed in conjunction with the Berkley PowerBait Drip Minnow to mimic shiners and other baitfish with an anatomically correct internal core and over-molded body that creates bite inducing contrast and adds unmatched detail to the bait.

Berkley’s newest finesse swimbait gives anglers an option with less thump than a traditional swimbait, providing a bait that most fish have never seen before. Featuring Berkley’s proven HD Tru Color technology, the Drip Swimmer gives anglers unprecedented colorway options and increased confidence. The extremely versatile swimbait pairs up beautifully on a drop shot, offset-EWG, or jigheads like the new Berkley Fusion19 Hybrid Jighead.

KEY FEATURES
• Micro-boot tail delivers tight actions for finesse swimbaiting
• Internal core and ultra-high definition colors provide extreme realism
• Three sizes to match the hatch
• Rig on a drop shot, swim-shot, strolling, jighead, trailer or snap jigs
• Available in 14 ultra-realistic colors

Sizes: 3” • 4” • 5”
Colors: Ghost Perch • HD Spottail Shiner • HD Emerald Shiner • Blue Liner • HD Purple Shiner •
HD Pink Shiner • Green Liner • White Shiner • HD Goby • Green Pumpkin Shad • HD Rainbow Shiner • Mutilator Minnow • Black Shad • HD Blacknose Shiner
MSRP: $9.99

Available: December 2024


Monday, December 2, 2024

New Humminbird Product: Xplore Series and MEGA Live 2!


 This video is not an official product launch. This is a deep dive to the new Humminbird Xplore and MEGA Live 2 revolutionizing the Hummingbird brand. 

Wednesday, November 27, 2024

Minn Kota Free Shipping Event!


This holiday season Minn Kota is offering FREE Standard Ground shipping* in the continental United States on all online orders.


Upgrade your boating experience with free shipping on trolling motors, shallow water anchors, battery chargers, accessories, and more! Whether you're seeking precision control, secure anchoring, or the perfect add-ons, we’ve got you covered—delivered straight to your door at no extra cost.

Monday, November 25, 2024

Abu Garcia’s Swedish workforce cut by more than half

 Pure Fishing – the world’s largest fishing tackle company – has made more than half of the employees at one of its top brands redundant.


Originally posted in Angling International

According to reports in Sweden, 48 jobs – more than half of the 70-strong Abu Garcia workforce at its factory in Svängsta – have lost their jobs. The news was relayed to staff earlier this week. It is not known which parts of the workforce are affected. The company has a long history in the region and has been making reels in the town since the Second World War.

The company has blamed declining sales of its world famous reels as the reason for the job losses. Fredrik Svensson, Ombudsman at the trade union, IF Metall, told Sverige Radio that the news was a ‘sad day’ for the whole region. “The notice has come as a surprise and shock and many employees are very sad and frustrated by the news.”

Friday, November 22, 2024

Minn Kota Terrova Quest Series!

 


The QUEST series is Minn Kota's line of brushless trolling motors. Completely redesigned from the ground up, QUEST motors offer beefier brackets, reinforced pivot points and offer up to 50% more torque with 30% longer runtime. You’ll never have to fear fishing all day in the harshest conditions.

Top features: 

  • QUEST Series: These 24/36V dual-voltage brushless motors have been completely re-imagined from the ground up with updates to mounts, propellers, drive motors and software – taking the world’s greatest trolling motors and redesigning them to outperform everything else on the water for years to come.
  • Stow/Deploy Lever: Press this lever on the mount and fall-away ramps will effortlessly slide your trolling motor into the water. And when you're ready to move, Auto Park helps the motor stow effortlessly by orienting the lower unit to the perfect stow position automatically.
  • Advanced GPS Trolling System: The most-trusted navigation system in fishing. Terrova uses GPS to control your trolling motor with unrivaled features that keep you on the fish. Set Spot-Lock, record paths, control speed and steering, and more. Minn Kota makes boat positioning and control automatic, and you can take command from the easy-to-read LCD screen of Terrova's wireless remote.
  • Part of the One-Boat Network: Minn Kota motors come standard with everything you need to connect to select Humminbird fish finders. Link and control your trolling motor, shallow water anchor and fish finder through the One-Boat Network App on Apple® or Android™ devices.
  • Spot-Lock with Jog: Spot-Lock will hold you in place with unparalleled GPS accuracy. Spot-Lock gives you the power to stay right on top of any productive fishing spot, without touching your trolling motor. With the built-in heading sensor, you can use Jog to move your Spot-Lock location five feet in any direction.
  • Drift Mode: This new feature automatically engages speed and course control simultaneously, meaning anglers no longer need to depend on drift socks, kicker motors, or manual operation to control speed over water – even in the heaviest wind and current.

Wednesday, November 20, 2024

Nishine Lure Works DS Drop Shot Hook


The new Nishine Lure Works DS drop shot hook is really something new. This new style of hook ensures baits run straight and swim naturally. You do have to use a specific knot but don't worry, it's easy to tie. Come along and learn all about the new Nishine Lure Works DS Drop Shot Hook.

Expertly crafted with precision and innovation, the Nishine Lure Works DS Hook Drop Shot Hooks rely on a specialized construction that is enhanced for the Drop Shot technique. Unique from other drop shot hooks on the market, these feature a modified 90-degree bend that is purpose-built to be a platform for the Snell Knot with an elongated tag end. The Snell Knot and modified bend work in tandem to hold your favorite finesse plastic in a perfectly horizontal position to tempt the most lethargic fish into biting. In addition to their innovative bends, the Nishine Lure Works DS Hook Drop Shot Hooks also feature extended shanks that are longer that most traditional drop shot hooks. These longer shanks enable anglers to use slightly bigger finesse baits while simultaneously optimizing hook up ratios thanks to the wider gaps that hook fish deeper in the lip rather than the teeth. An exciting improvement to the productive Drop Shot rig, the Nishine Lure Works DS Hook Drop Shot Hooks will help you put more fish in the boat when the conditions are challenging.

Monday, November 18, 2024

IKE Signature Series Rods and Reels Get an Upgrade

IKE Signature Series Rods and Reels Get an Upgrade

Precision, power, and performance redefined in the latest series


 IKE’s Signature Series rods feature a 30-ton graphite blank with Powerlux 200 resin for increased sensitivity and a balanced design, a custom Abu designed reel seat, and stainless-steel guides that provide a comfortable and durable option for anglers of all skill levels. The casting models are broken into two series: the Delay Series and the Power Series. The Delay Series features five models designed specifically for crankbait fishing. These rods have a parabolic action, ideal for long casts with lightweight lures, and easi
ly absorb the shock of a hard-fighting fish. The Power Series includes six of IKE’s favorite casting rod actions: a spinnerbait/vibrating jig rod, all-purpose, Texas rig/jig, frog/toad, Carolina rig/pitch flip, and a dedicated big bait/mat punch rod.


In addition to the two casting models, the new IKE Signature series includes five spinning rod options in the Finesse Series: a jig head/skipping rod, drop shot/wacky, all-purpose finesse, long drop shot, and a long cast special. These spinning rods were crafted with finesse techniques in mind, providing ultimate sensitivity and feel with bottom-contact baits. As the world of finesse fishing continues to grow, the IKE series of rods offers anglers unique, technique-specific spinning rods for a variety of applications.

Key Features – IKE Signature Series Rods 
• 30-ton graphite with Powerlux 200 resin for a lightweight, balanced design and increased sensitivity
• HSG construction with Powerlux 200 creates a parabolic action that is ideal for crankbait fishing (Delay Series)
• ROCS (Robotically Optimized Casting System) guide train for maximized casting distance with lighter lures
• Custom Abu Garcia designed reel seat for greater comfort
• Stainless-steel guides with zirconium inserts
• Mike Iaconelli designed actions
• Limited 3-year warranty


MSRP: $149.95

Thursday, November 14, 2024

Abu Garcia Revo X BFS Low Profile Reel

 

A budget-friendly BFS reel designed for precision casting of lightweight lures


As the bait finesse system (BFS) craze continues to gain popularity and expand throughout the industry, anglers are beginning to recognize the benefits and opportunities of incorporating it into their arsenal. A specialized technique that originated in the Japanese market, BFS technology is revolutionizing the way anglers fish lightweight finesse techniques for bass, trout, and panfish.


BFS systems offer anglers many advantages over conventional spinning gear when using lightweight finesse presentations to entice finicky fish into biting. The shallow spool design of the Revo X BFS accommodates a high capacity of light lines, making it easy to cast micro-sized baits and lures. The new Revo X BFS is the ultimate cost-effective solution to provide anglers with the perfect tool for casting light ned heads, shakey heads, spy baits, unweighted stick baits, small jigs, and more.

The Abu Garcia Revo X BFS is specially designed with an asymmetric frame and EXD concept to deliver exceptional and precise casting distance. Its BFS-tuned magnetic brake system and carbon matrix drag, with a 20-pound capability, gives anglers the power and torque to handle anything that bites.

Key Features – Revo X BFS Low Profile Reel
• 7+1 stainless HPCR steel bearing system
• A-Symmetric frame that allows for a more ergonomic platform
• EXD concept allows for improved casting distance
• MagTrax magnetic brake system – BFS tuned
• Carbon matrix drag – 20lbs with drag clicker
• DuraGear Gen II gear system
• 90mm aluminum handle with oversized knobs
• Gear Ratio: 7.3:1 
• Shallow BFS spool that allows for superior casting with lightweight lures
• Estimated Weight: 7.4oz


MSRP: $149.95
Available: November 2024



Monday, November 11, 2024

LEST WE FORGET

 


IBASSIN.com wishes to thank all veterans on this special day.  

Hayden Marbut Wins 2024 Toyota Series Championship Presented by Bass Boat Technologies on Wheeler Lake!

Canadian Andrew Campbell Wins International Division


By Jody White

MLF Toyota Series Press Release

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – A lot happened in bass fishing in 2024. And the way off-seasons are these days, there could be more to come. But, if the year is going to be known for anything, it might be as the year of the minnow.

While strolling a jighead minnow won plenty of money in 2023 and earlier, it was often a technique plied by frontrunners, and rarely the majority of the field. This year, “Top 10 Baits” stories featured a cavalcade of minnows (or lies about them) – some named, some “unnamed” and known, and some still largely unknown. So, it seems a little fitting that the year ended like it began, with a big win by a minnow master.

Keith Poche gave it a great run, but in the end, Hayden Marbut convincingly won the Toyota Series Championship Presented by Bass Boat Technologies on Wheeler Lake – catching every fish on a minnow. It’s a bait that everyone in the field has now, but it’s still possible for the cream to rise to the top with any given technique, and Marbut has proven time and again that he’s a master at it. Weighing 21 pounds, 6 ounces on Day 1, the young Alabama pro set the bar high, and he stayed on the gas all the way. Weighing 19-10 on Day 2 kept him within striking distance after Poche dropped an incredible 27-pound stringer, and when the shallow-water expert faltered on Day 3, Marbut was there with 16-12 for a 57-12 total and the win.

Earning $235,000 for his efforts, the win also qualified him for REDCREST on Guntersville, which happens to be his home lake. Marbut has now banked $345,555 on the year in Toyota Series winnings alone – a spectacular amount of money for a 21-year-old and more than many pros win in several years. Of course, a hefty proportion of that is in the form of Phoenix MLF Bonus earnings, which he cashed in on twice this year.

Friday, November 8, 2024

New Sizes and Colors Now Added to a Proven Slow-Sinking Cold Water Killer - the Berkley Stunna

 

The Berkley Stunna line-up expands with new sizes and colors


The Berkley Stunna, originally launched in 2021, was a standout performer right from the get-go, playing a pivotal role for the Champion in the 2021 Bassmaster Classic. First developed in 112 and 112+1 sizes, the Stunna has all the attributes anglers look for in a jerkbait to  entice pressured and neutral fish into biting. New for 2024, the Stunna has expanded its size options to 100, 100+1, and 112+2.


Like the original sizes of the Stunna, the new 100, 100+1, and 112+2 sizes feature the same darting action anglers have had great success with the product in the past, along with a natural slow sink that triggers bites from onlooking and fickle fish. The single tungsten weight transfer system allows for increased casting distance and effortless, repetitive casting for long days out on the water.

Details below

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

Roster announced for 2025 Major League Fishing Bass Pro Tour season

 


BENTON, Ky. – Major League Fishing announced today the roster of 66 pros who will compete on the Bass Pro tour in 2025, the seventh season of professional bass fishing’s premier tournament circuit. Offering the highest payout in professional bass fishing, the Bass Pro Tour will award $150,000 to the winner of each Bass Pro Tour regular season event – 50% more than any other league – plus $100,000 to the Fishing Clash Angler of the Year in 2025. The season will kick off Jan. 30 through Feb. 2 at Lake Conroe in Conroe, Texas. 

Full payout tables for the 2025 Bass Pro Tour can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.

For the first time in Bass Pro Tour history, the full field will compete simultaneously in the Qualifying Round on days one and two. From there, top anglers will advance to the Knockout Round on day three and ultimately the Championship Round on day four. Every day of catch, weigh, immediate-release competition will be broadcast live on MLFNOW! and streamed to MajorLeagueFishing.com, the Major League Fishing app, and the MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) and Rumble platforms.

“It’s always one of our most anticipated announcements every season – when we unveil the anglers who will be competing for the sport’s top prizes on the Bass Pro Tour,” said Kathy Fennel, Executive Vice President & General Manager of Major League Fishing. “We’re looking forward to kicking off our 2025 Bass Pro Tour season in just a few short months at Lake Conroe. The 2025 roster is a fantastic mix of anglers and the race to qualify for REDCREST, Heavy Hitters and the 2026 Bass Pro Tour is going to be more exciting than ever.”

FIND YOUR FAVUORITE ANGLER BELOW

Monday, November 4, 2024

Marine Batteries: How to Stay Positive!

 

GET MORE LIFE OUT OF YOUR MARINE BATTERIES

Marine trolling motor and cranking batteries can be a frustrating subject for many anglers. Overcharging. Undercharging, Neither are good.


We're here to make it simple for you. This short article breaks down some of the most important things to consider when it comes to marine battery maintenance and 8 tips for extending the lifespan of your marine batteries.

  1. Charge after every use and allow the battery to receive a full charge
     
  2. Avoid high voltage fast charging cycles - Stick to recommended voltage requirements and unplug immediately after the charge is complete OR see the next tip.
     
  3. Don't over-or under-charge - Over or under-charging can shorten the overall life of your batteries. Find out how to apply a safe and fast charge.
     
  4. Avoid storing in very cold or hot temperatures - Bring your batteries inside over winter when your boat is in a non-heated storage area.
     
  5. See the remaining tips and recommendations - Keep your batteries fresh for the 2025 fishing season.
For more information link over to MINN KOTA

Friday, November 1, 2024

Up-Grades to the Abu Garcia Veritas Rods and Combos

 

Abu Garica's best-selling rod for freshwater bass fishing just got a major upgrade

Offering anglers features and benefits normally seen in rods priced above the $200 mark, the new Veritas rods are crafted with Abu Garcia’s Powerlux technology, strengthening the blank and increasing resistance from breaks or fractures while also eliminating unwanted weight. The 30-ton graphite blank helps ensure a light and sensitive feel, the split grip EVA grips and ABU-designed full contact reel seat offer added sensitivity and maximum comfort for long days on the water.

Also offered in two rod lengths for both the baitcast and spinning combo configurations, the Abu Garcia Veritas combos include an updated 10+1 bearing system in both options.

KEY FEATURES – RODS

  • 24/30 Ton graphite with Powerlux 100 resin
  • ABU designed reel seat
  • Split grip EVA grips
  • Available in 41 different skus

MSRP: $99.95 - $149.95

KEY FEATURES – BAITCAST COMBO

  • 10 stainless steel ball bearings + 1 roller bearing
  • Graphite frame and side plates
  • Carbon Matrix drag system
  • Duragear brass gear
  • Infini brake system
  • Compact bent handle and star
  • Lube port

MSRP: $299.95

Thursday, October 31, 2024

Bassmaster Elites no longer pay to play

 B.A.S.S. has announced the no-entry-fee 2025 Bassmaster Elite Series to put professional bass fishing's highest level of competition on par with other major sports.



Professional bass fishing will never be the same. Ever. That’s a huge statement. In this case, it’s true. B.A.S.S. just announced that the Bassmaster Elite Series, heading into its 20th season, will no longer require entry fees. Yes, you heard that correctly. In 2025, competitors of the most prestigious tournament trail on the planet, for the first time ever in the history of B.A.S.S. competition, will no longer fish for their own money. No longer are Elite Series pros required to pay to play.

 

This historic decision was not made lightly. B.A.S.S. has long believed that the ultimate goal of the organization’s highest level of competition should be on par with other individual professional sports, like golf and tennis, which do not require pros to pay entry fees to compete. However, on the heels of record-breaking viewership of Bassmaster LIVE on FOX networks and Bassmaster.com, paired with strong long-term partnerships, this ultimate goal has been realized.

 

“We have been looking at this model for quite some time,” said B.A.S.S. CEO Chase Anderson. “But, we wanted to make sure that when we flip this switch, which we believe will change the face of professional bass fishing, that the concept is sustainable for the future. For the past several months, we’ve done our due diligence and came to the realization that, with the money we planned to allocate to payouts in 2025, we could offer attractive payouts without putting angler money at risk. This change greatly reduces the risk and financial strain required to compete at bass fishing’s highest level. Now, the Elite Series is in a league of its own, and the only league equivalent to other major individual sports.”

PAYOUTS BELOW