The Bassmaster Classic returns to Knoxville for 2026

The Super Bowl of Bass Fishing is making its way back to one of the most electrifying destinations in the sport.

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The Super Bowl of Bass Fishing is making its way back to one of the most electrifying destinations in the sport. B.A.S.S. officials announced today that the 2026 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour will return to Knoxville, Tenn., for the third time on March 13-15, 2026.
With competition set on the Tennessee River’s Fort Loudoun and Tellico lakes, daily weigh-ins will take place at the University of Tennessee’s Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center in downtown Knoxville. The Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo presented by GSM Outdoors, featuring more than 200 exhibitors, will be held at the Knoxville Convention Center and World’s Fair Exhibition Hall, offering over 250,000 square feet of event space. Visit Knoxville will once again serve as the event’s host.

“We are thrilled to return to the site of two of our most successful Classics in history,” said B.A.S.S. CEO Chase Anderson. “East Tennessee fully embraces the Classic for what it truly is — a celebration of the sport of bass fishing. The fan experience in Knoxville is second to none, with all event venues within walking distance. With our ever-growing global fanbase, we expect the 2026 Classic to be even bigger and more exciting.”

The 2026 Bassmaster Classic will feature 58 of the world’s top bass anglers, who will earn their spots through the Bassmaster Elite Series, St. Croix Bassmaster Opens presented by SEVIIN, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Championship presented by Lowrance, Bassmaster College Classic Bracket presented by Lew’s and the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Team Championship. These elite competitors will battle for a $300,000 first-place prize and a total purse of over $850,000.

Knoxville has become a premier destination for the Bassmaster Classic, drawing record-breaking crowds and delivering significant economic benefits.

“This will be the third Bassmaster Classic we bring to Knoxville, which speaks to the perfect combination of our strong partnership and the exceptional experience our city provides,” said Chad Culver, senior director of the Visit Knoxville Sports Commission and Convention Sales.

The 2023 Bassmaster Classic set a new attendance record with 163,914 fans, generating an economic impact of $35.5 million for Knoxville and east Tennessee. Additionally, the event generated $2.85 million in state and local tax revenue, with attendees booking 31,525 hotel room nights across Knox County. The Classic also supported 12,698 jobs throughout the event. The Classic celebration continued when B.A.S.S. was honored as the Best Professional Event at the 2023 SportsTravel Awards.

“Knoxville shines during major events like the Bassmaster Classic,” said Kim Bumpas, president of Visit Knoxville. “Both the anglers and fans enjoy an unmatched experience, from the Tennessee River to the world-class venues hosting events throughout Classic weekend. We are excited to welcome everyone back in 2026.”

Fort Loudoun and Tellico lakes, covering approximately 30,000 acres, will once again provide anglers with a dynamic and competitive fishery. Competitors will also have access to waters upstream from Fort Loudoun Dam, extending to the Interstate 40 bridge on the Holston River and the Highway 168 bridge on the French Broad River.

Elite Series angler Jeff Gustafson knows the potential of these waters well. In 2023, he secured victory at the Bassmaster Classic by landing 42 pounds, 7 ounces of bass, becoming the first Canadian angler to win the championship and taking home the coveted Ray Scott Trophy and the $300,000 prize.