Everything you need to know about MLF’s 2026 forward-facing sonar rules

 

Starting in 2026, Major League Fishing will restrict the use of forward-facing sonar at all professional and boater/co-angler levels of competition, from the Phoenix Bass Fishing League to the Bass Pro Tour. The decision to limit the technology was made in response to positive feedback from fans and anglers about the forward-facing sonar restrictions implemented on the Bass Pro Tour in 2025 as well as feedback from participants at lower levels.

The goal of these restrictions is to promote multi-dimensional angling – allowing anglers to utilize the latest technology while also creating an environment in which traditional techniques remain highly competitive. MLF believes these rules will make for more dynamic, entertaining competitions and will drive tournament participation, thus enhancing payouts. The league strongly believes that the fracturing of the sport caused by forward-facing sonar is unhealthy and unsustainable. The goal of this solution is a compromise that brings everyone back together for the benefit of anglers, fans and sponsors.

The 2026 rules regarding forward-facing sonar for each circuit will be as follows:

Bass Pro Tour

• No changes from 2025
• Anglers will only be allowed to utilize forward-facing/360-degree sonar for one of three competition periods per day and must declare in advance which period they intend to use it.
• The technology will not be restricted during B&W Trailer Hitches Heavy Hitters or Fishing Clash Team Series competition, as anglers in those events compete in identical, league-issued boats.

Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit

• Anglers will be allowed to utilize forward-facing/360-degree sonar for one 3-hour segment during each competition day.
• The 3-hour segment must be continuous.
• Restrictions will be enforced via electronic lock boxes that track how long they are unlocked as well as live-streaming security cameras onboard each pro’s boat.

Toyota Series and Phoenix Bass Fishing League

• Boaters will be allowed to utilize forward-facing and 360-degree sonar for one 3-hour segment during each competition day.
• The 3-hour segment must be continuous.
• Co-anglers will act as accountability stewards, like they have done for decades with regard to other tournament rules, and must sign off on boaters following all rules at the end of each competition day.
• Co-anglers are allowed to bring a portable forward-facing sonar transducer, but may only utilize it during the same 3-hour period that their boater chooses to use forward-facing sonar. If the boater does not use forward-facing sonar, co-anglers may do so during the final 3 hours of the day.

Abu Garcia College Fishing

• No restrictions on forward-facing or 360-degree sonar.

• Forward-facing and 360-degree sonar are not permitted during any MLF regular season competition.
• Forward-facing and 360-degree sonar are not restricted in the High School Fishing National Championship that runs concurrently with the High School Fishing World Finals, as this is a jointly operated event with The Bass Federation.
• Events operated by MLF for state high school athletic associations, including KHSAA, GHSA, IHSA and LHSAA, will operate according to rules adopted by the associations.