MLF Execs Chart Bold Course for the Future of Major League Fishing
By Danielle Englund
HUNTSVILLE, AL.—More than a decade after co-founding Major League Fishing (MLF), Boyd Duckett is once again making waves in the world of professional bass fishing. The former Bassmaster Classic champion and MLF president is laying the groundwork for what he describes as “the next era” of the sport, built around innovation, international expansion, and the cultivation of young talent.
In a recent meeting with league executives and media partners at REDCREST in Huntsville, Alabama, Duckett outlined a multi-pronged strategy for growing the league’s reach and influence over the next five years.
Expanding the Digital Experience
At the top of the list is a plan to work with sponsors and media companies to expand MLF’s digital reach.
“We already bring the audience up close with the anglers, but we can do more,” Duckett said. He said that he wants fans to have an opportunity to get to know the anglers in a different way. He believes that reducing the field to 50 starting in 2026 will allow an attention and focus on the very best anglers that will provide them sponsorship and media opportunities that are unprecedented in the sport.
Casting Beyond U.S. Borders
Dave Washburn, VP of Operations, shared plans for continued expansion of MLF’s international leagues. MLF is working with local fishing federations and sponsors in countries like Portugal, Japan, and China, where competitive bass fishing has seen steady growth in recent years.
“We’ve always believed MLF could be a global brand,” Washburn said. “The talent is out there, and the interest is there. We are proud to provide the opportunity.”
In 2026, international anglers will compete for a spot at REDCREST, making the event a true world championship.
Embracing Innovation
Recognizing the need to cultivate the next generation of professional anglers, Duckett believes that embracing technology is the way to go.
“Fishing has changed significantly since I started in the 70’s. Whether it’s the A-rig, 500hp motors, or forward-facing sonar, we have always tried to control technology.” Duckett said that finding a way to integrate technology in a way that brings everyone together – both the FFS fans and detractors – is what is going to be the best for the sport. “Do I think we got it right? Maybe not. But we will keep trying to figure it out,” Duckett stated.
Navigating Pushback
While many industry insiders have praised Duckett’s vision, not everyone is on board. Some anglers have raised concerns about the rapid pace of change and the increasing role of data and media in competition.
“There’s always going to be a tension between tradition and innovation,” Duckett acknowledged. “But we believe in this model. It’s worked so far, and we’re committed to evolving in a way that keeps fishing exciting and accessible.”
Looking Ahead
Under Duckett’s leadership, MLF has already transformed professional bass fishing with innovations like catch-weigh-release scoring, live leaderboard updates, and zeroed-out weights between rounds. The next phase of growth, he says, will focus on deepening fan engagement while expanding the sport’s global footprint.
“I’ve always said this isn’t just about fishing—it’s about changing how people experience fishing,” Duckett said. “We’re just getting started.”
