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Saturday, December 13, 2025
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Florida’s Travis Pitt Leads After Day One of the Toyota Series Championship Presented by Phoenix Boats on Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees

Brian Carter
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Florida’s Travis Pitt Leads After Day One of the Toyota Series Championship Presented by Phoenix Boats on Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees

Pitt Leads by 3-Ounce Margin in the Competition for up to $235,000

GROVE, Okla. (Nov. 6, 2025) – Day 1 of the 2025 Toyota Series Championship at Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees Presented by Phoenix Boats was about as tough as predicted. No pros or co-anglers caught 20 pounds, and a mere 13 pounds went a very long way. On Day 2, things are set up for a ton of leaderboard movement, but at the top, pros Travis Pitt and Tyler Weberg set themselves apart.

Leading, Pitt sacked up 18 pounds, 14 ounces and Weberg tallied 18-11 for second. In third, Greg Bohannan weighed 16-3, and, helped by a 6-pounder, Brody Luckey fished his way into fourth with 15-15.

On the co-angler side, Ben Burk caught five for 12-9 for the lead and Tommy Pritchard sits in second with 11-12. Overall, limits were pretty hard to come by for co-anglers, and the leaderboard looks ripe for movement on Day 2.


Link to Photo Gallery of Toyota Series Championship Day 1 Highlights

Leading the way, Pitt currently sports a Florida address (and he came out of the Southern Division), but he’s originally from the west, calling Lake Mead home. A delivery driver who fished the Toyota Series for the first time in 2025, Pitt is in the mix for some pretty big things if he can put together another solid limit tomorrow.

“Practice was bad – the worst practice I’d ever had,” he said. “If you would have told me I’d have that today, I’d have said you were nuts. It felt like I was at Mead today. The wind, the stuff I was fishing, I just settled in. I had a couple places where I was getting some bites, and today, I had a limit by 9 o’clock – they were going nuts.”

Culling three times and catching at least two limits of keepers, Pitt reacted to what he’s used to seeing in the desert.

“It’s bait,” he said. “Normally, the bait will show up, and then you’ll see bass moving in. In theory, those areas will get better. I can’t speak to this place. I pulled into some areas today and the bait was just gone [to] who knows where.”

As such, he’s not ready to declare victory just yet.

“Tomorrow could be another story,” he said. “What I’m seeing, I think it might stay, but you don’t know. Today I backed off of my stuff. I started to burn it down, but I was like, ‘Dude, this is not the day to do that.’”

One thing is for sure: Really early in the process, Pitt could make his move east pay dividends.

“I moved to try to make a run at doing something like this,” he said. “I wanted to fish something that could possibly take me someplace else. At the end of the day, I hate working. The only time I’m happy is when I fish.”

As you’d expect on Grand Lake, Ozark talent is very present on the leaderboard, but, considering that he’s never fished a tournament on Grand before, Weberg might not be the likeliest candidate. That said, he put it together as well as anyone, and he’s got the right skills for the moment.

“I’m a bank power fisherman, and this lake sets up really good for how I like to fish,” he said. “I had a good practice, so, if the stars aligned, I knew somewhere in the 18- to 20-pound range was possible today. It’s fishing tough. I didn’t get a lot of bites today. It was pretty much about making every bite count.”

Weberg is not burning through numbers by any means.

“This lake has taught me a lot,” he said. “You can’t let it get to your head; you’ve just got to keep your nose down and keep going – go back to your spots, re-fish everything, and new fish pull up. I’m nervous about tomorrow. I know how tough this lake is fishing. Just as easily as you can go out and get a good limit, you can go out and blank right now.”

The  three-day, no-entry-fee championship, hosted by the City of Grove and the Grove Convention & Tourism Bureau, features the nation’s best Toyota Series pros and international anglers, and is the culmination of the 2025 Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats season.

The top 20 pros after Day 1 on Grand Lake are:
                 
1st:         Travis Pitt, Niceville, Fla., five bass, 18-14
2nd:        Tyler Weberg, Eugene, Mo., five bass, 18-11
3rd:        Greg Bohannan, Bentonville, Ark., five bass, 16-3
4th:         Broderick Luckey, Lynchburg, Va., five bass, 15-15
5th:         Adam Boehle, Warrenton, Mo., five bass, 15-13                
5th:         Bradley Sullivan, Shawnee, Okla., five bass, 15-13
7th:         Erik Luzak, Fenelon Falls, Ontario, five bass, 15-8
8th:         Nicholas Dumke, Grand Rapids, Minn., five bass, 15-7
9th:         Lee Livesay, Longview, Texas, five bass, 15-6
10th:      Jack Daniel Williams, Kingsport, Tenn., five bass, 15-2
11th:      Eli Brumnett, Wagoner, Okla., five bass, 15-1
11th:      Chris Macy, Diamond, Mo., five bass, 15-1
13th:      Justin Luetkemeyer, Osage Beach, Mo., five bass, 14-9
14th:      Roger Fitzpatrick, Eldon, Mo., five bass, 14-8
15th:      Matt McCluskey, Ashburn, Va., five bass, 14-6
15th:      Hayden O’Barr, Scottsboro, Ala., five bass, 14-6
17th:      Buddy Benson, Dahlonega, Ga., five bass, 13-15
17th:      Dillon Falardeau, Hixson, Tenn., five bass, 13-15
19th:      Shane Long, Willard, Mo., five bass, 13-14
19th:      Mike Brueggen, Lacrosse, Wis., five bass, 13-14
19th:      Brock Bila, Republic, Mo., five bass, 13-14

For a full list of results visit MajorLeagueFishing.com.

Overall, there were 731 bass weighing 1,690 pounds, 12 ounces caught by 169 pros Thursday. The catch included 119 five-bass limits.

The 2025 Toyota Series Championship will determine not only the overall champion, but also which standout anglers advance to REDCREST 2026. Representing the college ranks, University of Montevallo teammates Brody Robison and Peyton Sorrow are  in a head-to-head race for the coveted REDCREST berth – with Robison off to a strong start in 28th place after catching five bass for 13 pounds, 3 ounces, while Sorrow sits in 77th with 10 pounds, 12 ounces. On the international side, Scandiano, Italy’s Leonardo Benassi leads the global contingent, weighing in 13 pounds, 13 ounces on Day 1 to claim 22nd place – a promising start in his fourth Toyota Series Championship appearance.

Ben Burk of Norman, Oklahoma, leads the co-angler division with five bass weighing 12 pounds, 9 ounces, followed by Tommy Pritchard of Bargersville, Indiana, who weighed five bass totaling 11-12 to end the day in second place. Co-anglers are competing for a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard.

The top 20 co-anglers after Day 1 on Grand Lake are:

1st:         Ben Burk, Norman, Okla., five bass, 12-9
2nd:        Tommy Pritchard, Bargersville, Ind., five bass, 11-12
3rd:        Joe Lee, Midlothian, Texas, five bass, 11-7
4th:         Michael Luckey, Lynchburg, Va., five bass, 11-0
5th:         Glenn Hall, Wellsville, N.Y., five bass, 10-15
6th:         Giovanni Ceccarelli, Rimini, Italy, five bass, 10-14
7th:         Leonardo Dini, Arezzo, Italy, five bass, 10-11
8th:         Jakob Labelle, Hinesburg, Vt., five bass, 10-5
9th:         James Cobbs, Vinemont, Ala., five bass, 10-0
10th:      D.J. Pugh, Overland Park, Kan., five bass, 9-13
11th:      Brian Durham, Dinwiddie, Va., four bass, 9-11
11th:      Ricky Sexton, Oliver Springs, Tenn., five bass, 9-11
13th:      Kyle Malone, Troy, Ohio, four bass, 9-3
14th:      Jeff Moss, Oronogo, Mo., five bass, 9-2
15th:      Ben Bromley, Odessa, Mo., four bass, 9-0
16th:      Joseph Casale, Nutley, N.J., four bass, 8-14
17th:      Alex Moore, Chester, Ill., three bass, 8-11
18th:      Clayton Hale, Grove, Okla., five bass, 8-8
19th:      Jason Wiley, Swainsboro, Ga., three bass, 8-6
19th:      Kade Wesner, Lancaster, Pa., five bass, 8-6

Anglers will take off daily at 7 a.m. CT from Wolf Creek Park, located at 963 N. 16th Street, in Grove. Weigh-ins will be held at the park and will begin at 3 p.m. Fans are welcome to attend the daily takeoffs and weigh-ins and also follow the action online through daily “MLF Live” weigh-in broadcasts and daily coverage at MajorLeagueFishing.com.

The MLFNOW!® broadcast team of Chad McKee and Rob Newell will break down the extended action live on Championship Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. CT. MLFNOW!® is live streamed on MajorLeagueFishing.com, MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) app and Rumble. T he 2025 Toyota Series Championship Presented by Phoenix Boats will air on VICE Sports January 4 and January 11, 2026, at 9 p.m. ET.

The full field of anglers compete on Days 1 and 2 of the event Thursday and Friday, with the top 25 pros and top 25 co-anglers based on cumulative weight from the first two days continuing to the third and final day on Saturday. The 2025 Toyota Series champions will be determined by the heaviest three-day total weight.
Pros and co-anglers can qualify for multiple contingency awards based on final standings in the championship, including the lucrative $35,000 Phoenix MLF Bonus for pros. The winning co-angler will earn a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard motor.

The 2025 Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats consisted of five divisions – Central, Northern, Plains, Southern and Southwestern – each holding three regular-season events, along with the MLF International division and the Wild Card. The highest finishing pro from each division at the championship will claim a $10,000 bonus. The bonus will go to the second-highest finishing pro in the division represented by the overall champion.

The 2025 Toyota Series Championship field features the top 25 pros, top 25 co-anglers and tournament winners from each of the five divisions; the top 25 pros and 25 co-anglers from the Wild Card division plus tournament winners; the highest finishing boater and co-angler from each Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine Regional and the TBF at the All-American; the top three teams from the College Fishing National Championship; High School Fishing National Champions; TBF National Champions; and MLF International anglers from Canada, Italy, Mexico, Portugal, Spain and South Africa.

Proud sponsors of the 2025 MLF Toyota Series include: 7Brew, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing Co., B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, BUBBA, Deep Dive App, E3 Sport Apparel, Epic Baits, Fishing Clash, Grizzly, Humminbird, Lew’s, Mercury, Minn Kota, Mossy Oak, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, PiranhO2, Polaris, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Strike King, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, WIX Filters and YETI.
For complete details and updated information visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular Toyota Series updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the MLF5 social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.





November Bass Fishing Patterns!

Brian Carter
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November Bass Fishing Patterns!
November marks a crucial shift in bass behavior as they move from their fall feeding grounds toward deeper wintering areas. During this period, water temperatures begin to drop, prompting baitfish to school up and migrate along structural features such as main lake points, humps, ledges, and steep banks. Bass instinctively follow these movements, often positioning just below or beside schools of bait. Anglers who understand these migration routes can intercept fish by targeting key transitions between shallow and deep water. Electronics can be particularly helpful for identifying concentrations of bait and the bass shadowing them. The fish may not be spread out, but when you locate them, they’re typically feeding aggressively in preparation for winter. November is also a time when water clarity and weather fronts play a major role in where bass position and how they feed. A sudden cold front can push them deeper, while stable conditions may keep them suspended mid-depth or roaming near bait schools. Because their metabolism slows as the water cools, bass won’t chase fast-moving lures as often, making it crucial to adjust your retrieve speed and presentation. Soft plastics like insect larva, craw baits, worms, or beetles worked along transition zones can be productive during this time. By understanding how changing temperatures, structure, and forage all interact in November, anglers can consistently locate and capitalize on feeding windows before bass settle into their true winter patterns.Our Fresh HellaMite is designed to imitate a major aquatic food source, delivering a realistic profile of an insect larva that fish can’t resist. Each is scented for complete and total attraction underwater, along with being made in the USA by real fishermen. We recently restocked the HellaMite Pro Pack, which is loaded with 60 baits in all six proven colors, plus three Owner Block Head Ned Jigs and a handy storage bag. This kit has everything you need to stay rigged and ready year-round. Grab our newest Lil Bass, Hot Sauce, MidNight, Glow, 10w30 Synthetic, Slimer Green, and Barbie Pink HellaMite colors. We’ve also restocked our Green Pumpkin and Smoke Purple HellaMite. The HellaMite’s solid body and hyperactive ribbed tail design produce a life-like quivering action with every twitch of the rod. Its unique flat underbelly detail enables this bait to be fished as a drop shot, Ned rig, neko rig, and even a small Carolina-rig, making it the ideal bait in any condition year-round. When the water is clear, the fish can see the bait and look like real food, causing strikes. Each cast becomes an opportunity for an exhilarating catch, thanks to its superior performance and versatility.
As the temperatures cool in November, the size of available baitfish often decreases, and matching that smaller profile becomes essential for consistent bites. Downsizing to smaller soft plastics such as lizards, beetles, or craw-styled baits can mimic the compact forage that bass are keying on. These can be fished on lightweight heads and retrieved at varying speeds depending on water temperature and fish activity. When bass are chasing aggressively, a quicker retrieve can draw reaction strikes, while slower presentations appeal to more lethargic fish. Open-water zones without heavy vegetation or wood cover tend to be the best places for these setups since exposed hooks can easily snag. Adapting your bait profile and speed to the fish’s energy level is one of the simplest yet most powerful adjustments you can make in November. A smaller presentation also allows for a more natural fall rate, which can be crucial when bass are suspending around bait schools or holding tight to structure. Small movements like a gentle lift-and-drop or slow swim can often trigger strikes from fish that ignore larger, faster-moving baits. Pairing your soft plastics with lighter line can further enhance the lifelike appearance and improve sensitivity for detecting soft bites. In clearer water, natural hues like pearl, smoke, or green pumpkin tend to produce best, while darker tones stand out better in stained water. By focusing on finesse and realism, anglers can turn tough, cold-front days into productive outings even when the bites slow.We use our Fresh Scorpion because it closely imitates a crawfish. Our newest 10w30 Synthetic, Slimer Green, and Barbie Pink Scorpion colors work wonders. The Scorpion is a revolutionary new look to soft plastics. Its intricate detailing and texture mimic the nuances of a real crawfish, making it hard for bass to resist. Of course, water clarity always plays a role in color selection but in any season, you can’t miss using colors such as Green Pumpkin Seed, Brown Bark, and the Magneto. This bait not only appears natural to fish but gives them something to become curious about. The Scorpion paired with a stand-up jig is deadly because the jig actually sits the bait upright in a defensive stance. The subtle color variations across the bait further enhance its appeal, mimicking the natural color shifts found in live prey. Each Fresh Scorpion has a unique and exclusive 3-axis tail design that is engineered like no other soft plastic bait. Our Scorpions are made by anglers from high-grade non-salt plastic to provide superior life-like action that triggers strikes!
In late fall, water clarity often improves, and bass can become more selective about what they eat. Adding flash or vibration to your presentation can be the difference between getting noticed and getting ignored. An underspin-style presentation, essentially a jig with a smaller blade beneath the soft plastic can add both movement and reflection to simulate a small school of baitfish. Soft plastics like insect larvae or small worms work perfectly on these setups to create natural, fluid motion. The additional flash catches light and signals a feeding opportunity to bass even in low-light or stained-water situations. This technique excels in clear, open water and is especially effective when bass are following bait but not committing fully to faster-moving lures. One of the biggest advantages of using an underspin is its versatility across different depths and conditions. You can slow-roll it near the bottom to imitate a wounded baitfish or swim it steadily through suspended schools in open water. When bass are scattered, this approach allows you to cover water efficiently while still maintaining a finesse presentation. It’s also an excellent option for targeting transition zones where baitfish move between shallow and deep water. By adjusting blade size, soft plastic shape, and retrieve speed, you can fine-tune the presentation to match the mood of the fish and maximize your chances of triggering reaction strikes.The new FreshBaitz Lizards deliver a realistic profile that excels in both power and finesse techniques. Act fast, we’ve recently just released new Hot Sauce, MidNight, Ghost, and 10w30 Synthetic Lizard designs! The unique forward-facing leg design creates drag that holds it in the strike zone longer or produces wild flapping action with every pull of the rod. Additionally, its slightly ribbed solid body and large head hold your hook in place and provide much better weedless performance making it the ideal bait to use in any condition. Water clarity always plays a super big role in color selection but in any season year-round, you can’t miss when using colors such as Watermelon Red, Black & Blue, or Green Pumpkin. Its flexible tail design ensures added movement, tempting even the most cautious fish. The superior 5.5-inch profile stretches to a whole 7 inches which is perfect for predatory fish including bass year round. Made from long-lasting durable high-grade non-salted plastic for total and maximum attention-grabbing action underwater.
As baitfish begin schooling tightly together, few techniques mimic this better than multi-bait rigs. These setups create the illusion of several small prey moving in unison, which naturally triggers a predatory response. You can rig multiple small soft plastics such as lizards, beetles, or craws to resemble a school of bait darting through the water. Adjusting the weight and size of each bait helps you target bass at different depths depending on how deep the baitfish are holding. Electronics can help locate these schools, allowing you to cast directly into productive zones. The key is to maintain a steady retrieve and keep your setup near the fish’s depth range, imitating a realistic, slow-moving group of prey. When bass are feeding aggressively, speeding up the retrieve can make the rig appear like a panicked school of baitfish, often triggering hard reaction bites. In contrast, when the fish are less active, a slower, more methodical retrieve can keep the baits in the strike zone longer and entice hesitant followers. It’s also important to vary your cast angles and experiment with different depths until you pinpoint where the bass are positioned. This setup shines during cloudy or windy days when visibility is reduced, as the clustered movement stands out even in murkier conditions. By mastering timing, depth control, and retrieve pace, anglers can turn an Alabama-style rig into one of the most consistent producers of quality bass during late fall.Our Fresh Beetle delivers ultimate versatility in a soft plastic bait. Its slim yet wide body design and four claws are engineered to naturally glide and wobble as it moves through the water. This design ensures they remain enticingly active longer than conventional baits. Its unique texture also provides a realistic feel, making bass hold on longer once they bite. Water clarity plays a big role in color selection but year-round you can’t miss when using go-to colors such as Chocolate Mint, Ox Blood, or 10w30 Synthetic beetles. The hyper-active swimming claws are designed thin with long-lasting durable non-salt plastic to make them come alive with the slightest movement. The Fresh Beetle offers an enticing 4-inch profile and is scented for complete and total attraction! You can rig these Beetles as a Jig/ Chatter Trailer, Flippin/ Punching, Texas Rig, Swing Jig, and Carolina Rig. Making the beetle beyond perfect in any weather condition year-round!
While multi-bait rigs are effective, anglers must remain aware of state-specific regulations regarding how many hooks are allowed on a single rig. Some regions limit the number of active hooks, requiring creative rigging adjustments to stay compliant. Using dummy baits or unhooked soft plastics such as worms or beetles can still preserve the look of a bait ball while following the rules. Many anglers underestimate how seriously these regulations are enforced, but failing to comply can result in fines or disqualification from local tournaments. Checking your state’s specific limits before heading out can save you from unnecessary trouble. By staying within legal guidelines, you can focus fully on fishing confidently and effectively. It’s also wise to keep a few pre-rigged setups in your tackle box that meet different state requirements, especially if you fish across borders. This makes it easy to switch rigs quickly without having to make last-minute adjustments on the water. Some anglers even color-code their rigs or label them with tags to avoid confusion during tournaments or travel. Reviewing your state’s seasonal updates can help you stay informed, since regulations occasionally change based on fishery management needs. Maintaining awareness of these details not only keeps your fishing legal but also shows respect for conservation efforts that help sustain healthy bass populations year after year.Using a stick-styled worm is the most tried and true ways to catch fish. We have a variety of 5-inch Worms to choose from but we just added MidNight, Glow, and Ghost Worms! Our popular Watermelon Red Worms have been restocked as well. You can also experience our new wacky rigging kit while it’s ON SALE! The WACKY Pack offers our most popular colors and essential tools for wacky rigging. If you’re fast enough you might be able to grab the limited-release Pumpkin Spice Worm before it’s completely sold out, along with some of our newest colors, including the Brown Worm, Electric Chicken Worm, and Goby Wan Worm colors. The high-grade non-salt plastic they’re made from provides positive buoyancy and it even floats underwater! We also Restocked 6-inch Worms, including Watermelon Red, Green Pumpkin, Black & Blue, Fire TGR, Wild Berries, Bone, 10w30 Synthetic, Zombie Blood, and Chocolate MNT! — all available in 5 and 6-inch. We’ve also recently released new 8-count packs of worms available in Watermelon Red, Black & Blue, and Green Pumpkin. We also offer worms that have the unique ability to shift from one color to another. Scented for total attraction underwater.
To reach bass at varying depths throughout November, it’s important to carry a selection of lures that cover shallow, mid, and deep zones. In the shallows, soft plastics like craw-styled baits or lizards can be slowly retrieved along rocks and stumps to imitate injured forage. As fish move deeper, diving crankbaits or weighted plastics can be used to reach ledges, drop-offs, and the edges of creek channels. The tighter the wiggle or vibration in your lure, the better it performs in cold water where bass react to smaller movements. Targeting multiple depth zones throughout the day helps identify where bass are most active. Once you locate the ideal depth, focus your efforts there to maximize your catch potential. Changing retrieve speeds and angles can also reveal how bass are relating to structure and bait throughout the day. A slower retrieve with pauses often works best in cold water, allowing the lure to stay in the strike zone longer. When bass are more aggressive, a steady or slightly erratic retrieve can trigger reaction bites as the bait deflects off cover. Paying attention to where you get bites, such as near the bottom, off a point, or over submerged structure, can quickly establish a productive pattern. By methodically covering each section of the water column, anglers can adapt to changing conditions and stay on active fish even as temperatures continue to fall.Introducing the Newest 8-Inch MagDingo Worms! These are the ultimate game-changer in bass fishing! Engineered for anglers who know SIZE does matter, this lure is designed to attract only the BIGGEST bass with a fixation for the larger bait. The MagDingo Worm boasts a solid 8-inch body enhanced with a hyperactive ribbed design, ensuring irresistible mouth-watering action for those trophy bass. The 10-count packs are now available in a variety of 6 crucial colors, including the 10w30 Synthetic, Black & Blue, Zombie Blood, Green Pumpkin, Wild Cherry, and Watermelon Red. Each worm is made in the USA from durable, high-grade Non-Salted plastic for lifelike action and unparalleled durability. Perfectly balanced for a variety of rigging options and scented for maximum attraction, the 8-inch MagDingo Worm promises year-round effectiveness in lakes, rivers, and streams. Whether you’re rigging it on a Shakey Head, Drop Shot, Texas Rig, or Carolina Rig, these worms are your ticket to landing trophy-sized smallmouth and largemouth bass.
Water clarity and temperature both play major roles in lure selection during November. In clear water, lighter colors that reflect light, like silver, pearl, or translucent tones, help resemble baitfish naturally. When fishing in stained or cooler water, darker or more solid colors such as green pumpkin, black, or brown can stand out and mimic crawfish or insect larvae. Beyond color, matching your bait’s movement to the fish’s mood is equally important. A fast retrieve may trigger bites when bass are feeding actively, while slow, smaller presentations excel in cold fronts or post-frontal conditions. The more closely your lure matches both the look and behavior of the real forage, the more confident bass will be in striking. Light conditions also influence how colors appear underwater, so adjusting your selection throughout the day can make a noticeable difference. During bright, sunny hours, reflective tones and natural finishes tend to perform best, while overcast days call for matte or muted hues that maintain visibility without spooking fish. Water depth further impacts color visibility. Reds and oranges fade quickly in deeper water, while blues and silvers remain visible longer. Similarly, adapting your retrieve to match seasonal forage movement, like short bursts for shad or slow drags for bottom-dwelling prey, can elevate your presentation’s realism. By paying attention to these environmental cues, anglers can fine-tune both color and motion to keep their presentation lifelike and effective in any November condition.
We have a wide variety of terminal tackle to choose from, but we’ve released new Nako Tungsten Tear Drop Shot Weights, crafted from 97% eco-friendly tungsten for stealth, durability, and vibration, with easy-to-read size stamps and a crimped swivel for quick changes. Owner Mosquito Hooks work for dropshotting and perfectly accommodates a wide range of soft plastics. The new Haymaker EWG Worm Hooks are also now available, featuring an extra-wide gap for various soft plastics, a Z-lock shoulder bend for secure bait placement, and an angled-up super needle point for fast, powerful hooksets. The popular All Purpose Hooks are built with an extra-wide gap and are made to accommodate a wide range of soft plastics. For creature-styled baits, a more popular choice to use is the Stand-Up Jig because it sits the bait up-right in a defensive stance! The WEEDLESS Block Head Jig features high-quality construction that helps increase your hook-up ratios and keep your bait clean from snagging rocks or vegetation. The Block Head Jig is perfect for ned rigging the HellaMite with its mushroom-style head that seamlessly matches a wide variety of soft plastics. The Offset Block Head Jig, offers the same mushroom-style head with a unique offset hook, making it a go-to for weedless Ned Rig applications. The Shakey Ultrahead can permanently secure baits by inserting the pin in the center and screwing the twist lock coil spring for perfect rigging every time! The Ultrahead Wacky Jig features precise weight positioning and hook orientation for the ultimate wacky presentations. For fast Texas rigging, we use the Bullet-Type Rig which has an attached weight saving you precious time when fishing cover. The 4x Jungle Flippin Hook is designed for big fish and the toughest conditions. The Range Roller Jig Head is crafted for precision with its high center axis design, perfect for hover-strolling and mid to bottom strolling with forward facing sonar, ensuring an enticing rolling action that triggers bites. We also just released Keep’em Fresh Bait Bags! These bags are the ultimate solution for anglers who need their gear to perform. Built like a tank, this bag is 20x stronger than regular zip bags and offers 100% waterproof protection with a rock-solid double zipper seal. Whether it’s for soft plastics, snacks, or your smartphone, this reusable and versatile bag keeps everything safe from water, mud, and grime. It’s lightweight yet spacious, it fits snugly in your tackle box or backpack, making it perfect for your next adventure.





2026 Bassmaster Kayak Series schedule announced

Brian Carter
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2026 Bassmaster Kayak Series schedule announced

Nov. 5, 2025

2026 Bassmaster Kayak Series schedule announced

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. has announced the schedule for the 2026 Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, featuring six premier fisheries across the country as well as a championship event to be held in conjunction with the 2026 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour in Knoxville, Tenn.

“The 2026 schedule highlights some of the best and most diverse kayak fisheries in the nation,” said Steve Owens, Bassmaster Kayak Series tournament director. “From Florida vegetation to California clear water and everything in between, this trail reflects how kayak fishing continues to thrive nationwide. We’re also thrilled to once again tie our championship to the biggest stage in bass fishing, the Bassmaster Classic.”

GL Compton, B.A.S.S. Nation tournament manager, added, “The growth of the Bassmaster Kayak Series has been incredible. This lineup showcases the variety of fisheries that make kayak competition so exciting, including shallow river systems, deep clear lakes and everything in between. Each stop provides anglers with unique challenges and opportunities to demonstrate their skill and adaptability.”

The season kicks off February 7-8 on the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes in Kissimmee, Fla., one of Florida’s most famous bass fisheries known for its vast vegetation, winding canals and potential for giant largemouth.

In March, qualifying anglers from the 2025 Bassmaster Kayak Series season will head to Chickamauga and Nickajack lakes in Chattanooga, Tenn., March 11-13 to compete in the Bassmaster Kayak Series Championship, which will be held alongside the 2026 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour. This Tennessee River stretch is renowned for its trophy-sized bass and vibrant springtime bite.

April will bring the series to Caddo Lake and Lake Bistineau in Shreveport, La., April 18-19. These cypress-filled bayous deliver scenic beauty and challenging fishing, offering opportunities to flip, pitch and power fish through heavy cover.

The next stop will take the trail east to Santee Cooper lakes in Clarendon County, S.C., May 30-31. Santee Cooper — comprised of Lakes Marion and Moultrie — is a historic big-bass fishery known for its flooded timber, shallow flats and trophy potential.

From there, the series will head west to Clear Lake in Lake County, Calif., June 6-7. California’s largest natural freshwater lake consistently ranks among the top bass lakes in the nation, offering both numbers and size thanks to its abundant forage and complex structure.

After the summer heat sets in, competitors will test their skills on the Susquehanna River in Bloomsburg, Pa., August 1-2. This shallow, rocky river is one of the premier smallmouth bass destinations in the country, where current and positioning play key roles in success.

The 2026 season will conclude August 22-23 in Appleton, Wis., at the Wolf and Fox rivers. These interconnected systems, flowing into Lake Winnebago, offer dynamic current-based fishing and the potential for both largemouth and smallmouth bass to finish the season strong.

For more information on the Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, visit Bassmaster.com/kayak.

2026 Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft Schedule

  • Feb. 7-8 — Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, Kissimmee, Fla.
  • April 18-19 — Caddo Lake/Lake Bistineau, Shreveport, La.
  • May 30-31 — Santee Cooper Lakes, Clarendon County, S.C.
  • June 6-7 — Clear Lake, Lake County, Calif.
  • Aug. 1-2 — Susquehanna River, Bloomsburg, Pa.
  • Aug. 22-23 — Wolf and Fox Rivers, Appleton, Wis.





Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech Nears All-Six Lockdown with 115 Anglers Committed for 2026 Season

Brian Carter
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Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech Nears All-Six Lockdown with 115 Anglers Committed for 2026 Season

Only nine spots remain before the roster locks in to only pros fishing all six stops plus Bass Pro Tour anglers; impressive field has earned more than $24 million in MLF career winnings

BENTON, Ky. (Nov. 5, 2025) – The field for the 2026 Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech is nearly complete, with 115 pros now committed to all six stops next season. That leaves just nine spots remaining before the field is officially exclusive – once it hits 124 anglers, participation will be restricted to pros fishing all six events and Bass Pro Tour anglers.

The latest group of anglers to join the 2026 roster includes: Daniel Blackert, Brent Chapman, (Skeeter) Wayn Crosby, Ethan Fields, Kyle Glasgow, Lake Johnson, Aidan Kerlin, Clint Knight, Parker Lambert, Cal Lane, Neal McWhorter, Grant Meisenhelter, Riley Nielsen, Ricky Robinson, Roman Ryan, Cason Sanchez and Matteo Turano. This latest group further bolsters what’s already one of the strongest Pro Circuit lineups in years. See the current 115-pro roster below.

In total, the 115 committed anglers have combined to earn more than $24.3 million in career winnings through MLF events alone, representing a mix of veteran heavyweights, young stars on the rise and seasoned regional hammers ready to test themselves on a national stage.

“This roster is as competitive as they come,” said Kevin Hunt, Tournament Director of the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit. “The momentum behind the Pro Circuit right now is incredible, and with only a handful of spots left, we’re expecting to lock down the field soon. Once we hit 124 anglers that have committed to all six events, that’s it. No cherry-picking events, no one-off local entries – just a consistent field of the best anglers in the country battling it out for the title and $100,000 to $135,000 at each stop.”

The 2026 Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit season will feature six regular-season events, each offering top-tier competition, national exposure and qualification opportunities for REDCREST and the Bass Pro Tour.

The enhanced Pro Circuit, which features $100,000 to first place ($135,000 including the Phoenix MLF Bonus) and at least $10,000 to the top 33% of the field, continues to attract both new and returning competitors from across the country. The 2026 season will culminate in the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Championship on Florida’s Kissimmee Chain of Lakes. The full schedule, announced earlier this year, is available at MajorLeagueFishing.com.

Anglers interested in joining the 2026 campaign can enter by phone at 270.252.1000, or if you have questions about the events, call tournament director Kevin Hunt at 270.205.5155. For the complete Pro Circuit schedule, rules and payouts, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com.

Proud sponsors of the MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech include: 7Brew Coffee, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, BUBBA, Deep Dive App, E3 Sport Apparel, Epic Baits, Fishing Clash, Grizzly, Humminbird, Lew’s, Mercury, Minn Kota, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, PirahnO2, Polaris, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Strike King, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, VOSKER, WIX Filters and YETI.

For regular Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF5’s social media outlets on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

The first 115 anglers that have signed up for all six stops on the 2026 Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by MillerTech are:

  • Charles Abshire – Lake Charles, LA
  • Caz Anderson – Haysville, NC
  • Allen Armour – Cumming, GA
  • Kyle Austin – Ridgeville, SC
  • Teimuraz (Tom) Balachvili – Scarsdale, NY
  • Jay (Striker) Barnett – Locust Grove, GA
  • Matt Baty – Bainbridge, GA
  • Josh Bertrand – San Tan Valley, AZ
  • Daryl Biron – Meriden, CT
  • Daniel Blackert – Richfield, OH
  • Drew Boggs – Lebanon, TN
  • Greg Bohannan – Bentonville, AR
  • Alex Bradley – Wellford, SC
  • John Brown – Wedowee, AL
  • Dennis Burdette – Pembroke, VA
  • Miles Burghoff – Dayton, TN
  • Brody Campbell – Oxford, OH
  • Tyler Campbell – Martin, GA
  • Brett Carnright – Plattsburgh, NY
  • Eddie Carper – Valliant, OK
  • Brent Chapman – Lenexa, KS
  • Mark Condron – Murfreesboro, TN
  • Kyle Cortiana – Broken Arrow, OK
  • Ben Cox – Andrews, SC
  • (Skeeter) Wayn Crosby – Green Pond, SC
  • John Dial – Winter Haven, FL
  • Boyd Duckett – Guntersville, AL
  • Tony Dumitras – Winston, GA
  • Charlie Evans – Berea, KY
  • Ty Faber – Pagosa Springs, CO
  • Ron Farrow – Rock Hill, SC
  • Ethan Fields – Breese, IL
  • Mark Fisher – Wauconda, IL
  • Terry Fisher – Decatur, AL
  • Jeff Fitts – Keystone Heights, FL
  • Shinichi Fukae – Harlem, GA
  • Drew Gill – Mount Carmel, IL
  • Kyle Glasgow – Guin, AL
  • Kyle Goldstein – Paso Robles, CA
  • Robert Grabow – Morgantown, WV
  • Ethan Greene – Eufaula, AL
  • Christian Greico – New Bern, NC
  • Mitchell Grimsley – Hiawassee, GA
  • Tommy Guthke – Anderson, SC
  • Blake Hall – Rogersville, AL
  • Will Harkins – Blairsville, GA
  • Byron Haseotes – West Newton, MA
  • Brian Hatfield – Spring City, TN
  • Marshall Hughes – Hemphill, TX
  • Lake Johnson – Trinity, AL
  • Kelly (James) Jordon – Flint, TX
  • Aidan Kerlin – Nags Head, NC
  • Frank Kitchens Iii – Oxford, GA
  • Gary Klein – Mingus, TX
  • Clint Knight – Russellville, KY
  • Parker Knudsen – Shakopee, MN
  • Levi Kohl – Edinburg, IL
  • Parker Lambert – Riegelsville, PA
  • Bobby Lane – Lakeland, FL
  • Cal Lane – Grant, AL
  • Christopher Lane – Guntersville, AL
  • Brian Latimer – Belton, SC
  • Michael Leach – Shenandoah, TX
  • Robby Lefere – Jackson, MI
  • John Levesque – Nashua, NH
  • Jared Lintner – Covington, GA
  • Steve Lopez – Oconomowoc, WI
  • Harbor Lovin – New Concord, KY
  • Terry Luedtke – Burton, TX
  • Matt Massey – Saint Augustine, FL
  • Mike Mayo – Athens, TX
  • Julius Mazy – Phoenix, AZ
  • Bill McDonald – Greenwood, IN
  • Brandon McMillan – Clewiston, FL
  • Bryan McNeal – Madison, AL
  • Neal McWhorter – Hiram, GA
  • Grant Meisenhelter – Decatur, IL
  • Jesse Millsaps – Jasper, GA
  • Chad Mrazek – Montgomery, TX
  • John Murray – Spring City, TN
  • Britt Myers – Clover, SC
  • Britt Myers Jr. – Clover, SC
  • Riley Nielsen – Murray, UT
  • Andrew Nordbye – Guntersville, AL
  • Hayden O’Barr – Scottsboro, AL
  • Terry Olinger – Louisa, VA
  • Lane Olson – Forest Grove, OR
  • Bruce Parsons – Arbela, MO
  • Austin Pemberton – Tuscola, TX
  • Keith Poche – Cecil, AL
  • Matt Reed – Madisonville, TX
  • Charlie Reed Jr. – Gloucester, VA
  • Dusty Rice – Breaux Bridge, LA
  • Marshall Robinson – Landrum, SC
  • Marty Robinson – Landrum, SC
  • Ricky Robinson – Greenback, TN
  • Fred Roumbanis – London, AR
  • Roman Ryan – Madison, WI
  • Jackson Ryley – Clinton, IN
  • Cason Sanchez – Flintville, TN
  • Colby Schrumpf – Highland, IL
  • Terry Scroggins – San Mateo, FL
  • Banks Shaw – Harrison, TN
  • Blake Smith – Lakeland, FL
  • Miles Smith – Houma, LA
  • Robert Sparks – Heflin, LA
  • Tyler Stewart – Dubach, LA
  • Troy Stokes – Trenton, MI
  • Mike Surman – Boca Raton, FL
  • Levi Thibodaux – Thibodaux, LA
  • Matteo Turano – Puryear, TN
  • Jason Vance – Battle Ground, IN
  • Jimmy Washam – Stantonville, TN
  • Joseph Webster – Hamilton, AL
  • Thomas Wooten – Huddleston, VA





Shreveport-Bossier City Set to Host MLF’s Bass Pro Shops Summit Cup Presented by Zenni

Brian Carter
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Shreveport-Bossier City Set to Host MLF’s Bass Pro Shops Summit Cup Presented by Zenni

Fourth and Final MLF Fishing Clash Team Series event of 2025 to take place over six days next week at mystery fisheries

SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER CITY, La. (Nov. 5, 2025) – The fourth Major League Fishing (MLF) Fishing Clash Team Series Presented by Bass Pro Shops event of the 2025 season is set to take place next week, Nov. 16-21, in Shreveport and Bossier City, Louisiana – the Bass Pro Shops Summit Cup Presented by Zenni.  

Hosted by the Shreveport-Bossier Sports Commission, the Bass Pro Shops Summit Cup Presented by Zenni is the fourth and final Fishing Clash Team series event of the 2025 season. In keeping with traditional MLF Cup protocols, Shreveport, Louisiana, was not revealed to Team Series competitors until six weeks prior to the start of the tournament. All fishable waters within 60 miles of Shreveport then went off limits to anglers. Fans watching the MLFNOW! livestream will find out the day’s competition waters right along with the anglers each morning.

“We are so excited to partner with Major League Fishing right here in the heart of Sportsman’s Paradise,” said Sara Nelms, Director of Sports for the Shreveport-Bossier Sports Commission. “Our waterways offer some of the best fishing in the world, and Shreveport-Bossier City will deliver nothing less than the world class hospitality Louisiana is known for.”

Fans are encouraged to follow the Bass Pro Shops Summit Cup Presented by Zenni online throughout the day on the MLFNOW!® live stream. Every minute of every event will still stream in full on MajorLeagueFishing.com, the MLF and MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) apps, RFD-TV Now, Game & Fish TV, and Rumble, with the final period each day being broadcast live nationwide on RFD-TV. Post-produced episodes of the Fishing Clash Team Series will start in January 2026 on Outdoor Channel.

The 12 teams of professional anglers that will compete in the Bass Pro Shops Summit Cup Presented by Zenni in Shreveport-Bossier City, Louisiana, are:

Team 7Brew Coffee:
Zack Birge, Blanchard, Okla.
Keith Poche, Pike Road, Ala.

Team B&W Trailer Hitches:
Todd Faircloth, Jasper, Texas
Nick LeBrun, Bossier City, La.

Team BUBBA:
Brent Chapman, Lake Quivira, Kan.
Wesley Strader, Spring City, Tenn.

Team Ferguson:
Brent Ehrler, Redlands, Calif.
Justin Lucas, Guntersville, Ala.

Team Fishing Clash:
Keith Carson, DeBary, Fla.
Ron Nelson, Berrien Springs, Mich.

Team Knighten:
Matt Becker, Ten Mile, Tenn.
Spencer Shuffield, Hot Springs, Ark.

Team Kubota:
Cole Floyd, Leesburg, Ohio
Nick Hatfield, Greeneville, Tenn.

Team Lucas Oil:
Drew Gill, Mount Carmel, Ill.
Marshall Robinson, Landrum, S.C.

Team O’Reilly Auto Parts:
Adrian Avena, Vineland, N.J.
Mark Daniels Jr., Tuskegee, Ala.

Team Smokey Mountain:
Britt Myers, Lake Wylie, S.C.
Terry Scroggins, San Mateo, Fla.

Team Star brite:
Bobby Lane, Lakeland, Fla.
Jacob Wall, New Hope, Ala.

Team YETI:
Fred Roumbanis, Russellville, Ark.
Jeff Sprague, Wills Point, Texas

The MLF Fishing Clash Team Series Bass Pro Shops Summit Cup Presented by Zenni will also air on Outdoor Channel as six two-hour original episodes each Saturday afternoon starting May 9, 2026. The complete television schedule for the Fishing Clash Team Series on Outdoor Channel will be posted at MajorLeagueFishing.com.


For complete details and updated information on the MLF Fishing Clash Team Series, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF’s social media outlets at Facebook,  X,  Instagram and YouTube.






Bennett Lawshe & Jeanna Johnson make it 2 in a row to Win CATT Santee Cooper with 5 bass weighing 22.82 lbs!

Brian Carter
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Bennett Lawshe & Jeanna Johnson make it 2 in a row to Win CATT Santee Cooper with 5 bass weighing 22.82 lbs!

Next up is the Fall Final on Santee Cooper, November 22 at John C Land! We have 32 team eligible to enter! To check the points, go to the Santee Cooper Division page and scroll all the way down!

Bennett Lawshe & Jeanna Johnson make it 2 in a row on Santee Cooper with 5 bass weighing 22.82 lbs! They also win the points and will fish the Final Free on Nov 22nd!

Brian Scott & Brad Beatson 2nd with 5 bass weighing 16.56 lbs!

Dave Murdock & Bryant McNeill 3rd with 14.49 lbs!

Jeremiah Westberg with the BF at 8.22 lbs!

TeamBFWeightWinningsPoints
Bennett Lawshe – Jeanna Johnson7.7222.82$1,405.00110
Brian Scott – Brad Beatson0.0016.56$635.00109
Dave Murdock – Bryant McNeill4.9314.49$200.00108
Chuck Howard – Gary Pope0.0014.18107
Don Pendarvis – Bobby Gibbs0.0013.63106
Patrick Oliver – Tim Korn0.0013.30105
Jeremiah Westberg8.2211.24$180.00104
Steven Felder – Matt Brault0.0010.36103
Billy Willis – Glen Porter0.0010.33102
Woody Floyd -Glen Webster3.958.18101
Eric Stubbs0.004.73100
Shane Adkins – Tim Duncan0.003.8299
La Tonya Blanding – Fredrick Blanding0.001.9798
Eric Whaley – CJ Johnson0.000.0088
Ben Burnett – Tyler Folts0.000.0088
Corey Casey0.000.0088
Danny Shanz – Ryan Fifield0.000.0088
Jay McCutchens0.000.0088
Total Entrys$2,160.00
BONUS $25$275.00
BONUS $50$500.00
Total Paid At Ramp$2,420.00
2025 Santee Cooper Fall Final Total$325.00
CATT$50.00
2026 CATT Championship Fund$50.00
2025 Santee Cooper Fall Final Total$1,070.00





Fall Grass Fishing for Trophy Bass!

Brian Carter
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Fall Grass Fishing for Trophy Bass!
Fishing in the fall can often feel unpredictable, especially when grass begins to die back and bass move away from their summer patterns. As daylight shortens and temperatures drop, vegetation thins and oxygen levels fluctuate, which forces fish to relocate. Many anglers find this transition challenging, but those who stay persistent can uncover some of the biggest opportunities of the year. When bass bunch up in smaller areas of remaining cover, every bite can be from a quality fish. Success during this period depends on slowing down, paying attention to subtle signs of life, and committing to areas that still hold healthy vegetation. Once you identify where bass are feeding in the fading grass, it can easily become one of the most rewarding patterns of the entire season. Fishing the remaining vegetation requires a mix of patience and precision. Little changes, such as a small patch of greener grass, clearer water, or a pocket with visible bait activity, can make all the difference. Bass often use these isolated sections as staging areas, waiting for easy meals as baitfish pass through. Because of this, methodically working each section and revisiting key spots throughout the day can pay off big. The window for this bite doesn’t last long, but when you time it right, the combination of fewer anglers and concentrated fish can lead to some of the most memorable catches of the year.Our Fresh HellaMite is designed to imitate a major aquatic food source, delivering a realistic profile of an insect larva that fish can’t resist. Each is scented for complete and total attraction underwater, along with being made in the USA by real fishermen. We recently restocked the HellaMite Pro Pack, which is loaded with 60 baits in all six proven colors, plus three Owner Block Head Ned Jigs and a handy storage bag. This kit has everything you need to stay rigged and ready year-round. Grab our newest Lil Bass, Hot Sauce, MidNight, Glow, 10w30 Synthetic, Slimer Green, and Barbie Pink HellaMite colors. We’ve also restocked our Green Pumpkin and Smoke Purple HellaMite. The HellaMite’s solid body and hyperactive ribbed tail design produce a life-like quivering action with every twitch of the rod. Its unique flat underbelly detail enables this bait to be fished as a drop shot, Ned rig, neko rig, and even a small Carolina-rig, making it the ideal bait in any condition year-round. When the water is clear, the fish can see the bait and look like real food, causing strikes. Each cast becomes an opportunity for an exhilarating catch, thanks to its superior performance and versatility.
As fall progresses, baitfish such as shad migrate into shallower creeks and flats where grass is starting to thin out. These zones create perfect feeding opportunities for bass because the dying grass concentrates oxygen and bait in small pockets. When you locate areas with visible bait movement or ripples on the surface, it’s a clear sign that predators are nearby. Focus your efforts around isolated grass clumps rather than vast mats since these smaller patches often attract active fish. Casting around these zones with a soft plastic lure such as a craw-styled bait or insect larva can help you imitate the natural forage bass are chasing. By keying in on areas where bait and dying vegetation overlap, anglers can consistently locate feeding bass throughout the fall transition. Pay attention to wind direction, as it can push both shad and bass into the same sections of a creek or flat, intensifying the feeding activity. Slight current or moving water often keeps these areas richer in oxygen, making them more appealing to active fish. It’s also wise to revisit productive stretches multiple times during the day since bass frequently cycle in and out as bait moves through. Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be the most active periods, but cloudy or breezy conditions can extend that bite window. Staying alert to surface disturbances, fleeing baitfish, or sudden bird activity can quickly reveal where the next big strike is about to happen.We use our Fresh Scorpion because it closely imitates a crawfish. Our newest 10w30 Synthetic, Slimer Green, and Barbie Pink Scorpion colors work wonders. The Scorpion is a revolutionary new look to soft plastics. Its intricate detailing and texture mimic the nuances of a real crawfish, making it hard for bass to resist. Of course, water clarity always plays a role in color selection but in any season, you can’t miss using colors such as Green Pumpkin Seed, Brown Bark, and the Magneto. This bait not only appears natural to fish but gives them something to become curious about. The Scorpion paired with a stand-up jig is deadly because the jig actually sits the bait upright in a defensive stance. The subtle color variations across the bait further enhance its appeal, mimicking the natural color shifts found in live prey. Each Fresh Scorpion has a unique and exclusive 3-axis tail design that is engineered like no other soft plastic bait. Our Scorpions are made by anglers from high-grade non-salt plastic to provide superior life-like action that triggers strikes!
When bass target small forage during fall, they often become selective and difficult to fool with larger lures. Downsizing your presentation makes a major difference, whether you’re fishing a topwater or a subtle soft plastic near the surface. Compact, quiet lures that match the size and profile of young baitfish tend to trigger more strikes in clear, pressured water. Early mornings and calm conditions are ideal times to take advantage of this behavior before the sun pushes fish deeper into cover. When the surface bite slows, switching to a lightweight worm or beetle-style bait worked just beneath the surface can maintain success. Matching your presentation to the size and activity of the forage is one of the simplest yet most effective adjustments you can make in the fall. Pay close attention to how bass are reacting to your retrieve, and sometimes a steady pace works best, while other times short pauses or subtle twitches will draw more strikes. Clear water conditions make natural colors and realistic movements even more important, so focus on presentations that blend in rather than stand out. Light line and smaller hooks can also improve your results, giving your bait a more natural fall and lifelike action. In heavily pressured areas, a quiet, finesse approach can outproduce flashier tactics that may spook wary fish. By keeping your presentations small and natural, you’ll stay in tune with how bass feed in the fall and consistently turn tough conditions into productive days on the water.The new FreshBaitz Lizards deliver a realistic profile that excels in both power and finesse techniques. Act fast, we’ve recently just released new Hot Sauce, MidNight, Ghost, and 10w30 Synthetic Lizard designs! The unique forward-facing leg design creates drag that holds it in the strike zone longer or produces wild flapping action with every pull of the rod. Additionally, its slightly ribbed solid body and large head hold your hook in place and provide much better weedless performance making it the ideal bait to use in any condition. Water clarity always plays a super big role in color selection but in any season year-round, you can’t miss when using colors such as Watermelon Red, Black & Blue, or Green Pumpkin. Its flexible tail design ensures added movement, tempting even the most cautious fish. The superior 5.5-inch profile stretches to a whole 7 inches which is perfect for predatory fish including bass year round. Made from long-lasting durable high-grade non-salted plastic for total and maximum attention-grabbing action underwater.
When the bite gets tough, few methods produce bigger bass in fall grass than flipping or punching through thick mats. This approach targets bass that use heavy vegetation as shade and ambush cover, allowing anglers to reach fish that most overlook. The key is to commit to this technique and cover water efficiently, knowing that quality outweighs quantity in this pattern. A streamlined soft plastic, such as a craw or lizard imitation, paired with a heavy weight helps penetrate dense cover quickly. Once your bait breaks through, allow it to rest momentarily. Many strikes tend to happen as it falls or settles in open pockets under the mat. By focusing on precision and patience, flipping and punching can deliver some of the heaviest fish of the season. Pay attention to how the grass feels as your bait falls. Small differences in density or resistance can indicate hidden openings where bass are holding. It’s also important to keep your line tight and rod ready, as strikes often come quickly and feel like nothing more than a soft tick. Working slowly down a stretch and repeating flips to key spots can reveal a pattern of where fish are positioned within the mats. Many anglers overlook how sound and vibration travel through vegetation, so keeping movements quiet and controlled helps avoid spooking fish. With persistence and focus, flipping and punching not only uncover hidden giants but also build the confidence needed to excel when conditions get tough.Our Fresh Beetle delivers ultimate versatility in a soft plastic bait. Its slim yet wide body design and four claws are engineered to naturally glide and wobble as it moves through the water. This design ensures they remain enticingly active longer than conventional baits. Its unique texture also provides a realistic feel, making bass hold on longer once they bite. Water clarity plays a big role in color selection but year-round you can’t miss when using go-to colors such as Chocolate Mint, Ox Blood, or 10w30 Synthetic beetles. The hyper-active swimming claws are designed thin with long-lasting durable non-salt plastic to make them come alive with the slightest movement. The Fresh Beetle offers an enticing 4-inch profile and is scented for complete and total attraction! You can rig these Beetles as a Jig/ Chatter Trailer, Flippin/ Punching, Texas Rig, Swing Jig, and Carolina Rig. Making the beetle beyond perfect in any weather condition year-round!
Edges are everything when it comes to fall grass fishing. Bass tend to hold along transitions. Whether that’s where the grass meets open water or where a mat creates shade beneath the surface. The inside edge often produces more bites because it combines cooler water, lower light, and better ambush conditions. Working parallel to these edges allows your bait to stay in the strike zone longer and cover more productive ground. Try varying your distance from the edge until you determine where bass are holding most consistently. Once you identify that pattern, you’ll find similar success along other stretches of grass with the same structure and conditions. Pay attention to subtle differences along the edge, such as a gap in the grass line, a point that extends outward, or a small pocket that breaks the contour. All of these can concentrate the fish. These type of irregularities often serve as ambush zones where bass wait for bait to pass by. If water clarity allows, observing how the grass transitions beneath the surface can reveal hidden sweet spots that many anglers overlook. Adjusting your casting angle can also make a big difference, especially when targeting edges that run deeper or taper off gradually. Once you learn to recognize these small structural cues, you’ll be able to duplicate the pattern across multiple locations and consistently catch quality fish.Using a stick-styled worm is the most tried and true ways to catch fish. We have a variety of 5-inch Worms to choose from but we just added MidNight, Glow, and Ghost Worms! Our popular Watermelon Red Worms have been restocked as well. You can also experience our new wacky rigging kit while it’s ON SALE! The WACKY Pack offers our most popular colors and essential tools for wacky rigging. If you’re fast enough you might be able to grab the limited-release Pumpkin Spice Worm before it’s completely sold out, along with some of our newest colors, including the Brown Worm, Electric Chicken Worm, and Goby Wan Worm colors. The high-grade non-salt plastic they’re made from provides positive buoyancy and it even floats underwater! We also Restocked 6-inch Worms, including Watermelon Red, Green Pumpkin, Black & Blue, Fire TGR, Wild Berries, Bone, 10w30 Synthetic, Zombie Blood, and Chocolate MNT! — all available in 5 and 6-inch. We’ve also recently released new 8-count packs of worms available in Watermelon Red, Black & Blue, and Green Pumpkin. We also offer worms that have the unique ability to shift from one color to another. Scented for total attraction underwater.
Getting your bait through thick vegetation cleanly is crucial to reaching fish that hide below. Choosing the right weight helps your presentation slip through grass without creating an unnatural splash or hanging up in stems. Many anglers prefer to start light and increase only as needed to maintain control. Slim-profile soft plastics such as craws or worms fall naturally through vegetation and minimize resistance. If the grass is too thick, trimming appendages or downsizing the bait slightly can help it pass through without disturbing the cover. The goal is to make a smooth, quiet entry that mimics natural prey movement and keeps your bait in the strike zone longer. Experimenting with different fall rates can also reveal what triggers more bites, and sometimes bass prefer a slow, fluttering descent, while other times a faster drop gets their attention. Water temperature and grass density often dictate how much weight you need, so stay flexible rather than sticking to one setup all day. It can also be helpful to check your bait frequently for bits of grass, as even small debris can ruin the action and turn fish away. Pay close attention to how your line feels on the fall, as any hesitation or sudden slack can signal a small strike or bite. By fine-tuning your weight and profile throughout the day, you’ll maintain efficiency, increase accuracy, and maximize your chances of connecting with big bass hiding deep in the vegetation.Introducing the Newest 8-Inch MagDingo Worms! These are the ultimate game-changer in bass fishing! Engineered for anglers who know SIZE does matter, this lure is designed to attract only the BIGGEST bass with a fixation for the larger bait. The MagDingo Worm boasts a solid 8-inch body enhanced with a hyperactive ribbed design, ensuring irresistible mouth-watering action for those trophy bass. The 10-count packs are now available in a variety of 6 crucial colors, including the 10w30 Synthetic, Black & Blue, Zombie Blood, Green Pumpkin, Wild Cherry, and Watermelon Red. Each worm is made in the USA from durable, high-grade Non-Salted plastic for lifelike action and unparalleled durability. Perfectly balanced for a variety of rigging options and scented for maximum attraction, the 8-inch MagDingo Worm promises year-round effectiveness in lakes, rivers, and streams. Whether you’re rigging it on a Shakey Head, Drop Shot, Texas Rig, or Carolina Rig, these worms are your ticket to landing trophy-sized smallmouth and largemouth bass.
Heavy vegetation demands specialized gear that balances strength, sensitivity, and control. A long, heavy-action rod provides leverage to move fish quickly out of dense cover without sacrificing accuracy. Pair it with strong braided line for maximum pulling power and minimal stretch, which improves hook penetration when punching mats. A moderate gear ratio on your reel, something not overly fast, offers more torque for hauling bass from thick grass. Having a dependable hook and smooth drag system ensures consistent hooksets even when fighting big fish in tight quarters. When your setup works together seamlessly, it lets you focus on reading conditions and making precise presentations that consistently produce results. It’s equally important to maintain your equipment so it performs at peak efficiency throughout the season. Regularly check your line for frays, retie knots often, and keep your reel clean and lubricated to prevent drag slip during a heavy pull. Using gear that feels balanced in your hands also reduces fatigue, allowing you to flip and punch all day with accuracy and confidence. Every component, from the rod’s backbone to the line strength, plays a role in transferring power and sensitivity directly to your hookset. When your gear is dialed in and properly maintained, you’ll have the confidence to fish heavy cover and land the bass that fall grass is known for producing.
We have a wide variety of terminal tackle to choose from, but we’ve released new Nako Tungsten Tear Drop Shot Weights, crafted from 97% eco-friendly tungsten for stealth, durability, and vibration, with easy-to-read size stamps and a crimped swivel for quick changes. Owner Mosquito Hooks work for dropshotting and perfectly accommodates a wide range of soft plastics. The new Haymaker EWG Worm Hooks are also now available, featuring an extra-wide gap for various soft plastics, a Z-lock shoulder bend for secure bait placement, and an angled-up super needle point for fast, powerful hooksets. The popular All Purpose Hooks are built with an extra-wide gap and are made to accommodate a wide range of soft plastics. For creature-styled baits, a more popular choice to use is the Stand-Up Jig because it sits the bait up-right in a defensive stance! The WEEDLESS Block Head Jig features high-quality construction that helps increase your hook-up ratios and keep your bait clean from snagging rocks or vegetation. The Block Head Jig is perfect for ned rigging the HellaMite with its mushroom-style head that seamlessly matches a wide variety of soft plastics. The Offset Block Head Jig, offers the same mushroom-style head with a unique offset hook, making it a go-to for weedless Ned Rig applications. The Shakey Ultrahead can permanently secure baits by inserting the pin in the center and screwing the twist lock coil spring for perfect rigging every time! The Ultrahead Wacky Jig features precise weight positioning and hook orientation for the ultimate wacky presentations. For fast Texas rigging, we use the Bullet-Type Rig which has an attached weight saving you precious time when fishing cover. The 4x Jungle Flippin Hook is designed for big fish and the toughest conditions. The Range Roller Jig Head is crafted for precision with its high center axis design, perfect for hover-strolling and mid to bottom strolling with forward facing sonar, ensuring an enticing rolling action that triggers bites. We also just released Keep’em Fresh Bait Bags! These bags are the ultimate solution for anglers who need their gear to perform. Built like a tank, this bag is 20x stronger than regular zip bags and offers 100% waterproof protection with a rock-solid double zipper seal. Whether it’s for soft plastics, snacks, or your smartphone, this reusable and versatile bag keeps everything safe from water, mud, and grime. It’s lightweight yet spacious, it fits snugly in your tackle box or backpack, making it perfect for your next adventure.





Daniel Eubank Jr & Douglas Eubank Win Bass Nation of VA Team Championship on Smith Mountain Lake

Brian Carter
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Daniel Eubank Jr & Douglas Eubank Win Bass Nation of VA Team Championship on Smith Mountain Lake

FULL RESULTS ARE LISTED BELOW





James River, VA Oct 25, 2025 Results! Mike Caul & Mike Gunn Win CATT With 15.30 lbs!

Brian Carter
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James River, VA Oct 25, 2025 Results! Mike Caul & Mike Gunn Win CATT With 15.30 lbs!

Next and last Fall James River Qualifier is November 8 at Rt 5!

You only have to enter 1 Qualifier to be eligible to enter the 29th Final at Osborne!

Mike Caul & Mike Gunn win the James River with 5 bass weighing 15.30 lbs and they brought in the BF at 4.96 lbs!

Ryan Grattan & Danny Grattan 2nd with 14.59 lbs!

Mike McCrikard 3rd with 13.27 lbs!

TeamBFWeightWinningsPoints
Mike Caul – Mike Gunn4.9615.30$1,195.00110
Ryan Grattan – Danny Grattan4.3114.59$530.00109
Mike McCrikard3.7813.27$120.00108
Michael Shears – Blake Woodley0.0013.05107
Stacy Vassar – Kevin Davis0.0012.57106
Harvey Reese – Bobby Harris3.7112.17105
Tripp Mistr – Rick Mistr3.9411.61104
Sam Pollock – Richard Williams0.0011.53103
Donnie Meade – Brian Brooks0.0010.79102
Paul Harris0.0010.29101
Joe Krevenick – John Koren0.009.30100
Matt Anderson – Porter Anderson4.538.5299
Thomas Coluccio – Chris Fers3.158.4298
Mike Henderson – Bobby Henderson0.007.4997
Dave Rosenbaum – Sergio Spitate0.007.0996
Total Entrys$1,950.00
BONUS $$450.00
Total Paid At Ramp$1,845.00
CATT$50.00
2025 James River Fall Final Fund$305.00
2026 CATT Championship Fund$50.00
2025 James River Fall Final Fund Total$505.00





Garmin Expands Flagship Chartplotter Lineup With Premium GPSMAP 9000xsv

Brian Carter
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Garmin Expands Flagship Chartplotter Lineup With Premium GPSMAP 9000xsv

Stunning displays offer unrivaled sonar performance, vivid 4K resolution and lightning-fast 5Ghz Wi-Fi capability.

OLATHE, Kan. – Garmin (NYSE: GRMN), the world’s largest1 and most innovative marine electronics manufacturer, today unveiled the GPSMAP® 9000xsv series – superior chartplotters designed for captains and anglers that demand world-class performance. Available with a 10-, 13- or 17-inch touchscreen display, these multi-functional displays (MFDs) boast Garmin’s cutting-edge integrated xCHIRP traditional sonar and UHD scanning sonar to help anglers see and catch more fish. Users can get 5Ghz Wi-Fi® connectivity for seamless software and map updates at ultrafast speeds, and see charts, maps and entertainment in vivid detail with up to 4K resolution.

“We’re excited to bring the premium features of the GPSMAP 9000 chartplotter series to even more display sizes. With Garmin’s most advanced built-in sonar, faster processing power than previous generations, higher screen resolution and expanded connectivity, the GPSMAP 9000xsv chartplotters are a complete and seamless solution at the helm.”
–Susan Lyman, Garmin Vice President Consumer Sales & Marketing

Excellence on the water

  • View charts, maps and entertainment in vibrant detail – even on bright, sunny days – with 4K resolution on the 13- and 17-inch touchscreens.
  • See targets with improved brightness and greater contrast than ever before with a Mini LED backlight. The 13- and 17-inch screens are the first marine products to take advantage of this technology.
  • Utilize 5Ghz Wi-Fi connectivity to get faster wireless software and map updates using the ActiveCaptain® app.
  • Fish in crystal clear high-definition with UHD scanning sonar, built-in xCHIRP and RapidReturn™, allowing for up to twice the update rate. The faster refresh rate provides more sonar information in the scrolling window.  
  • Enjoy premium sailing information, including sailing polars, and see laylines as well as wind speed, direction and other critical data with a full suite of SailAssist™ features.
  • Navigate with preloaded Garmin Navionics+™ charts with Auto Guidance+ technology2, or update to Garmin Navionics Vision+™ charts for premium features such as high-resolution relief shading, satellite imagery and more.
  • Build extensive networks with multiple chartplotters, cameras, radars and sonars, and enjoy gigabitspeeds on the Garmin BlueNet™ network.
  • Take command of all boat operations on one screen with OneHelm™ integrated digital switching that offers full support for Garmin EmpirBus™ systems and other third-party monitoring, control and automation solutions.
  • With a premium edge-to-edge design, these chartplotters provide a luxurious modern look that can be seamlessly integrated into nearly any vessel.

Expected to be available in November, the GPSMAP 9000xsv chartplotters have suggested retail prices starting at $3,199.99. Each MFD can be flat- or flush-mounted to fit the boat’s helm. To learn more, visit garmin.com/marine.

Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionized life for anglers, sailors, mariners and boat enthusiasts everywhere. Committed to developing the most innovative, highest quality, and easiest to use marine electronics the industry has ever known, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday. For the 11th consecutive year, Garmin was named the Manufacturer of the Year by the National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA). Visit the Garmin Newsroom, email our media team, connect with @garminfishhunt on social, or follow our blog.  

1Based on 2024 sales revenues.
2Auto Guidance+ is for planning purposes only and does not replace safe navigation operations.

About Garmin International, Inc.

Garmin International, Inc. is a subsidiary of Garmin Ltd. (NYSE: GRMN). Garmin Ltd. is incorporated in Switzerland, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. Garmin and inReach are registered trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries.





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