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Saturday, December 13, 2025
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Major League Fishing Announces 2026 Bass Pro Tour Roster

Brian Carter
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Major League Fishing Announces 2026 Bass Pro Tour Roster

Reigning AOY and 10-time BPT winner Jacob Wheeler, three-time REDCREST Champion Dustin Connell and standout Jake Lawrence highlight 51-angler field competing for total season purse of more than $6 million

BENTON, Ky. (Oct. 21, 2025) – Major League Fishing (MLF) announced today the roster of 51 pros who will compete on the 2026 Bass Pro Tour, the eighth season of professional bass fishing’s premier tournament circuit. Featuring the most exclusive and talented field of anglers in the world – from the veterans who built the Tour’s legacy to the rookies reshaping its future – the 2026 Bass Pro Tour is set to deliver the toughest competition and most rewarding payouts in professional bass fishing history.

Featuring a stacked lineup of champions, innovators and fan favorites – including Dustin Connell, Ott DeFoe, Alton Jones Jr., Wesley Strader and Jacob Wheeler – the 2026 Bass Pro Tour roster highlights anglers who have consistently raised the bar for performance and professionalism on the water. Wheeler, a four-time Angler of the Year, 10-time BPT winner and one of the most dominant competitors in modern bass fishing, returns to defend his legacy against the sport’s deepest talent pool to date.

A remarkable collection of REDCREST champions highlight the 2026 field, led by three-peat winner Connell (2021, 2024, 2025), Edwin Evers (2019), Bobby Lane (2022) and Bryan Thrift (2023). Each has proven capable of thriving under pressure and performing when it matters most, adding another layer of excitement to the Tour’s eighth season.

The 2026 roster also underscores MLF’s unmatched pathway for discovering and developing new talent. Returning after a breakout rookie season that saw five top-10 finishes in his first eight events and a buzzer-beater win that narrowly edged out Wheeler, Jake Lawrence – the 2025 AOY runner-up to Wheeler – looks to build on an incredible debut that solidified him as one of the sport’s fastest-rising stars.

Lawrence’s stellar season continued a trend of rookie success on the Bass Pro Tour in recent years, marking the third year in a row that a BPT newcomer has both won an event and finished in the top two in points in his debut season. Matt Becker  pulled off a Saginaw Bay win and AOY double to close the 2023 season and Drew Gill won on the Chowan River and finished second to Wheeler for AOY in 2024. 

Joining Lawrence in 2026 are several BPT rookies ready to make their mark on the biggest stage in bass fishing, including Banks Shaw, Mitchell Robinson, Jacob Walker and Dustin Smith, who earned their invitations through outstanding performances in the Tackle Warehouse Invitationals. The next generation of pros is arriving and proving they can compete with the best from day one.

“Every year, the release of our Bass Pro Tour roster marks the start of a new wave of excitement,” said Kathy Fennel, MLF Executive Vice President & General Manager. “This field represents the very best anglers in the world – a group defined by skill, integrity and the relentless pursuit of excellence – along with an impressive class of new competitors who’ve earned their place among the best in the world. The 2026 Bass Pro Tour lineup truly exemplifies what it means to compete at the sport’s highest level, and fans are going to see some incredible storylines unfold throughout the season.”

Driven by angler feedback, each four-day event will award $125,000 to the winner, with $15,000 paid out through 25th place – the highest minimum payouts ever awarded in pro bass fishing – plus $100,000 to the Fishing Clash Angler of the Year in 2026. The season will kick off Jan. 15–18 at Lake Guntersville in Guntersville, Alabama, where the sport’s top pros will launch into another year of high-stakes competition on one of the nation’s most iconic bass fisheries.

Each four-day Bass Pro Tour event will feature two days of Qualifying Rounds, where the 51 pros will compete to finish in the top 25 and advance to the Knockout Round. The winner of the two-day Qualifying Round will advance directly to the Championship Round, where they’ll be joined by the top nine anglers from the Knockout Round for a final-day shootout for the top prize of $125,000.

Every cast, catch and comeback will be broadcast live on MLFNOW! and streamed to MajorLeagueFishing.com, the MLF app, MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) and Rumble.

The 51 professional anglers that will compete on the 2026 Bass Pro Tour are:

  • Casey Ashley
  • Adrian Avena
  • Matt Becker
  • Zack Birge
  • Keith Carson
  • Brent Chapman
  • Dustin Connell
  • Justin Cooper
  • Mark Daniels Jr.
  • Mark Davis
  • Ott DeFoe
  • David Dudley
  • Brent Ehrler
  • James Elam
  • Edwin Evers
  • Todd Faircloth
  • Cole Floyd
  • Anthony Gagliardi
  • Drew Gill
  • Nick Hatfield
  • Dylan Hays
  • Marshall Hughes
  • John Hunter
  • Alton Jones
  • Alton Jones Jr.
  • Bobby Lane
  • Chris Lane
  • Jake Lawrence
  • Nick LeBrun
  • Justin Lucas
  • Colby Miller
  • Andy Montgomery
  • Michael Neal
  • Ron Nelson
  • Takahiro Omori
  • *Mitchell Robinson
  • Dean Rojas
  • Mark Rose
  • Bradley Roy
  • *Banks Shaw
  • Fletcher Shryock
  • Spencer Shuffield
  • *Dustin Smith
  • Jeff Sprague
  • Wesley Strader
  • Bryan Thrift
  • Greg Vinson
  • *Jacob Walker
  • Jacob Wall
  • Jacob Wheeler
  • Jesse Wiggins

* Denotes 2026 Bass Pro Tour Rookie





How to Store Your Boat Batteries for Winter

Brian Carter
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How to Store Your Boat Batteries for Winter
How to Store Your Boat Batteries for Winter
The Power of Deep Sleep™ Technology from Norsk Lithium
New Hope, Minn. (October 20, 2025) – When boating season ends and it’s time to pull the boat out of the water, your Norsk Lithium batteries deserve a little attention before you call it a year. Winter storage is the perfect time to take advantage of Deep Sleep™ Mode, a built-in feature that protects your batteries all season long without the need for maintenance charging or disconnection.Deep Sleep™ shuts down the power from the battery’s terminals, eliminating any parasitic drain from connected accessories. This means you can leave your batteries installed in the boat, trolling motor, electronics, and all without worrying about them discharging over time.At around 60% state of charge, a 12V 105AH Heated Norsk Lithium Marine battery in Deep Sleep would take more than 11 years to fully discharge. That’s how efficient the system is at preserving stored energy, giving you peace of mind through even the longest off-season.
Step-by-Step, Preparing Your Norsk Battery for Winter Storage:
Charge The Battery To 50–60%Before storage, bring your battery to roughly half charge. This range helps preserve the health of the lithium cells during long-term storage.Enable Deep Sleep ModeThere are two easy ways to put your battery into Deep Sleep:Through the Norsk Guardian® App: Open the app, select your battery, and tap “Enter Deep Sleep.”On the battery itself: Press and hold the Power Management button until three lights appear. That’s your signal the battery has entered Deep Sleep.Store The Battery In A Cool, Dry PlaceOnce in Deep Sleep, disconnect your charger and store the battery (or the boat) in a cool, dry environment. No maintenance charging is required while the battery is asleep, it’s fully protected and consuming almost no energy.
Real-World Example: A Boat in Winter StorageLet’s say you’re storing your 21-foot bass boat in an unheated garage for the winter. You pull it out of the water in October, rinse down the hull, and winterize your outboard. Once you’ve charged your Norsk trolling motor batteries to 60%, you open the Norsk Guardian® App and put them into Deep Sleep.Even though your fish finder and onboard wiring harness remain connected, there’s zero drain on the batteries. Come spring, when you uncover the boat in April, all you need to do is tap “Wake Battery” in the app or give the Power Management button a quick press and your batteries will instantly come to life at the same voltage you left them with six months earlier. No trickle charger, no voltage loss, no stress.Why Deep Sleep Beats Traditional Winterizing MethodsIn the past, anglers and boaters had to either remove their batteries completely or keep them connected to a low-amp “maintenance” charger through the off-season. Both options had downsides. Traditional chargers risked overcharging or damaging cells, and removing batteries meant rewiring everything come spring.Deep Sleep eliminates both problems. Your Norsk Lithium Marine battery essentially “hibernates” during storage, protecting itself from drain and extending its lifespan, automatically. It’s maintenance-free, and your boat stays rigged and ready for the first warm weekend on the water.
Waking Up Your Batteries For SpringWhen the ice melts and you’re ready to hit the lake again, waking your batteries is as simple as:Opening the Norsk Guardian® App and selecting “Wake Battery,” orPressing the Power Management button once.That’s it. Your batteries are ready to go fishing before you even start loading the boat!Discover how Deep Sleep technology works and how it keeps your boat batteries protected all winter long:





Berkley Cranks Up the Volume with the Screamin’ Choppo

Brian Carter
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Berkley Cranks Up the Volume with the Screamin’ Choppo

Louder, sharper, and built to stand out—topwater commotion just got an upgrade.

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Crank up the commotion – Berkley is turning up the noise on pressured fisheries with the new Screamin’ Choppo, the latest evolution of its topwater bait lineup. Still built around the same plopping action anglers rely on, the Screamin’ Choppo adds a disruptive, high-pitched squeal to break through surface noise and tempt weary fish. Engineered with a patent-pending sound chamber and concentric rivet tail design, the Screamin’ Choppo emits a sharp screech as it grinds – figuratively and literally – across the water.

Layering in a new level of sensory chaos to trigger reaction strikes, its wider body increases stability, allowing the bait to run true even when conditions are rowdy. The Screamin’ Choppo’s design also enhances long casting distance and control, while the cupped tail and internal components hold up to heat, wear, and aggressive retrieves. It’s built to take abuse—and provoke it.

“The Screamin’ Choppo is all about increasing your odds in tough conditions,” said Nathan Ragsdale, Senior Product Manager for Berkley. “By layering a disruptive sound profile over an already proven action, anglers now have a powerful new tool for drawing strikes when fish aren’t committing to the baits they’ve seen over the past few seasons.”

KEY FEATURES:

  • Classic Choppo action: Now with disruptive sound enhancement, offering a new edge for high-pressure scenarios
  • Sound chamber tail and metal rivet: Generate the unique Screamin’ pitch
  • Widened body: Improves tracking and eliminates rollover at high speeds
  • Cupped propeller tail: Resists warping—even in extreme heat
  • Fusion19 treble hooks: Ensure secure hookups on topwater blowups
  • Available Size: 95mm • 110mm
  • Colors: Peppered Smog • Foil Shad • Ghost White • Stealth Shad • Broken Glass • Black Chrome • Bone • Yellow Bone • Ghost Sexy Shad

MSRP: $12.99
Available: October 2025

For more information on the Berkley Screamin’ Choppo, visit berkleyfishing.com

About Pure Fishing

Pure Fishing is a collection of the world’s favorite fishing brands. Every day, all around the world, someone experiences the joy of catching a fish with one of our products. From gear for epic battles at sea to a relaxing day with family at the lake, our portfolio includes the most recognized and admired brands in fishing tackle, lures, rods, reels and storage. Abu Garcia®, All Star®, Berkley®, Fenwick®, Fin-Nor®, Frabill®, Greys®, Hardy®, Hodgman®, Johnson®, JRC®, Mitchell®, Penn®, Pflueger®, Plano®, Shakespeare®, SpiderWire®, Stren®, Ugly Stik® and Van Staal®.





The Next Evolution of Veritas: Abu Garcia Introduces the Veritas Tournament Series

Brian Carter
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The Next Evolution of Veritas: Abu Garcia Introduces the Veritas Tournament Series

Bringing tournament performance to the proven Veritas name.

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Abu Garcia is once again delivering the next level of tournament-grade performance, in a familiar name. The new Veritas Tournament Rods offer serious anglers increased strength alongside improved weight and sensitivity. These rods are engineered to achieve significantly higher break strength without the added weight or unnecessary materials, creating a stronger, lighter, and more responsive platform that maintains the balance and feel tournament anglers demand.

At the heart of the Veritas Tournament Series is Abu Garcia’s 36-ton graphite blanks with proprietary Powerlux 200  resin technology, which increases the rods breaking strength while remaining ultra-thin and light in the angler’s hand. An EVA split grip design and ergonomic reel seat provide greater comfort, while the Robotically Optimized Casting System (ROCS) guide train maximizes casting distance, especially with lighter lures.

“Tournament anglers are always looking for an edge, but they also expect real value from their gear,” said Andrew Wheeler, Director of Brand and Product at Abu Garcia. “The Veritas Tournament Series delivers a stronger, lighter rod built for high-level performance, all backed by the trusted Veritas name.”

Available in 24 technique-specific models, the Veritas Tournament Series offers both tournament and more casual anglers a rod for all techniques. The lineup includes five winch-style models and two BFS-focused rods so anglers have the ability to pair the ideal rod to their lure. As tournament anglers know, having rods built for specific techniques maximizes performance, turning every cast into an opportunity to put another fish in the boat. The Veritas Tournament Series gives anglers the tools to fish with precision, confidence, and a relentless drive to win.

KEY FEATURES:

  • 36-ton graphite blank with Powerlux 200 resin technology
  • Titanium guides with ultra-light zirconium inserts
  • EVA split grip design and custom ergonomic reel seat
  • ROCS (Robotically Optimized Casting System) guide train
  • Family Flex to align with Fantasista X actions
  • Limited 3-year warranty

MSRP: $179.95
Available: October 2025

For more information on the Veritas Tournament Series, visit abugarcia.com.

About Pure Fishing

Pure Fishing is a collection of the world’s favorite fishing brands. Every day, all around the world, someone experiences the joy of catching a fish with one of our products. From gear for epic battles at sea to a relaxing day with family at the lake, our portfolio includes the most recognized and admired brands in fishing tackle, lures, rods, reels and storage. Abu Garcia®, All Star®, Berkley®, Fenwick®, Fin-Nor®, Frabill®, Greys®, Hardy®, Hodgman®, Johnson®, JRC®, Mitchell®, Penn®, Pflueger®, Plano®, Shakespeare®, SpiderWire®, Stren®, Ugly Stik® and Van Staal®.





MLF Announces 2026 Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats Program Details

Brian Carter
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MLF Announces 2026 Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats Program Details

Toyota Series maintains biggest payouts and lowest entry fees of any national circuit – program details now set for 2026

BENTON, Ky. (Oct. 20, 2025) – Major League Fishing (MLF) today announced the 2026 Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats program details and rules, headlined by a measured technology update that limits forward-facing and 360-degree sonar to one continuous 3-hour period each day of competition day, like the highly successful Bass Pro Tour. With the biggest payouts and lowest entry fees of any national circuit, the Toyota Series remains the high-value proving ground for anglers aiming for the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit, Bass Pro Tour and the sport’s premier no-entry-fee championship – REDCREST.

“Anglers compete in the Toyota Series because it delivers meaningful payouts at the ramp and, straightforward advancement to the no-entry-fee Toyota Series Championship offering some of the sport’s biggest awards,” said Boyd Duckett, MLF President and CEO. “For 2026, we preserved the format anglers love and added a reasonable limit on forward-facing sonar to keep the sport multi-dimensional where a variety of techniques contribute to success. It’s the same Toyota Series experience that anglers know and love – competitive, rewarding and built for growth.”

The 2026 Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats features:

5 Geographic Divisions + Wild Card Division:

  • Three 3-day qualifiers per geographic division – Forward Facing/360-degree Sonar restricted to 3 hours each day
  • Tournament winners and the top 25 pros from each division qualify for the Toyota Series Championship
  • Tournament winners and the top 25 co-anglers from each division qualify for the Toyota Series Championship

15    3-Day Qualifying Tournaments:

  • $40,000 top pro award based on 160-boat field, scaling up to $65,000 at 260 boats + $35,000 Phoenix MLF Bonus in every tournament
  • $33,500 Phoenix 518 Pro with 115 HP outboard top co-angler award based on 160-boat field, scaling up to $38,500 (boat + cash) at 260 boats
  • 25 percent of the field earns a check of at least $2,000 for pros and $550 for co-anglers
  • Winning pro and co-angler from each Qualifier advance to the Toyota Series Championship
  • Thursday, Friday and Saturday tournaments (unless otherwise noted): full field days 1 & 2, top 25 pros and co-anglers day 3
  • Winners determined by heaviest three-day catch – 5 bass per day boater limit | 5 bass per day co-angler limit
  • Live weigh-in coverage
  • Entry fee: $1,700 pro | $550 co-angler

Wild Card Division:

  • Pros and co-anglers always have a second chance at qualifying for the Toyota Series Championship by fishing four or more tournaments in any combination of divisions and keeping their three highest finishes.
  • 25 pros and 25 co-anglers qualify for the Toyota Series Championship based on Wild Card division points with ties resolved by the highest finish in a tournament.
  • Pros who qualify through the Wild Card division are eligible for a $10,000 bonus at the Toyota Series Championship.

Toyota Series Championship:

  • $200,000 top pro award + REDCREST 2027 + $35,000 Phoenix MLF Bonus
  • $33,500 top co-angler award
  • $10,000 bonus for the highest-finishing pro from each of the five U.S. divisions, Wild Card division and the International division. The second-highest finisher from the division represented by the winning pro will receive that division’s bonus. Pros who qualify as tournament winners or through a division’s standings (except for the Wild Card division) retain eligibility to win a $10,000 bonus from all divisions in which they won or finished in the top 25. Wild Card division qualifiers are only eligible for the Wild Card division bonus.
  • Thursday, Friday and Saturday tournament: full field (195 pros, 195 co-anglers) days 1 & 2, top 25 pros and co-anglers day 3
    • Top 25 pros and co-anglers from each of five U.S. divisions and the Wild Card division – 150 pros, 150 co-anglers
    • Tournament winners – 15 pros, 15 co-anglers
    • Highest finishing boater and co-angler from each Phoenix Bass Fishing League Regional and the TBF National Championship at the All-American – 8 pros, 8 co-anglers
    • College Fishing National Champions and 2nd place – 4 pros
    • College Fishing National Championship 3rd place – 2 co-anglers
    • High School Fishing National Champions – 2 co-anglers
    • MLF China – 2 pros, 2 co-anglers
    • MLF Canada – 3 pros, 3 co-anglers
    • MLF Mexico – 2 pros, 2 co-anglers
    • MLF Italy – 3 pros, 3 co-anglers
    • MLF Japan – 2 pros, 2 co-anglers
    • MLF South Africa – 2 pros, 2 co-anglers
    • MLF Spain – 2 pros, 2 co-anglers
    • MLF Zimbabwe – 2 pros, 2 co-anglers
  • Winners determined by heaviest three-day catch – 5 bass per day boater limit | 5 bass per day co-angler limit
  • Live weigh-in coverage all three days
  • Live on-the-water coverage on championship day
  • Nationally televised on VICE Sports 
  • No entry fee

Angler of the Year and Co-angler of the Year Awards:

  • $5,000 Angler of the Year in each division, excluding the Wild Card division
  • $2,000 Co-angler of the Year in each division, excluding the Wild Card division

Your Pathway to the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit and Bass Pro Tour:

  • Top five pros from each U.S. division in Angler of the Year standing, excluding the Wild Card division, qualify for the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit. If a top-five pro declines his or her bid or earns qualification through the Pro Circuit or Bass Pro Tour, the next eligible pro qualifies. This process continues through the top 10 pros in each U.S. division. 

To encourage a broad mix of tactics and maintain competitive balance, use of forward-facing and 360-degree sonar is restricted to one continuous 3-hour period each day of competition at all qualifying tournaments and the championship. Compliance will be verified by co-anglers just like longstanding tournament rules such as no fishing in an off-limits area and verifying sight fish are hooked inside the mouth. The boater/co-angler format, with its built-in checks and balances, has been the sport’s most secure format, outside of the Bass Pro Tour where tournament officials ride with anglers, since its inception over 30 years ago. 

“Enforcing forward-facing and 360-degree sonar use limits in a boater/co-angler format really isn’t that difficult,” Duckett said. “We aren’t asking boaters or co-anglers to do anything more than they always have. Compete in accordance with the rules and verify the legitimacy of each other’s catch. This self-policing model is the backbone of our sport. At Major League Fishing, we are working hard to find solutions that bring anglers back together where everyone is better off.”   

Anglers can register for the 2026 Toyota Series at MajorLeagueFishing.com or by calling 270.252.1000, beginning at 8 a.m. CT on the dates listed below:

  • Oct. 23 – Entry opens for the top 25 pros and co-anglers and tournament winners from each division of the 2025 Toyota Series and the top 60 boaters and co-anglers from each division of the 2025 Phoenix Bass Fishing League (BFL) – plus the winner of each 2025 BFL tournament (who paid an entry fee for all five tournaments in a division and fished at least two tournaments in the same division) and the top 10 anglers from the 2025 College Fishing National Championship. These anglers enter with a counterpart (pro with co-angler or co-angler with pro) by November 24 to secure their priority entry position.
  • Nov. 25 – Entry opens for Phoenix boat owners .
  • Nov. 26 – Entry opens for anglers who fished a full division of the 2025 Toyota Series or a full division of the 2025 BFL.
  • Dec. 1 – Entry opens for TBF members.
  • Dec. 2 – Entry opens to all anglers.

For the complete 2026 Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats schedule, rules and payouts, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com.

Proud sponsors of the MLF Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats 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, WIX Filters and YETI.

For regular Toyota Series updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF5’s social media outlets on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.





Macon’s Wilder Wins by Two Ounces at Phoenix Bass Fishing League Regional on Lake Seminole

Brian Carter
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Macon’s Wilder Wins by Two Ounces at Phoenix Bass Fishing League Regional on Lake Seminole
Boater winner Christopher Wilder of Macon, Georgia, and co-angler winner Shannon Pike of Sarasota, Florida.
Florida’s Pike Tops Co-Angler Division

BAINBRIDGE, Ga. (Oct. 20, 2025) – Boater Christopher Wilder of Macon, Georgia, caught a two-day total of 10 bass weighing 37 pounds, 13 ounces, to win the MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League (BFL) Presented by T-H Marine Regional on Lake Seminole Presented by Mando Deodorant . The tournament, which was hosted by Visit Bainbridge, concluded Saturday. For his win, Wilder earned a prize package valued at $50,000, including a new Phoenix 819 Pro bass boat with a 200hp Mercury or Suzuki outboard.

The Lake Seminole event served as the Regional championship for the BFL Gator and Bulldog divisions. The field included the top 60 boaters and co-anglers based on point standings, plus each division’s tournament winners. The top three boaters and co-anglers have also now qualified for the 2026 BFL All-American.

Wilder prefers to fish shallow, especially around grass, so he focused his efforts in the Spring Creek area of Seminole during practice. However, he ended up catching only one or two bass during one of his practice days and decided he needed to pivot. He turned to forward-facing sonar to locate fish around timber and on grass edges but wasn’t confident in the idea of fishing deeper water during the tournament.

“That’s not what I really wanted to do,” Wilder said. “I don’t really have a lot of experience of finding where fish are in the timber without them coming up and busting the surface. So, I tried to focus on the grass. But after a whole day of not catching them like that, I saw a school off of the edge of some grass, and I picked up an A-rig and caught small fish every cast for 50 or 60 casts. I ended up catching 200 to 300 fish during practice.”

Wilder decided to change his approach to searching for schools of bass on the grass edges, and ended up marking 34 schools of fish with quality bass.

On the first day of competition, Wilder ran to a spot that he knew held multiple schools of fish. Within 15 minutes of beginning his day, Wilder had 16 pounds in the livewell. That early success settled his jitters, and he spent the rest of the day culling to improve his weight.

“Everywhere I went there were five or six boats at a minimum, and I found people were sitting on the schools that I had marked,” Wilder said. “I ended up pulling up on one that nobody was on, and I caught more than 20 fish out of that school. I had around 19 pounds, and the bite shut off in the afternoon. I ended up culling a few more times and ended up just over 20 pounds, but it wasn’t anything like what was going on in the mornings.”

Wilder started out Saturday on the same school of fish he began fishing Friday, but he found the pressured fish reluctant to bite. He ended up catching five bass that weighed 6 pounds there.

“At that point, I could tell it was going to be a hard day,” Wilder said. “So, instead of mixing in with everybody on the water, I got out of the boat traffic fishing through the timber and went as fast as I could with the trolling motor to the other schools and just fished them as hard as I could.”

Wilder’s tactics paid off, although the bites were few and far between. He estimated he had somewhere around 17 pounds, but didn’t think that was going to be enough to achieve his goal of a Top-3 finish and a berth to the 2026 BFL All-American.

Wilder’s weight, however, proved to be enough, and he eclipsed his brother, Michael, by 2 ounces to secure his second BFL Regional win. His first came in 2023 on Lake Norman.

“Both of my Regional wins have just felt unreal,” Wilder said. “I certainly didn’t expect to win another one this soon.”

The top three boaters who qualified for the 2026 Phoenix BFL All-American finished:

1st:        Christopher Wilder, Macon, Ga., 10 bass, 37-13, $53,100 (includes $3,000 Phoenix Bonus)
2nd:       Michael Wilder, Lizella, Ga., 10 bass, 37-11, $7,776
3rd:       Brooks Anderson, Marietta, Ga., 10 bass, 37-6, $3,968

Rounding out the top 10 boaters were:

4th:        Buddy Benson, Dahlonega, Ga., 10 bass, 35-4, $2,445
5th:        Kennie Steverson, Umatilla, Fla., 10 bass, 34-0, $1,684
6th:        Brad Stalanaker, Eatonton, Ga., nine bass, 33-11, $1,531
7th:        Dylan Quilatan, Windermere, Fla., 10 bass, 31-11, $1,379
8th:        Steve Phillips, Douglas, Ga., seven bass, 31-8, $2,225
9th:        Richard Dunham, Palm Harbor, Fla., 10 bass, 30-9, $1,068
10th:     Tanner Seabolt, Okeechobee, Fla., 10 bass, 30-2, $990

Complete results can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.

Steve Phillips of Douglas, Georgia, won the Berkley Big Bass Boater award and $1,000 for landing a bass that weighed 7 pounds, 15 ounces – the biggest of the tournament.



Shannon Pike of Sarasota, Florida, won the co-angler division Saturday after bringing a two-day total of six bass weighing 20 pounds, 9 ounces, to the scale. Pike earned the top co-angler award of $15,307 for his victory.

The top three co-anglers who qualified for the 2026 Phoenix BFL All-American finished:

1st:        Shannon Pike, Sarasota, Fla., six bass, 20-9, $15,307
2nd:       Preston Williams, Tallahassee, Fla., six bass, 18-7, $3,884
3rd:       Mike Tucker, Yalaha, Fla., six bass, 15-3, $2,030

Rounding out the top 10 co-anglers were:

4th:        Nathan Haystead, St. Cloud, Fla., five bass, 14-4, $1,218
5th:        Demond Jenkins, Plant City, Fla., six bass, 14-1, $1,338
6th:        Nick Singleton, Crawfordville, Fla., six bass, 14-0, $762
7th:        Jacob Chandler, Covington, Ga., six bass, 14-0, $685
8th:        Ben Lovain, Calhoun, Ga., five bass, 12-13, $609
9th:        Jordan Elmore, St. Petersburg, Fla., six bass, 12-6, $531
10th:     Adrian Davies, Cocoa, Fla., six bass, 12-2, $492

Demond Jenkins of Plant City, Florida, caught a bass that weighed 5 pounds, 14 ounces, to win the Berkley Big Bass co-angler award worth $500.

The 2025 Phoenix BFL Presented by T-H Marine was a 24-division circuit devoted to weekend anglers, with 134 events throughout the season – five qualifying tournaments in each division. The top 60 boaters and co-anglers from each division, along with the five qualifying tournament winners, now advance to one of 12 BFL Regional tournaments where they are competing to finish in the top three, which then qualifies them for one of the longest-running championships in all of competitive bass fishing – the 43rd annual BFL All-American. The BFL All-American will take place May 28-30, 2026, at Lake Murray in Columbia, South Carolina, and is hosted by the Capital City Lake Murray Country Regional Tourism Board.





Mike Nichols & Mark Winn get the Bass Cast Tourney Win today with 19.45 lbs on SML

Brian Carter
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Mike Nichols & Mark Winn get the Bass Cast Tourney Win today with 19.45 lbs on SML

We would like to thank the 26 teams that came & and fished with us today. The weights were low, but a lot of bags were weighed in & we got to see a full giant weighed in as well, weighing 8.08 lbs. and caught by the team of Colby Huffman & Josh Bowes, pictured below.

CLICK TO SEE RESULTS

CLICK TO SEE POINTS





New Garmin OnBoard System Redefines Boating Safety Tech

Brian Carter
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New Garmin OnBoard System Redefines Boating Safety Tech

New Garmin OnBoard System Redefines Boating Safety Tech

Wireless Man Overboard detection and engine cutoff system integrates with Garmin chartplotters to give boaters added peace of mind.

OLATHE, Kan. — Garmin (NYSE: GRMN), the world’s largest1 and most innovative marine electronics manufacturer, today announced Garmin OnBoard™, a versatile Man Overboard (MOB) and engine cutoff solution for boaters that uses wireless technology instead of traditional tethered cords.

Tags can be worn on a wrist band, carabiner or key ring float, and designated as either captain or passenger. If an MOB is detected, the system will save a waypoint on the chartplotter, and audible alarms will sound. Should the captain fall overboard, the system will also automatically trigger engine cutoff. Captains can also disable the engine via a button-press on the tag if needed. With up to 8 MOB tags, mariners can tag what matters most – adults, children, pets and objects – all at the same time.

“Wearing an MOB tag that can activate an engine kill switch on a boat can potentially save lives. As part of our commitment to making boating safer and more enjoyable for everyone, we designed Garmin OnBoard with safety and convenience in mind using wireless, non-intrusive tags that will bring the boat to a stop and alert those on board if an MOB event is detected.”

–Susan Lyman, Garmin Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing

Peace of mind on the water

  • Setup, pair and manage MOB tags from compatible Garmin ECHOMAP™ and GPSMAP® chartplotters.
  • Wireless MOB tags allow users to move freely around the boat without the need for a physical tether.   
  • Chartplotter integration provides automatic MOB waypoint recording at the time of MOB detection, along with audible alarms from the chartplotter.
  • Easily disable tags temporarily to allow for hassle-free swimming and excursions.
  • MOB tag battery life can exceed a single season of typical operation.
  • Garmin OnBoard is compatible with any boat that has an engine cutoff switch and a compatible Garmin chartplotter.
  • Complies with U.S. federal laws requiring the installation and use of an Engine Cutoff Link.   

The Garmin OnBoard System will be available this month for a suggested retail price of $499.99. Additional MOB tags are available for $149.99. Installation of the Garmin OnBoard System by a qualified marine installer is recommended. 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. Recipient of five National Safe Boating Awards from the Sea Tow Foundation, Garmin is committed to creating products that can support safe and responsible boating practices. For the 11th consecutive year, Garmin was named the Manufacturer of the Year by the National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA). For more information, visit the Garmin Newsroom, email our media team, connect with @garminmarine on social, or follow the Garmin blog.

1Based on 2024 sales.

This device has not been authorized as required by the rules of the Federal Communications Commission. This device is not, and may not be, offered for sale or lease, or sold or leased, until authorization is obtained.

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.





Gifts for the Angler

Brian Carter
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Gifts for the Angler
Gifts for the Angler
Retail industry experts recommend shopping early for the Holidays, so here’s your kickstarter
MINNEAPOLIS, MN (October 16, 2025) – Retail experts say price increases driven by inflation and tariffs are motivating consumers to start Holiday shopping ahead of traditional schedules, aiming to lock in lower prices before potential markups later in the season. In fact, as much as 80% of Holiday gift spending is projected to happen before Cyber Monday (December 1, 2025).In conjunction, the fishing industry has been battling tariffs with a fervor, holding hard on prices whenever possible and mitigating increases as much as profitability allows – companies still must make money to survive. In short, our beloved brands are trying to protect the consumer.With that said, given the ongoing tariff turmoil, you might want to jumpstart the season.Here are some new products and fishing-favorites to consider gifting this year. Get ‘em while they’re hot – and in stock…
Whitewater Rays Performance HoodieWe’ve been wearing this one and love it. The advanced hoodie sports UPF 50+ sun defense, effectively blocking 98% of the sun’s harmful rays. That same fabric is lavish, too, comfortable against the skin, as well as stretchy to endorse range of motion. Moreover, the Rays Performance Hoodie is engineered with Touch-Activated cooling fabric technology to keep you comfortable when temps rise, while antimicrobial thwarts unwanted smells that can accumulate with use. The hood’s three-panel hood design bolsters fit and keeps it in place. Its signature feature is a breathable neck and face gaiter sewn inside the back of the neck. Behold the anatomy of fishing’s finest hoodie.MSRP $79.99
Whitewater Thermoclyne Hooded JacketThe versatile and snappy-looking jacket stands as a premium insulated layer between you and the elements, whether donned as a standalone or worn between a baselayer and outer shell, say a rain jacket. The lightweight and warm jacket is free of bulk through expert design and its extraordinary, thermally-mapped insulation – Sonora® Aura. The outer shell is composed of a durable but smooth 100% nylon shell with DWR (durable water repellant) treatment and measurable wind protection. Additionally, Polygiene® StayFresh keeps things fresh, even after long days on the water. The fit is exquisite, too, every square inch considered with movement in mind.MSRP $199.99
CROCS Swiftwater Mesh Deck SandalAre there better fishing shoes? Probably. But is there really a better value? Doubt it. For years, we’ve worn, destroyed, and replaced Swiftwater Sandals, using them to pin against gunnels and fight sharks, wade oyster shards, and keep footing on grungy tiles at the pier bar. Crocs’ remodeled version is a little more open, but still incredibly flexible, supportive and water-friendly. Stretch-mesh uppers with a hook-and-loop closure strap allow you to adjust the fit. Plus, wider ports all around shed water and other elements quickly. MSRP $59.99
EGO S2 Slider Landing NetsWe’ll let you know if a better landing net becomes available. Until then, trust that EGO’s S2 Slider series is unequalled in construction and performance, built around a “universal system” that features an extendable net handle for reaching boat-shy trophies—and offers a twist-on and -off system that allows interchanging net frames and net sizes/materials to match exactly what you’re fishing and where. The options are practically limitless. The system also lets you swap the net hoop out for accessories like the 8-inch Deck Brush, Deck Mop, Deluxe Deck Mop, Lure Retriever, or Boat Hook.MSRP $109.99 to $169.99
EGO Tackle Box Sling PackSupreme mobility can be hampered by the clumsy double shoulder straps on the typical backpack style tackle bag. Conversely, EGO’s Tackle Box Sling Pack’s innovative single strap design quickly humps over your head and shoulder, and then instantly settles in place as the strap crosses your chest and pack relaxes on your back. The pack’s tactical and technical exterior utilizes robust 1000D Nylon fabric with PVC backing – the tough stuff. Toughness continues with wide-toothed zippers, which are protected by fabric overlays. Its front sports a trifecta of zippered compartments, bottle pouch, and rod/reel combo holder. The pack opens to reveal three included 3700-size utility tackle trays – accommodating more than enough tackle for an excursion. Also available in Kryptek PONTUS.MSRP $129.99
Norsk Lithium 14.8V 30Ah Portable Sonar BatteryWhether you’re on the ice, in the kayak, or running an all-season shuttle system, the 14.8V 30Ah Portable Sonar Battery from Norsk Lithium® delivers powerful, long-lasting energy for live imaging and forward-facing sonar. Engineered for top-tier performance with Humminbird MEGA Live Imaging™, Garmin LiveScope™, and Lowrance ActiveTarget™, its higher capacity keeps your sonar running stronger for longer, so you can focus on finding fish, not charging batteries. Includes a standard 3A charger.MSRP $179.99 – $419.99
HOODOO Sports Sub-Z Cooler SeriesThe marketplace is no stranger to rotomolded coolers. They’re rugged as a mountain and trap cold like a walk-in freezer – when compared to your typical plastic cooler or one of those blasphemous styrofoam things. With a full 3.5-inches of wall insulation, the HOODOO Sports Sub-Z series is worthy of consideration. Fairly priced, the polyethylene coolers feature stainless steel handles (smaller sizes) and tough rubber latches. Available in 16-, 22-, 48-, 70-, and 90-quart sizes. Choose from Polar Ice, Ocean Blue, Atlantic Sand, and Charcoal Slate.MSRP $129.99 to $329.99
ALL FISH ARE AWESOME“There’s an unwritten weighting system for animals – fish included,” said author Noel Vick, whose ‘real job’ is President of industry communications company Traditions Media. “Anglers regularly rank fish by how they taste, fight, or look.” In All Fish are Awesome, the fair-and-balanced author features both freshwater and saltwater fish, some well-known, others not so much. “My goal was to show a popular species alongside one that’s not so loved and leave kids knowing they’re both awesome and important.” Ages 4 to 10. Hardcover. Paperback available through Amazon.$16.99
FISHING FOR DUMMIESThe “For Dummies” series dates to 1991 with a book about learning DOS. (There’s your trivia question for the day. What is DOS?) Since, 6,000 titles and refreshers have been printed, including the third edition of Fishing for Dummies by Greg Schwipps. He says, while none of us is born to angling, we can all achieve it―and become great at it. Whether you love fishing for fun or sport, this hands-on friendly guide has everything you need to make sure that there need never be such a thing as “the one that got away!”   MSRP $24.99
DAIWA D-SHOCK II Spinning Combo with Braided LineInterested in joining the 60+ million anglers in the U.S. and Canada who share a passion for fishing? If you’re a youngster or novice experimenting with the sport – and/or just need some solid, functional, inexpensive tackle for that weekend at the lake, DAIWA’s new D-SHOCK II spinning rod/reel combo is the ticket. These value-packed combos are the first to come pre-spooled with DAIWA’s own modern braided fishing line. The rods are constructed with forgiving fiberglass blanks with comfortable cork handles. The smooth turning reels feature DAIWA’s legendary DIGIGEAR gearing system. Offered in 6’2” ultralight and medium light, 6’6” medium, and 7’ medium and medium-heavy power versions.MSRP $39.99
DAIWA AIRD 80$99.99…and the price is firm. The sleek and palmable AIRD 80 is a prime gateway to mastering a baitcasting reel, comfortable in anyone’s hand and easy to cast. DAIWA’s classic MAGFORCE magnetic spool braking system reduces overrun, aka backlash – the nemesis of anglers, especially those new to baitcasting reels. The AIRD 80’s MAGFORCE braking system works in concert with DAIWA’s inventive LC (Long Casting) Concept, whereby a specially shaped spool maximizes casting distance. The affordably priced AIRD 80 gobbles up the right amount of line for multiple applications – 120yds of 12lb monofilament or fluorocarbon; 110yds of 14lb monofilament or fluorocarbon; 125yds of 30lb braid; and 95yds of 40lb braid. MSRP $99.99
DAIWA PROREX X LTAn anonymous source at DAIWA said, “these are selling like Cabbage Patch Kids in 1983.” If you’re old enough to recall the craze, there were literal retail riots… This super-affordable reel boasts a significant number of DAIWA technologies, including AIRDRIVE DESIGN, TOUGH DIGIGEAR, Long Cast ABS, and even the ATD Type-L drag system. Techi-ness aside, that means a sweet reel. Moreover, the budget-friendly PROREX X LT was concepted for fishing in colder weather, say in the 50’s and under. DIAWA went with lower gear ratios to deliver a slower and smoother turn to accommodate cold water finesse tactics.MSRP from $69.99
DAIWA AIRD-X RodsDAIWA’s best kept secret in rods is out of the barn. The $60 AIRD-X fishes like a rod twice it’s price, and dealers hoard whatever they can get. Available in spinning and casting models, the AIRD-X is constructed of high quality graphite to yield both sensitivity and strength. DAIWA’s “Braiding-X” construction reinforces the blank and reduces blank twist. Also features split-grip handles and rich cosmetics. 8 casting and 10 spinning versions available.MSRP $54.99
DAIWA J-BRAID X8 Grand Braided LineSpool those new reels with what many angling experts consider the best value in braided fishing line: J-BRAID X8 Grand. The popular braid is strong, sensitive, and resistant to abrasion, yet well-bodied enough to lay smoothly on the spool. J-BRAID x8 Grand is a premium quality 8 carrier braid made of the finest materials from Japan. Available in CHARTREUSE, DARK GREEN, GREY, and ISLAND BLUE.MSRP $21.99 (150 yard filler spool)
Mystery Tackle BoxThere are monthly subscriptions for everything, from wine and cheese to ethically sourced animal skulls and stuff for doomsday preppers. Mystery Tackle Box is a fun and affordable way to discover new fishing products every single month with subscription plans ranging from beginner to expert angler. Subscribers can choose their preferred species and duration of plan, and are also able to modify, pause, or cancel at any time. Wrapped, it’s like a gift in a gift. Over 10,000,000 boxes shipped to date…Plans start at $19 mo./$82 for gift plans
Z-Man Ned Rig KitA perfect way to get started fishing the incredibly effective Ned Rig technique, the Ned Rig kit features the most popular and versatile 10X Tough ElaZtech® finesse baits and ShroomZ™ jigheads. Each kit includes Finesse TRD™, TRD TicklerZ™, and TRD CrawZ™ softbaits along with Finesse ShroomZ™ jigheads in 1/6 and 1/10 oz weights. All Green Pumpkin and Hot Color versions available. MSRP $22.99
Z-MAN Tungsten ChatterBait® Elite EVO™ChatterBaits are to bass fishing what bows are to violins – inseparable. Z-Man’s progressive Tungsten ChatterBait Elite EVO features a compact 96% tungsten head that sinks quickly, producing unique sounds and vibrations. The direct head-to-blade connection ensures immediate action. It has a heavy-duty 5/0 hook, custom 2-part trailer keeper, detailed head paint with 3D eyes, wire-tied silicone skirts, and durable stainless steel blades with various finishes. Available in 2 weights and 16 colors.MSRP $17.99
Evergreen GEZZYThe GEZZY’s leggy invertebrate profile is as critter-ish as it gets. Just shy of two-inches long, the GEZZY is a versatile and effective bait for bass that are heavily pressured or just looking for an easy meal. Heavy for its size, the GEZZY sinks slowly and perfectly horizontal while its appendages quiver and vibrate, rigged weightless on a wide-gap hook. It casts far and lands softly with just a little ping, exactly like an insect touching the surface. Available in 6 colors.MSRP $13.99 (6 pack)
Eagle Claw Fishing KitsType “kits” into the search bar on the Eagle Claw website and you get 73 results. No surprise. For decades, the legacy manufacturer has lead the league in specialized and affordable fishing kits. Crappies only? Covered. Just walleyes? Got your back. How about coastal Florida? There’s one for that, too.Wide variety of prices
Pro-Cure Pro PacksWe’ve tested a lot of scent additives, some dating back to our childhood days. Brands come and go. Scents in general go in and out of favorability, too. The only brand we’ve trusted through thick and thin is Pro-Cure. For gift giving, consider their species-specific, three flavor Pro Packs. The sticky, purposefully stinky gel emits from palm-sized squeeze bottles and holds like the dickens.MSRP $24.95





Staying On Top of Fall Fishing by Carson Maddux

Brian Carter
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Staying On Top of Fall Fishing by Carson Maddux

Staying On Top of Fall Fishing

As the heat of summer fades and the crisp mornings of fall roll in, bass anglers know it’s prime time for explosive topwater action. Fall is one of the most exciting times of the year to fish topwater lures for bass, as shad and other baitfish begin to migrate into creeks, shallows, and transition areas. With the lakes turning over and shad beginning to bunch up by the thousands, bass take advantage and use this time to feed up for the winter. Fall fishing is famous for “junk fishing” but I believe a topwater is the single most effective way to catch bass in the fall of the year.

When you’re trying to locate fish in the fall, speed matters. This is where buzzbaits and ploppers shine. These lures allow you to cover large stretches of shoreline, flats, and creek arms quickly, triggering reaction strikes from active bass that are hunting baitfish. Buzzbaits are especially effective in stained water or low-light conditions. The squeaking blade throws off vibration and noise, which can call bass from a distance. They excel around shallow wood, grass edges, and even open banks when bait is present. On the highland reservoirs around the south, fishing buzzbaits around shade lines and seawalls can be especially effective. Ploppers offer a more aggressive profile with their distinctive gurgling sound. They’re great for both open water and target casting around isolated cover. Retrieve speed can be adjusted to dial in what the fish want—sometimes a steady, medium retrieve is all it takes, while other times a fast, erratic retrieve will generate more strikes.

Once you’ve found fish near structures like laydowns, docks, rocky points, or shallow brush, walking baits become the go-to option. You can keep the bait in the strike zone longer and allow the fish to pull off the structure they are hanging on to attack your lure. This precision makes walking baits ideal when bass are holding tight to cover and won’t chase a fast-moving lure. They excel on calm days, particularly when the water is clear and the fish can inspect the bait. Match the hatch with smaller, more natural colors when conditions are tough, or go bigger and bolder in low light or choppy water.

One of the most overlooked fall patterns is throwing topwater lures over deep, clear water, especially where submerged brush piles or standing timber are present.This pattern works especially well during calm, sunny days when bass position high in the water column, or early in the morning when bait is near the surface. Smaller motionless baits are becoming super popular in clear water as well. These baits mimic a fleeing shad and cause a slight ripple underneath the surface. The berkley “krej”, jackall “riser”, and deps “wagasaki” baits are good options for this technique. They are some of the best options when schooling fish are present or the fish are extremely picky.

Fall fishing is all about staying on the move and fishing for active fish. There are fish feeding somewhere on the lake and it is up to you to find them. Topwaters are my favorite way to catch fish and this is the time of year to throw them!





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