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MLF Announces Bass Pro Shops REDCREST 2026 on Table Rock Lake

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August 27, 2025

MLF Announces Bass Pro Shops REDCREST 2026 on Table Rock Lake

MLF’s Championship Event to feature $300,000 Top Prize, Outdoor Sports Expo Set for Bass Pro Shops’ Flagship Store

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (Aug. 27, 2025) – Major League Fishing (MLF) today unveiled a long-awaited announcement and one of the most exciting championship destinations in its history – Bass Pro Shops REDCREST 2026, the Bass Pro Tour Championship, will take place on Table Rock Lake near Springfield, Missouri, on April 17-19, 2026.

For the first time ever, the premier event will be held near the birthplace of Bass Pro Shops, the original anchor sponsor of Major League Fishing and title sponsor of the Bass Pro Tour since its inception. The prestigious event will showcase 35 of the top bass-fishing professionals in the world competing for the seventh REDCREST Championship trophy and a $300,000 top prize.

In another first for the championship, the REDCREST 2026 Outdoor Sports Expo will be a three-day, open-air, tented festival staged right in the heart of the Bass Pro Shops National Headquarters campus in Springfield – a setting that embodies the passion, heritage and excitement of the sport. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Ozarks, this vibrant outdoor setting will be filled with top outdoor brands, interactive kids’ activities, casting challenges, live entertainment, food and fun for the whole family.

The competition will feature MLF’s catch, weigh, immediate-release format, with every fish tracked in real-time via SCORETRACKER®. On-the-water action will be streamed live all three days on MLFNOW! ® and MajorLeagueFishing.com while fans shop the Outdoor Sports Expo for great deals from hundreds of exhibitors in what has become the biggest watch party in bass fishing. Onsite fans will have multiple opportunities to take part in MLF pro angler meet & greets, local school visits, lake cleanup efforts and other unique community engagement events throughout the week, including a White River Marine owner’s tournament using SCORETRACKER® LIVE on a nearby lake with recognition of the winners during the REDCREST 2026 postgame show on Championship Sunday.

Although Table Rock Lake has long hosted numerous MLF events over the years – including back-to-back BPT events in 2021 – REDCREST 2026 marks the first time the championship will be held on the legendary fishery. Previous REDCREST champions include three-time winner Dustin Connell (2025, 2024, 2021), Bryan Thrift (2023), Bobby Lane (2022) and Edwin Evers (2019).

“We’ve been working on this event for a long time, and we’re so proud to finally announce Table Rock Lake as the venue for REDCREST 2026,” said Boyd Duckett, MLF President and CEO. “The Ozarks region is the perfect backdrop for a celebration of everything bass fishing, and REDCREST 2026 will combine the highest level of tournament competition with a dynamic outdoor expo that captures the energy and excitement of the sport. The Bass Pro Shops headquarters will offer an incredible setting for fans to experience the action, meet their favorite pros and enjoy a week filled with fishing, fun and the unmatched beauty of the Ozarks.”

Springfield is home to the “Grandaddy of All Outdoor Stores” – the Bass Pro Shops National Headquarters – and the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium, voted “America’s Best Aquarium” an unprecedented seven times, and “America’s Best New Attraction.” This one-of-a-kind destination is home to the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame and draws millions of visitors each year to experience immersive wildlife galleries, hands-on adventures and the world’s largest wildlife collection.

Bass Pro Shops founder and noted conservationist Johnny Morris has spent decades building experiences that connect people to nature, championing conservation and celebrating the heritage of fishing and the outdoors. His commitment to inspiring new generations to enjoy and protect the resources we share is the perfect complement to MLF’s mission, making the Ozarks the ideal home for REDCREST 2026 and the Outdoor Sports Expo.

“Table Rock Lake is truly one of the crown jewels of America’s fishing waters,” said Johnny Morris. “Hosting the Bass Pro Tour REDCREST 2026 right here, in our home in the Ozarks, with the Outdoor Sports Expo at our national headquarters, is a dream come true for us. We are honored to welcome fishing fans from all over the world to experience the Ozarks and share in the fun, fellowship and excitement of this championship.”

The 35 pros that will compete in REDCREST 2026 at Table Rock Lake are:

Adrian Avena, Vineland, N.J.
Matt Becker, Ten Mile, Tenn.
Zack Birge, Blanchard, Okla.
Keith Carson, DeBary, Fla.
Dustin Connell, Clanton, Ala.
Justin Cooper, Zwolle, La.
Mark Daniels Jr., Tuskegee, Ala.
Mark Davis, Mount Ida, Ark.
Ott DeFoe, Blaine, Tenn.
Brent Ehrler, Redlands, Calif.
James Elam, Tulsa, Okla.
Edwin Evers, Talala, Okla.
Todd Faircloth, Jasper, Texas
Cole Floyd, Leesburg, Ohio
Drew Gill, Mount Carmel, Ill.
Nick Hatfield, Greeneville, Tenn.
Marshall Hughes, Hemphill, Texas
John Hunter, Shelbyville, Ky.
Alton Jones Jr., Waco, Texas
Jake Lawrence, Paris, Tenn.
Justin Lucas, Guntersville, Ala.
Colby Miller, Elmer, La.
Michael Neal, Dayton, Tenn.
Ron Nelson, Berrien Springs, Mich.
Takahiro Omori, Tokyo, Japan
Spencer Shuffield, Hot Springs, Ark.
Jeff Sprague, Wills Point, Texas
Wesley Strader, Spring City, Tenn.
Matteo Turano, Puryear, Tenn.
Jacob Wall, New Hope, Ala.
Jacob Wheeler, Harrison, Tenn.
2025 Tackle Warehouse Invitationals Champion (TBD)
2025 Toyota Series Boater Champion (TBD)
Highest Finishing Member of CF National Champions at Toyota Series Championship (TBD)
International Division Winner at Toyota Series Championship (TBD)

For complete details and updated information on Major League Fishing, REDCREST 2026 and the Bass Pro Tour, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF’s social media outlets at Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube.

Austin Hughes and Holden Northcott Win CATT East Roanoke River, NC with 22.15 lbs

Brian Carter

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August 27, 2025

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Austin Hughes and Holden Northcott Win CATT East Roanoke River, NC with 22.15 lbs

Enter 2 CATT Events, either Fall 2025 or Spring 2025, and you’re Qualified to enter the CATT Chowan River Championship! Tap on the link for more info!

Next CATT East Qualifier is Sept 20 on the Roanoke River!

Check out the payback guys!

1st Place Austin Hughes and Holden Northcott 22.15 lbs $1250. $450 1st place $25 side pot. $480 1st place $50 side pot. They also had big fish 7.86 lbs $280. Total $2460. Congratulations guys!

2nd Kevin and Tyler Jones 17.32 lbs $610. 2nd $50 side pot $340. Total $950. Congratulations guys!

3rd Phillip Gibson and Bryan Hendricks 15.45 lbs $325. 3rd place $50 side pot $130 Congratulations!

4th Jeff Stoop 12.94 lbs $220. Congratulations! Not pictured.

5th Matt Greschak and Jason Tripp 12.72 lbs $160. Congratulations. Not pictured.

1st and 2nd place teams were polygraphed.

Our next tournament will be September 20th in Plymouth and then we return to the Pamlico in Washington October 18th.

Thanks to everyone who came out and fished, we appreciate your participation.

Team	BF	Weight	Winnings	Points
Holden Northcutt – Austin Hughes	7.86	22.15	$2,460.00	110
Kevin Jones – Tyler Jones	5.24	17.32	$950.00	109
Phillip Gibson – Bryan Hendricks	4.21	15.45	$455.00	108
Jeff Stoop	3.61	12.94	$220.00	107
Matt Greschack – Jason Tripp	0.00	12.72	$160.00	106
Ricky Mize – Chris Turner	4.30	12.64		105
Matt Mainhart – Nathan Mainhart	4.24	12.31		104
Tracy King – Jackson King	3.03	12.12		103
Travis Mewborn – Lauren Ricks	0.00	11.78		102
Thomas Craft – Tanner Beamon	0.00	11.77		101
Jody Sykes – Mitch Garner	0.00	11.00		100
Andrew Grant – Luke Edwards	0.00	9.85		99
Eric Roberson – Adam Baldwin	0.00	9.61		98
Raeford faircloth – Joe Smith	2.82	9.17		97
Larry Thomas – Will James	0.00	9.06		96
Wayne Harris – Jason Snell	0.00	8.89		95
Edward Townsend – Kevin Mitchell	0.00	6.05		94
Steve Bishop – Daryl Peele	0.00	3.77		93
Ryan Killinger – Dickie Killinger	0.00	0.00		83
Brandon Johnson – Wilson Johnson	0.00	0.00		83
Cameron Johnson – Jordan Norris	0.00	0.00		83
Jerry Langley – Ronnie Casey	0.00	0.00		83
Brian Stalls – Joseph Gurganus	0.00	0.00		83
Zeb West – Dillon Thomas	0.00	0.00		83
Brian Sessions – Kenny Lassiter	0.00	0.00		83
Charles Weatherby – Mike Hinson	0.00	0.00		83
Dennis Quinn – Chuck Quinn	0.00	0.00		83
Total Entrys			$3,240.00
BONUS $			$1,400.00
Total Paid At Ramp			$4,245.00
CATT			$50.00
2025 East FALL Final Fund			$295.00
2026 CATT Championship Fund			$50.00
2025 East Fall Fund Total			$625.00

Avena/Connell and Evers/Reese Earn Final Two Spots from Elimination Round Match 3 at B&W Trailer Hitches Challenge Cup

Brian Carter

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August 26, 2025

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Avena/Connell and Evers/Reese Earn Final Two Spots from Elimination Round Match 3 at B&W Trailer Hitches Challenge Cup

Team YETI (Avena/Connell) catches 18 scorable bass weighing 39-11 to win third match of Elimination Round, six teams now set for Knockout Round

PORT HURON, Mich. (Aug. 26, 2025) – The final Elimination Round of the B&W Trailer Hitches Challenge Cup Presented by 5-hour ENERGY® at Port Huron on Michigan’s Thumbcoast delivered plenty of drama Tuesday on the St. Clair River, with four teams battling for the last two spots in the Knockout Round at the first event of the 2025 Fishing Clash Team Series Presented by Bass Pro Shops. When the dust settled, Team YETI’s Adrian Avena and Dustin Connell powered their way to the top of the leaderboard, while Team Kubota – Edwin Evers and Bass Fishing Hall of Famer Skeet Reese – held off a furious late rally to secure the second advancing spot.

Despite a hard charge by Team Fishing Clash, Anthony Gagliardi and Jeremy Lawyer, late in Period 3, Team Kubota locked down second place with a mix of largemouth and smallmouth. Reese capped the day with a 2-3 smallmouth that provided the narrow margin they needed to advance, extending his retirement tour at least one more round alongside longtime friend Evers.

Team Fishing Clash’s Gagliardi and Lawyer nearly pulled off a Cinderella comeback, erasing a 12-pound deficit in the final period to finish just 1 pound, 4 ounces shy of advancing. Despite having four fish disqualified early in the morning for inadvertently being caught outside the competition zone, they stormed back with several quality smallmouth late in the day but ultimately fell below the Elimination Line to end the day in third place.

Team Knighten Industries – Jake Lawrence and Colby Miller – jumped out to an early lead with six scorable bass in Period 1, but their bite fizzled, producing just two more fish the rest of the day to end their Challenge Cup run in fourth place.

Link to HD Video Clip of Challenge Cup Elimination Round Match 3 Highlights
Link to Morning Photo Gallery: Final Challenge Cup Elimination Match underway on St. Clair River
Link to Afternoon Photo Gallery: Challenge Cup anglers grind it out on the St. Clair River during Elimination Match 3

Connell was the difference-maker for Team YETI, boating 29 pounds, 13 ounces of bass on his own and anchoring their winning weight of 39-11. The Alabama pro and three-time REDCREST Champion also claimed the Berkley Big Bass of the day with a 4-pound, 1-ounce smallmouth. Together, Connell and Avena dialed in a one-two punch that carried them from a slow start into a dominant finish.

“We just won the day right here on the St. Clair River,” Connell said in his post-game interview. “Today, it was all about that one-two punch – Adrian was throwing a black Berkley PowerBait MaxScent Flat Worm, I was throwing a green-pumpkin colored Rapala CrushCity Salted Ned Roll, which is a new bait that just came out. Switching it up, changing colors, that little combo got us some good bites and a couple of dang good fish.”

Avena credited the turnaround to finding the combination of the right area and the right bait.

“Today proved you can definitely be throwing the right bait in the wrong area and you’re not going to catch anything,” Avena said. “Once we figured out what the fish were relating to and started dialing in on a couple of spots, it all came together.”

Early on, the duo admitted things weren’t going as planned. After scouting around with limited success, they even debated switching to largemouth.

“It wasn’t that easy at the beginning,” Connell said. “We started out slow and thought about just going after largemouth, but then we settled in on those smallmouth and made it work. We’re literally sandwiched between two smallmouth factories here – Lake St. Clair and Lake Huron – and once we figured out where the fish wanted to be, we had a lot of fun.”

Avena agreed, noting that pressure on the river after three days of competition made location critical.

“I got a feeling a lot of that industrial stuff was pummeled by the other teams earlier in the week,” he said. “It looked so good, but it just wasn’t the right depth. Once we got out on that ridge in 10 feet, the quality was way better. Most of those fish were 2½ to 4 pounds, and that’s exactly what we needed.”

Connell said a key moment came when he spotted one of his bigger fish following his bait.

“That 3-9 I caught kind of clued me in,” Connell explained. “He came out following the bait, and I realized they were up a little bit shallower. After that, things really started clicking.”

For Connell and Avena, Tuesday’s win means momentum heading into the Knockout Round.

“One of the things I love about a team tournament is just having a partner in the boat,” Connell said. “You’ve got somebody to bounce ideas off of, somebody to joke with when it’s slow, and somebody to celebrate with when you figure it out. Adrian’s one of my good buddies, and that makes a day like today even more fun.”

“I know we’re friends and all, but I think you’re a pretty good pick for a teammate,” Avena laughed. “We live to fight another day, and I like our chances. Let’s do it again.”

The top two teams from Elimination Round Match 3 at the B&W Trailer Hitches Challenge Cup Presented by 5-hour ENERGY® that now advance to the Knockout Round are:

1st:         Team YETI, 18 bass, 39-11
Adrian Avena, Vineland, N.J., five bass, 9-14
Dustin Connell, Clanton, Ala., 13 bass, 29-13
2nd:        Team Kubota, 14 bass, 30-1
Edwin Evers, Talala, Okla., seven bass, 14-15
Skeet Reese, Auburn, Calif., seven bass, 15-2

Eliminated from competition are:

3rd: Team Fishing Clash, 10 bass, 28-14
Anthony Gagliardi, Prosperity, S.C., four bass, 10-10
Jeremy Lawyer, Sarcoxie, Mo., six bass, 18-4
4th:         Team Knighten, eight bass, 13-11
Jake Lawrence, Paris, Tenn., three bass, 4-14
Colby Miller, Elmer, La., five bass, 8-13

Complete results from throughout the week can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.

Overall, there were 50 bass weighing 112 pounds, 5 ounces caught by the four teams in Elimination Round Match 3 on the southern half of the St. Clair River. Team YETI pro Dustin Connell caught the Berkley Big Bass of the day – a smallmouth weighing 4 pounds, 1 ounce.

The three teams that will compete Wednesday in Knockout Round Match 1 at the B&W Trailer Hitches Challenge Cup Presented by 5-hour ENERGY® are:

Team 7Brew Coffee:
Alton Jones Sr., Lorena, Texas
Alton Jones Jr., Waco, Texas

Team O’Reilly Auto Parts:
Ron Nelson, Berrien Springs, Mich.
Martin Villa, Charlottesville, Va.

Team Kubota:
Edwin Evers, Talala, Okla.
Skeet Reese, Auburn, Calif.

The B&W Trailer Hitches Challenge Cup Presented by 5-hour ENERGY® is hosted by Discover the Blue Michigan’s Thumbcoast and takes place over six days in Port Huron, Michigan . The competition water for each day is top-secret and is only revealed to the anglers when they arrive at the boat ramp each morning. Anglers are driven directly to the day’s competition area launch ramp by their officials. Competition begins on the water at 8:45 a.m.

The MLFNOW!® broadcast team of Chad McKee and J.T. Kenney will break down the extended action live every day of competition from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET. MLFNOW!® is live streamed on MajorLeagueFishing.com, the MLF and MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) apps, RFD-TV Now, Game & Fish TV and Rumble. The final period of every day of competition of the 2025 Fishing Clash Team Series is broadcast live on RFD-TV, from 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. ET.

The Challenge Cup features 12 two-man teams divided into three groups as they enter the one-day Elimination Round matches. Each of the three Elimination Round matches will feature four new teams, with the top two teams from each match of the Elimination Round advancing to the Knockout Round on Days 4 & 5. In the Knockout Rounds, three teams compete each day, with the top two teams from each Knockout Round match moving on to the Championship Round on Day 6. In Friday’s Day 6 Championship Round, the final four teams will compete in a one-day shootout to determine which team will win the 2025 B&W Trailer Hitches Challenge Cup Presented by 5-hour ENERGY®.

The MLF Fishing Clash Team Series Presented by Bass Pro Shops will feature four Cup events in 2025 – the Challenge, Heritage, Patriot, and Summit Cups – with 12 two-man teams of Bass Pro Tour anglers competing for a share of $560,000 in prize money. Teams were formed through a selection process, where 48 team captains – based on Fishing Clash Angler of the Year (AOY) standings throughout the 2025 Bass Pro Tour season – selected a teammate. Teams will compete throughout the fall of 2025.

Television coverage of the MLF Fishing Clash Team Series B&W Trailer Hitches Challenge Cup Presented by 5-hour ENERGY® will premiere on Outdoor Channel as six two-hour original episodes each Saturday afternoon starting January 3, 2026. The complete television schedule for the Fishing Clash Team Series on Outdoor Channel will be posted at MajorLeagueFishing.com.

Tyler Trent and Ricky Trent win CATT Old North Falls Lake, NC with 21.18 lbs bag and a nice kicker fish of 6.22lbs!

Uncategorized

Brian Carter

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August 26, 2025

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Tyler Trent and Ricky Trent win CATT Old North Falls Lake, NC with 21.18 lbs bag and a nice kicker fish of 6.22lbs!

Next CATT Old North will be Sept 20 at Jordan 7 am to 3 pm!

Use PHANTOMCATT15 at checkout and earn 15% off your Phantom Outdoor apparel order! Tap on the Camo Phantom shirt ad start shopping!

Tyler Trent and Ricky Trent win with 5 bass weighing 21.18lbs bag and a nice kicker fish of 6.22lbs! They earned $1,545.00!

Chad Fara and Trey Nichols ended the day in 2nd place with 19.66lbs and had Big Fish with a giant 8.17 Falls Lake giant. They also win the 2nd place side pot. Congratulations guys.

Todd Sumner & Rick Dunstan 3rd with 5 bass weighing 17.18 lbs!

Shane & Harris Burns with some nice uns!

Team	BF	Weight	Winnings	Points
Tyler Trent – Ricky Trent	6.22	21.18	$1,545.00	110
Chad Fara – Trey Nichols	8.17	19.68	$1,220.00	109
Rick Dunstan – Todd Sumner	7.21	17.18	$480.00	108
Travis Watson – Shannon Stewart	0.00	13.38	$225.00	107
Jay Fogleman – Seth Ellis	0.00	12.97		106
Scott Smith – Dennis Reedy	0.00	11.87		105
Harvey Reece – Allen White	0.00	10.75		104
Shane Powell – Oliver Powell	0.00	10.74		103
Daniel Dix – Andrew Steagall	0.00	10.72		102
Glenn Long – Mike Dinterman	0.00	10.09		101
Clay Ausley – Ken McNeil	0.00	9.77		100
John Pilcher – Ronnie Williams	0.00	9.43		99
Shane Burns – Harris Burns	6.31	8.68		98
Aaron Johnson – Keith Johnson	0.00	8.59		97
Johnny Anton – Jeff Deperardinis	5.85	7.58		96
Josh Pressley – Gabe Klutz	0.00	5.84		95
Roby Wyatt – Mike Prytula	0.00	4.77		94
Chris Phinney – Hal Abshire	2.12	2.12		93
Zackary Wright – Taylor Stone	1.66	1.66		92
Adam Ambrosini – Rick Ambrosini	0.00	0.00		82
Jody George – Ricky Parker	0.00	0.00		82
John McClelland – Larry Godfrey	0.00	0.00		82
Thanos Tsoumbos – Seth Dixon	0.00	0.00		82
Total Entrys			$3,080.00
BONUS $			$950.00
Total Paid At Ramp			$3,470.00
2025 Old North Fall Final Fund			$460.00
CATT			$50.00
2026 CATT Championship Fund			$50.00
2025 Old North Fall Final Fund Total			$460.00

Zach Wolfe Wins 5 Alive/Caswell Glass Mayo Trail Tournament #3 – 8/16/25

Brian Carter

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August 26, 2025

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Zach Wolfe Wins 5 Alive/Caswell Glass Mayo Trail Tournament #3 – 8/16/25

We’re officially halfway through the season of the Caswell Glass Mayo Trail. After 3 events, the points race to win the title of Points Champions and get the $1000.00 Bonus has tightened up.

The 3rd event of the trail was held on 8/16/25 in another grueling HOT day for the fishermen. We had a total of 26 boats show up for the tournament. The Ol’ Clear pond has taken a beating this year, but she is still producing some good weights. After it was all said and done, it was Zach Wolfe who

topped the field by himself with a 3 fish limit weighing 15.18 pounds anchored by a 7.85 pound fish that also won him Big Fish for the tournament as well. All totaled up he carried home an even

$1200.00

for the day. Zach and his Dad Jeff Wolfe fish as a team in the Trail and they stand rite in the heart of the Points race after 3 tournaments. When they show up to fish you know that you will have your work cut out for you if you want to Win. CONGRATULATIONS Mr. Wolfe on your Victory. It was well deserved.

Coming in second place was another young gun that fished by himself. J.D.Talley took home the 2nd place spot but only because of a dead fish penalty. JD actually had the tournament won but the 1 dead fish penalty dropped him just below Mr. Wolfe on the leaderboard. Definitely has nothing to hang his about because JD had a great day with a 3 fish limit weighing 14.57 pounds that was anchored by a 6.34 pound fish. Great Job Mr. Talley!

Once again tournament director Rodney Bowen did a Great Job running the tournament.

Tournament #4 of the Mayo is this weekend 8/30/25.

If you have any questions or would like to pre register contact me, Kevin Sheppard, at 336-264-8416.
Thanks!

Results.
1st Wolfe – 15.18 pounds- $1200.00 TWT
2nd. Talley – 14.57 pounds – $535.00 TWT
3rd. Cobb & Blackwell- 13.72 pounds- $375.00 TWT
4th. Strickland & Cooke- 13.50 pounds- $200.00
5th. Tuttle & Walker- 12.97 pounds – $120.00

Big Fish.
Zach Wolfe- 7.85 pounds- $260.00

Gamakatsu Pro Chris Johnston Secures Historic Back-to-Back Bassmaster Angler of the Year Title

Bass News

Brian Carter

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August 26, 2025

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Gamakatsu Pro Chris Johnston Secures Historic Back-to-Back Bassmaster Angler of the Year Title

Tacoma, Washington – Gamakatsu USA proudly congratulates pro angler Chris Johnston on capturing the 2025 Progressive Bassmaster Angler of the Year (AOY) title, marking his second consecutive season earning the sport’s most prestigious crown.

Johnston, of Otonabee, Ontario, capped off a season of relentless consistency with a 19th-place finish at the final Elite Series stop on the Mississippi River, locking down the AOY race with 776 points. With the win, he becomes only the fourth angler in B.A.S.S. history to claim back-to-back AOY trophies — a feat previously accomplished by just three legends of the sport: Kevin VanDam, Roland Martin, and Guido Hibdon.
“Chris continues to prove he is one of the most disciplined and talented anglers on the water,” said Gamakatsu USA Sales Manager, Ted Thibault. “We’re incredibly proud to have him representing Gamakatsu and showcasing the performance and reliability of our hooks at the highest level of competition.”
Johnston relied on his trademark precision and smart decision-making all season, climbing steadily in the AOY standings with consistent top finishes—including back-to-back 11th-place results at Lake Tenkiller and Lake St. Clair. His championship run came down to the wire at the Mississippi River, where a late-day cull sealed both his limit and the season title.

“This is such a relief,” Johnston said following the win. “It’s unbelievable the amount of pressure that comes with that trophy. To do it two years in a row, against the best anglers in the world, is something I’ll never forget.”

From humble beginnings as Japan’s smallest fishing hook manufacturer in 1955, Gamakatsu® Ltd has evolved to become the world’s preeminent hook manufacturer. Over the years, manufacturing upgrades and cutting-edge innovations have fueled Gamakatsu® USA’s rise as a top producer of fishing hooks, apparel, and fishing-related items. When anglers purchase Gamakatsu® hooks, they are buying an original product made exclusively by Gamakatsu®. Gamakatsu® is continuously testing new materials and striving to improve its products, which already set the standard for the rest of the industry. For more information, please visit www.gamakatsu.com.

Blue Ridge’s Prince Earns Home-Lake Win at Phoenix Bass Fishing League Super Tournament at Lake Lanier

Brian Carter

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August 26, 2025

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Blue Ridge’s Prince Earns Home-Lake Win at Phoenix Bass Fishing League Super Tournament at Lake Lanier

Boater winner Alex Prince of Blue Ridge, Georgia, and co-angler winner Trent Carey of York Springs, Pennsylvania

Fairport’s Blake Posts Win at Phoenix Bass Fishing League Event at Oneida Lake Presented by Lew’s

Brian Carter

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August 26, 2025

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Fairport’s Blake Posts Win at Phoenix Bass Fishing League Event at Oneida Lake Presented by Lew’s

Boater winner Liam Blake of Fairport, New York, and co-angler winner Randall Given of Laurel, Delaware

Pat Schlapper Doubles Down With Sunline

Bass News

Brian Carter

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August 26, 2025

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Pat Schlapper Doubles Down With Sunline

Torrance, CA- Sunline America proudly congratulates Pat Schlapper on his victory at the Bassmaster Elite Series event on the Mississippi River, where he secured his second Elite Series title of the season and the second of his career, finishing with a four-day total of 62 pounds, 6 ounces. Schlapper’s ability to adjust to changing conditions while relying on the strength and precision of Sunline braid was the key to his success.
Throughout the tournament, Schlapper leaned on a combination of techniques powered by Sunline. To cover water, he turned to a SPRO Bronzeye Frog, trusting 60lb Sunline Xplasma Asegai Braid to deliver solid hooksets in thick vegetation. When bass were schooling and feeding in current, he fished a Big Bite Baits Jerk Minnow rigged on a 5/0 round bend hook, spooled with 50lb Sunline SX1 Braid, which gave him the casting distance and lure control needed to generate strikes. In Pool 8’s Goose Pond area, Schlapper punched through dense mats with a creature bait on a 4/0 hook and a 1 1/2-ounce weight, again relying on the abrasion resistance and strength of 60lb Xplasma Asegai Braid to handle the heaviest cover.
“Every cast, every hookset, I had total confidence in my line,” Schlapper said. “Whether I was throwing a frog, working a Jerk Minnow, or punching mats, Sunline gave me the strength and precision I needed to win.”
Schlapper’s second win of the season highlights why so many of the sport’s top professionals trust Sunline. With unmatched strength, sensitivity, and durability, Sunline braid is built for the moments that decide championships.

Sunline maintains a top share in the line market in Japan, where it was founded, and exports its line to more than 40 countries worldwide. Sunline America is a subsidiary of Sunline Japan and is responsible for distribution and marketing in North American markets. For more information, please visit http://www.sunlineamerica.com

Bradley Day & Justin Raines Win CATT Lake Murray with 5 bass weighing 25.34 lbs & a 6.08 lb kicker!

Brian Carter

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August 26, 2025

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Bradley Day & Justin Raines Win CATT Lake Murray with 5 bass weighing 25.34 lbs & a 6.08 lb kicker!

Feb 7, 2026! Mark the date! Phantom Outdoors tournament at Dreher Island State Park! $7,500 1st place! Tap on the Phantom camo shirt and visit their website to purchase some great outdoor apparel! Use PHANTOMCATT15at checkout and earn 15% off your order!

We had 30 teams enter the 1st Lake Murray Fall Qualifier launching from Big Mans Marina! The next Lake Murray Fall Qualifier is Sept 27 at Big Mans! Come join us! A lot of guys have reached out and we may have an even bigger crowd! Big Mans will be open and selling breakfast sandwiches, ice, cold drinks and everything you need! At weigh in you can eat a famous Big Mans burger and watch the fish hit the scales! Address –125 Big Mans Rd Batesburg-Leesville, SC 29070 (803) 532-4770

Bradley Day & Justin Raines brought in a SACK Saturday at Lake Murray! They had 5 bass weighing 25.34 lbs with a 6.08 lb kicker! They earned a total of $1,495.00 plus another $350.00 from the Falcon Boats High Flyer Program! Add in a $100 Lews/Strike King Gift Card Also. All total Bradley & Justin took home $1,845.00 in cash and another $100 in Gift Card value! BUT HOLD ON! Big Mans chipped in 2 Hamberger baskets for the winners! What a day on the lake for these two!

Justin Hadden & Sterling Banks took 2nd with 5 bass weighing 23.44 lbs! they also weighed in the Academy BF at 6.59 lbs! Justin & Sterling collected $730.00 PLUS 2 Academy Gift Cards valued at $50.00!

Lane Clark & Blake Campbell earned 3rd with 5 bass weighing 22.39 lbs!

Bobby White & Wesley Sandifer 4th with 21.81 lbs!

Team	BF	Weight	Winnings	Points
Bradley Day – Justin Raines	6.08	25.34	$1,845.00	110
Justin Hadden – Sterling Banks	6.59	23.44	$730.00	109
Lane Clark – Blake Campbell	6.28	22.39	$305.00	108
Bobby White – Wesley Sandifer	4.86	21.81	$125.00	107
Karson Grubbs – Emmett Maynor	5.71	20.45	$100.00	106
Andrew Blanton – Landon Scruggs	4.36	20.08	$75.00	105
Ryan Raley – Brandon Jeffcoat	4.23	17.08		104
Sammy Moody – Hank Oshields	5.55	16.36		103
Tyler Anderson – Brady Goodermote	3.38	16.16		102
Winston Hubbard	3.56	15.59		101
Phillip Anderson – Andy Lake	4.82	15.57		100
Ronnie Mueller – Michael Royals	3.73	15.36		99
Hunter Jenkins	4.11	13.70		98
Nolan Pulley – Brenson Pulley	3.52	12.97		97
Tim Woodward – Wayne Blackwell	3.08	11.65		96
Josiah Gaza – Blaine Richardson	0.00	10.46		95
Stan Gunter	4.66	7.97		94
Robert Taylor	5.93	7.71		93
Jeremy Ives- Tremain Newton	5.76	7.49		92
Andre Morrison	4.85	4.85		91
Mark Richardson – Rhett Richardson	0.00	0.00		81
Brett Collins – Daniel Cook	0.00	0.00		81
Ray Dowey – Channon Dowey	0.00	0.00		81
Brandon Brown – Ethan Casey	0.00	0.00		81
Jonah Bickley	0.00	0.00		81
Asher Ready – Chase Rogers	0.00	0.00		81
Dean Chapman – Preston Quattlebaum	0.00	0.00		81
Brad Burdette – Totus Burdette	0.00	0.00		81
Alex Cummings – Garrett Smith	0.00	0.00		81
Nathan Tyson – Lindsay Pierce	0.00	0.00		81
Total Entry’s			$1,800.00
BONUS $			$1,325.00
Total Paid at Ramp			$2,830.00
Murray 2025 Fall FINAL Fund			$190.00
Murray 2025 Fall POINT Fund			$110.00
CATT			$0.00
2026 CATT Championship Fund			$0.00
Murray 2025 Fall Final Fund Total			$190.00

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Enter 2 CATT Events, either Fall 2025 or Spring 2025, and you’re Qualified to enter the CATT Chowan River Championship! Tap on the link for more info!

Next CATT East Qualifier is Sept 20 on the Roanoke River!

Check out the payback guys!

1st Place Austin Hughes and Holden Northcott 22.15 lbs $1250. $450 1st place $25 side pot. $480 1st place $50 side pot. They also had big fish 7.86 lbs $280. Total $2460. Congratulations guys!

2nd Kevin and Tyler Jones 17.32 lbs $610. 2nd $50 side pot $340. Total $950. Congratulations guys!

3rd Phillip Gibson and Bryan Hendricks 15.45 lbs $325. 3rd place $50 side pot $130 Congratulations!

4th Jeff Stoop 12.94 lbs $220. Congratulations! Not pictured.

5th Matt Greschak and Jason Tripp 12.72 lbs $160. Congratulations. Not pictured.

1st and 2nd place teams were polygraphed.

Our next tournament will be September 20th in Plymouth and then we return to the Pamlico in Washington October 18th.

Thanks to everyone who came out and fished, we appreciate your participation.

Next CATT Old North will be Sept 20 at Jordan 7 am to 3 pm!

Use PHANTOMCATT15 at checkout and earn 15% off your Phantom Outdoor apparel order! Tap on the Camo Phantom shirt ad start shopping!

Tyler Trent and Ricky Trent win with 5 bass weighing 21.18lbs bag and a nice kicker fish of 6.22lbs! They earned $1,545.00!

Chad Fara and Trey Nichols ended the day in 2nd place with 19.66lbs and had Big Fish with a giant 8.17 Falls Lake giant. They also win the 2nd place side pot. Congratulations guys.

Todd Sumner & Rick Dunstan 3rd with 5 bass weighing 17.18 lbs!

Shane & Harris Burns with some nice uns!

Feb 7, 2026! Mark the date! Phantom Outdoors tournament at Dreher Island State Park! $7,500 1st place! Tap on the Phantom camo shirt and visit their website to purchase some great outdoor apparel! Use PHANTOMCATT15at checkout and earn 15% off your order!

Justin Hadden & Sterling Banks took 2nd with 5 bass weighing 23.44 lbs! they also weighed in the Academy BF at 6.59 lbs! Justin & Sterling collected $730.00 PLUS 2 Academy Gift Cards valued at $50.00!

Lane Clark & Blake Campbell earned 3rd with 5 bass weighing 22.39 lbs!

Bobby White & Wesley Sandifer 4th with 21.81 lbs!

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