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B.A.S.S. announces Watauga Lake, Tenn., as venue of 2025 Bassmaster College Classic Bracket

July 22, 2025

B.A.S.S. announces Watauga Lake, Tenn., as venue of 2025 Bassmaster College Classic Bracket

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The road to the 2026 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour will wind through the scenic Appalachian Mountains this fall as B.A.S.S. announces Watauga Lake in Carter County, Tenn., as the host site for the 2025 Bassmaster College Classic Bracket presented by Lew’s. The event will take place on the clear, deep waters of Watauga Lake, a highland reservoir nestled within the Cherokee National Forest.

The Bassmaster College Classic Bracket is the ultimate test of collegiate bass fishing excellence, where the top four teams from the Strike King Bassmaster College National Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops are split up and will compete head-to-head as eight individual anglers in a bracket-style, elimination tournament. The stakes couldn’t be higher: The winner earns a berth in the 2026 Bassmaster Classic, a coveted invitation to fish the 2026 St. Croix Bassmaster Opens presented by SEVIIN in both divisions and the use of a fully rigged Nitro boat and Toyota Tundra for the season.

“Super-excited to be sharing this moment with each of these anglers as they chase their dreams,” said Glenn Cale, B.A.S.S. tournament manager for the College, High School and Junior Series. “Best of luck to all of them.”

Watauga Lake, which spans 6,430 acres, offers a unique challenge for competitors with its deep, clear water and abundance of both largemouth and smallmouth bass. As part of Tennessee’s Bill Dance Signature Lakes program, Watauga has seen continued investment to enhance habitat and access, making it one of the state’s premier fishing destinations.

“Carter County Tourism is excited to showcase the scenic beauty and incredible fishing of Watauga Lake with the 2025 Bassmaster College Bracket Tournament,” said Director of Tourism for the Elizabethton/Carter County Chamber of Commerce Luke Freeman. “We look forward to having these anglers experience firsthand all that Carter County has to offer.”

The excitement around this event isn’t limited to Carter County. The state of Tennessee is once again proud to welcome the Bassmaster College Classic Bracket to its waters.

“On behalf of the state of Tennessee, we couldn’t be more excited to welcome the Bassmaster College Classic Bracket tournament back to Tennessee and, specifically, to Watauga Lake,” said the Chief Customer Officer – TN Department of Tourist Development at State of Tennessee, Dennis Tumlin. “Watauga, situated along the Tennessee/North Carolina state borders, is one of our hidden gems and is part of Tennessee’s Bill Dance Signature Lakes program. Visitors are going to be amazed by the hospitality and the natural beauty surrounding this 6,430-acre TVA highland reservoir nestled inside the Cherokee National Forest. I expect both largemouth and smallmouth to come into play, and I won’t be surprised to see a smallmouth over 6 pounds hit the scales during this event. With fishing this good, it’s easy to see why Tennessee ‘Sounds Perfect’ for your next fishing destination.”

Fans can follow all the action from the 2025 Bassmaster College Classic Bracket presented by Lew’s on Bassmaster.com and across Bassmaster social media platforms.

For more information on visiting Carter County and Watauga Lake, visit tourcartercounty.com and follow #TNVACATION, #BillDanceSignatureLakes and #FishTennessee.

This event is being hosted by Carter County Tourism.

How to Catch Bass on Windy Days!

Brian Carter

July 22, 2025

When wind stirs the surface of the water, it breaks up light penetration and reduces visibility. This created a far more comfortable and secure environment for bass in clear water. This reduced visibility makes bass more likely to roam and expand their strike zones, increasing their chances of feeding. The wind also agitates sediment and organic matter, kicking off a feeding response as various aquatic organisms become more active. These changes signal to bass that conditions are favorable for hunting, which can make them more aggressive and less cautious. Bass are more likely to commit to striking in windy conditions, even if the bait presentation isn’t perfect. Smart anglers use this opportunity to cover more water and locate active fish. When the surface is broken up by wind, bass rely less on sight and more on typical vibrations and movement, making them more susceptible to quick reaction strikes. This creates an ideal opportunity to use soft plastic baits with faster retrieves to trigger impulsive bites. The wind can also disorient baitfish, making them easier targets and encouraging bass to feed opportunistically. Bass will push up into shallower areas they normally avoid, giving anglers a chance to target zones that are otherwise unproductive in calm conditions. Wind can transform a slow day into a high-action opportunity if you understand how it influences fish.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 just like you. We’ve recently dropped a new HellaMite Pro Pack that is loaded with 60 total 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 recently restocked our popular 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.

Although it may appear that wind creates strong current, it actually has very little impact on water movement beneath the surface. What it does do effectively is push floating debris, insects, and plankton toward windblown shorelines and structure. These drifting food sources attract baitfish, which then attract bass looking to feed. It’s not that the bass are following some imaginary current. The bass are following the food chain. By identifying where the wind is directing these resources, anglers can position themselves near likely ambush points. Understanding this chain reaction helps target high-percentage areas where bass are more likely to be actively feeding. Windblown areas often concentrate food in pockets, especially along points, coves, and shallow banks where floating matter collects. As the wind pushes this organic material into confined zones, it creates natural feeding lanes that bass will patrol. This makes timing and positioning critical. Casting into these lanes with soft plastics like insect larvae or cray-styled baits can yield quick results. Observing where baitfish are visibly active near the surface can also clue you in on where bass are staging. Rather than chasing scattered fish, anglers can focus efforts on these concentrated areas to maximize efficiency and catch rates.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!

Sustained wind can gradually push the warmer surface layer of water to one side of a lake, creating uneven temperature zones. This shift can influence bass behavior depending on the time of year. In the spring, warmer water is more attractive and can concentrate bass in windblown coves or shallow flats. During the warm summer, slightly cooler water can offer better oxygen levels and comfort, drawing bass to the windward or leeward side depending on the situation. Knowing which side of the lake has the more favorable conditions gives anglers an edge in locating fish. It’s one of those subtle but powerful effects that the wind can have on the overall bite. This temperature redistribution can also affect the behavior of baitfish, which often follow the more favorable conditions, further influencing where bass will be located. During the colder winter months, even the small pockets of warmer water can become a magnet for both prey and predator species. Anglers should pay close attention to surface temperatures and wind direction when scouting new areas. Fishing along transition zones between warm and cool water can be especially productive. Understanding how wind alters thermal layers gives you a strategic advantage in finding active fish more consistently throughout the year.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.

Wind is only one piece of the puzzle and should be considered alongside larger seasonal trends. Bass location is primarily dictated by the time of year. Shallow in spring and the fall, deeper in winter and summer. Wind doesn’t override these tendencies, but it can intensify existing conditions. If bass are already feeding ahead of a weather front, wind can make that bite even more aggressive and widespread. On the flip side, if conditions are poor, like after a cold front, wind won’t really fix that. Viewing wind as an amplifier rather than a primary factor helps anglers make smarter decisions about when and where to fish. Think of wind as a bonus element, it can turn a good situation into a great one, but it won’t just magically produce fish where none are positioned. That’s why it’s essential to align your strategy with seasonal movements first, then look at how wind might enhance them. For one instance, bass holding on deep summer structure might still be tough to reach, but wind may push food onto nearby ledges, briefly drawing fish shallower. In the fall, bass already feeding along shallow flats may become more aggressive when wind stirs the water, making them easier to catch on soft plastics like lizards or beetles. Recognizing when wind is likely to help and when it’s unlikely to matter will keep your time on the water both efficient and productive.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!

When the wind blows into a shoreline, it gathers floating organic material, which draws out organisms like insects and aquatic larvae. Crawfish and other bottom-dwellers may emerge to feed on this influx of nutrients, becoming easy targets for bass. Wind-blown cover like riprap, grass lines, and shallow flats can suddenly become high-activity zones. These areas, previously dead, can turn into feeding hotspots with the right conditions. Bass often stack in these locations, waiting to ambush prey caught off guard by the moving water. Anglers who understand this chain of events can capitalize by fishing wind-facing areas that concentrate food and bass alike. Targeting these zones with soft plastics that imitate common forage can be especially effective when bass are feeding actively. Focus on casting parallel to the shoreline or into the wind to keep your bait in the strike zone longer. Bass positioned in these areas are often in a heightened feeding mode, so reaction bites come quickly. The presence of scattered baitfish or surface disturbance can be a clear sign that the food chain is in motion. By fishing methodically through these wind-blown stretches, you can take advantage of one of the most consistent patterns wind creates.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 released new 6-inch Worms including Charmeleon, Rainbow TRT, Bone, Chocolate Mint, and Fire TGR — 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.

Bass tend to face into the wind, as that’s the direction their food is coming from. To take advantage of this, cast into the wind and retrieve your bait with the current of moving debris and plankton. Use soft plastics rigged in a way that keeps them low in the water and easy to control in wind. Heavier presentations and compact rigs reduce wind resistance and allow for longer, more accurate casts. Swift retrieves often work well because bass are reacting instinctively and don’t have time to scrutinize the bait. The goal is to mimic natural movement and match the feeding direction the bass are tuned in to. Maintaining a natural presentation is key, so keeping your bait moving steadily with the flow of wind-driven forage will increase your chances of a strike. Sidearm or low-angle casts help keep your bait from ballooning in the wind and give you better control over its trajectory. If the wind is too strong, switching to bottom-contact rigs like Texas rigs or free rigs can help keep your soft plastics in the strike zone longer. Be ready for quick hits, as bass often commit fast in these conditions and may strike just seconds after the bait lands. Staying aligned with the wind not only improves your casting and retrieval but also helps you fish more effectively in the exact lanes where bass are feeding.Our newest FreshBaitz Mandingo Trick Worm is the ultimate game-changer for anglers with a passion! Engineered for the angler who knows SIZE does matter, this lure is designed to attract only the BIGGEST bass with a penchant for the larger bait. The Mandingo Trick Worm boasts a solid 7-inch body enhanced with a hyperactive ribbed design, ensuring irresistible mouth-watering action for those trophy bass. Officially available in a vibrant array of 8 colors. Each worm is made from durable, high-grade Non-Salted plastic for lifelike action and unparalleled durability. Perfectly balanced for a variety of rigging options and scented for total and maximum attraction, the Mandingo Trick 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 the big ones. Proudly made in the USA by real anglers to help elevate your fishing experience and catch more bass year-round!

Fishing in the wind requires extra preparation to stay safe and effective. Whether fishing from a boat, kayak, or the bank, secure all loose gear so nothing gets blown into the water. Make sure your equipment is in top shape, especially trolling motors and batteries, since strong wind can create challenging conditions for boat control. Choose spots where the wind is blowing into structure or shorelines, but avoid overly exposed areas that are hard to fish or even dangerous. Not all lakes or shorelines respond to wind the same way, so scout locations that combine wind exposure with accessible, fish-holding cover. Proper preparation helps you focus on fishing and take full advantage of the conditions. Use maps or satellite images ahead of time to identify wind-facing areas with promising structure like points, shallow flats, or coves. When possible, approach these spots from downwind to minimize noise and maximize positioning control. If fishing from shore, plan your route so you’re casting into the wind where bass are likely facing and feeding. Always wear proper safety gear, especially in rougher conditions. With the right preparation and spot selection, windy days can become some of the most rewarding times to fish for aggressive bass.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 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.

John Guins & Ralph Ray Win 5 Alive Gaston Team Trail Tournament #5

Brian Carter

July 22, 2025

John Guins & Ralph Ray Win 5 Alive Gaston Team Trail Tournament #5

Ok yall. I took a break from the fishing world for a few weeks but now it’s time for me to get caught up. Sorry for the delay on getting the final results posted.

We had the final tournament of the 5 Alive Gaston Team Trail on 6/29/25.
This was also the tournament to decide the Points Champions of the Brand new trail.
Numbers was not exactly what we wanted for the trail this year but we also understand the schedule was put out at the last minute.

We at 5 Alive Team Trail want to THANK everyone that came out and fished with us this year in the Trail!!

We had 13 boats for the final tournament of the trail.
It was the team of John Guins and Ralph Ray that topped the feild with a 3 fish limit weighing 11.02 pounds to take home the WIN

That earned them a total of

$655.00

Great Job Guys and thank yall for fishing!!!

Second place was the team of White and Bradley.
They had a 3 fish limit weighing 8.2 pounds. That earned them a total of

$325.00

.
Congrats Guys!

Big fish was won by Reece and Gunn with a fish weighing 5.15 pounds that earned them $120.00

Congratulations to everyone that finished in the money!!!

Let’s get to our 1st Annual Gaston Trail Points Champions.

The team of Dennis Bradley & Allen Mitchell are the 2025 – 5 Alive Gaston Team Trail Points Champions.

They took home the Points Champions Plaques and a check for

$1000.00

Guys we are proud to have yall as the first ever Gaston Trail Points Champions. CONGRATULATIONS to yall!

I want to give a BIG SHOUT OUT to the tournament director Mr. Harvey Reece. I personally didn’t get a chance to get out to one of the tournaments this year but I spoke with numerous guys that fished in the trail and everyone had the same thing to say. They all said the tournament was ran great and well organized. That’s what we at the 5 Alive Team Trail stive to hear about every tournament we run in whatever trail it is. I was very fortunate to get up with Harvey and have him take on the role as tournament director. Thank you Harvey for a GREAT JOB!

We are currently looking for a sponsor for this Trail for next year. We really want to do the trail again next year and get it to grow but we will need a sponsor to do so.
If your interested or know someone that might be interested in sponsoring the trail next year please contact me Kevin Sheppard at 336-264-8416.

Thank again everyone for being apart of our growing 5 Alive Team Trails!!

BOOYAH Builds Flash Point Arsenal

Bass News

Brian Carter

July 21, 2025

BOOYAH Bait Company is building the Flash Point arsenal to fulfil angler needs with the release of smaller versions of the Flash Point and Flash Point Deep.

The Flash Point Jr and Flash Point Jr Deep are 1/4 inch smaller than the original versions.

Downsizing helps match diminutive forage and adds appeal to fish turned fussy by weather, water conditions or added fishing pressure. Having shallow and deep versions in the smaller size equips anglers for a vast range of situations.

Both new models feature the Flash Point’s custom, embedded blade, which creates strike-triggering flash and provides an unparalleled return on forward facing sonar. The new Flash Point Jr and Flash Point Jr Deep also boast the narrow profile, broader rounded back and belly, etched scales and fins that characterize Flash Point Jerkbaits, along with a nose-down suspending posture, irresistible action and tungsten-weight casting system.

The Flash Point Jr and Flash Point Jr Deep are 4 inches long and weigh 3/8 ounce and come equipped with three ultra-sharp, carbon steel, SS finish No. 8 trebles and come in the same 12 outstanding and highly popular colors as the original Flash Point.

MSRP: 14.99

About PRADCO Fishing

PRADCO Fishing is owned by EBSCO Industries of Birmingham, Ala., and is a part of PRADCO Outdoor Brands. Its famous fishing brands include: Arbogast, Bandit, Bobby Garland, Bomber, BOOYAH, Cotton Cordell, Creek Chub, Great Lakes Finesse, Heddon, Lindy, Little Joe, Norman, Rebel, Smithwick, Thill, War Eagle, Whisker Seeker Tackle and YUM. POB’s hunting brands include Ani-Logics Outdoors, Code Blue, MAXXTUFF, Moultrie, Summit, Texas Hunter, Whitetail Institute and Wingscapes.

Ugly Stik Expands Carbon Inshore Line-up

Bass News

Brian Carter

July 21, 2025

Legendary toughness meets modern design across versatile inshore applications.

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Ugly Stik, a brand trusted by generations of anglers, proudly expands the Carbon Inshore Series—a trio of new technique-specific rods and combos designed to tackle the toughest inshore and surf fishing challenges. The lineup includes the Carbon Inshore Pursuit Combo, Carbon Inshore Jig Rods, and Carbon Inshore Surf Rods, each built with Ugly Tech construction featuring 100% 24-ton graphite for the perfect balance of strength, sensitivity, and lightweight performance. Whether casting from the beach, boat, or backwater flats, these new products deliver unmatched durability and responsiveness.

At the heart of each model is Ugly Stik’s signature solid graphite tip, providing finesse and sensitivity without compromising the brand’s legendary toughness. Ugly Tuff one-piece stainless-steel guides with anti-corrosion coating ensure long-lasting performance in harsh saltwater conditions, eliminating insert pop-outs and maximizing reliability. The Carbon Inshore Jig Rods are optimized for jigging but versatile enough for various techniques, while the Carbon Inshore Surf Rods offer the length and backbone needed to conquer challenging surf conditions.

The Carbon Inshore Pursuit Combo pairs the high-performance Carbon Inshore rod with the PENN Pursuit IV spinning reel, featuring HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers and four sealed stainless steel ball bearings for smooth, consistent drag. Designed for inshore anglers targeting redfish, speckled trout, and snook, this combo delivers ready-to-fish performance in one versatile package.

From the surf to the shallows, every rod in the Carbon Inshore Series is built for comfort and control with rubberized X-pattern EVA handles that provide a solid grip in wet, sandy, or humid conditions. Backed by Ugly Stik’s 10-year rod warranty, these rods and combos carry forward the brand’s commitment to dependable, hard-fishing gear that stands up to the elements—trip after trip, season after season.

UGLY STIK CARBON INSHORE SURF RODS– KEY FEATURES:

Ugly Tech construction featuring 100% 24-ton graphite for a lightweight and well-balanced rod
Ugly Stik solid graphite tip provides increased sensitivity
Ugly Tuff one-piece stainless-steel guides eliminates insert pop-outs and breakage
Ugly Tuff guides feature a PVD proprietary coating that reduces line fray
Extra durable rubberized X pattern EVA handle for better grip and Ugly Stik toughness
10-year warranty

MSRP: $129.95 – $149.95
Available: July 2025

UGLY STIK CARBON INSHORE JIG RODS– KEY FEATURES:

Ugly Tech construction featuring 100% 24-ton graphite for a lightweight and well-balanced rod
Ugly Stik solid graphite tip provides increased sensitivity
Ugly Tuff one-piece stainless-steel guides eliminates insert pop-outs and breakage
Ugly Tuff guides feature a PVD proprietary coating that reduces line fray
Extra durable rubberized X pattern EVA handle for better grip and Ugly Stik toughness
10-year warranty

MSRP: $129.95
Available: July 2025

UGLY STIK CARBON INSHORE PURSUIT COMBO – KEY FEATURES:

Ugly Tech construction featuring 100% 24-ton graphite for a lightweight and well-balanced rod
Ugly Stik solid graphite tip provides increased sensitivity
Ugly Tuff one-piece stainless-steel guides eliminates insert pop-outs and breakage
Ugly Tuff guides feature a PVD proprietary coating that reduces line fray
Extra durable rubberized X pattern EVA handle for better grip and Ugly Stik toughness
Paired with a PENN Pursuit IV Spinning Reel offering exceptional value
10-year rod warranty

MSRP: $159.95 – $179.95
Available: July 2025

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, Berkley, DAM, Fenwick, Fin-Nor, Frabill, Greys, Hardy, Hodgman, Johnson, JRC, Madcat, Mitchell, Penn, Pflueger, Plano, Prologic, Savage Gear, Shakespeare, SpiderWire, Stren, Ugly Stik and Van Staal.

Batavia’s Stahley Gets First Win at Phoenix Bass Fishing League Event at Ohio River-Tanners Creek

Brian Carter

July 21, 2025

Batavia’s Stahley Gets First Win at Phoenix Bass Fishing League Event at Ohio River-Tanners Creek

Boater Aaron Stahley of Batavia,Ohio, and co-angler Jonathan Campbell of Hockingport, Ohio.

Spencer’s Tyner Uncovers Key Area for Win at Phoenix Bass Fishing League Event at Rend Lake Presented

Brian Carter

July 21, 2025

Spencer’s Tyner Uncovers Key Area for Win at Phoenix Bass Fishing League Event at Rend Lake Presented

Boater Joshua Tyner of Spencer, Indiana, and Strike-King co-angler Gabe Montgomery of Jackson, Missouri.

Upper Chesapeake Bay primed for big-bag potential at Bassmaster Open

Brian Carter

July 21, 2025

Upper Chesapeake Bay primed for big-bag potential at Bassmaster Open

North East, Md., will host the St. Croix Bassmaster Open at Upper Chesapeake Bay presented by SEVIIN July 23-25.

Photo by Grant Moxley/B.A.S.S.

July 21, 2025

Upper Chesapeake Bay primed for big-bag potential at Bassmaster Open

NORTH EAST, Md. — The summer feed will likely be in full swing for the St. Croix Bassmaster Open at Upper Chesapeake Bay presented by SEVIIN, which means there will be plenty of potential to catch bags of 20 pounds or better according to Maryland’s Brian Mullaney.

“They should be in full summer mode,” the Bassmaster Opens Division I angler said. “That means the bass will be in 5 or 6 feet of water. I’d be shocked if there weren’t a couple 20-pound bags.”

Tournament days are scheduled for July 23-25. Competitors will launch from Anchor Marina in North East, Md., beginning at 6 a.m. ET and will return for weigh-in at 2 p.m. The Top 10 pros after the Day 2 weigh-in will advance to Championship Friday for a chance to claim a spot in the 2026 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour to be held in Knoxville, Tenn., March 13-15.

All anglers will earn points toward the Division I points race. The Top 50 finishers in points will advance to the Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers series and compete for 10 invitations to the 2026 Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series roster.

The Upper Chesapeake Bay has provided some of the more intriguing moments in Bassmaster history. Most recently, JT Thompkins claimed a come-from-behind victory during the 2022 Bassmaster Open held there, punching a ticket to the 2023 Bassmaster Classic in the process.

That tournament was in early September, and a lot of different areas came into play. This go-round, Mullaney expects the Susquehanna Flats to be the most popular area in the system. The expansive flats feature hydrilla and milfoil beds as well as ditches and drains that snake their way through the area.

Largemouth bass will be chasing baitfish and bream as well as crawfish. How good the bite is will be determined by when the tide cycles fall during the day.

“It is a vast, famous area. It will be won there. If not won there, the majority of the Top 10 will come out of there,” Mullaney said. “It is full of ditches and depressions, and at high tide, it can allow the fish to maneuver, while at low tide, they will condense. You can sit there all day long, and in five or six casts you can put 20 pounds in the boat.”

Around those flats, traditional grass baits will be in play, including frogs. Mullaney said that picking the right-size frog will be an important part of the equation. ChatterBaits, swim jigs and worms will also be productive.

While the Flats will likely be the most popular area on the system, there will be plenty of opportunities elsewhere too. Docks are a prominent part of the system, as Aaron Martens showcased in the 2015 Bassmaster Elite Series event held here. There is also plenty of shallow wood and laydowns, which could produce big bites.

Crankbaits and flipping baits will be important tools for breaking down the hard cover areas.

“Someone could go off and get into a less congested area and run into the proper fish to Top 10 it, if not win it,” Mullaney said. “There are some sneaky rockpiles here and there that could come into play. Mostly the locals know about (them), and I think the locals should show really well in this tournament.”

With the potential for big bags, Mullaney believes it will take over 50 pounds to win the tournament. He thinks if an angler can average 17 pounds per day they will have a good shot at taking home the title. His goal is to catch 15 pounds a day, which he thinks will be good enough to make the final day cut.

Virginia’s Chase Clarke leads the Division I standings after two events with 387 points. Behind him are two Alabama pros, Laker Howell in second with 379 points and Matt Adams in third with 377 points. Virginia’s Ryan Lachniet is fourth with 373 points and Alabama’s Lucas Lindsey is fifth with 371 points. Russ Lane, Connor Jacob, Cody Stahl, Trey Schroeder and Tyler Campbell round out the Top 10.

Coverage of the St. Croix Bassmaster Open at Upper Chesapeake Bay presented by SEVIIN will be available on Bassmaster.com each day of the tournament. FS1 will carry Bassmaster LIVE on Championship Friday.

Discover Cecil County is hosting the tournament.

B.A.S.S. announces 2026 Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series schedule featuring legendary fisheries and historic returns

Brian Carter

July 21, 2025

B.A.S.S. announces 2026 Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series schedule featuring legendary fisheries and historic returns

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Bass fishing’s biggest stage has been set for 2026 with the return of the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, featuring a dynamic schedule that will test the world’s best anglers on some of the nation’s most storied waters — and a few that haven’t hosted an Elite event in years.

The 2026 slate includes nine regular-season events across six states, plus the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour on the Tennessee River in Knoxville, Tenn., March 13-15. From grass-laden Southern reservoirs to sprawling Northern smallmouth factories, the season promises drama, big bass and fierce competition from start to finish.

“This is one of the most well-rounded Elite Series schedules we’ve ever built,” said Chase Anderson, CEO of B.A.S.S. “We’re hitting iconic fisheries, revisiting challenging venues we haven’t seen in a decade or more and returning to some fan-favorite locations. This lineup will not only push our anglers to their limits but also deliver incredible action for fans both on the water and watching from home.”

The season kicks off February 5-8 on Alabama’s famed Lake Guntersville in Scottsboro. Known for its sprawling grass mats, giant bass and historic tournament moments, Guntersville is a perennial favorite among both fans and anglers. The last time the Elites visited in 2021, Wisconsin’s Caleb Kuphall claimed victory with 85 pounds, 14 ounces, navigating the thick hydrilla and milfoil to perfection.

A week later, the Elite Series heads south to Lake Martin in Alexander City, Ala., February 12-15. Tucked into the foothills of the Appalachians, this deep, clear reservoir offers a contrast in styles with its spotted bass population and finesse-focused tactics. The Elites last visited in 2018, when former Bassmaster Elite Series pro, Takahiro Omori thrilled local fans by winning with 59 pounds, 8 ounces.

March brings bass fishing’s biggest stage back to one of its most electric cities. The Bassmaster Classic returns to Knoxville, Tenn., March 13-15, where the Tennessee River weaves through the heart of downtown. In 2023, Canadian pro Jeff Gustafson mastered the current-driven ledges to capture the Classic title with 42-7, and Knoxville’s passionate crowds made it one of the most attended Classics in history.

After the Classic, the Elites will venture to Columbus, Miss., and the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway from March 26-29. A diverse and winding stretch of water, the Tenn-Tom offers tricky navigation, backwater hideaways and a healthy bass population. This will be a brand-new fishery for the Elites to tackle, and we are all excited to see the best anglers on the planet uncover its secrets.

In April, the tour heads to Muskogee, Okla., and the historic Arkansas River, April 16-19. Known for its ever-changing water levels, lock systems and heavy cover, the Arkansas River is a test of adaptability. The Elites last tackled this fishery in 2011, when Arkansas legend Denny Brauer outlasted the field with a winning weight of 52 pounds, 2 ounces.

Come May, the Elites roll into Lake Murray in Columbia, S.C., May 7-10. A blueback herring fishery that rewards those who can keep up with fast-moving bass, Murray has become a hotbed for topwater blowups and schooling fish. In 2024, Patrick Walters captured the win here in his home state with a stout 93-pound, 15-ounce total.

The following week, May 14-17, the circuit stays in South Carolina for a return to the cypress-laden Santee Cooper Lakes in Clarendon County. Famous for producing monster largemouth, Santee Cooper is a bucket-list destination for many anglers. Oklahoma’s Luke Palmer dominated here in 2023, bringing in 96 pounds, 14 ounces to secure victory.

In June, the tour journeys to the historic waters of Elizabeth City, N.C., for a showdown on the Pasquotank River/Albemarle Sound, June 11-14. A blackwater fishery teeming with cypress trees, lily pads, and tidal influence, the Pasquotank presents a shallow-water playground. In 2025, Alabama pro Kyle Welcher had the most dominating win in Bassmaster history, landing 118 pounds, 12 ounces, beating second place finisher Brandon Lester by more than 45 pounds.

After a midsummer break, the Elites travel north for two marquee events in New York. First up is Lake Champlain in Plattsburgh, August 13-16. Straddling the border of New York and Vermont, Champlain is renowned for its dual threat of quality smallmouth and largemouth fishing. In 2024, Virginia’s Ed Loughran III conquered the diverse fishery with 80 pounds, 12 ounces.

The regular season concludes August 27-30 in Clayton, N.Y., on the legendary St. Lawrence River, the gold standard for smallmouth fishing. This deep, clear waterway is home to some of the biggest smallmouth on the planet. In 2024, Canadian pro Cory Johnston joined the exclusive smallmouth Century Club here with a 102-pound total, showcasing just how special the St. Lawrence can be.

The 2026 season blends familiar power-fishing strongholds with tactical finesse fisheries, ensuring a full spectrum of angling styles will be needed to claim victory. Fans can look forward to live coverage of every event on FOX Sports, Bassmaster.com and the all-new Bassmaster FAST Channel on Roku, launched earlier this month.

For complete coverage of the 2026 Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, including event details and fan experiences, visit Bassmaster.com.

2026 Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series Schedule

February 5-8, Scottosboro, Ala., Lake Guntersville

February 12-15, Alexander City, Ala., Lake Martin

March 13-15, Bassmaster Classic, Knoxville, Tenn., Tennessee River

March 26-29, Columbus, Miss., Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway

April 16-19, Muskogee, Ark., Arkansas River

May 7-10, Columbia, S.C., Lake Murray

May 14-17, Clarendon County, S.C., Santee Cooper Lakes

June 11-14, Elizabeth City, N.C., Pasquotank River/Albemarle Sound

August 13-16, Plattsburgh, N.Y., Lake Champlain

August 27-30, Clayton, N.Y., St. Lawrence River

Brian LaClair gets 1st MLF/BFL Shenandoah Win on the James River with 18.13 lbs.

Brian Carter

July 19, 2025

Brian LaClair gets 1st MLF/BFL Shenandoah Win on the James River with 18.13 lbs.

The mighty James was on fire today with three seven-pounders pulled and lots of beautiful bass. Plus, today will be memorable for so many anglers, like our winner Brian LaClair & Fan Zhang, who were first-time winners & many others who had never been able to crack the code. Congratulations to everyone who cashed a check & as always, it was great getting to catch up & chat with everyone.