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The Natural Edge With Fish Monkey

November 18, 2025

Learn how merino wool socks from Fish Monkey keep your feet warm, dry, and odor-free for fishing, hunting, and boating in every season.

Long before synthetic fibers filled the shelves, nature had already perfected one of the finest performance materials on earth: merino wool. Sourced from Merino sheep—originally bred in Spain and later refined in the rugged highlands of New Zealand and Australia—this natural fiber has been prized for centuries for its softness, warmth and versatility. Unlike traditional wool, which could feel coarse and itchy, merino wool is fine and smooth, offering next-to-skin comfort that’s ideal for long days in the field or on the water

For hunters and anglers, comfort starts from the ground up. Merino wool excels where it matters most: temperature regulation and moisture control. Its unique structure naturally wicks perspiration away from the skin, keeping feet dry and blister-free even during long stalks or when tucked inside rubber boots or waders. In cold weather, it traps the warmth from body heat next to the skin without adding bulk, while in warmer conditions, it breathes easily to prevent overheating—a rare balance that makes merino a true four-season fiber.

Another major advantage of merino is its natural odor resistance. The fibers actively neutralize bacteria, meaning socks stay fresher longer, even after back-to-back days in the field or on the water. That’s a big win for anyone who’s ever packed for a multi-day hunt, fishing trip, or offshore run.

Today, modern spinning and knitting techniques have only enhanced what nature started, allowing brands like Fish Monkey and Hunt Monkey to design merino socks that combine this natural performance with targeted cushioning, compression fit, arch support, and reinforced durability. The result is gear that works as hard as you do, keeping your feet warm, dry, and comfortable from the first cast to the last climb out of the stand. And they’re made with pride in the US by one of the nation’s oldest sock mills.

Fish Monkey and Hunt Monkey offer a wide range of styles in three sock designations: lightweight, medium-weight and heavyweight. For warm weather, choose the lightweight No-Show Tab, Crew, Boot Cut or Over the Calf (OTC) styles. When things turn chilly, the medium-weight Boot Cut and OTC styles are perfect, especially when wearing rubber boots or waders. And for frigid conditions down to as cold as minus 30 degrees F, the heavyweight Boot Cut and OTC get the call, keeping your feet warm without adding unneeded bulkiness.

In a world full of high-tech fabrics, merino wool remains the gold standard for natural performance. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best innovation comes straight from nature—and it’s ready to go wherever your next adventure takes you.

Team Lucas Oil’s Gill and Robinson Cruise to Day 2 Victory in Elimination Round Match 2 at Bass Pro Shops Summit Cup Presented by Zenni

Brian Carter

November 18, 2025

Team Lucas Oil’s Gill and Robinson Cruise to Day 2 Victory in Elimination Round Match 2 at Bass Pro Shops Summit Cup Presented by Zenni

Team Ferguson rallies to claim second advancing spot, four new teams set for Elimination Match 3 on Tuesday

SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER CITY, La. (Nov. 17, 2025) – On a day defined by dramatic swings and one unforgettable giant, Team Lucas Oil’s Drew Gill and Marshall Robinson surged to the top of SCORETRACKER® to go wire-to-wire in Elimination Round Match 2 of the Bass Pro Shops Summit Cup Presented by Zenni at Caddo Lake. With 27 scorable bass for 62 pounds even – anchored by the biggest bass of the event thus far – Gill and Robinson punched their ticket to the Knockout Round and reminded the field why they’re the reigning Summit Cup champions.

Right behind them, Team Ferguson – made up of Brent Ehrler and Justin Lucas – used an explosive final-period rally to lock down the second advancing spot, stacking up 37 pounds, 4 ounces in the final period alone.

Link to HD Video Clip of Summit Cup Elimination Round Match 2 Highlights
Link to Morning Photo Gallery: New anglers hit Caddo Lake for Summit Cup Elimination Match 2

The pairing of Gill and Robinson continues to prove formidable. The duo teamed up last season to win the 2024 Summit Cup in Florida, and their chemistry was on full display again as they dismantled Caddo Lake with the same blend of efficiency, communication and precision that carried them to that championship. Their comfort fishing together – and their shared understanding of how to break down water with forward-facing sonar – has quickly made them one of the most dangerous teams in the field.

Their Day 2 victory was built on a disciplined, straightforward approach – target bass loosely relating to bait in 10 to 12 feet of water, then pick them apart with a drop-shot rig once they slid away from the main bait balls.

“We targeted fish in drains and holes, and fish that were chasing bait and relating to divots with the drop-shot rig,” said Gill. “That rig was an absolute bass catcher in a situation like this.”

Robinson agreed that the pattern worked spectacularly.

“Today was a really good day and Caddo Lake was great to us,” he said. “The fish were pretty much where we thought they’d be after looking at the map this morning. We had good weather and a solid average weight across our fish throughout the day.”

Gill leaned on a classic setup – a 7-inch green-pumpkin-colored worm on a 1/0 hook with a ¼-ounce weight – while Robinson threw a 3/8-ounce drop-shot rig with a Roboworm to keep the numbers climbing. Together, they caught 27 scorable bass and left no doubt that forward-facing sonar could be a winning tool this week.

“We absolutely smashed them,” Gill said in his post-game interview. “That was so fun.”

The signature moment of the day came courtesy of Robinson, who launched a vibrating jig toward a cypress-studded point and connected with the heaviest bass caught so far this week – a 7-pound, 14-ounce Caddo Lake giant.

“I caught it on a shad-colored, 3/8-ounce Z-Man Original ChatterBait,” Robinson said. “We pulled up to a cypress island we’d looked at earlier, and I made a long cast. When it locked up, I thought I was hung. That was one of the biggest tournament fish I’ve ever caught.”

Gill was equally stunned.

“When it came up and jumped, I freaked out,” he said. “That was awesome. Top-tier experience right there.”

The fish was more than a highlight – it was the exclamation point on a dominant day that secured Lucas Oil’s advancement to the Knockout Round and gave notice to the remaining field.

Though they finished the day in second place, Ehrler and Lucas delivered one of the most electric periods of the Summit Cup thus far in Period 3. After identifying a jerkbait bite over hydrilla in 3 feet of water, the duo returned to the area late – and unleashed a flurry.

“We had a great start to the third period that carried us, and I think we did everything right,” Ehrler said. “We let that spot rest, and when we came back, they were ready.”

Lucas could only laugh at the chaos.

“There were a lot more in that area than we realized,” he said. “We caught about 30 pounds in, what, forty minutes? That doesn’t happen every day. Everything was right about that spot.”

Team Ferguson ended the day with 23 scorable bass in the final period alone, securing their move into the Knockout Round.

Team BUBBA, Wesley Strader and Brent Chapman , entered the final period only 4 pounds, 4 ounces below the Lucas Oil cutline, but despite several quality fish – including a 4-8 on a bladed swim jig and a 4-3 on a buzzbait – the bite fizzled late. They managed just three scorable bass in the last period and finished the day in third.

Team Smokey Mountain’s Terry Scroggins and Britt Myers committed early to punching thick mats of salvinia and hyacinth – a pattern that showed promise – but the momentum didn’t hold. After a solid start, the bite evaporated through the second and third periods, dropping them below the cutline to finish in fourth place and end their Summit Cup hopes.

The top two teams from Elimination Round Match 2 at Bass Pro Shops Summit Cup Presented by Zenni that now advance to the Knockout Round are:

1st: Team Lucas Oil, 27 bass, 62-0
Drew Gill, Mount Carmel, Ill., 19 bass, 41-6
Marshall Robinson, Landrum, S.C., eight bass, 20-10
2nd: Team Ferguson, 34 bass, 59-1
Brent Ehrler, Redlands, Calif., 21 bass, 35-0
Justin Lucas, Guntersville, Ala., 13 bass, 24-1

Eliminated from competition are:

3rd: Team BUBBA, 12 bass, 25-10
Brent Chapman, Lake Quivira, Kan., one bass, 2-2
Wesley Strader, Spring City, Tenn., 11 bass, 23-8
4th: Team Smokey Mountain, 10 bass, 22-9
Britt Myers, Lake Wylie, S.C., five bass, 12-8
Terry Scroggins, San Mateo, Fla., five bass, 10-1

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

Overall, there were 83 bass weighing 169 pounds, 4 ounces caught by the four teams Monday in Elimination Round Match 2 on Caddo Lake. Team Lucas Oil pro Marshall Robinson caught the Berkley Big Bass of the day – a chunky 7-pound, 13-ounce largemouth bass.

The four teams that will compete Tuesday in Elimination Round Match 3 at the Bass Pro Shops Summit Cup Presented by Zenni are:

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

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

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

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

The Bass Pro Shops Summit Cup Presented by Zenni is hosted by the Shreveport-Bossier Sports Commission and takes place over six days in Shreveport-Bossier City, Louisiana. 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 9:15 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 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. CT. MLFNOW!® is livestreamed 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 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. CT.

The Summit 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 Bass Pro Shops Summit Cup Presented by Zenni.

The MLF Fishing Clash Team Series Presented by Bass Pro Shops features 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.

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

Winter Bass Fishing the Right Way!

Brian Carter

November 17, 2025

Winter fishing success begins long before you ever cast a line. It starts with choosing the right days to be on the water. Calm days often provide the best bite because they warm the shallows and make bass slightly more active despite the cold. While rain and wind can drop the perceived temperature drastically, making it uncomfortable to fish and difficult to control lightweight presentations. Cold fronts also bring changing water levels and stronger currents that can make boating hazardous, especially on rivers. Checking the forecast and monitoring weather patterns several days in advance helps you plan for safer, more productive outings. By waiting for stable conditions, you’ll spend more time fishing effectively and less time struggling. Choosing your days also helps you align with the bass’s natural feeding windows, which tend to be shorter but more predictable in winter. When a stretch of sunny weather follows several cold or cloudy days, water temperatures rise slightly, often triggering a temporary burst of activity. These times can concentrate bass near shallower transition zones, giving anglers a prime opportunity to capitalize. But the sudden temperature drops or harsh north winds can push fish deeper and make them far less responsive. By combining smart weather selection with an understanding of seasonal bass behavior, you’ll turn challenging winter conditions into an advantage to maximize both safety and success on the water.Our Fresh HellaMite is designed to imitate a major aquatic food source, delivering a realistic profile of an insect larva that fish can’t resist. Each is scented for complete and total attraction underwater, along with being made in the USA by real fishermen. We recently restocked the HellaMite Pro Pack, which is loaded with 60 baits in all six proven colors, plus three Owner Block Head Ned Jigs and a handy storage bag. This kit has everything you need to stay rigged and ready year-round. Grab our newest Lil Bass, Hot Sauce, MidNight, Glow, 10w30 Synthetic, Slimer Green, and Barbie Pink HellaMite colors. We’ve also restocked our Green Pumpkin and Smoke Purple HellaMite. The HellaMite’s solid body and hyperactive ribbed tail design produce a life-like quivering action with every twitch of the rod. Its unique flat underbelly detail enables this bait to be fished as a drop shot, Ned rig, neko rig, and even a small Carolina-rig, making it the ideal bait in any condition year-round. When the water is clear, the fish can see the bait and look like real food, causing strikes. Each cast becomes an opportunity for an exhilarating catch, thanks to its superior performance and versatility.

Cold weather can cause small but significant issues with your gear that quickly add up on the water. Moisture can freeze around rod guides, reels, and lockers, which makes your line brittle and equipment harder to manage. It’s best to keep an eye on ice buildup throughout the day and remove it regularly before it damages your line or reduces casting distance. Fluorocarbon line performs especially well in winter since it sheds water better than braid or monofilament and maintains strength in cold temperatures. Before launching, always warm your boat’s engine and check your equipment to avoid mechanical surprises later. Proper preparation keeps your focus on the fish rather than fighting your gear. It’s also important to keep your reels and drag systems properly lubricated with cold-weather-safe oil or grease, as standard lubricants can thicken and cause performance issues in freezing temperatures. Store your rods and tackle indoors the night before to prevent ice buildup and brittle lines when you arrive at the ramp. Keep a small towel or cloth handy to dry wet gear and hands, which helps minimize ice formation throughout the day. Having spare line, hooks, and baits stored in a dry compartment ensures you can quickly re-rig if something breaks or freezes up. The more proactive you are about gear organization, the smoother your winter fishing trips will end up going, even when the temperature drops.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!

During winter, bass concentrate tightly in specific areas, which means covering water efficiently and knowing where to look are crucial. Productive locations usually share three characteristics. Deeper water, nearby structure, and an abundance of forage. Bass often gather along steep drops, channel edges, or submerged ridges that provide both stability and quick access to varying depths. Finding baitfish schools with sonar or by observing surface activity can help you pinpoint where bass are feeding. In shallower systems, even subtle depth changes near deep structure can hold fish when temperatures plummet. The more time you spend identifying these prime winter zones, the faster you’ll find active bass instead of fishing empty water. Look for areas that combine both vertical and horizontal structure, such as bluff walls that transition into flat points or creek channels that intersect with submerged timber. These intersections often serve as natural highways for winter bass moving between feeding and resting areas. Using soft plastics like lizards, beetles, or craw-styled baits to probe these zones slowly along the bottom can help you detect smaller bites from inactive fish. If your lake has man-made features like bridges, docks, or rock piles, target those as they retain warmth and attract baitfish. By methodically working through these high-percentage areas and paying attention to small environmental cues, you’ll begin to recognize repeatable patterns that consistently lead to more winter success.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.

In cold water, slowing down your presentation is one of the most important adjustments you can make. Bass are still capable of fast movement, but their forage, such as baitfish and crawfish, becomes sluggish and conserves energy. By imitating this natural behavior, your presentation appears far more realistic and enticing. Using soft plastics such as lizards, insect larvae, craw-styled baits, beetles, or worms with slow drags, gentle hops, and long pauses can trigger reluctant winter strikes. Pay attention to small bites or changes in pressure on your line, as winter bass often strike softly. Patience and precision matter more than speed. Deliberate movements often produce the best results. Experiment with how long you let your bait rest between movements, as sometimes the strike will come after several seconds, or even half a minute of stillness. Smaller twitches of the rod tip can make your soft plastic appear alive without spooking finicky fish in clear, cold water. If you’re fishing deeper structure, maintaining bottom contact is key, since bass often hug the substrate for warmth and stability. When bites are light, downsizing your soft plastic or using a lighter weight can create a more natural fall and slower glide that appeals to inactive fish. The goal is to make every movement purposeful and lifelike, allowing the bass more than enough time to commit without feeling pressured by unnatural speed.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!

Staying warm and dry is just as important as finding the fish during the winter season. Start with a quality thermal base layer, then add breathable insulation and a windproof, waterproof outer shell. Even on dry days, wind can quickly strip away body heat and make it difficult to concentrate on fishing. Insulated bibs, jackets, and waterproof boots help retain warmth without restricting movement, which is key for casting and maneuvering safely. Pay special attention to extremities. Keep your feet warm with layered socks, your hands protected with gloves that allow finger dexterity, and your head covered to prevent heat loss. Comfort and mobility ensure that you can fish longer and stay alert in challenging conditions. Choosing clothing made from moisture-wicking materials is equally important, since sweat trapped under your layers can quickly chill your body once you stop moving. Always pack an extra set of dry gloves and socks in a waterproof bag in case your first pair gets wet during the day. A neck gaiter or face covering can block cold air and prevent windburn, especially when moving between fishing spots at higher speeds. Sunglasses with polarized lenses not only cut glare but also help shield your eyes from harsh winter wind and sun reflections. Taking the time to dress strategically for warmth and flexibility transforms cold-weather fishing from a struggle into a comfortable, focused experience on the water.Using a stick-styled worm is the most tried and true ways to catch fish. We have a variety of 5-inch Worms to choose from but we just added MidNight, Glow, and Ghost Worms! Our popular Watermelon Red Worms have been restocked as well. You can also experience our new wacky rigging kit while it’s ON SALE! The WACKY Pack offers our most popular colors and essential tools for wacky rigging. If you’re fast enough you might be able to grab the limited-release Pumpkin Spice Worm before it’s completely sold out, along with some of our newest colors, including the Brown Worm, Electric Chicken Worm, and Goby Wan Worm colors. The high-grade non-salt plastic they’re made from provides positive buoyancy and it even floats underwater! We also Restocked 6-inch Worms, including Watermelon Red, Green Pumpkin, Black & Blue, Fire TGR, Wild Berries, Bone, 10w30 Synthetic, Zombie Blood, and Chocolate MNT! — all available in 5 and 6-inch. We’ve also recently released new 8-count packs of worms available in Watermelon Red, Black & Blue, and Green Pumpkin. We also offer worms that have the unique ability to shift from one color to another. Scented for total attraction underwater.

Small heat sources can make a big difference when temperatures drop below freezing. Hand and body warmers provide consistent, low-level warmth for hours, keeping your core temperature up and preventing stiffness in your hands. They can be tucked into jacket pockets, gloves, or along your back and neck to maintain steady warmth without adding bulk. When combined with proper layering, they create an insulating system that helps you stay focused instead of distracted by the cold. Many anglers overlook this detail, yet maintaining comfort is often what separates a productive trip from a short, miserable one. The more comfortable you are, the more effectively you can fish through tough conditions. Consider using toe warmers inside your boots as well, since cold feet are one of the quickest ways to cut a trip short. Rotating fresh warmers halfway through the day can help maintain consistent heat during long outings in subfreezing weather. Some anglers also place small warmers near their reel-hand wrist or forearm to keep blood circulating and preserve tactile sensitivity for detecting light bites. Be sure to position them where they won’t restrict movement or interfere with casting and reeling. With a little planning, these can make long hours on the water far more enjoyable, keeping both your body and focus steady all day long.Introducing the Newest 8-Inch MagDingo Worms! These are the ultimate game-changer in bass fishing! Engineered for anglers who know SIZE does matter, this lure is designed to attract only the BIGGEST bass with a fixation for the larger bait. The MagDingo Worm boasts a solid 8-inch body enhanced with a hyperactive ribbed design, ensuring irresistible mouth-watering action for those trophy bass. The 10-count packs are now available in a variety of 6 crucial colors, including the 10w30 Synthetic, Black & Blue, Zombie Blood, Green Pumpkin, Wild Cherry, and Watermelon Red. Each worm is made in the USA from durable, high-grade Non-Salted plastic for lifelike action and unparalleled durability. Perfectly balanced for a variety of rigging options and scented for maximum attraction, the 8-inch MagDingo Worm promises year-round effectiveness in lakes, rivers, and streams. Whether you’re rigging it on a Shakey Head, Drop Shot, Texas Rig, or Carolina Rig, these worms are your ticket to landing trophy-sized smallmouth and largemouth bass.

Winter water temperatures can be deadly, so safety must always come first. A slip on an icy deck or unstable shoreline can send you into freezing water before you have time to react. Wearing your life jacket at all times ensures that if an accident happens, you’ll stay afloat and have a better chance of recovery. Keep a set of towels or dry clothes in your boat or vehicle to warm up quickly if you fall in. Hypothermia can set in within minutes, so every precaution counts. No matter your experience level, treating safety as part of your fishing strategy protects both your life and your ability to enjoy the season. It’s also wise to let someone know your exact fishing location and expected return time before heading out there, especially if you fish alone. Carrying a whistle or waterproof communication device can help you signal for assistance if you ever find yourself in trouble. Make sure your boat’s safety gear, such as a throwable flotation cushion, flashlight, and first aid kit, is in good condition and easy to reach. Check that your batteries, navigation lights, and bilge pump are all working properly before launch, since winter daylight fades quickly. Taking a few extra minutes to plan for emergencies not only gives you peace of mind but also ensures that every trip ends safely, no matter the conditions you’re up against.
We have a wide variety of terminal tackle to choose from, but we’ve released new Nako Tungsten Tear Drop Shot Weights, crafted from 97% eco-friendly tungsten for stealth, durability, and vibration, with easy-to-read size stamps and a crimped swivel for quick changes. Owner Mosquito Hooks work for dropshotting and perfectly accommodates a wide range of soft plastics. The new Haymaker EWG Worm Hooks are also now available, featuring an extra-wide gap for various soft plastics, a Z-lock shoulder bend for secure bait placement, and an angled-up super needle point for fast, powerful hooksets. The popular All Purpose Hooks are built with an extra-wide gap and are made to accommodate a wide range of soft plastics. For creature-styled baits, a more popular choice to use is the Stand-Up Jig because it sits the bait up-right in a defensive stance! The WEEDLESS Block Head Jig features high-quality construction that helps increase your hook-up ratios and keep your bait clean from snagging rocks or vegetation. The Block Head Jig is perfect for ned rigging the HellaMite with its mushroom-style head that seamlessly matches a wide variety of soft plastics. The Offset Block Head Jig, offers the same mushroom-style head with a unique offset hook, making it a go-to for weedless Ned Rig applications. The Shakey Ultrahead can permanently secure baits by inserting the pin in the center and screwing the twist lock coil spring for perfect rigging every time! The Ultrahead Wacky Jig features precise weight positioning and hook orientation for the ultimate wacky presentations. For fast Texas rigging, we use the Bullet-Type Rig which has an attached weight saving you precious time when fishing cover. The 4x Jungle Flippin Hook is designed for big fish and the toughest conditions. The Range Roller Jig Head is crafted for precision with its high center axis design, perfect for hover-strolling and mid to bottom strolling with forward facing sonar, ensuring an enticing rolling action that triggers bites. We also just released Keep’em Fresh Bait Bags! These bags are the ultimate solution for anglers who need their gear to perform. Built like a tank, this bag is 20x stronger than regular zip bags and offers 100% waterproof protection with a rock-solid double zipper seal. Whether it’s for soft plastics, snacks, or your smartphone, this reusable and versatile bag keeps everything safe from water, mud, and grime. It’s lightweight yet spacious, it fits snugly in your tackle box or backpack, making it perfect for your next adventure.

South Carolina’s Murphy Clinches Home-Water All-American Berth With Win at Phoenix Bass Fishing League Wild Card on Pickwick Lake

Brian Carter

November 17, 2025

South Carolina’s Murphy Clinches Home-Water All-American Berth With Win at Phoenix Bass Fishing League Wild Card on Pickwick Lake

Boater winner Lucas Murphy of West Columbia, South Carolina, and co-angler winner James Ramsey of Boaz, Alabama.

Anaya leads the charge into the 2026 Elite Series

Brian Carter

November 16, 2025

Anaya leads the charge into the 2026 Elite Series

The Top 10 in the Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers presented by Bass Pro Shops points have earned berths to the 2026 Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series.

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

Nov. 16, 2025

Anaya leads the charge into the 2026 Elite Series

CLEWISTON, Fla. — It was only last July when Fisher Anaya wrapped up his final high school tournament. Now, the 19-year-old is achieving his dream of becoming a professional angler.

Anaya claimed the Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifier presented by Bass Pro Shops points race, earning 264 points during the three-tournament gauntlet. He and nine other Elite Qualifiers earned invitations to the 2026 Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series.

“It’s awesome. I’m ready to go. I wish we started tomorrow,” Anaya said.

Hailing from Eva, Ala., Anaya has been fishing as a boater in adult-level tournaments for several years, racking up impressive results in BFL’s and Toyota Series events as well as Alabama Bass Trail tournaments with his father Ryan.

Even still, Anaya wasn’t quite sure how he would stack up against an impressive group of St. Croix Bassmaster Opens presented by SEVIIN pros. Turns out, he was top of the class.

“I knew I had a chance,” he explained. “Like, if you are going to fish this stuff you have to bet on yourself. You have to have confidence. I told myself I could do it. I came out here, worked my rear end off daylight to dark every day and it paid off.”

Conditions for Division II, and the EQ schedule for that matter, were volatile. But each tournament, Anaya found one area that he felt could produce quality bites. Nothing seemed like it came easy, however.

“I would land on one area each tournament that would have big ones and I could bank on those to help me survive,” Anaya said. “Really and truly, it looks great on paper, but all my tournaments were super slow and were always a grind.

“I think it bettered me.”

The ability to fight through those grimy days will no doubt serve him well at the Elite Series level.

Let’s take a look at how the Top 10 finishers in EQ points got to this point.

1st place – Fisher Anaya (264 points; $45,000)

Anaya was one of the 50 anglers who best navigated a tumultuous Division II schedule, finishing second in the regular season to Pake South by two points. He opened the season with a 9th place finish at Sam Rayburn, which he feels set the tone for the season.

“After catching them in the first one, I was like, ‘I can do this,’” Anaya said. “I caught them at a place I’d never seen before. I just had to carry my momentum and keep going.”

He then notched back-to-back 11th places at Kentucky Lake and Norfork Lake before rounding out the regular season with a 24th at Leech Lake.

He didn’t miss a beat once the EQ schedule started, claiming 19th, 5th and 3rd place finishes at Champlain, Wheeler and Okeechobee respectively.

2nd place – Russ Lane (244 points; $12,000)

After a couple seasons away, the seasoned veteran will return to the Elite Series next year. Lane, a million dollar earner at B.A.S.S., fished both divisions of the Opens, earning his spot in the EQ with a sixth-place finish in Division II, which included a Top 10 at Tombigbee River and Top 35 finishes at Clarks Hill and Chesapeake Bay.

In the EQ, he earned Top 20s in every event, including a Top 10 at Lake Champlain.

3rd place – Aaron Jagdfeld (242 points; $10,000)

The runner-up in the 2024 College Classic Bracket presented by Lew’s wasted no time making it through the Opens grind and into the Elite Series. Despite a dismal 197th at Kentucky Lake, Jagdfeld earned a spot in the EQ on the back of three Top 40 finishes in Division II.

He followed that up with an eighth place finish at Lake Champlain and a 12th at Wheeler Lake. He needed a Day 2 comeback to earn 29th in the tournament and his spot in the Elite Series.

4th place – Austin Cranford (240 points; $9,000)

Another Okie will join the Elite ranks in 2026. Cranford had been close to making the Elite Series the past several years, but this year all the pieces fell into place. He finished seventh in Division II points with three Top 35s and a 55th place showing at Sam Rayburn.

Cranford showed his muscle in the EQ, claiming Top 30 finishes at Champlain and Wheeler before clinching at Okeechobee with a fourth place finish.

5th place – Sam Hanggi (238 points; $8,000)

Hanggi becomes the fourth Auburn alum to qualify for the Elite Series, joining Logan Parks, Tucker Smith and Jordan Lee. Hanggi fished both divisions of the Opens, double qualifying for the EQ round with a 28th place finish in Division I and a 10th place finish in Division II points.

A 5th place finish at Champlain put him in prime position. Although he stumbled slightly with a 36th at Wheeler Lake, he rebounded nicely with a 13th at Okeechobee.

6th place – Matt Messer (237 points; $7,000)

The Kentucky native has been known for big time performances, winning a College Series event and a 2023 Open to earn a spot in the 2024 Bassmaster Classic. Now he will get to showcase his big game prowess on the biggest stage.

Messer earned a spot in the EQ via a 16th place showing in Division I before nearly winning the opening round at Lake Champlain, ultimately finishing second. A 16th place finish at Wheeler Lake vaulted him into the points lead, but Messer needed a Day 2 comeback to finish 35th at Okeechobee and secure his Elite bid.

7th place – Caleb Hudson (228 points; $6,000)

Hudson competed against Jagdfeld in the semifinal round of the 2024 College Classic Bracket, and now will do the same in the Elite Series.

Hudson found himself behind the eight ball after the first two EQ events, entering Okeechobee in 20th place in points. On the strength of a 25-pound Day 2 limit, he won Okeechobee and punched his ticket to the big show in the process.

8th place – Tristan McCormick (228 points; $5,000)

The two-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier had an excellent 2025 campaign, earning a long-awaited berth to the Elites. McCormick finished Division I in 15th place while also notching a 15th and a 26th at Sam Rayburn and Kentucky Lake in Division II.

After a 44th place finish at Champlain, the former College Bracket Champion rattled off a 14th at Wheeler Lake and a 7th at Okeechobee to jump into the Top 10.

9th place – Pake South (226 points; $4,500)

Another member of the 25 and under club, South was one of the most consistent anglers during the Opens season.

South notched two Top 5s on his way to winning the Division II points race and punching his ticket to the EQ round. He then overcame a 51st place finish at Champlain with a 6th and 10th at Wheeler and Okeechobee to send him to the Elite Series.

10th place – Brock Reinkemeyer (222 points; $3,500)

A Team Series Fish-Off runner-up, Reinkemeyer overcame a 100th place finish at Sam Rayburn to finish 19th in Division II points. The Missouri angler then rattled off 27th, 13th and 30th place finishes in the EQ Division to qualify for the Elite Series.

Jonathan Rhew & Justin Rhew Win 5 Alive/ STATE CONSTRUCTION Fall Trail Tournament #4 Hyco Lake

Brian Carter

November 16, 2025

Jonathan Rhew & Justin Rhew Win 5 Alive/ STATE CONSTRUCTION Fall Trail Tournament #4 Hyco Lake

Four down and one to go for the STATE CONSTRUCTION Fall Trail.
Tournament #4 of the trail was last Saturday at Hyco Lake. We had 27 teams show up to fish. Again, it was foggy but we managed to get off on time.

At the end of the day, it was the team of Jonathan Rhew & Justin Rhew that took home the WIN

.
They had a 5 fish limit weighing 19.39 pounds, anchored by a 6.24 pound fish that also won them Big Fish for the tournament. They took home a total of

$1295.00

for the day. That win put them in the lead for the points with only one tournament left. GREAT JOB GUYS I!
They were followed by the team of Bash & Bash, who had a 5 fish limit weighing 14.82 pounds. That earned them a total of

$600.00.

Glad to see these guys do well. They have been working hard and it’s starting to show. CONGRATS FELLAS!

We close out the 2025 STATE CONSTRUCTION Fall Trail next Saturday 11/22/25 at Hyco Lake.

We will crown the 2025 STATE CONSTRUCTION Fall Trail Points Champions next Saturday to the tune of $1000.00

As we have done all year in each trail we are making the last tournament open to anyone. YOU DO NOT HAVE TO HAVE A MEMBERSHIP TO FISH THE TOURNAMENT NEXT SATURDAY.

Yall come on out and let’s close out the 5 Alive Team Trail Tournament Series for 2025 in style.
Hope to see yall there.

Results.
1st. Rhew & Rhew-19.39 pounds-$1295.00 TWT
2nd. Bash & Bash- 14.82 pounds-$600.00 TWT
3rd. Jeff Wolfe – 12.25 pounds-$450.00 TWT
4th. Boswell & Weatherford- 12.14 pounds-$225.00
5th. Walker & Wray- 11.69 pounds-$125.00

Big fish.
Rhew & Rhew- 6.24 pounds-$270.00

Alex Watts & Alvin Harris Win Bass Cast Tournament On SML with 20.39 lbs

Brian Carter

November 15, 2025

Alex Watts & Alvin Harris Win Bass Cast Tournament On SML with 20.39 lbs

CLICK TO SEE RESULTS

CLICK POINTS TO SEE HOW MANY YOU NEED TO FISH TO QUALIFY FOR THE CHAMPIONSHIP

CLICK TO SEE POINTS STANDINGS

We want to thank the 24 teams that came out to fish with the Bass Cast on what turned out to be a beautiful windy November day. The bite was tough again for many anglers & the water temperature is still not where it needs to be, but the big sticks stood out & made the top 5 pretty close. But Alex Wattsn & Alvin Harris showed up & secured the win with his 20-plus-pound sack. Congratulations to him on the win.

Hudson survives final day lull to win at Okeechobee

Brian Carter

November 15, 2025

Hudson survives final day lull to win at Okeechobee

Georgia’s Caleb Hudson has won the Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifier presented by Bass Pro Shops with a three-day total of 52 pounds, 6 ounces.

Photo by Andy Crawford/B.A.S.S.

Nov. 15, 2025

Hudson survives final day lull to win at Okeechobee

CLEWISTON, Fla. — Last September, Caleb Hudson didn’t know what direction he wanted to take in life. He came just short of winning the College Classic Bracket presented by Lew’s, what he assumed would be his best chance at qualifying for the Bassmaster Classic, at least in the foreseeable future.

But with the support of his family and a few good sponsors, the USC-Union grad decided to fish Division I of the 2025 St. Croix Bassmaster Opens presented by SEVIIN and it was the best decision he ever made.

“I feel like I’m on top of the world right now,” he said.

With a three-day total of 52 pounds, 6 ounces, Hudson claimed the victory at the Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifier presented by Bass Pro Shops. The win not only sends him to the 2026 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour, it also vaulted him into the Top 10 in Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifier presented by Bass Pro Shops points.

Opening the tournament in 25th with 10-9, Hudson brought 25-7 to the scales on Day 2 before landing 16-6, which was enough to outlast Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series pro Robert Gee, who finished with 51-12.

“This was never in my 2025 bingo card. It is the best kind of blindside. This is the last event on the schedule I would have ever thought I would win,” Hudson said. “God is the reason for this. Day 2 I was blessed, and it carried me the rest of the way. This is what exactly needed to happen to get me into the Elite Series. I sent it and it worked out.”

Despite warming temperatures, the final day proved to be just as difficult as the previous two. Only one 20-pound bag hit the scales on Saturday while five limits under 10 pounds were brought in.

Hudson spent his week fishing the Rim Canal on the southwest side of Lake Okeechobee targeting largemouth he saw on his Garmin LiveScope. While he didn’t know there was winning potential in the area after practice, Hudson knew he could achieve a solid finish if he could get the bass to commit.

Two different stretches of the canal produced all of his bites. The water in that area was dirtier than other areas of Okeechobee, which is usually a receipt for disaster in Florida, but a key ingredient for Hudson.

Most of the bass he caught were just under the surface, and because of the dirty water, he could get the largemouth to bite close to his boat. The first two tournament days, Hudson didn’t notice any baitfish in the area, but the final day he noticed much more activity.

A Spro McDart jerkbait and a jighead minnow were his two best presentations the first two days of the tournament, but with calmer conditions on the final day, only the minnow played. To keep the minnow in the strike zone, he used 1/16-ounce, 3/16-ounce or a 1/8-ounce jighead.

Hudson’s final day started with a bang, landing three bass in the opening hours, including a 4-pounder and a 5-pounder. The bite dissipated quickly after that, and he spent most the day trying to fill out his limit. Around midday, he caught two 1-pounders, which turned out to be the winning catches.

“Those two fish saved the day and put me over the top,” he said.

Gee, meanwhile, came up just short of qualifying for the Bassmaster Classic in his hometown of Knoxville. The Elite Series pro weighed in bags of 14-11, 19-9 and 17-8 to notch his third second place finish as a B.A.S.S. angler.

“It was a pretty good week,” he said. “First day, I lost two key fish that would have helped. That would have won me the tournament. But there is a lot of momentum to build on. I missed the Classic by one spot now, which sucks.”

Spending his time in a pocket in the J&S Canal on the east side of the lake, an area he shared with several other competitors, Gee targeted largemouth feeding on balls of bait. He rotated between the new Yamamoto Hinge Minnow on a jighead and a spoon given to him by fellow Elite pro Cody Huff.

The way he fished this week in Florida reminded him of fishing highland reservoirs in his home state.

“I was in the right area,” the Tennessean said. “It was a tough bite. There were a lot of bass in there, but they are so hard to catch. The fish I caught on the spoon were on the bottom, but as the day went on these started suspending.”

Weighing in bags of 14-9, 13-13 and 19-10, Eva, Ala.,’s Fisher Anaya finished third with a total of 48-0. Not only did he notch a Top 10, he claimed EQ Angler of the Year with 264 points.

“It’s crazy, honestly. I have never seen this place, and it is big and intimidating. After two days of practice, I was a little spun out. I ended up finding one little area and hunkered down there. I knew if I got bit, they would be big.”

Anaya spent the entire tournament in a short stretch of the Harney Pond Canal searching for largemouth with his forward-facing sonar with a new 6.25-inch Rapala CrushCity Freeloader on a jighead and a Rapala Mavrick jerkbait.

The majority of the bass he threw at never bit, but the ones that did were quality. That included the Phoenix Boats Big Bass of the Tournament, an 8-13 worth $500.

Joining Anaya in the 2026 Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series are Russ Lane (244 points); Aaron Jagdfeld (242); Austin Cranford (240); Sam Hanggi (238); Matt Messer (237); Caleb Hudson (228); Tristan McCormick (228); Pake South (226); and Brock Reinkemeyer (222). Jaden Parrish, Riley Nielsen and Ryan Lachniet were the first three anglers outside the cut.

Visit Hendry County and Roland and Mary Ann Martin’s Marina and Resort hosted the tournament.

2025 Nitro Bassmaster Elite Qualifier at Lake Okeechobee presented by Bass Pro Shops 11/13-11/15
Lake Okeechobee, Clewiston FL.
(BOATER) Standings Day 3

Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$

1. Caleb Hudson Lincolnton, GA 15 52-06 95 $46,910.00
Day 1: 5 10-09 Day 2: 5 25-07 Day 3: 5 16-06
2. Robert Gee Knoxville, TN 15 51-12 0 $12,032.00
Day 1: 5 14-11 Day 2: 5 19-09 Day 3: 5 17-08
3. Fisher Anaya Eva, AL 14 48-00 94 $55,126.00
Day 1: 5 14-09 Day 2: 4 13-13 Day 3: 5 19-10
4. Austin Cranford Moore, OK 14 47-04 93 $18,145.00
Day 1: 5 19-01 Day 2: 4 15-06 Day 3: 5 12-13
5. Riley Nielsen Salt Lake City, UT 15 46-01 92 $8,663.00
Day 1: 5 09-04 Day 2: 5 16-08 Day 3: 5 20-05
6. Ty Faber Pagosa Springs, CO 13 43-02 91 $8,182.00
Day 1: 5 14-00 Day 2: 4 15-01 Day 3: 4 14-01
7. Tristan McCormick Bon Aqua, TN 15 41-11 90 $12,701.00
Day 1: 5 15-07 Day 2: 5 16-11 Day 3: 5 09-09
8. Ryan Lachniet Gum Spring, VA 14 41-06 89 $7,220.00
Day 1: 4 07-06 Day 2: 5 27-01 Day 3: 5 06-15
9. Aaron Yavorsky Palm Harbor, FL 15 40-06 88 $6,738.00
Day 1: 5 10-13 Day 2: 5 22-12 Day 3: 5 06-13
10. Pake South Winnsboro, TX 13 32-06 87 $10,757.00
Day 1: 5 13-01 Day 2: 3 12-12 Day 3: 5 06-09
———————————————————————–
BIG BASS OF TOURNAMENT
Fisher Anaya Eva, AL 08-13 $500.00
———————————————————————–
Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 47 305 661-07
2 40 279 692-15
3 9 52 135-11
———————————-
96 636 1490-01

Hudson claims Day 2 lead at Lake Okeechobee EQ

Brian Carter

November 15, 2025

Hudson claims Day 2 lead at Lake Okeechobee EQ

Georgia’s Caleb Hudson has taken the lead on Day 2 of the Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifier presented by Bass Pro Shops with a total of 36 pounds.

Photo by Andy Crawford/B.A.S.S.

Nov. 14, 2025

Hudson claims Day 2 lead at Lake Okeechobee EQ

CLEWISTON, Fla. — Day 2 of the Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifier at Lake Okeechobee presented by Bass Pro Shops is a day Caleb Hudson won’t soon forget.

The Lincolnton, Ga., native caught a five-bass limit weighing 25 pounds, 7 ounces, adding to his 10-9 limit from Day 1 to take the tournament lead with a two-day total of 36 pounds. After starting the day in 25th, Hudson now has a 1-9 advantage over Ryan Lachniet and Austin Cranford who are tied for second with 34-7.

Not only did Hudson jump into the lead, but he also launched himself into eighth in Elite Qualifier points.

“This place is one of my favorites now,” he said. “Today was crucial. I got sick several times on the boat today thinking about the points.”

It’s been a challenging week on Lake Okeechobee as anglers struggled with the remnants of a powerful cold front that swept through the country earlier in the week. The field of 75 weighed in 47 limits on Day 1, while only 40 limits were caught on Day 2.

Hudson, a former Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops competitor with USC-Union, is fishing one of the canals surrounding Lake Okeechobee. Using his forward-facing sonar, he has located individual bass swimming just under the surface.

“I think they are trying to absorb some heat,” he explained.

Two things make his bite unique. For one, the water in his area is murky, an unusual occurrence for productive Florida fishing. Because of this, the bass can’t see Hudson’s baits as well, and he has gotten plenty of bites close to his boat.

A Spro McDart and a jighead minnow with either a 1/16-ounce or 1/8-ounce head.

“They are biting it so close to the trolling motor and so high in the water column, they are hard to see because the numbers on my Garmin block the picture,” Hudson explained. “I caught three today I didn’t have to reel on.

“I don’t think the bass have good coordination (in murky water). I float around until I see a bunch of them and then I slow down and pitch on them from there.”

After practice, Hudson had confidence in two areas of the lake, but Day 1 didn’t unfold how he hoped. Still, his limit kept him in the Top 25, giving him the chance to make the comeback he did today.

“I’m not going to say I had a chance at 25, but in practice knew what I was on. Yesterday it didn’t happen. I made up for it today,” Hudson said.

Hudson opened the day with a 7 1/2-pounder, a bass he initially thought was a different species of fish.

“He followed (my bait) all the way to the boat. It was basically head-butting my trolling motor,” he said. “He jumped immediately. I toted him around for 4 or 5 hours before I had any more luck.”

It took most of the day, and throwing at more than 50 bass that didn’t bite, but Hudson went on an impressive 45-minute flurry in the afternoon that included a 6-pounder to reach his daily total. He isn’t sure he can repeat his performance, but he knows there are still plenty of bass in the area.

After weighing 7-6 on Thursday, Lachniet landed the tournament’s biggest bag on Day 2, a 27-1 limit with three bass weighing 6 pounds or better, a 5-pounder and a 1-8. Those five bass lifted him from 44th all the way into the second-place tie.

“I knew I needed a big bag, so I started on the main lake thinking that was my best chance. After an hour and a half, I knew it wasn’t going to work,” the Campbellsville University angler said. “I want to make the Elite’s more than anything. I’d rather do that than win the tournament, honestly.”

Lachniet proceeded to lock into Taylors Creek, hoping to catch 10 pounds, and immediately had several bass follow his jerkbait. Soon after, he pitched a jighead minnow at a 4-pounder that didn’t bite. But those fish gave him all the clues he needed.

“10 minutes later, I catch a 7-pounder. Not long after I catch a 5,” Lachniet explained. “I thought it was an area thing, but I ran to a known spot and caught a 6. Ran to another spot and caught another 6.”

The minnow was not something he intended on throwing at all this week at Okeechobee. In fact, he tied on the minnow he used while he was waiting in the lock, which proved to be a critical decision.

“I was kind of done with it,” he said. “It got good quick. I think they were prespawn. Three of them were pretty fat. They were all over the place.”

Cranford, meanwhile, almost certainly secured his spot in the 2026 Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series field with four bass that weighed 15-6 on Day 2. The Norman, Okla., pro has been fishing the lower end of the J&S canal on the lakes east side all week.

“I gave myself two hours to get back,” he said. “We were worried about making the Elites today, we’ll worry about winning tomorrow.”

Each day the bass in the area have changed. One small area produced his 19-1 Day 1 limit, but it took most of the morning for Cranford to unlock the bite. On Day 2, that small area received much more fishing pressure, and he struggled to generate bites.

“I spent four hours in there knowing they weren’t going to bite. Luckily, I caught one 4-pounder,” Cranford said. “At noon, I pulled the plug. I had another group of bass that I hadn’t been to yet and no one else has been on it.”

When he arrived, he landed a 3-pounder, 6-pounder and finished the day with a 12-incher. Cranford believes the majority of those bass are either spawning or getting ready to spawn. A certain 6-inch jighead minnow presentation generated all his bites in the afternoon.

“These are giant ones. I’m starting there in the morning,” Cranford said. “These fish might be spawning. The 6-pounder came out of 4 feet of water and the 3-pounder looked like it was sitting on a bed. I just figured it out in the last hour.”

Georgia’s Brady Vernon caught the Phoenix Boats Big Bass of the Day, an 8-6 largemouth. Alabama’s Fisher Anaya holds the Big Bass of the Tournament, an 8-13 he landed on Day 1.

Anaya leads the Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers presented by Bass Pro Shops points with 259 points, followed by Alabama’s Russ Lane with 244 points and Aaron Jagdfeld in third with 242 points. Cranford is fourth with 240 points and Tennessee’s Sam Hanggi is fifth with 238 points. Kentucky’s Matt Messer is sixth with 237 points; Tennessee’s Tristan McCormick is seventh with 229 points; Hudson is eighth with 228 points; Texas’s Pake South is ninth with 226 points; and Missouri’s Brock Reinkemeyer is 10th with 222 points.

Jaden Parrish, Lachniet and Bailey Gay are the first three anglers out of the cut currently.

The Top 11 anglers will launch from Roland Martin Marina at 7 a.m. ET and return for weigh-in at 3 p.m. The winner will earn a spot in the 2026 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour. The Top 10 finishers in EQ points will earn a spot in the 2026 Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, and those anglers will be revealed during weigh-in.

Bassmaster LIVE will carry coverage of the Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifier at Lake Okeechobee presented by Bass Pro Shops on Bassmaster.com and ROKU from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. ET and from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Visit Hendry County and Roland and Mary Ann Martin’s Marina and Resort are hosting the tournament.

Tournament note

An angler in the Top 10 is advancing to tomorrow’s final round under appeal of the results of a polygraph administered at the event. In accordance with tournament rules, an 11th angler will also compete Saturday while B.A.S.S. officials continue to carry out the appeals process.

2025 Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series Title Sponsor: Nitro Boats

2025 Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series Presenting Sponsor: Bass Pro Shops

2025 Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series Platinum Sponsors: Progressive, Toyota
2025 Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series Premier Sponsors: Bass Pro Shops,Dakota Lithium, Humminbird, Mercury, Minn Kota, Nitro Boats, Power-Pole, Ranger Boats, Rapala, Skeeter Boats, Yamaha
2025 Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series Supporting Sponsors: AFTCO, Daiwa, Garmin, Lew’s, Lowrance, Triton Boats, VMC, Yokohama

About B.A.S.S.

B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.

2025 Nitro Bassmaster Elite Qualifier at Lake Okeechobee presented by Bass Pro Shops 11/13-11/15
Lake Okeechobee, Clewiston FL.
(BOATER) Standings Day 2

Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$

1. Caleb Hudson Lincolnton, GA 10 36-00 95
Day 1: 5 10-09 Day 2: 5 25-07
2. Ryan Lachniet Gum Spring, VA 9 34-07 94
Day 1: 4 07-06 Day 2: 5 27-01
3. Austin Cranford Moore, OK 9 34-07 93
Day 1: 5 19-01 Day 2: 4 15-06
4. Robert Gee Knoxville, TN 10 34-04 0
Day 1: 5 14-11 Day 2: 5 19-09
5. Aaron Yavorsky Palm Harbor, FL 10 33-09 92
Day 1: 5 10-13 Day 2: 5 22-12
6. Tristan McCormick Bon Aqua, TN 10 32-02 91
Day 1: 5 15-07 Day 2: 5 16-11
7. Ty Faber Pagosa Springs, CO 9 29-01 90
Day 1: 5 14-00 Day 2: 4 15-01
8. Fisher Anaya Eva, AL 9 28-06 89
Day 1: 5 14-09 Day 2: 4 13-13
9. Jaden Parrish Liberty, TX 10 26-01 88
Day 1: 5 10-08 Day 2: 5 15-09
10. Pake South Winnsboro, TX 8 25-13 87
Day 1: 5 13-01 Day 2: 3 12-12
11. Riley Nielsen Salt Lake City, UT 10 25-12 86 $4,813.00
Day 1: 5 09-04 Day 2: 5 16-08
12. Chris Beaudrie Princeton, KY 10 25-08 85 $4,813.00
Day 1: 5 12-09 Day 2: 5 12-15
13. Sam Hanggi Knoxville, TN 6 25-07 84 $4,813.00
Day 1: 5 23-15 Day 2: 1 01-08
14. Hayden Gaddis Dandridge, TN 10 25-07 83 $4,813.00
Day 1: 5 15-14 Day 2: 5 09-09
15. Kyle Austin Ridgeville, SC 10 25-04 82 $4,813.00
Day 1: 5 10-12 Day 2: 5 14-08
16. Trey Swindle Cleveland, AL 10 25-00 81 $2,888.00
Day 1: 5 10-13 Day 2: 5 14-03
17. Connor Jacob Peoria, IL 10 24-12 80 $2,888.00
Day 1: 5 07-15 Day 2: 5 16-13
18. Russ Lane Prattville, AL 10 23-15 79 $2,888.00
Day 1: 5 12-03 Day 2: 5 11-12
19. Adam Rasmussen Sturgeon Bay, WI 10 22-07 78 $2,888.00
Day 1: 5 11-07 Day 2: 5 11-00
20. Michael Neal Dayton, TN 10 22-03 77 $2,888.00
Day 1: 5 12-11 Day 2: 5 09-08
21. Colby Dark West Monroe, LA 7 22-02 76 $2,888.00
Day 1: 5 18-12 Day 2: 2 03-06
22. Blake Smith Lakeland, FL 10 21-14 75 $2,888.00
Day 1: 5 07-04 Day 2: 5 14-10
23. Chris Blanchette Chapin, SC 10 21-04 74 $2,888.00
Day 1: 5 14-02 Day 2: 5 07-02
24. Stephen Browning Hot Springs, AR 10 21-04 73 $2,888.00
Day 1: 5 11-14 Day 2: 5 09-06
25. Nic Rand Paw Paw, MI 9 20-14 72 $2,888.00
Day 1: 4 08-15 Day 2: 5 11-15
26. Ryan Salzman Huntsville, AL 8 20-11 71 $2,888.00
Day 1: 3 05-09 Day 2: 5 15-02
27. Evan Cox-VanVliet Loveland, CO 10 20-07 70 $2,888.00
Day 1: 5 07-12 Day 2: 5 12-11
28. Brad Jelinek Lincoln, MO 10 20-07 69 $2,888.00
Day 1: 5 08-14 Day 2: 5 11-09
29. Aaron Jagdfeld Rochester Hills, MI 9 20-06 68 $2,406.00
Day 1: 4 05-13 Day 2: 5 14-09
30. Brock Reinkemeyer Warsaw, MO 9 20-05 67 $2,406.00
Day 1: 5 10-07 Day 2: 4 09-14
31. Trey Schroeder Theodosia, MO 10 20-03 66 $2,406.00
Day 1: 5 11-06 Day 2: 5 08-13
32. Chris Hellebuyck White Lake, MI 10 19-02 65 $2,406.00
Day 1: 5 10-00 Day 2: 5 09-02
33. Cole Drummond Effingham, SC 10 19-02 64 $2,406.00
Day 1: 5 09-10 Day 2: 5 09-08
34. Bo Thomas Edwardsburg, MI 10 19-00 63 $2,406.00
Day 1: 5 11-10 Day 2: 5 07-06
35. Matt Messer Warfield, KY 7 18-14 62 $2,406.00
Day 1: 2 05-06 Day 2: 5 13-08
36. Jack Dice Lynchburg, VA 10 18-14 61 $2,406.00
Day 1: 5 11-09 Day 2: 5 07-05
37. Tommy Wood Peregian Springs AUSTRA 7 18-06 60 $2,406.00
Day 1: 2 03-07 Day 2: 5 14-15
38. Erik Brztowski Lemont, IL 10 18-03 59 $2,406.00
Day 1: 5 11-06 Day 2: 5 06-13
39. Beau Browning Hot Springs National Pa 10 18-03 0 $2,406.00
Day 1: 5 08-06 Day 2: 5 09-13
40. Joey Nania Cropwell, AL 6 17-15 58 $2,406.00
Day 1: 2 09-11 Day 2: 4 08-04
41. Tanner Hadden Appling, GA 9 17-04 57
Day 1: 4 04-15 Day 2: 5 12-05
42. Bailey Gay Union, KY 8 17-04 56
Day 1: 5 06-06 Day 2: 3 10-14
43. Jimmy Washam Stantonville, TN 10 17-03 55
Day 1: 5 06-10 Day 2: 5 10-09
44. Jack York Emory, TX 8 17-03 54
Day 1: 5 10-06 Day 2: 3 06-13
45. Alec Morrison Peru, NY 9 16-15 53
Day 1: 5 10-04 Day 2: 4 06-11
46. Chase Clarke Virginia Beach, VA 10 16-14 52
Day 1: 5 09-08 Day 2: 5 07-06
47. Lane Olson Forest Grove, OR 10 16-10 51
Day 1: 5 09-06 Day 2: 5 07-04
48. Mark Menendez Paducah, KY 8 16-06 50
Day 1: 5 09-15 Day 2: 3 06-07
49. Matt Adams Guntersville, AL 5 15-00 49
Day 1: 5 15-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
50. Brady Vernon Sterrett, AL 4 15-00 48
Day 1: 2 04-01 Day 2: 2 10-15
51. Michael Corbishley Raleigh, NC 9 14-08 47
Day 1: 4 05-15 Day 2: 5 08-09
52. Yui Aoki Minamitsurugun JAPAN 8 14-04 46
Day 1: 5 07-02 Day 2: 3 07-02
53. River Lee Diboll, TX 8 14-03 45
Day 1: 3 05-01 Day 2: 5 09-02
54. Jace Lindsay Beckville, TX 7 13-13 44
Day 1: 5 09-03 Day 2: 2 04-10
55. Bobby Bakewell Orlando, FL 8 13-09 43
Day 1: 5 09-04 Day 2: 3 04-05
56. Andrew Behnke Fond Du Lac, WI 6 13-06 42
Day 1: 1 01-10 Day 2: 5 11-12
57. Brandon McMillan Clewiston, FL 7 13-03 41
Day 1: 3 04-01 Day 2: 4 09-02
58. Cody Stahl Barnsville, GA 7 13-01 40
Day 1: 4 07-01 Day 2: 3 06-00
59. Laker Howell Guntersville, AL 5 12-06 39
Day 1: 2 06-04 Day 2: 3 06-02
60. Matt Baker Glenwood, AR 9 12-00 38
Day 1: 5 06-05 Day 2: 4 05-11
61. Bryan Partak Marseilles, IL 5 11-14 37
Day 1: 5 11-14 Day 2: 0 00-00
62. Grae Buck Green Lane, PA 6 10-15 36
Day 1: 4 06-11 Day 2: 2 04-04
63. Dillon Harrell New Caney, TX 6 10-03 35
Day 1: 2 04-05 Day 2: 4 05-14
64. Lucas Lindsay Auburn , AL 7 10-02 34
Day 1: 5 07-00 Day 2: 2 03-02
65. Ryan Broughman Corapeake, NC 6 09-15 33
Day 1: 3 05-12 Day 2: 3 04-03
66. Bailey Bleser Burlington, WI 6 09-15 32
Day 1: 3 04-06 Day 2: 3 05-09
67. Tyler Campbell Martin, GA 6 08-09 31
Day 1: 1 01-02 Day 2: 5 07-07
68. Blaine Bunney Claremore, OK 4 07-02 30
Day 1: 3 05-08 Day 2: 1 01-10
69. Bryson Osteen Live Oak, FL 3 06-00 29
Day 1: 3 06-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
70. James Chandler Liberty, TX 4 05-11 28
Day 1: 4 05-11 Day 2: 0 00-00
71. Timothy Dube Nashua , NH 2 03-10 27
Day 1: 2 03-10 Day 2: 0 00-00
72. Cameron Mattison Benton, LA 1 01-14 26
Day 1: 1 01-14 Day 2: 0 00-00
73. Dylan Akins Flowery Branch, GA 1 01-03 25
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 1 01-03
74. Tai Au Glendale, AZ 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
74. Paul Mueller Naugatuck, CT 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
———————————————————————–
Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 47 305 661-07
2 40 279 692-15
———————————-
87 584 1354-06

Everything you need to know about MLF’s 2026 forward-facing sonar rules

Brian Carter

November 14, 2025

Everything you need to know about MLF’s 2026 forward-facing sonar rules

November 14, 2025 • Major League Fishing •

Starting in 2026, Major League Fishing will restrict the use of forward-facing sonar at all professional and boater/co-angler levels of competition, from the Phoenix Bass Fishing League to the Bass Pro Tour. The decision to limit the technology was made in response to positive feedback from fans and anglers about the forward-facing sonar restrictions implemented on the Bass Pro Tour in 2025 as well as feedback from participants at lower levels.

The goal of these restrictions is to promote multi-dimensional angling – allowing anglers to utilize the latest technology while also creating an environment in which traditional techniques remain highly competitive. MLF believes these rules will make for more dynamic, entertaining competitions and will drive tournament participation, thus enhancing payouts. The league strongly believes that the fracturing of the sport caused by forward-facing sonar is unhealthy and unsustainable. The goal of this solution is a compromise that brings everyone back together for the benefit of anglers, fans and sponsors.

The 2026 rules regarding forward-facing sonar for each circuit will be as follows:

Bass Pro Tour

No changes from 2025.
Anglers will only be allowed to utilize forward-facing/360-degree sonar for one of three competition periods per day and must declare in advance which period they intend to use it.
The technology will not be restricted during B&W Trailer Hitches Heavy Hitters or Fishing Clash Team Series competition, as anglers in those events compete in identical, league-issued boats.

Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit

Anglers will be allowed to utilize forward-facing/360-degree sonar for one 3-hour segment during each competition day.
The 3-hour segment must be continuous.
Restrictions will be enforced via electronic lock boxes that track how long they are unlocked as well as live-streaming security cameras onboard each pro’s boat.

Toyota Series and Phoenix Bass Fishing League

Boaters will be allowed to utilize forward-facing and 360-degree sonar for one 3-hour segment during each competition day.
The 3-hour segment must be continuous.
Co-anglers will act as accountability stewards, like they have done for decades with regard to other tournament rules, and must sign off on boaters following all rules at the end of each competition day.
Co-anglers are allowed to bring a portable forward-facing sonar transducer, but may only utilize it during the same 3-hour period that their boater chooses to use forward-facing sonar. If the boater does not use forward-facing sonar, co-anglers may do so during the final 3 hours of the day.

Abu Garcia College Fishing

No restrictions on forward-facing or 360-degree sonar.

Abu Garcia High School Fishing

Forward-facing and 360-degree sonar are not permitted during any MLF regular season competition.
Forward-facing and 360-degree sonar are not restricted in the High School Fishing National Championship that runs concurrently with the High School Fishing World Finals, as this is a jointly operated event with The Bass Federation.
Events operated by MLF for state high school athletic associations, including KHSAA, GHSA, IHSA and LHSAA, will operate according to rules adopted by the associations.

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