Brandon Palaniuk’s Big Win at Lake Okeechobee
At the 2025 Champion Power Equipment Bassmaster Elite at Lake Okeechobee, Brandon Palaniuk demonstrated why he’s one of the best in the sport. Battling a range of environmental challenges, Palaniuk brought in a staggering 95 pounds, 4 ounces of bass to take home his sixth Elite Series trophy. But that wasn’t the only reward for his efforts.
In addition to tournament winnings, Palaniuk earned a $4,000 bonus from the Yamaha Power Pay program—a contingency program that rewards eligible anglers running Yamaha outboards. For Palaniuk, who’s long trusted the performance, fuel efficiency, and dependability of Yamaha motors, this bonus was just another benefit of running the gear he already believes in.
What Is Yamaha Power Pay?
Yamaha Power Pay is a contingency program designed to reward anglers who compete using Yamaha outboard motors. Whether you’re a full-time professional like Palaniuk or a weekend tournament warrior, this program offers real payouts for high finishes in supported events.
Here’s a simplified breakdown of how it works:
- Eligibility: Own a Yamaha outboard motor between 115 and 450 HP, purchased within the past 60 months, and registered in your name.
- Registration: Sign up for free at yamahapowerpay.com.
- Event Participation: Compete in a Yamaha Power Pay-supported tournament.
- Performance Requirement: Finish as the highest-placing registered Yamaha angler in the top 33% of the field (minimum of 40 boats).
Once registered, anglers can start earning payouts without needing to win first place, making it one of the most accessible contingency programs in tournament fishing.
Why Palaniuk Trusts Yamaha
Brandon Palaniuk has been running Yamaha outboards for years, and his loyalty isn’t just about brand preference—it’s about results. The combination of reliable performance, excellent fuel mileage, and smooth handling gives him a competitive edge, especially in challenging conditions like those at Lake Okeechobee.
In his own words, the Power Pay bonus is simply “icing on the cake.” For anglers already committed to Yamaha’s trusted performance, the Power Pay program turns an equipment decision into a potential income stream.
You Don’t Have to Be a Pro to Get Paid
One of the biggest advantages of the Yamaha Power Pay program is its inclusivity. It’s not just for Elite Series pros. Collegiate, amateur, and semi-pro anglers can all cash in, as long as they’re registered and competing in a supported event.
This opens up significant earning potential for:
- College fishing teams
- Local tournament anglers
- Regional and semi-pro competitors
Even if you don’t win the event, being the highest-placing registered Yamaha user within the top 33% can earn you hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars, depending on the event.
How to Get Started with Yamaha Power Pay
If you’re running a Yamaha motor and competing in tournaments, signing up for Power Pay is a no-brainer. It’s free, easy to join, and could help you maximize your earnings without changing your setup.
To register or check if your favorite tournament trail is supported, visit yamahapowerpay.com.
There you’ll find:
- A complete list of eligible tournaments
- Payout structures by event
- The official registration form
- Frequently asked questions about the program
More Than Just a Motor
Brandon Palaniuk’s Lake Okeechobee win highlights not only his angling skill but also the importance of reliable gear and smart choices. Yamaha outboards help him perform at the highest level, and Yamaha Power Pay helps him get rewarded for doing what he loves.
Whether you’re chasing a check on the Bassmaster Elite Series or grinding out wins on your local lake, the Yamaha Power Pay program is one more way to make your passion for fishing pay off.