Forward-Facing Sonar (FFS) has been the most talked-about technology in modern bass fishing. Over the past few seasons, live sonar has changed how anglers find, target, and catch fish, leading to record-setting performances, shifting tournament strategies, and sparking spirited debate across the sport.
For 2026, tournament organizations are drawing clearer lines as it pertains to FFS. Rather than fully embracing or eliminating the technology all together, most leagues have landed on measured limits designed to protect competitive balance, and bring traditional fishing skills back into the spotlight.
To keep it simple for our subscribers we’ve developed a straightforward breakdown of how Forward-Facing Sonar will be regulated across the biggest bass fishing tournaments in 2026, and what it means for anglers and fans alike.
Bassmaster (Elite Series)
Bassmaster is taking a split-season approach, forcing anglers to adapt throughout the year.
How it works in 2026 on the Bassmaster Elite Series:
- FFS is allowed in 5 of 9 events in 2026
- Which events would allow FFS was randomly selected via coinflip.
- Events without FFS ban it completely, including during official practice, meaning no pre-fishing with live sonar.
- When FFS is allowed, equipment limits remain the same as the 2025 season:
- 1 live sonar transducer
- 55 total inches of screen
For more information: B.A.S.S. announces Live Sonar rule change for 2026 Elite Series – Bassmaster
Bassmaster Classic:
The 2026 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic will allow FFS, since all qualifiers earned their spots under the 2025 rules.
Bassmaster Opens & Elite Qualifiers (EQ)
Bassmaster Opens and Elite Qualifier (EQ) events will follow the same Forward-Facing Sonar framework used at the Elite Series level, ensuring consistency across Bassmaster’s professional pathway.
How it works in 2026 on the Bassmaster Opens
- Forward Facing Sonar will be permitted in 2 of 4 events in Division 1 and Division 2 of the Bassmaster Opens.
- Events that do not allow FFS will prohibit its use entirely, including during official practice.
- When FFS is allowed, the existing 2025 equipment restrictions remain in effect:
- One live sonar transducer maximum
- 55 total inches of screen space
How it works in 2026 on the Elite Qualifiers (EQ)
- EQ Event 1: FFS allowed.
- EQ Event 2: FFS prohibited.
- EQ Event 3: FFS use decided by a coin flip after the Opens season.
- Events that do not allow FFS will prohibit its use entirely, including during official practice.
- When FFS is allowed, the existing 2025 equipment restrictions remain in effect:
- One live sonar transducer maximum
- 55 total inches of screen space
For more information: B.A.S.S. announces 2026 St. Croix Bassmaster Opens schedule, Live Sonar rule change and EQ qualifications updates – Bassmaster
Major League Fishing (MLF)
MLF continues to focus on time-based restrictions rather than full bans, turning FFS into a strategic decision instead of a constant advantage.
Bass Pro Tour
- FFS may be used during only one of three competition periods per day.
- Anglers must declare their chosen period in advance, locking in their strategy before lines-in.
- Anglers can utilize FFS during practices days.
- No FFS restrictions apply during Heavy Hitters or Team Series events, where all anglers compete in identical, league-issued boats.
Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit
- FFS is allowed for one continuous 3-hour window per competition day.
- The window cannot be split or paused.
- Compliance is enforced using:
- Electronic lock boxes that track usage time
- Onboard live-stream security cameras
Toyota Series & Phoenix Bass Fishing League (BFL)
Boater rules:
Co-angler rules: (BFL)
- Co-anglers serve as accountability partners.
- They may only use FFS during the boater’s selected window.
- If a boater chooses not to use FFS, co-anglers may use it during the final three hours of the day.
For more information: Everything you need to know about MLF’s 2026 forward-facing sonar rules – Major League Fishing
National Professional Fishing League (NPFL)
NPFL maintains the sport’s most traditional stance.
- Forward-Facing Sonar is completely banned during official practice and competition.
- Anglers must either:
- Remove all FFS equipment, or
- Use an NPFL-issued lockout device to disable it
For more information: thenationalprofessionalfishingleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2026_Rule_v10_18_25.pdf
Across all leagues, the 2026 season represents a reset rather than a rollback for competitive bass fishing. Forward-Facing Sonar remains part of the game, but it now must be managed or timed, placing greater emphasis on when and how it’s used. As a result, traditional skills like pattern development, understanding seasonal movements, and reading water conditions are once again decisive, rewarding well-rounded anglers. Ultimately, 2026 isn’t about choosing sides—it’s about restoring balance and elevating those who can excel both with and without FFS.
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