Examples of our Best on Tour Newsletter

We didn’t expect this color to steal the show at the Classic expo…but it did! (Issue 367)

Issue #367- March 19, 2026

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BOT Trivia: Which lake is considered the birthplace of the Humminbird depth finder?
See the answer
PRESENTED BY: Sunline

Dylan Nutt Dominates The 2026 Bassmaster Classic
Dylan Nutt, a 22-year-old angler from Nashville, Tenn., is the 2026 Bassmaster Classic® champion after catching 66 pound, 13 ounces over the three-day. Nutt qualified to fish the 56th edition of the “Super Bowl of Bass Fishing” through the B.A.S.S. Nation, Bassmaster’s premier grassroots tournament circuit. Nutt became just the second person to win the Classic after qualifying through the B.A.S.S. Nation, joining the late Bryan Kerchal who won the 1994 Classic, ten years before Nutt was born. Along with the sport’s most iconic trophy, Nutt boated a $20,000 payout from Yamaha Power Pay for being the highest finishing angler running a Yamaha outboard motor purchased within the past 60 months. Nutt’s vessel of choice for the 2026 season is a Yamaha V MAX SHO® 250 on the back of a Caymus Boat. Read more about Nutt’s history making week here.

Bass Fishing HOF Signature Lures
The second Induction Class of the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame is being featured in the latest round of Bass Fishing HOF Signature Lures. Bass fishing icons Johnny Morris, Jimmy Houston, Denny Brauer and Bob Cobb — surviving members of the Induction Class of 2002 — have teamed up with PRADCO Outdoor Brands lure designer Frank Scalish to create memorable topwater designs for the 2026 Bass Fishing Hall of Fame auction. These new colors will be featured on Heddon lures, a brand founded in 1894 by Bass Fishing Hall of Famer James Heddon. These lures will be available for sale exclusively at www.lurenet.com on September 1. All proceeds from the sale will benefit the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame. “These legends helped build the lifestyle of bass fishing,” said Bruce Stanton, president of the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame Board of Directors. “I can’t think of a better way to celebrate the 25th anniversary of their induction than by putting their names on a legendary Heddon topwater lure. This will be a must-have for lure collectors and people who love topwater fishing. Only 450 of each will be made. And when they’re gone, they’re gone!” Johnny Morris’ signature will appear on a Heddon Super Spook 5-inch — a topwater walking bait with three treble hooks. He worked with Scalish on a bleeding shad pattern named “Milk Shaker Shad.” Jimmy Houston’s signature will appear on a Heddon Super Spook Jr. This walk-the-dog lure will feature a one-of-a-kind tree frog pattern named “Red Eye Tree Frog.” Denny Brauer’s signature will appear on a Heddon Magnum Torpedo. This single-prop topwater bait will feature a shad pattern developed by Brauer and Scalish dubbed “Threadfin.” Bob Cobb’s signature will appear on an Original Zara Spook — the original walk-the-dog lure. His Spook will feature a unique, classic frog pattern known as “Bullfrog.” “The Hall would like to show special appreciation to Strike King and Luck-E-Strike for allowing some of their top pros to sign their names to Heddon brand lures,” Stanton said. “Once again, I think it shows how the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame bridges gaps and helps bring the bass fishing industry together.”

Fishfinder Coach: Clean Up Your Sonar Return This Spring
Every spring, many anglers notice a sudden change on their forward-facing sonar. One day the screen is clean and easy to read. The next day it looks like static is filling the display (especially in the upper part of the water column). Your lure becomes harder to track and fish are tougher to identify. Before assuming something is wrong with your electronics, understand this is usually normal.

Clutter can come from several things:

• Dirty or stained water

• Pollen in the water column

• Algae or other suspended debris

This time of year, pollen is usually the biggest culprit.

A common mistake anglers make is lowering gain or sensitivity to clean up the screen. That removes clutter, but also weakens returns from fish and your lure.

Instead, try:

• Slightly increasing gain or sensitivity to shoot through the pollen

• Switching to single-color palettes with black backgrounds like Green Emerald or Moss instead of blue backgrounds to filter the noise.

Want to learn more? Read the full post HERE.

If you want to understand what each setting does and when to adjust, OR if you want the exact settings to see your lure the best, check out the Fishfinder Coach Settings Guides.

Real Deal Goes Exclusive

Try saying this 5 times fast: REAL DEAL GILL! That’s the name of the brand new, Real Deal Tackle exclusive color that Michael Neal designed. Its green pumpkin blue flake on top, and in Michael’s words: “a very bluegill-y type blue color” on bottom! A great color choice any time you want a natural color, and especially when your fish are targeting bluegill. This brand new Bassmaster Classic release color is now available in these baits, only at Real Deal Tackle:

• 5″ Senko in Real Deal Gill

• 4″ Fighting Frog in Real Deal Gill

• 7″ Nekorama in Real Deal Gill

That’s not all, if you like BRIGHT and LOUD colors in the spring, there are more new RDT exclusive colors you definitely want to check out:

To watch a video of all of these colors close up, click HERE.

  • We watched someone buy 40 packs of the TN Sunrise Roboworms from the Real Deal booth at the Bassmaster Classic last weekend (video on our Instagram story), so these may not last long!
PRESENTED BY: Gamakatsu

Dylan Nutt Joins Mercer
Dylan Nutt is fresh off his historic Bassmaster Classic win—and for the first time, he’s finally revealing the bait that made it all happen. In this exclusive conversation with Dave Mercer, Dylan breaks down the exact setup, how he used it, and why it was the difference-maker when the pressure was at its highest. No fluff. No holding back.

They also dive into:

• The moment he predicted winning the Classic

• Outworking the field

• Hiding from the media

• On the water gamesmanship no one saw behind the scenes

This is the real story behind the win—and the bait everyone’s been trying to figure out. Check out the full show here.

West Bay Casino + Resort Continues Partnership: Read More here

Register Now for the 2026 Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops: Read More here.

PRESENTED BY: Whatnot

BeatDown Outdoors Steering Clips
BeatDown Outdoors proudly announces the launch of the BeatDown Outdoors Steering Clips, a simple yet highly effective solution engineered to protect your hydraulic steering system during transport. Designed for anglers who demand maximum care for their equipment, these precision fit clips secure the steering rod to prevent unwanted movement, eliminate unnecessary strain, and reduce wear while trailering. Built for reliability and ease of use, BeatDown Outdoors Steering Clips deliver dependable protection that helps keep your boat in top condition mile after mile. When the road gets rough, unsecured steering systems can shift, creating stress on hydraulic components and increasing the risk of costly damage. Learn more about the new BeatDown Outdoors Steering Clips here.
PRESENTED BY: AFTCO

How To Choose & Use A Fish Finder
A fish finder is a game-changing tool designed to help anglers maximize performance on the water. Technologies like down sonar, down imaging, side imaging, and forward-facing sonar (FFS) have revolutionized how we locate and catch fish. These tools allow anglers to read the underwater environment, navigate more safely, and make more informed decisions about where and how to fish. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a tournament pro, having a quality fish finder on board gives you a major edge. A fish finder is an electronic sonar device that sends sound waves into the water and translates their echoes into images on a screen. This helps you detect fish, determine water depth, identify bottom hardness, and locate submerged vegetation or structure. Reading what’s beneath or around your boat is an essential advantage when fishing in familiar and new waters. Read the full blog here.

BOTBD Episode 12
The Best on Tour Breakdown is the behind the scenes briefing on the buzz, banter, baits, and business of bass fishing. The 5 B’s in this episode: Buzz – The new $3M World Bass Enterprises tournament Banter – Guy pulls his lower unit from bottom of frozen lake Baits – Top 5 Jig Trailers (LureLens) Business – Randy Blaukat: Are Fishing Seminars Dead? Bonus – Texas angler catches 13+lb bass THREE TIMES! Check out the full episode here.

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Issue #367

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Best On Tour Bassmaster Classic preview & expo buzz (Issue 366)

Issue #366- March 12, 2026

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BOT Trivia: Which technique did Denny Brauer help bring into the mainstream during his competitive peak?
See the answer
PRESENTED BY: Sunline

Fothergill Isn’t Satisfied: Defending Champ Eyes Another Classic Title
The spotlight of professional bass fishing once again burns bright now that the Bassmaster Classic returns to Knoxville, Tenn. With the Tennessee River system serving as the playing field and thousands of passionate fans expected to pack the weigh-ins, the sport’s biggest stage is set for another unforgettable showdown that is the 2026 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour. Standing squarely in the middle of that spotlight is defending champion Easton Fothergill.

The young pro has spent the last year experiencing a whirlwind few anglers ever get to know. This includes media appearances, sponsor obligations and the reality that comes with hoisting bass fishing’s most coveted trophy. As the Classic returns, Fothergill’s mindset isn’t focused on reliving last year’s triumph. Instead, the Skeeter-Yamaha pro is laser-focused on something even harder to accomplish. Winning this event again. Read more about Fothergill’s quest to bot back-to-back here.

Dynamic Sponsorships Celebrate 20 Years Of Connecting Brands To The Great Outdoors
Dynamic Sponsorships (Dynamic), a full-service brand experience agency, is proud to announce its 20th anniversary. Co-founded by Lance Peck in 2006, the agency has become a cornerstone in the professional bass fishing industry. Dynamic’s work bridges the gap between iconic global grands and passionate outdoor enthusiasts.  Read more about the history of Dynamic here.

Feider Looking For Classic “Buckets” In Dad’s Old Jacket
If Seth Feider wins the 56th annual Bassmaster Classic, his Vexus® will likely be in dirt shallow water catching largemouth he refers to as “buckets” on a Rapala squarebill or perhaps a spinnerbait, and it will absolutely be fueled with sentimental motivation in the form of his dad’s old Bass Fever Bassmasters jacket from 1985. “Dad’s in his 70s now, he’s not coming to Knoxville, so I figured it’d be cool to bring his old bass club jacket with me this week,” says the always laid-back Feider. The Minnesota pro says his dad Pete and he fished together more so when Seth was really young, but by the time he was about 12, his dad would turn him loose alone for the day in a jon boat.

“You can tell by the jacket he obviously loved to fish back in the day, but hunting has always been his real passion. When it came to bass fishing, Dad was typically gonna drag a grape Producto plastic worm around. He had a two-tone beige Plano tackle box full of jars of pork frogs that had rusty lids on them,” smiles Feider. Seth’s definitely an old school basser who loves the sport’s history, so don’t be shocked if he flips a jig and pork frog of his own around on Fort Loudoun Lake this week. He’s a bit concerned about Friday morning’s forecast for freezing temps but is hopeful that because most of these largemouth live shallow, they’ll stay shallow no matter the weather. “I like it here. I think Knoxville is the best Classic venue in the country because everything is so close. The launch, the weigh-in, the Expo, hotels, and the river are all pretty much in walking distance of one another, and the fishing is solid. I think fans can expect fish to be caught from 4 inches to 40 feet of water, and it’ll come down to the final hours on Sunday. I don’t see anybody running away with this one,” says Feider. Hopefully his seventh shot at a Classic title will yield the win he’s dreamed of since back when he was a boy fishing from a jon boat, and his dad was sewing patches on his bass club jacket.

KVD Previews The 2026 Bassmaster Classic
Few people in the sport of bass fishing carry as much weight as Kevin VanDam, especially when we’re talking about the Bassmaster Classic. The Team Toyota pro qualified for an incredible 28 Bassmaster Classics and won the title four times during his iconic career before retiring from full-time tournament fishing in 2023. VanDam understands every nuance and detail of this event from a competitor’s standpoint, but his passion for the sport, and this tournament in particular, burns just as hot as a fan. As a lifelong student of fishing, he still studies the patterns, the anglers, and the weather conditions leading into the Classic. For KVD, the Classic is more than just another tournament. It’s the one week of the year when the entire bass fishing world stops and pays attention. The field is smaller, the pressure is higher, and every decision is amplified. Check out KVD’s take on the 2026 Bassmaster Classic here.
PRESENTED BY: Gamakatsu

BTL Bassmaster Classic Preview Show
So who’s going to win the 2026 Bassmaster Classic? We certainly don’t know either, but it was fun to chat with Matt on this episode of BTL about it! Check out the full show here.

Classic Q & A with Cox

John Cox is always fun to chat with, even amid the most pressure-packed week in bass fishing. We caught up with him Tuesday under the 266-feet tall Sunsphere in Knoxville, home to this week’s 56th Bassmaster Classic.

Q: You’ve done well here before. Including a 5th place finish at the 2023 Bassmaster Classic. What is it about Fort Loudon Lake and you that kind of click?

Cox: I love it because it truly fishes like a river, which means most of the bass live shallow, and that puts them right where I love to fish in about 4-feet of water or less.

Q: So, what will be the biggest challenge of this event?

Cox: For this Florida boy it’ll be the 35-degree temps on Friday morning on Day 1 of the derby and trying to catch one of those 5-pound or bigger “difference maker” kind of largemouth.

Q: What kind of drinks and snacks do you have riding in your insulated fiberglass Vexus® cooler?

Cox: So, this is crazy, but that Vexus cooler holds ice so long that I’ve already packed it with ice and drinks for the tournament. I’ve got water, Cokes, and Celsius energy drinks, but no food. You gotta fish ‘hungry’.

Q: There will be a lot of crankbaits thrown in this event. What is the ultimate John Cox cranking system for the week ahead?

Cox: A Berkley Frittside tied to 15-pound 100% Trilene fluorocarbon on a 6.8:1 Abu Zenon reel, and a 7’ 1” Fenwick HMG medium extra fast rod.

Q: You’ve won a lot of big tournaments including championships, what would it mean to win the Bassmaster Classic?

Cox: Oh gosh! It’s hard to describe what it’d be like to win the event I’ve been dreaming about winning since I was a kid in the 1990s watching guys like Denny Brauer, Davy Hite and Woo Daves win it when I was fishing club tournaments on Lake Talmadge in jon boat tournaments.

PRESENTED BY: Whatnot

Come See Us In Knoxville
Bassmaster Classic fans heading to the Expo in Knoxville, TN can stop by the booth #1704 to check out some of the latest and greatest gear from our partners. Talk fishing with the pros, and take advantage of special show only deals throughout the event. Whether you’re gearing up for the season or looking to try something new, this mega booth will have you covered at the Classic Expo. Hope to see you in Knoxville this week!
PRESENTED BY: AFTCO

Bassmaster Classic Winners: The Complete List
Since its creation in 1971, the Bassmaster Classic has stood as the ultimate event in professional bass fishing. Founded by Ray Scott, the Classic was designed to crown a true world champion, bringing together the best anglers of the era to compete for the sport’s most prestigious title. Over the decades, the Classic has evolved alongside advances in boats, electronics, and techniques, but its significance has never changed. Winning the Classic defines careers, elevates anglers into legend status, and represents the pinnacle of competitive bass fishing. Here is the list in chronological order: here.

BFHOF Classic Auction Is LIVE
Don’t miss out on your chance to support the Bass Fishing Hall Of Fame and get your hands on some amazing items in the Classic Auction. Start the bidding here.

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Issue #366

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Stop making these mistakes with Forward Facing Sonar (Issue 365)

Issue #365- March 5, 2026

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BOT Trivia: Who was inducted into the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame in the inaugural class of 2001?
See the answer
PRESENTED BY: Sunline

Make Your Own – High Quality, Custom Bladed Jigs For Less Than $3 A Piece!

It’s no secret, everyone knows what a bladed jig can do. The thump. The flash. The reaction bite. Now, here’s a sneaky secret – you can build your own, with Do-it Molds.

All you need:

●      A Sparky Jig mold

●      WEY 525 wire forms

●      Your favorite spinnerbait hook

●      A blade of your choice!

Step 1: Set it up

Crack open the mold and slide the WEY 525 into the hook eye of your spinnerbait hook.

Pro tip: If the wire form wants to separate from the hook eye, tweak that 90° bend closer to 45°. It helps everything stay aligned when you seat it in the mold.

Once everything is positioned correctly, close the mold tight.

Step 2: Pour

Pour your jig like normal.

Step 3: Blade-ready finish

After it cools, bend the WEY eye forward just enough to create space for your blade. Slide your blade on, grab your needle-nose pliers, crimp it shut – done.

That’s it.

Now you’re throwing a fully custom bladed jig built your way:

✔ The hook you trust

✔ The weight you want

✔ The exact setup you fish best

BFHOF Class Of 2026
The Bass Fishing Hall of Fame is proud to announce that the induction Class of 2026 is a distinguished group comprised of groundbreaking anglers, industry pioneers, and visionary builders, all of whom embody the Hall of Fame’s mission to celebrate, promote, and preserve the sport of bass fishing.

The quintet of Don Iovino, Pam Martin‑Wells, Takahiro Omori, Rick Pierce, and Mike Whitaker represents a blend of courage, innovation, and competitive excellence that has helped shape every corner of the bass fishing world over the past several decades. The new class was selected from a 12-person ballot in voting conducted by the Hall of Fame’s 30-member Selection Panel and 54 living Hall of Fame members. The new additions bring the number of Hall of Fame inductees to 108. The Class of 2026 will be honored later this year during the Hall’s annual Celebrate Bass Fishing Week, highlighted by the induction banquet on Thursday, Sept. 24, at Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium in Springfield, Mo. “This is one of the Hall’s most diverse classes, and it really represents so many people across bass fishing in a huge way,” said Bruce Stanton, President of the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame’s Board of Directors. “All five of these folks had a massive impact on the sport and lifestyle of bass fishing, and it’s appropriate that all of them are in the Hall of Fame.” The Bass Fishing Hall of Fame will offer detailed bios of each inductee in a widley circulated press release on popular outdoor websites this week, as well as individual posts about each deserving inductee on our social media platforms in the weeks ahead.

5 Forward-Facing Sonar Mistakes Costing You Fish
Forward-facing sonar is the most powerful tool we have as anglers, but are you making simple mistakes out on the water?

Here are five of the ten biggest mistakes Hugh Coscullela sees every day as a sonar instructor and guide:

1. Changing ranges constantly.

If you bounce between 60 and 90 feet, fish size changes on the screen. You lose perspective and start guessing casting distance.

2. Watching your lure instead of the fish.

Track the fish first. Direction tells you everything. If you see your lure but not the fish, the cast was wrong.

3. Not understanding the 20º cone.

Live sonar is narrow. If you lose a fish, don’t swing the transducer wildly. Small adjustments keep you on target.

4. Casting immediately.

Unless a fish is swimming straight at you, slow down. Watch its direction, see its path, and lead it like a quarterback throwing a route.

5. Ignoring hardness, size, and swimming speed.

Every return isn’t equal. Over time, patterns emerge. That’s when efficiency increases.

Electronics efficiency means fishing efficiency.

Read the full breakdown for the TOP TEN MISTAKES here.

If you want the exact settings Hugh runs, and structured instruction on reading fish behavior, check out the Forward-Facing Sonar bundle at fishfindercoach.com.

Michael Neal’s Early Spring Spinnerbait Playbook
As bass slide up shallow in the pre-spawn, Michael Neal says this is when he starts leaning on a spinnerbait.

The key is blade selection.

Double Willow

Neal reaches for a double willow when:

  • Water is clear
  • He wants to fish fast (willow blades produce less lift)
  • He needs the bait to stay down on steeper banks (step up to a 1/2-3/4oz in these situations)

Double Colorado

When visibility drops (2 feet or less), bigger “thumper” blades shine. The added vibration helps fish track it in dirty water, and the increased drag/lift lets you fish it super slow to stay in the strike zone longer. His current favorite is the SPRO Thumper.

Simple rule:

Clear water → Double willow

Dirty water → Double Colorado

For everything in between, check out the full lineup of spinnerbait options at Real Deal Tackle.

Spinnerbait season is here. Don’t just throw one, throw the right one!

Watch Michael explain in this video.
PRESENTED BY: Gamakatsu

6th Sense Panorama 9″ (Slowmo Underwater Swim Test)
A slow motion underwater swim test from LureLens showing the swimming action of the 6th Sense Panorama 9″ soft-plastic swimbait as it moves through the water, highlighting its realistic tail kick and baitfish-like presentation is what we are watching this week! Check out the full video here.

Pitt and Moore Run it Back with a Win on Toledo Bend with a massive 43-7: Read More

The University of Montevallo Moves into Top Spot for Bass Pro Shops School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia: Read More

PRESENTED BY: Whatnot

Upcoming Bass Fishing Whatnot Shows

What is Whatnot?

Whatnot is a live-stream marketplace where people auction items in real time. Think QVC meets Facebook Live. There are tons of categories, but the fishing category is the place to be for anglers. Live fishing gear sales, exclusive drops, and deals you won’t find at retail. Some shows are higher quality than others, here are some we think are worth checking out:

Thursday

10am: Gorilla Baits

11:40am: 6th Sense

12pm: Bizz Baits

5pm: Fishbonz Tackle

7:08pm: Bassfishrman (20k follower show)

Friday

9am: Fishbonz Tackle

10am: Gorilla Baits

1pm: Xcite Baits

3pm: Rod Bender (rod sleeve drop show)

7:59pm: HellaBass
PRESENTED BY: AFTCO

Ian Leybas: Faith, Family, And Fishing
Some fishing stories are bigger than heavy bags of bass or moments on the stage. Leybas has run a Skeeter-Yamaha package for the past eight seasons and his consistency on the water has allowed him to reap the rewards of Yamaha Power Pay bonues many times over. But Leybas had deeper wisdom to impart than any lure, piece of equipment, or bass fishing buzzword could provide. On the top of Ian’s personal Facebook page is a simple phrase, “Faith, family, and fishing.” When asked about these words, Leybas was proud to say those three things are among his chief priorities – and they are listed in order. Leybas has been tournament fishing for more than 30-years, but a battle with cancer that began in 2019 shifted his priorities and perspective. Learn more about Leybas’s journey here.

Win Yourself A Glide!
In case you missed it, we are running a glide bait giveaway. Hurry and get in, there have been over 1,200 entries already and it closes Monday, March 9 at 11:59pm!

👉 Enter HERE
Should Forward Facing Sonar be allowed in the Bassmaster Classic?
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Issue #365

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Best On Tour is giving away a FREE Glide Bait to one subscriber (Issue 364)

Issue #364- February 26, 2026

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BOT Trivia: What boat brand is built in Flippin, Arkansas, known as “The Home of Bass Boats”?​
See the answer
PRESENTED BY: Sunline

Power Pay Payday For Omori
Congratulations to Takahiro Omori on his outstanding victory at Major League Fishing’s Bass Pro Tour O’Reilly Auto Parts Stage 2 Presented by Lowrance on Lake Hartwell. The win marks Omori’s first Bass Pro Tour triumph and the ninth major title of his accomplished professional career. Along with the $125,000 first prize Omori also earned a $2,500 bonus from Yamaha Power Pay.

Glide Bait Giveaway!
They say only 8% of podcasts ever make it past 10 episodes. We are thrilled to have just released our 11th episode of the Best on Tour Breakdown Podcast! This episode features Kevin Riney of KR Custom Glides who caught the first ever Arkansas Legacy Lunker. Kevin was generous enough to provide a FREE glide bait for one of our subscribers! Enter HERE!

Bassmaster Classic Returns To Lake Hartwell
B.A.S.S. announced today, alongside officials from VisitGreenvilleSC and Visit Anderson, that the 2027 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour will be held March 19-21, 2027, in Greenville, S.C., with tournament competition taking place on Lake Hartwell. This will mark the fifth time the Super Bowl of Bass Fishing has visited the lake, setting the record for the most visits to a single venue in the history of the world championship and further cementing the reservoir’s reputation as one of the sport’s premier championship fisheries. Hartwell previously hosted the Classic in 2008, 2015, 2018 and 2022, producing some of the most memorable finishes in Classic history. Get more details here.

Don’t Roll The Dice On Rigging
We get asked all the time how to rig dice baits. Dice-style baits, AKA fuzzy baits, have exploded in popularity. What started as a secret Japanese deal has turned into a full-on trend. If you’re seeing them on shelves and wondering how to rig them without overthinking it, you’re in the right place.

Our latest blog (collab w/ Real Deal Tackle) covers three simple, effective ways to rig dice baits 👇

Read it HERE.
PRESENTED BY: Gamakatsu

NEW Active Target 2 XL Transducer?? (Differences from Lowrance Active Target 2)
Join Fishfinder Coach Hugh Cosculluela in this detailed comparison of Lowrance’s Active Target 2 and the new Active Target XL transducers. Learn about the key differences in beam coverages, cone angles, and ease of use between these forward-facing sonar technologies. Discover how the new Active Target XL can help you track your lure and see fish more effectively, and get insights on which transducer might be best for your needs. Plus, find out about compatibility and pricing. For optimal settings and more expert tips check out the full video here.

Don’t Miss the Season Opener – There’s Still Time to Register for TXTT Toledo Bend: Read More

Carson-Newman Continues Control of Top Spot with Three Months Left in the Race for Bass Pro Shops School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia: Read More

PRESENTED BY: Whatnot

Get In On The Action With LureLens

We just launched something big. It’s called LureLens. This is Best on Tour’s new underwater lure footage library. Ever wonder what a certain bait looks like underwater? We are building a library of videos to help you answer just that.

There are multiple ways to check LureLens out:

YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

TikTok

All the links in one place
PRESENTED BY: AFTCO

Bassmaster Tuesday Night LIVE Anglers Breakdown
Table Rock Lake is one of those fisheries that can quickly expose an angler’s weakness, and equally magnify their strengths. Clear water, roaming spotted bass, waves of spawning largemouth, and the ever-present factor of fishing and boating pressure make it a thinking angler’s lake. Combine these factors with a shortened weeknight jackpot style format, and the setup couldn’t be more perfect for the inaugural Bassmaster Tuesday Night LIVE tournament. With this lineup, the intrigue isn’t whether these Elite Series pros can catch them, it’s whose style aligns best with what Table Rock gives them, and ultimately what teams the fans decide to select to tackle the task at hand.

Will angler chemistry play a bigger role, or will fishing styles be the talk of the day? Let’s look at the anglers in the field:

👉 Read the full breakdown HERE

The Smart Way To Buy Braid
If you fish a lot, retie often, and cast tight into spots that hold fish, then line isn’t some “set it and forget it” accessory. It’s a consumable. And once you accept that, buying braided fishing line in bulk spools starts making a whole lot of sense. You’re not buying more line because you’re reckless; you’re buying more line because you’re efficient, you hate downtime, and you want your reels to perform the same every time you pick one up. Learn more about the advantages of buying braided line in bulk here.

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Issue #364

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The next level Coike is already here. Don’t get left behind! (Issue 363)

Issue #363- February 19, 2026

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BOT Trivia: Which fishery famously produced three Century Belts during an Elite Series event in 2013?​​
See the answer
PRESENTED BY: Sunline

Old Grubs And A New Tundra Win Hank Cherry Money At Guntersville
Watching Hank Cherry win the FXR Bassmaster Elite at Lake Guntersville with a few packs of old-school chartreuse grubs on a jighead was simply spectacular. Not to take away from the crop of prodigal young anglers and the innovative technology that has been dominating a large percentage of bass tournaments lately; but seeing a veteran like Cherry catch the biggest bag of the week with a lure that likely sat in your grandpa’s tacklebox enroute to winning the first non-forward-facing-sonar Elite Series tournament ever was ironically fitting. In the hallowed halls of bass fishing history, tournament lore will fondly remember Cherry’s throwback win on iconic Lake Guntersville.

“The pack of grubs I was using on Sunday is forever old… I’m talking like 20-years old,” Cherry said with a smile. “I ran out of the grubs I had been using earlier in the week and was down to a package I think I got out of big sale-bin at a tackle store back home with my dad years ago. We use those things (grubs) to catch more than bass, too. Flounder, redfish, and sea trout will smash that thing.” One of the best parts about fishing is it can be as complicated or as simple as you want it to be. High end bass boats, state of the art electronics, and fined-tuned equipment will help you catch more bass. But it’s nice to know you can wind a grub around shallow grass, the same way Cherry did when he was a kid, and still win at the highest level. In addition to his $100,000 first-place payout, Cherry was rewarded $4,000 from Toyota Bonus Bucks for being the highest finishing angler towing their boat with a 2022 or newer Toyota tow vehicle. Cherry is no stranger to Toyota’s renowned contingency program, the 2024 Tundra he’s currently towing his BassCat boat with is the seventh Toyota tow vehicle he’s purchased. Read more about Cherry’s performance here.

Application Window Open
True to its mission of celebrating, promoting and preserving the sport of bass fishing, the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame is once again committing $65,000 this year to students and conservation groups to assist in their research and enhancement of bass fishing. From college fisheries students to lake associations and bass clubs, folks who are working hard to improve bass fisheries should consider submitting an application to the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame as soon as possible to take advantage of this generous ongoing support offered by the Hall each year. The Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation is just one of several groups across North America to benefit recently by using a $5,000 grant from the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame to purchase Mossback® fish habit structures. “We are incredibly grateful to the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame for funding these habitat projects in Northwest Arkansas, which serve as a perfect example of how public-private partnerships ensure vital conservation work is accomplished while teaching the next generation of student enthusiasts how the work is done,” said Deke Whitbeck, President of the Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation. Longtime Tennessee B.A.S.S. Nation Conservation Director Jake Davis also reflects gratefulness to the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame for their generosity. “We purchased 125 MossBack® habitat systems and material to put together 170 reusable Christmas tree based, 20 ‘whalebone’ structures,” Davis said. “We could never help the lakes of Tennessee as much as we have over the past 9 or 10 years without the support of the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame.” Factoring in the 2026 awards, the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame expects its total contributions toward scholarships and conservation grants to exceed $160,000 over the past seven years. To learn more and to apply, visit https://www.bassfishinghof.com/community-impact.

Upcoming Bass Fishing Whatnot Shows
Thursday 2/19

11:01am Bizz Baits

11:40am 6th Sense

5pm Fishbonz Tackle

6pm Tackle Addict

Friday 2/20

9am Fishbonz Tackle

10am Gorilla Baits

7pm $1 Start Vintage Lures

Saturday 2/21

10am Gorilla Baits

12pm 6th Sense LIVE on Lake Conroe

All times are in Central.

HIDEUP Coike Fish
American anglers are quickly adopting the original Coike, and for good reason, it flat out catches fish. But if you’re still only throwing the standard version, you’re already behind the curve. The Hideup Coike Fish is quietly becoming the next evolution of finesse fishing, and the anglers who understand it are gaining a serious edge. What makes it different? It’s not just another soft plastic. The Elastomer L version enhances buoyancy, durability, and most importantly micro-movement. Built with dozens of miniature fish-shaped elastomer strands, this bait doesn’t just sit there. It breathes. It pulses. It quivers with the slightest current or rod twitch, perfectly imitating a compact bait ball in a way traditional creature baits simply can’t replicate. This bait excels in high pressure scenarios where realism is critical. On a weightless rig, light jig head, drop shot, or free rig, it hovers and responds to the smallest movement. This style of bait has quietly been a cornerstone for some of the top young anglers on tour, but now the cat is out of the bag after the extensive coverage it received during the recent Bassmaster Elite Series event on Lake Martin. If you’re serious about staying ahead of the game, this is the next step.

Check out the full selection here.
PRESENTED BY: Gamakatsu

Catch MORE Fish With ANY Lure Using THIS Modification
Bassmaster Elite Series veteran Mike McClelland introduces the all‑new Gamakatsu One‑Touch Blade System — a simple, innovative, highly versatile way to add flash, vibration, and triggering power to almost any bait. In this video, Mike breaks down how the One‑Touch design lets anglers clip a blade on or off in seconds, giving you the freedom to instantly adjust your presentation based on water clarity, forage, or fish mood. From finesse plastics to power‑fishing staples, this system opens the door to endless customization and on‑the‑fly experimentation. Whether you’re trying to stand out in pressured water or give your favorite bait a fresh twist, the One‑Touch Blade System might be the next big thing in bass fishing innovation. Check out the full video here.

TXTT Toledo Bend Opener Preview with Justin Cooper: Read More

2026 NWT Pro Registration Opens February 16th: Read More

PRESENTED BY: Whatnot

Save Your Transom
The BeatDown Outdoors Transom Saver is built to protect one of the most critical components of your boat, the transom and outboard during trailering. Engineered for maximum strength and stability, this heavy-duty support system eliminates engine bounce, vibration, and stress while you’re on the road. Designed with serious anglers in mind, it delivers universal compatibility and rock solid performance you can count on mile after mile. Unlike generic transom savers, the BeatDown Outdoors Transom Saver is specifically designed for boats equipped with dual trim rams, providing a secure, balanced fit across a wide range of modern outboards. Its rugged construction keeps your motor locked in place, reducing wear on steering systems, trim components, and the transom itself. Whether you’re hauling across town or across the country, this is the protection your investment deserves. Compatible with leading outboard brands including Mercury, Yamaha, Honda, Suzuki, and Tohatsu, the BeatDown Outdoors Transom Saver offers true versatility without sacrificing strength. It’s easy to install, simple to use, and built to handle the demands of tournament level travel. Protect your boat. Protect your motor. Protect your investment. Learn more here.
PRESENTED BY: AFTCO

What Is Bassmaster Tuesday Night Live?
Bassmaster Tuesday Night LIVE is the first-ever Bassmaster Tuesday night tournament, taking place April 21, 2026 on Table Rock Lake. Eight Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series pros will compete in a three-hour, team-format shootout from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. CT, launching from Mill Creek Boat Ramp in Kimberling City, Missouri. The event features fan-voted pairings, a traditional boat-ramp weigh-in, limited commercial interruptions, and a $5000 cash prize, streamed live across Bassmaster platforms. Read more here.

Chatterbait Trailer Masterclass In 5 Minutes
Bet you didn’t know all these bladed jig trailer tips! Best on Tour’s resident tackle junkie and Elite Series pro bass angler Bryan New spills the JUICE.

Tackle mentioned in this video:

Jackhammer, Original Chatterbait, D Bomb, Super Fluke, Skinny Dipper, Cover Jumper, Flip Gill

Check it out here.

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Issue #363

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Three hours that will change pro bass fishing as we know it (Issue 362)

Issue #362- February 12, 2026

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BOT Trivia: Which crankbait maker became famous in the 1970s for baits carved from balsa wood with flat sides?​
See the answer
PRESENTED BY: Sunline

Wes Logan Loads Boat With Yamaha Power Pay
Wes Logan bested 96 of his peers to finish fifth in the FXR Bassmaster® Elite on Lake Guntersville, earning an additional $2,500 of extra cash from the Yamaha Power Pay program for his efforts. The 32-year-old Alabama native has now fished three Elite Series tournaments on this iconic fishery, and he’s never finished lower than fifth. Logan’s quiet confidence and consistent results on Lake Guntersville mirror the efficiency and reliability of the Yamaha 250-horsepower V MAX SHO® on the back of his Falcon Boat. Yamaha’s renowned dependability was paramount for Logan this week, as extremely cold air and water temperatures were a major storyline throughout practice and competition for the Elite Series season opener. Read more about Logan’s season opening performance here.

Month of Victory: Score Big Savings on Victory Hooks
This month, Victory isn’t just about what you pour – it’s about what you save! Do-It Molds is running a Month of Victory promo on Victory Hooks, with up to 25% off across a wide range of hooks – including trebles, jig hooks, and bulk options that serious builders rely on. If you’re already into custom tackle, this one should hit close to home. Victory Hooks feature a V-Loc design that looks familiar for a reason – it’s built for strength, consistency, and clean hook alignment when pouring and tying. The kind of detail that matters when you’re building baits to fish hard. And when those hooks are up to 25% off? That’s not just a deal – that’s a chance to stock up and lower your cost per bait in a big way! Especially if you’re buying in bulk! Check out the Month of Victory deals on Victory Hooks at Do-It Molds – because winning on the water feels even better when you saved on the build!

Cox Ready To Measure Up At Martin
With light weights and fish measuring mishaps at the Elite Series opener on Guntersville in his rearview mirror, the always happy John Cox begins round two of the season at Lake Martin this week with nothing but positive vibes and numerous measuring accessories on board his aluminum Vexus®.

Q: First things first, did you make sure there’s a measuring board in your boat?

Cox: I borrowed one from a buddy at Guntersville. I hope he doesn’t want it back. (laughs) Plus, my buddies at Vexus gave me a hard time, and bought me a tape measure and one of those soft tapes that tailors and seamstress use.

Q: After a brutal Day 1 at Guntersville, you managed to catch nearly 18 pounds on Day 2. What was the difference?

Cox: It was like I got up on the wrong side of the bed last Thursday. Ice was freezing in my rod guides and reels, and I got spun out mentally fighting casting issues. Things thawed out on Friday, I went back to the same areas with the same lures and caught a decent limit.

Q: Let’s move on to Lake Martin. Do you have any history on that 100-year old reservoir?

Cox: A little bit. I fished it once when I was 18-years old and did terrible, but went back as an FLW angler and cashed a check.

Q: This is a forward-facing sonar event, and lots of 10-12-pound spotted bass limits are likely to be weighed-in, with a 14-pound limit generally being highly regarded. What will your approach be?

Cox: I’ll probably try to find a place to catch a limit, and then go hunt a bigger largemouth to separate myself from the pack.

Q: Will the spinnerbait and buzzbait be key for you at Martin?

Cox: I hope so. They’re both classic pre-spawn baits that allow me to cover a ton of water to keep up with the ‘scopers’ — and we’re facing a big warming trend that should also make them players.

Note: Five years ago, Cox won $100,000 at this time of year on Smith Lake, another well-known Alabama fishery full of spotted bass. Hopefully some of the similarities will translate to a magnificent week on Lake Martin for the lighthearted Florida pro.

Yamamoto Hinge Minnow
The Yamamoto Hinge Minnow is exactly what you expect from the most premium soft bait brand on earth. THE ultimate rolling minnow. A jointed, or “hinged” tail section allows the Hinge Minnow to roll, even on a straight retrieve which makes it easy for beginners and adds a constant fleeing action any time the bait is moving. Flanges run the length of the shoulders of the Hinge Minnow help slow the bait down, while its laminated top and bottom sections with independent weighting creates the perfect rate of roll. Available in 3.5″, 5″, 6″ and even 7″ sizes, the Hinge Minnow is a must-have in your arsenal and can be found in 10 winning Yamamoto colors. Keep rolling.

3.5″ – 7pk

5″ – 6pk

6″ – 5pk

7″ – 4pk

Check out the full selection here.
PRESENTED BY: Gamakatsu

This Might Be The Coolest Bassmaster Event Ever
The first ever Tuesday Night LIVE is Headed to Table Rock! Elite Series competition is coming to a setting every tournament angler understands — the weeknight jackpot. On Tuesday, April 21, 2026, eight Elite Series pros will trade the big-stage atmosphere for a straightforward, team-format, 3-hour shootout during Tuesday Night LIVE on Table Rock. Built around the spirit of local weeknight tournaments, the event emphasizes relatability, efficiency, and on-the-water execution rather than spectacle. Four boats, eight anglers, two veteran hosts, and support from AFTCO, Beatdown Outdoors, Gamakatsu, SPRO, and Sunline all come together to make one of the most exciting and anticipated events in pro bass fishing in 2026! Check out this video breaking down this new event here.
Kayaks provide anglers with a great way to get outdoors and access various bodies of water. Careco has a long history kayak fishing, and working with companies like Hobie and Bass Pro Shops to promote kayak fishing items. On this episode of the Bass Pro Shops Fisherman’s Handbook, we take a look back at past kayak fishing adventures and highlight the new Garmin Force Current Kayak Trolling Motor. Over the years, host Wade Middleton and the Careco team have spent a lot of time out on the water fishing in kayaks. From the Devils River to lakes, and even the coast…our crew has embarked on many adventures in a kayak. Along with those fishing trips, Careco has also worked with Hobie on a variety of projects ranging from filming tournaments and shows, to field testing great products. To begin this show, we highlight Careco’s history with kayaks, as well as take a look back at an awesome trip to the Devils River from many years ago. Following that, we will take a look at the Garmin Force Current Kayak Trolling Motor. Garmin Marketing Manager Brandon Brinkman joins Wade and crew at Valley Lake Ranch. Garmin recently introduced the Force Current—a trolling motor that redefines kayak fishing with a first-of-its-kind hands-free wireless throttle and steering control system. This all-in-one solution allows anglers to navigate, troll and fight fish without ever setting the rod down. Delivering legendary Force performance, it features a brushless motor purpose-built for kayak anglers with full forward and reverse thrust that makes it easy to navigate in any direction, weave through tight timber, turn in a tight circle, sneak along shorelines or creep through weed beds while fishing. Watch “KAYAK BASS FISHING – A Look at Past Trips & Innovative New Gear” on the Fisherman’s Handbook YouTube Channel. Be sure and check your local listings for this episode as well on Pursuit Channel both on your TV and Streaming on Pursuit UP coming up soon as well.

You can also view this show and the complete library of Bass Pro Shops Fisherman’s Handbook episodes streaming for free on Outdoor Action TV . If you don’t have the Outdoor Action TV App on your phone or television, be sure and download it from the App store or search for it on your TV.

PRESENTED BY: Whatnot

Register Now

The first event of 2026 for the Association of Collegiate Anglers on the Bass Pro Shops Collegiate Bass Fishing Series is the CrushCity Hartwell Slam presented by Sufix. This no-entry-fee, nationally televised tournament and streamed event featuring widespread coverage across digital platforms and more, will be contested at Lake Hartwell in Anderson, SC on March 28-29 and will feature numerous teams ranked in the Top 25 in the nation according to the Bass Pro Shops School of the Year standings presented by Abu Garcia.

Click here to register now.
PRESENTED BY: AFTCO

First Ever Tuesday Night LIVE Is Headed To Table Rock!
Elite Series competition is coming to a setting every tournament angler understands — the weeknight jackpot. On Tuesday, April 21, 2026, eight Elite Series pros will trade the big-stage atmosphere for a straightforward, team-format, 3-hour shootout during Tuesday Night LIVE on Table Rock. Built around the spirit of local weeknight tournaments, the event emphasizes relatability, efficiency, and on-the-water execution rather than spectacle.

Four boats, eight anglers, two veteran hosts, and support from AFTCO, Beatdown Outdoors, Gamakatsu, SPRO, and Sunline all come together to make one of the most exciting and anticipated events in pro bass fishing in 2026! Read more about this exciting new event here.

A Legendary Angler Returns! (+5B’s) | Best on Tour Breakdown Ep 10
In this episode of The Best on Tour Breakdown, the crew runs through the “5 B’s” of bass fishing. The Buzz centers around legendary angler Rick Clunn announcing his return to competitive fishing by joining the NPFL. The Banter segment dives into a lighthearted debate about personal best catches and which ones should truly count. For Baits, the conversation shifts to classic and collectible lures like vintage Bagley crankbaits and Wiggle Warts, along with how they still influence modern tackle. The Business portion takes an industry-level look at the rise and recent struggles of the Googan Squad brand. As a Bonus, they wrap up with a discussion on forward-facing sonar setups for the back deck, including mounting options and practical rigging ideas. Check it out here.
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Issue #362

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Pete Robbins takes over Best On Tour again! (Issue 361)

Issue #361- February 5, 2026

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BOT Trivia: Which angler was the first to win back-to-back Bassmaster Classics?
See the answer

PRESENTED BY: Sunline
On December 31, 2025, I retired after 30 years of practicing law. During the last 22 or so years of that tenure, I was also a nearly full-time bass writer. Now, at long last, I get to live my “side hustle” all day, every day. I have mixed feelings about side hustles in general. I won’t get into that here. I’d rather focus on the fact that I’m exceptionally grateful for all that mine has enabled me to do and see: I’ve fished for Michigan smallmouths with KVD; I’ve gone to Alaskawith Keith Combs; multiple times I’ve been the closest person when the Bassmaster Classic winner caught the fish that clinched it; and I’ve fished many of the best waters in the country and across the world for a wide variety of species. Now I get to combine all of that. I’ll be following the Elite Series traveling circus, creating content every day, and working on a growing fishing travel business called Half Past First Cast with my wife Hanna.

Following The Elites
I’ll start off the season at Guntersville, where the Elites will commence their 2026 campaign without forward facing sonar. It’s one of my favorite lakes in the country. In fact, it’s kind of fitting because when I first met Hanna – a Chicago girl with no fishing experience – in 2003, I told her that my retirement plan was to move to Guntersville, fish every day, and she could work at the lakeside dog food factory. I’m surprised she stayed with me but I’m glad she did. Today she’d reject that idea for a different reason – she’d want to be out there chunking and winding a chatterbait and a trap with me. One of the ways that being on tour will help my writing portfolio is that it’ll enable me to get to know the new generation of anglers. Prior to “the split,” I’d estimate that three-quarters of the Elite pros knew me by sight. Now it’s probably closer to 20%. I want to really dive into their personalities and help build stars based on who they are, not necessarily just how good they are with a rod and reel. I want to tell stories that give fans a reason to care about the talented young guns. One of my favorite movies is “Almost Famous” and I keep using the line that my writing will become more meaningful once I get to “ride the bus with Stillwater.”

Missing Martin for Billfish
The Elite Series schedule didn’t come out until after we’d made some of our travel plans. Unfortunately, Lake Martin conflicts with a trip to Casa Vieja Lodge in Guatemala, where we’ll be hosting a group of 16 in mid-February.

We first visited Guatemala in 2020 as a “once-in-a-lifetime” trip with my parents to celebrate my 50th birthday. Those plans quickly got squashed as we’ve been back every year. It’s a place where you can have a blast whether you’re a tournament billfish angler or you’ve never been on the ocean. On our worst trip we caught 15 sailfish in three days. On our best, we caught 67. On that latter trip, my brother and some of his business school friends, none of whom had fished offshore before, released over 80 sailfish. It’s also a place you can take a spouse or child who doesn’t love to fish because it’s essentially a tropical resort experience – swim-up pool bar, air-conditioned diesel boats, Mercedes Sprinter vans, and so on. We’ve taken three couples where the wife didn’t fish, and once we forced them to take a turn on sailfish they never missed another round.

Marrying Up
As I wrote above, when Hanna and I first met she’d never fished before. That was a risk on my part – either that she’d hate the sport or that she’d resent all of the time that I invest in it. Fortunately, she took to it quickly and now gets excited to travel the world and experience new species and fisheries.

I recognize that we have a growing and vibrant group of passionate and talented female anglers, but there are still some impediments to them getting involved. That’s why I’m thrilled with the direction that Hanna’s efforts have gone – she loves testing the latest gear, interviewing bass pros’ wives, and most of all taking groups of women on bucket list adventures. If you’re a woman who wants to fish more but doesn’t know how to take the next step – or if you know someone who fits that description – reach out to her and let’s get you on a trip! I’m trying to convince her to lead an all-female excursion to Guatemala later this year. Or maybe Argentina for golden dorado. What’s holding you back?

The Ish Model
During a time when most pros fished one tour, perhaps just the Elite Series or FLW, Ish Monroe was the “iron man of fishing.” He fished everything that he could, sometimes multiple tours plus jackpotting various western events. I once asked him why he bit off so much: “I’m a tournament fisherman,” he said matter-of-factly. “My job is to fish tournaments.” In the past I’ve been asked by aspiring outdoor writers how to obtain the writing opportunities that I’ve enjoyed. “Write,” I tell them. “Every day. That’s your job as a writer.”

I don’t know if anyone still aspires to write for a living (or as a side hustle). I may be the last of the breed. Still, no matter what you want to do, you have to do it every day. Want to be a painter? Paint when you don’t feel like it. Dream of the NBA? Shovel off the court to shoot your 500 daily free throws. Content creation is a matter of repetition, building muscle memory and learning from mistakes. I now feel odd if I go a day without writing even a short blog.
PRESENTED BY: Gamakatsu

Three Weeks on Gilligan’s Island
A year after we first visited Guatemala, we were invited to fish for tuna at Sport Fish Panama Island Lodge. I expected it to be another “one-time” deal. We’ve been back four times. We are hosting a group of 20 there in late May which will include Bass Fishing Hall of Famer Skeet Reese and his wife Kim. Lodge owner Shane Jarvis generously donated a trip with Skeet to last fall’s Hall of Fame auction. I need to be on the island in June as well to host another trip, so I’ve elected just to stay there for a total of three weeks. That kind of flexibility is new to me – we’ve only taken one vacation of more than two weeks since our honeymoon in 2005. My goal is to get to the point where I’m too tired to reel in another yellowfin and sick and tired of sashimi and poke.

PRESENTED BY: Whatnot

Lightning Round
·      Elite Series stop I’m most excited to visit: St. Lawrence River

·      Quotation that guides me: “You can’t be a real country unless you have a beer and an airline. It helps if you have some kind of a football team, or some nuclear weapons, but at the very least you need a beer.” (George Carlin)

·      Elite pro (past) I’d like to travel with: Rick Clunn to Alaska

·      Elite pro (current) I’d like to travel with: Steve Kennedy to somewhere in the Amazon

·      My Death Row meal: Kung Pao chicken, Diet Dr Pepper, pumpkin pie

·      New Destinations for 2026: Argentina for golden dorado, California with Oliver and Riley Ngy

·      Favorite TV shows: The Sopranos, The Wire, The League, All in the Family

·      Favorite non-fishing athletes of my lifetime: Ron Guidry, Lawrence Taylor, Muggsy Bogues

·      One lure for the rest of my life: Green pumpkin Senko
PRESENTED BY: AFTCO

Not A Real Retirement
While I expect that I’ll never practice law again, my “retirement” is hardly an end to working. Much like KVD has done, or what I expect Ike will do starting next year, I expect that I’ll be every bit as busy going forward, just focusing on different goals. As someone who came from a non-fishing family, I am eternally grateful that I found fishing, or that fishing found me. It has provided a little bit of extra income, an amazing network of friends, and true purpose in life. It has strengthened my relationship with Hanna as we’ve built a business togetherand enabled me to see the world. If you’re reading this, then you probably understand much of that – I hope that each of you find your own way to have the sport benefit your life so fully.

*****************************

If you’d like to discuss travel options with us, or join us on a hosted trip, shoot us an email at fishmore@halfpastfirstcast.com.

More info:

·      Alaska

·      Guatemala

·      Panama

·      Argentina

·      Mexico

·      Louisiana

Best On Tour Breakdown Ep. 9
In this episode of The Best on Tour Breakdown, the crew dives into the latest buzz, banter, baits, and business shaping the bass fishing world. Highlights include Drew Gill becoming the youngest angler in MLF history to surpass $1 million in career earnings, a lively discussion about a controversial “illegal” Japanese bait hack, and a closer look at the Bill Lewis Big Gizz swimbait. The conversation also shifts to the business side with an interesting comparison of golf versus fishing, capped off with a fun bonus story about a bass catching a world-record bass in Bass Lake. It’s a fast-paced mix of news, gear talk, and insider perspective that you won’t want to miss. Check it out here.

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Issue #361

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Was the Coike’s origin story hiding in your cereal box? (Issue 360)

Issue #360- January 29, 2026

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BOT Trivia: Who is the title sponsor of the Bassmaster Elite Series?​
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PRESENTED BY: Sunline

If You Build The Winning Roster, Do-it Molds Will Send You Everything To Build Your Baits!
Do-it Molds is inviting custom tackle fanatics and bass fishing fans alike to join the Do-It Molds Bassmaster Fantasy League – a little friendly competition that makes every tournament more fun to follow! Set your roster, make your picks, and compete against other B.A.S.S. Fans who live and breathe bass fishing. Here’s the kicker – they’re awarding a $500 Custom Tackle Giveaway to both the Drain the Lake winner and the Fantasy Fishing winner. Two competitions. Two winners. Same custom tackle grand prize.

If you already spend your time dialing in bait designs and following the pros, this one’s for you. Bragging rights included.

👉 Join the Do-It Molds Bassmaster Fantasy League today and start building toward the win.

Toyota Expands Bonus Bucks Contingency Program For 2026
Toyota Motor North America is proud to announce the expansion of the popular Toyota Bonus Bucks contingency program, which will reward more anglers with bigger payouts during the 2026 tournament season. Toyota Bonus Bucks offers cash rewards to anglers who tow their boat with a 2022 or newer Toyota tow vehicle and compete in one of the over 600+ supported tournaments. Bonus Bucks will now contribute additional payouts to the top three highest-placing anglers in notable tournament series, including the Bassmaster Elite Series and the Major League Fishing (MLF) Bass Pro Tour. In addition to expanding the pool of anglers eligible for payouts at each event, Toyota is increasing payout amounts for anglers competing in Bassmaster Elite Series and MLF Bass Pro Tour competition. The highest placing eligible Toyota Bonus Bucks member will now receive a $4,000 payout in regular season Elite and BPT tournaments, up from $3,000 in previous years. Under the new structure, Toyota Bonus Bucks will provide payouts to the top three anglers in each of these prestigious tournament trails, rewarding more anglers with bigger payouts. Learn more details about the expanded program here.

Have We Discovered The Origins Of The Coike?

If you were a kid in the 80s, there’s a very real chance the original Hideup Coike showed up in your life long before it ever hit the water. I’m talking about the Wacky WallWalker, that sticky, octopus-shaped elastomer creature you’d peel off the wall, throw back up, and watch it walk its way down like it was alive. You probably found it as a surprise in a box of cereal, immediately stuck it to every surface in the house, and got yelled at for it. Fast forward a few decades, and here we are obsessing over a wildly effective, rubbery, pulsating bait that crawls, breathes, and flat out gets bit. Coincidence? Maybe. But deep down, I’m convinced the hottest bait in fishing right now is just the WallWalker finally living up to its true destiny!

Comparison: Thick Trick VS Thick Stick
Two new, thicker trick-worm style baits have just hit the market, and Real Deal Tackle breaks down what sets them apart and when to choose each one. From profile and plastic composition to action and sink rate, they cover the key differences between the Zoom Thick Trick Worm and the Z-Man FattyZ Thick Stickz. The video also walks through multiple rigging options to help anglers get the most out of these baits in different conditions. Check it out here.
PRESENTED BY: Gamakatsu

#WeAreCollegiateBass Podcast
On EP. 244 of the Rapala #WeAreCollegiateBass Podcast, host Kyle Curry is joined by Grace Olsen & Emmarie Bires from 4th ranked Wabash Valley College. On the previous episode, we talked with Jackson Roumbanis from Murray State College who recently traveled to South Africa to represent Team USA. Grace and Emmarie both made the trip to South Africa as well. Grace competed for Team USA and Emmarie captured digital content for social media. Tune in to hear them talk about this experience, as well as break down WVC’s season so far…as they are ranked 4th in the Bass Pro Shops School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia. Check it out here.
Fishing Chaos, a leading digital tournament management and angler engagement platform, and Bass Pro Shops, North America’s premier outdoor retailer and conservation company, today announced a strategic partnership aimed at elevating the fishing experience and supporting the growth of angler communities nationwide. As part of the partnership, Fishing Chaos will support Bass Pro Shops across a variety of live, in-person tournaments and nationwide online events. This announcement comes on the heels of Bass Pro’s announcement of an all new format for the 2026 U.S. Open Bowfishing Championship, a 24-hour competition with over $100,000 in cash & prizes on the line. Starting in 2026, Anglers will gain increased access to competitions, improved communication tools, and enhanced digital features such as live leaderboards, mobile updates, and real-time score tracking. “Partnering with Bass Pro Shops marks a defining moment for Fishing Chaos,” said John Calagaz, founder of Fishing Chaos. “The fishing industry is ready for a new era of innovation—one where data, connectivity, and real-time tools empower anglers, tournament directors, brands, and conservation efforts. Bass Pro Shops has a deep commitment to the outdoor community, and they are the ideal partner to help bring this vision to life and move technology forward across the sport.” The collaboration also introduces new advantages for Fishing Chaos partners, particularly brands with products available at Bass Pro Shops. As anglers participate in tournaments, log catches, join communities, and explore gear within the app, brands gain more opportunities to engage customers in an angling-centric environment that includes seasoned tournament anglers, recreational anglers, and beginners alike. By aligning event participation, community interaction, and gear exploration, the partnership creates a seamless experience for anglers to discover and engage with products they trust. “Competition is a core element of angling communities across the United States,” said Tom Brewbaker, President and CEO of Fishing Chaos. “This partnership strengthens the angling ecosystem by providing hundreds of thousands of anglers – across all experience levels – with more opportunities to compete and connect through events that support long-term community growth, while enhancing engagement opportunities for the brands that power the sport.” Many events hosted on the platform will continue to promote best practices related to catch-and-release and invasive species control. These efforts will also help deliver more meaningful catch data to key stakeholders, supporting conservation-minded decision-making. Fishing Chaos will also introduce a dedicated Bass Pro Shops gear experience within the platform, allowing anglers to browse curated fishing products that link directly to Bass Pro Shops’ online store. Active Fishing Chaos users—particularly those contributing catch data or gear insights—will have access to special catch log features and performance-based incentives throughout the year.

PRESENTED BY: Whatnot

Upcoming Bass Fishing Whatnot Shows
What is Whatnot?

Whatnot is a live-stream marketplace where anglers buy, sell, and auction gear in real time. Live shows, exclusive drops, and deals you won’t find at retail. Some shows are higher quality than others, here are some we think are good:

Today (Thurs, Jan 29):

10am: Gorilla Baits Click here to view

11am: Fishbonz Tackle Co Click here to view

11:40am: 6th Sense Click here to view

Times are in Central Time
PRESENTED BY: AFTCO

No Ordinary Joe
Roughly 37 years ago a boy named Joe cast a live crawfish he’d caught in a nearby canal into Long Beach, California’s El Dorado Park pond with his first ever baitcasting rod, a pistol grip model of course. A 5-pound largemouth tugged at his offering soon after, and ultimately grabbed his young soul in a manner that set forth a lifetime of highly admirable bass fishing success, including over $700,000 in tournament winnings the past 20 years, along with 8 prize boats, and a direct hand in selling around 5,000 boats to other anglers and recreationalists. Obviously, the boy was no ordinary Joe. Instead, the son of an avid angler named Joe Uribe Sr., is not only one of the top competitive anglers in the Western United States, but also regarded as one of the top fulltime boat salesmen in the United States the past 20 years. At age 46, Joe Uribe Jr. is beginning 2026 with what promises to be another year of positive vibes, helping others chase their dreams, selling dozens of boats, and yes, hauling not one but two 5-bass limits to the scales over 36-pounds recently at the WON Bass Winter Open on Clear Lake. “I love it all. From 10” swimbaits to punching vegetation or casting a squarebill shallow, but in that event, I knew after a couple days of practice the only way to win was with forward-facing sonar. So, I took everything out of my Vexus® except… Read more here.

We Need Your Feedback
Thank you to everyone who took a minute to fill out last week’s survey — we really appreciate the feedback. Based on your responses, we’ve made a few updates and would love a handful of additional submissions to help finalize the direction. It only takes about one minute to complete, and your input directly influences what we build next. Check it out here.

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Issue #360

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Tow vehicles by the numbers on the 2026 Bass Pro Tour (Issue 359)

Issue #359- January 22nd, 2026

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BOT Trivia: Which fishery was the site of the 2022 Bassmaster Elite Series event where Lee Livesay won with a four-day total of 113 pounds, 11 ounces?​
See the answer
PRESENTED BY: Sunline

Dual Threat Season Is Underway
The Dual Threat Team Fishing Trail is kicking off its 2026 season this week on Lake Okeechobee, with teams gathering at Roland & Mary Ann Martins Marina & Resort in Clewiston, FL for the January 21–23 opener. This three-day event marks the first of six regular season stops where teams compete for points toward championship qualification, with the season moving on to other classic fisheries like the St. Johns River, Lake Eufaula, and Guntersville later in the year. The Lake Okeechobee stop sets the tone for the trail’s highly competitive season, drawing anglers eager to start strong on one of Florida’s most iconic bass lakes.

Hackney Links Up With Suzuki
Three-time Bassmaster Elite Series champion and the 2014 Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year Greg Hackney announced earlier this week that he will be running a Suzuki on the 2026 Elite Series. Hackney joins a list of anglers including Jacob Wheeler and Mark Davis who’ve made the move to Suzuki this season.

Hot Start Amid Cold Conditions For Mark Daniels Jr.
As the sun crested the ridges that surround Lake Guntersville and illuminated this iconic fishery on the second morning of competition at B&W Trailer Hitches Stage 1 Presented by Mercury, Mark Daniels Jr. was preparing to try and duplicate what he described as an excellent start to his eighth season on the Bass Pro Tour. Read more about MDJ’s hot start at Stage 1 of the Bass Pro Tour here.

Super Tuned Drop Shot
The Gamakatsu Super Tuned Drop Shot hook is designed for exceptional performance with a focus on precision and hookup ratios. Featuring Tournament Grade Wire and Nano Alpha finish, this hook boasts a G Lock point with a slightly upturned design to maximize hookup percentages. Its straight shank design ensures the hook rigs straight and stands out more prominently on the fishing line, enhancing presentation. Add this awesome new dropshot hook to your arsenal. Check out the full selection here.
PRESENTED BY: Gamakatsu

Brightwell And Rojas Join BTL
Dean Rojas and Kevin Brightwell of KGB Swimbaits join BTL to break down their new reel lineup designed specifically for swimbait and frogging applications. During the conversation, they dive into the design process, key features, and performance details that set these reels apart, while sharing insights on how they were built to handle heavy baits, thick cover, and high-stress situations. The discussion offers a behind-the-scenes look at how angler feedback and real-world testing shaped reels built for power, control, and reliability. Check it out here.

Listen to EP. 243 of the Rapala #WeAreCollegiateBass Podcast

Listen here

Nitro, Ranger, and Triton Owners Earn Big in the Texas Team Trail

Read More Here

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Best On Tour needs your feedback! We would greatly appreciate you taking a few minutes of your time to participate in this short survey that will help us create better resources for our subscribers. Get started here.
PRESENTED BY: AFTCO

Spool Up Right
If you fish a lot… like really fish, not just a couple weekends a month, then you know how fast line can disappear. Whether you’re re-spooling the night before a tournament or swapping out line after a day grinding through brush piles and rock, fluorocarbon isn’t cheap. That’s where bulk spools come in clutch. Not only do they save you money in the long run, but they also keep your rigs running smoothly, with fresh line ready when you need it most. Sunline has carved out a name for itself in the fishing world as a go-to for high-performance line, especially in the bass game. Their lineup of bulk spool fluorocarbon options is tailored for serious anglers who want quality, consistency, and value. If that sounds like you, keep reading! We’re breaking down each bulk option so you can choose the right one for your fishing style. Learn more about the advantages of purchasing line in bulk spools here.

What’s The Difference? | Silicone vs. Rubber Jigs
The material is your first hint, but how does it actually affect your fishing? Bryan New breaks down the key differences between silicone and rubber jigs, explaining how each material impacts action, profile, and performance in the water. From the subtle, consistent movement of silicone to the fuller flare and slower fall of rubber, Bryan shows how jig material can influence bites in different conditions. He also dives into when and where each shines—whether you’re targeting pressured fish, fishing cold water, or looking to trigger reaction strikes—giving anglers practical insight they can immediately apply on the water. Check it out here.

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Issue #359

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The definitive 2026 guide to Forward-Facing Sonar regulations (Issue 358)

Issue #358- January 15th, 2026

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BOT Trivia: Which legendary angler is credited with popularizing the modern spinnerbait in the 1960s?​​
See the answer
PRESENTED BY: Sunline

Start Saving With Do-It Molds
We all know the edge isn’t always about buying more – it’s about building smarter. The new Do-It Molds Catalog puts everything you need to make premium, tournament-ready tackle in one place – and the catalog 100% free. With Do-It Molds, you can pour high-quality jigs for around $2.50 each, customize every detail from colors and skirt combinations to hook styles and weights, and dial in baits that match your exact fishery, season, and bite. No compromises. No guessing. Just total control and real cost savings over store-bought tackle. One catalog. Every mold, component, and tool you need to build baits that compete at the highest level – without paying retail prices. Request your free catalog here and start fishing tackle made your way.

BOT Breakdown Is Now On OATV
Outdoor Action TV is excited to announce the addition of Best on Tour Breakdown, a behind-the-scenes bass fishing podcast, to its expanding lineup of premium outdoor podcasts. New episodes of Best on Tour Breakdown are available now on Outdoor Action TV. To listen to Best on Tour Breakdown,download the Outdoor Action TV mobile app on iOS or Android and find it under the Podcast section. Video episodes of the podcast will also be available on the app under the Fishing category, giving viewers the option to watch the conversations unfold. Both audio and video versions of Best on Tour Breakdown are also available to stream on the Outdoor Action TV website.

Classic Champ Dion Hibdon Passes
Dion Hibdon, the 1997 Bassmaster Classic champion, died on Monday, Jan. 12 at age 58 following a brief illness. He was part of the legendary Hibdon fishing family and is survived by his wife Amy, his sons Payden, Connor and Lawson, and siblings Dotty and Chuck. Hibdon followed in the footsteps of his father, Classic winner Guido Hibdon, and went on to build his own successful career—including capturing the 2000 FLW Cup—becoming one half of the only father-son duo to win the Bassmaster Classic. Learn more about Dion and his legendary career here.

6th Sense Plump Panorama
A beefed-up variation of the wildly popular 6th Sense Panorama, the 6th Sense Plump Panorama is a supremely realistic forage-fish imitation geared towards heavier-duty applications. Adorned with natural finishes and intricate scale patterns, the Plump Panorama features a thicker body composition that gives the bait added weight, increased water displacement, and enhanced durability better suited to heavy-gauge hooks. Representing a substantial meal to big bass and other predatory species, the Plump Panorama wiggles, kicks, and undulates with even the slightest movement of the rod tip. Whether flipping shallow cover or casting to deep structure, the Plump Panorama can be fished using a variety of methods, including Texas and Tokyo rigs, drop shots, and more. Additionally, the bait includes a subtle hook slot on one side for more streamlined and straightforward weedless rigging. Complete with glistening 3D eyes, the 6th Sense Plump Panorama is your ticket to a chunky limit. Check out the full selection here.
PRESENTED BY: Gamakatsu

Drew Benton’s 2026 Bass Boat is DIALED
Drew Benton’s 2026 bass boat setup is next-level. In this exclusive Cut Line breakdown, we take a deep dive into the new upgrades, electronics, rigging, and performance changes Drew Benton is running as he prepares for the 2026 Bassmaster Elite Series season. From cutting-edge marine electronics to efficiency, fishability, and tournament-ready rigging, every upgrade on this pro bass fishing boat has a purpose. This isn’t just a boat tour — it’s a full Elite Series–level breakdown of what one of the best anglers in the world trusts when money, points, and trophies are on the line. Check it out here.
Get ready, Texas Texas Team Trail (TXTT) anglers! The moment you’ve been waiting for has officially arrived! Registration for the 2026 Bass Pro Shops Texas Team Trail presented by Progressive is NOW OPEN, and this season is shaping up to be the most electrifying year in trail history. With stacked payouts, legendary partners, iconic fisheries, and new surprises on deck, the first step to being the Progressive Team of the Year starts today. Secure your spot and get ready to fish. Learn more here.

Ultimate Guide To Forward-Facing Sonar Rules For 2026 Bass Tournaments
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. Check out the full guide here.
PRESENTED BY: AFTCO

Ellenson Crushes Clear Lake
Garrett Ellenson of Nine Mile Falls, Washington capped a consistent three-day performance by rallying on the final day to win the WON BASS Winter Open at Clear Lake. After sitting in second place through the first two days, Ellenson sealed the victory with a 32.53-pound final-day bag, finishing with a three-day total of 98.37 pounds. His win earned him a Ranger Z518 powered by a Mercury ProXS, along with $3,500 in cash including Big Bass honors. Ellenson relied on a 6-inch Z-Man Scented Jerk ShadZ in Smokey Shad on a 3/16-ounce Cipher Fishing tungsten head. He paired 18-lb Seaguar JDM PEX8 braid to an 8-foot, 10-lb Seaguar Tatsu fluorocarbon leader, matched with a Shimano Stradic spinning reel and a 7’6″ medium G. Loomis NRX+ 902 rod for maximum sensitivity and control. Read more about the event here.

Best On Tour Breakdown Episode 8
The Best on Tour Breakdown goes behind the scenes of bass fishing with a fast-paced mix of buzz, banter, baits, and business. This episode dives into the polygraph debate, breaks down B.A.S.S.’s updated no-info rule, spotlights the Berkley PowerBait Triple Minnow Rig Kit, and covers the launch of BeatDown Outdoors’ Zeroed In FFS Transducer Mount—plus a must-see bonus moment featuring an epic Hideup Coike dyeing fail.  Check out the 10:15 AM January 15th premier here.

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Issue #358

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