Top Fishing Tournaments to Watch in 2026
Discover the top fishing tournaments in 2026 with dates, locations, formats, entry details, and what fans and anglers can expect across major circuits.
Professional fishing tournaments have grown into major global sporting events, blending elite angler skill, advanced technology, and massive fan engagement. From high-pressure bass circuits to large-scale saltwater competitions, these events now shape how anglers fish, learn, and compete. The 2026 season stands out with packed schedules, iconic fisheries, evolving competition formats, and wider digital coverage that brings fans closer to the action than ever before. Each tournament highlights different strategies, water types, and target species, offering valuable insights for both serious anglers and casual viewers. Whether it is fast-paced catch-weigh-release formats or traditional weigh-in events, fishing tournaments in 2026 will showcase how top anglers adapt to conditions, manage pressure, and make precise decisions. Watching these tournaments is not just entertainment; it is one of the best ways to understand modern fishing techniques, seasonal patterns, and species behavior at the highest level.
Why Fishing Tournaments Matter to Anglers and Fans
Fishing tournaments play an important role in helping recreational anglers improve their skills and understanding of the sport. By watching professional anglers compete, viewers learn how experts read water, adjust to weather changes, and choose the right presentations under pressure. These real-world examples help anglers sharpen casting accuracy, refine bait selection, and apply more effective fishing techniques on their own trips. Tournaments also highlight how planning, patience, and quick decision-making influence success, which is valuable for anglers at any experience level.
Beyond skill development, fishing tournaments strongly support conservation awareness and responsible angling. Modern events follow strict fish-care rules, promote catch-weigh-release systems, and emphasize protecting fish species and habitats. At the same time, tournament trends shape everyday fishing approaches, influencing gear choices, seasonal strategies, and ethical fishing practices. For fans, tournaments deliver both entertainment and education, creating a clear connection between professional competition and everyday fishing experiences.
Major Fishing Tournaments to Watch in 2026
Professional fishing tournaments continue to shape how anglers compete, learn, and adapt on the water. Here are the major fishing tournaments to watch in 2026, each offering unique insights into elite angling strategies, target species, and how modern fishing techniques are applied at the highest level across freshwater and saltwater events.
1. Sport Fishing Championship (SFC) 2026
The Sport Fishing Championship (SFC) is a professional offshore sport fishing league built around team-based competition and regional representation. Founded in 2021, the championship brings together elite angling clubs from across North America to compete in sanctioned saltwater tournaments throughout the season. SFC focuses on offshore strategy, teamwork, and consistent performance across multiple events, offering a structured pathway from regular-season competition to championship playoffs.
Organized and Hosted By
Sport Fishing Championship (SFC)
Sport Fishing Championship 2026 Schedule and Locations
The SFC season consists of qualifying tournaments held across major Gulf and Atlantic saltwater fisheries. Events are selected based on seasonal fish migrations and established offshore tournament venues. Final dates and locations for the 2026 season will be announced closer to the start of competition.
Tournament Format and Timings
The championship operates on a club-based competition model rather than individual angler standings.
Format: Regular-season qualifying events leading to playoff competition
Season Duration: Typically spring through fall, spanning multiple months
Daily Timings: Official check-in: 6:00 AM to 7:00 AM local time (varies by event)
Fishing window: 7:30 AM departure with fishing period until weigh-in time
Weigh-in: Late afternoon between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM local time (varies by host)
Weigh-In Procedures: All boats must be in line by the posted cutoff times with official weigh slips
Target Species
Blue Marlin
White Marlin
Sailfish
Other eligible offshore pelagic species, depending on the event location
Participation and Eligibility
Competition is limited to approved angling clubs
Clubs are divided between the Atlantic and the Gulf divisions
Teams qualify through league approval and sanctioned event participation
Public or amateur entries are not permitted
Registration Process
No public registration
Participation is managed at the club and league level through SFC governance
Judges, Officials, and Governance
No judges or jury members
Official tournament observers and league officials verify results
All scoring and compliance follow Sport Fishing Championship regulations
Fan Experience and Coverage
Digital and broadcast coverage of select events
Offshore competition footage highlighting strategy and execution
Coverage focuses on team standings, seasonal progress, and championship qualification
Awards and Recognition
Regular-season standings determine playoff qualification
Championship titles awarded at the Zane Grey Championship
Recognition emphasizes competitive performance across the full season
2. Bass Pro Tour (BPT) 2026
The Bass Pro Tour (BPT) is one of the most competitive and widely followed circuits in professional bass fishing. Organized by Major League Fishing, the tour features a fixed field of elite anglers competing across premier U.S. fisheries using a fast-paced format built around real-time scoring and conservation-focused fish handling. The 2026 season highlights how modern fishing techniques, adaptability, and decision-making define success at the highest level.
Organized and Hosted By
Major League Fishing (MLF)
Bass Pro Tour 2026 Schedule and Locations
The 2026 season features multiple four-day events held across iconic bass fisheries in the United States. Here are the confirmed stages, dates, and locations for the full season schedule:
Stage 1: Runs from January 15 to 18, 2026, at Lake Guntersville in Alabama.
Stage 2: Scheduled for February 19 to 22, 2026, at Lake Hartwell in South Carolina.
Stage 3: Takes place March 5 to 8, 2026, split between Lake Whitney on Days 1 and 2 and Lake Waco on Days 3 and 4 in Texas.
Stage 4: Held March 26 to 29, 2026, across O.H. Ivie Lake and Lake Brownwood in Texas.
REDCREST Championship: Set for April 16 to 19, 2026, with the location to be announced.
Stage 5: Runs from April 30 to May 3, 2026, at Beaver Lake in Arkansas.
Heavy Hitters Event: Scheduled for May 16 to 21, 2026, at Orange Lake in Florida.
Stage 6: Takes place June 18 to 21, 2026, at Grand Lake in Oklahoma.
Stage 7: Closes the regular season from August 6 to 9, 2026, on Lake Erie in Ohio.
Tournament Format and Timings
Four-day events built around Qualifying, Knockout, and Championship rounds
Competition is divided into timed fishing periods each day
Catch-weigh-release scoring system with immediate fish return
Regulated use of electronics and forward-facing sonar
Exact daily launch and end times vary by venue and are announced closer to each event.
Target Species
Largemouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass
Spotted Bass
Participation and Eligibility
Fixed field of 51 professional anglers
Participation is not open to the public
Anglers qualify through Major League Fishing’s professional selection system
Amateur anglers and open entries are not permitted
Registration Process
No public registration process
Entry is determined through league qualification and invitations only
Judges, Officials, and Governance
No judges or jury members
Results are governed by official rules and monitored by on-water tournament officials
Guest appearances or local dignitaries vary by location and are announced separately when applicable
Fan Experience and Activities
Live on-the-water coverage and real-time leaderboards
Digital streaming and broadcast access throughout each event
Public takeoffs, sponsor activations, and community events may be available depending on the host location
Awards and Recognition
Event titles, prize money, and Angler of the Year points
Top performers qualify for the REDCREST Championship, the season’s title event
3. National Professional Fishing League (NPFL) 2026
The National Professional Fishing League (NPFL) focuses on competitive balance, fundamentals, and full-field coverage. The league attracts experienced professionals and rising anglers, offering events that reward consistency, pattern development, and adaptability across diverse U.S. fisheries.
Organized and Hosted By
National Professional Fishing League (NPFL)
NPFL 2026 Schedule and Locations
The NPFL 2026 season spans multiple regions and water types, with each stop designed to test seasonal understanding, execution, and versatility. Here are the confirmed events, dates, and locations:
Championship: Scheduled for February 26 to 28, 2026, at Lewis Smith Lake in Cullman, Alabama.
Stop 1: Runs from March 19 to 21, 2026, at the Harris Chain of Lakes in Leesburg, Florida.
Stop 2: Takes place April 23 to 25, 2026, at Wright Patman Lake in Texarkana, Texas.
Stop 3: Held May 21 to 23, 2026, on Lay Lake in Clanton, Alabama.
Stop 4: Scheduled for June 25 to 27, 2026, at Logan Martin Lake in Oxford, Alabama.
Stop 5: Runs from July 23 to 25, 2026, on the St. Lawrence River in Massena, New York.
Stop 6: Closes the season from September 17 to 19, 2026, at Lake George in New York.
Tournament Format and Timings
Multi-day events with cumulative weight scoring
Traditional weigh-in format
Full-field competition each day
Daily launch and weigh-in times vary by venue and are announced closer to each event
Target Species
Smallmouth Bass
Spotted Bass
Participation and Eligibility
Professional-level field
Participation is not open to the general public
Anglers qualify through the NPFL’s application and selection process
Registration Process
No public registration
Entry managed through league approval and professional eligibility requirements
Judges, Officials, and Governance
No judges or jury members
Results determined by official rules, weigh-in procedures, and tournament officials
Fan Experience and Activities
Live-streamed weigh-ins across all competition days
On-site viewing at select ramps and weigh-in locations
Digital coverage highlighting full-field performance rather than limited cuts
Awards and Recognition
Event wins and prize payouts
Season points determine standings and championship placement
4. Major League Fishing (MLF) Invitationals 2026
The MLF Invitationals serve as a key pathway into top-tier professional bass fishing, attracting highly competitive anglers aiming to advance within the Major League Fishing system. The 2026 season emphasizes consistency, seasonal awareness, and execution across diverse fisheries, making it a closely watched circuit for fans tracking emerging talent.
Organized and Hosted By
Major League Fishing (MLF)
MLF Invitationals 2026 Schedule and Locations
The 2026 Invitational season spans multiple regions and water types, designed to test anglers on seasonal transitions, pressure management, and pattern development throughout the year. Here are the confirmed events, dates, and locations:
Event 1: Runs from February 6 to 8, 2026, at the Harris Chain of Lakes in Leesburg, Florida.
Event 2: Scheduled for February 26 to 28, 2026, at Santee Cooper Lakes in Clarendon County, South Carolina.
Event 3: Takes place March 19 to 21, 2026, on Wheeler Lake in Decatur, Alabama.
Event 4: Held May 8 to 10, 2026, at Douglas Lake in Jefferson County, Tennessee.
Event 5: Runs from June 5 to 7, 2026, at Lake Eufaula in Eufaula, Oklahoma.
Event 6: Scheduled for July 24 to 26, 2026, on Lake Champlain in Plattsburgh, New York.
Championship: Closes the season from September 18 to 20, 2026, at the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes in Kissimmee, Florida.
Tournament Format and Timings
Multi-day events with cumulative weight scoring
Traditional five-fish limit format
Emphasis on pattern consistency and execution
Daily launch and weigh-in times vary by venue and are announced closer to each event
Target Species
Largemouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass
Participation and Eligibility
Professional-level field
Participation is not open to the general public
Anglers qualify through Major League Fishing’s eligibility and selection process
Registration Process
No public registration
Entry managed through league qualification, invitations, and eligibility requirements
Judges, Officials, and Governance
No judges or jury members
Results are governed by official rules and verified through weigh-in procedures and tournament officials
Fan Experience and Activities
On-site weigh-ins at select locations
Digital coverage highlighting strategy, preparation, and execution
Behind-the-scenes and on-the-water content shared throughout the season
Awards and Recognition
Event titles and prize payouts
Season points determine standings and championship qualification
5. Bassmaster Elite Series 2026
The Bassmaster Elite Series is one of the most established and respected circuits in professional bass fishing, known for its deep competitive history and demanding season-long format. Organized by B.A.S.S., the Elite Series brings together top anglers who compete across a wide range of fisheries, testing versatility, consistency, and mental endurance throughout the year.
Organized and Hosted By
B.A.S.S. (Bass Anglers Sportsman Society)
Bassmaster Elite Series 2026 Schedule and Locations
The 2026 Elite Series schedule features iconic bass fisheries across multiple regions, combining rivers, reservoirs, and large natural lakes to challenge anglers in different seasonal conditions. Here are the confirmed events, dates, and locations:
Event 1: Runs from February 5 to 8, 2026, at Lake Guntersville in Scottsboro, Alabama.
Event 2: Scheduled for February 12 to 15, 2026, at Lake Martin in Alexander City, Alabama.
Bassmaster Classic: Takes place March 13 to 15, 2026, on the Tennessee River in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Event 3: Held March 26 to 29, 2026, on the Tennessee Tombigbee Waterway in Columbus, Mississippi.
Event 4: Runs from April 16 to 19, 2026, on the Arkansas River in Muskogee, Oklahoma.
Event 5: Scheduled for May 7 to 10, 2026, at Lake Murray in Columbia, South Carolina.
Event 6: Takes place May 14 to 17, 2026, at Santee Cooper Lakes in Clarendon County, South Carolina.
Event 7: Runs from June 11 to 14, 2026, on the Pasquotank River and Albemarle Sound in Elizabeth City, North Carolina.
Event 8: Scheduled for August 13 to 16, 2026, at Lake Champlain in Plattsburgh, New York.
Event 9: Closes the season from August 27 to 30, 2026, on the St. Lawrence River in Clayton, New York.
Tournament Format and Timings
Multi-day events with cumulative weight scoring
Traditional weigh-in format with daily limits
Consistent emphasis on execution across all competition days
Daily launch and weigh-in times vary by venue and are announced closer to each event
Target Species
Largemouth Bass
Participation and Eligibility
Elite-level professional anglers only
Participation is not open to the public
Anglers qualify through Bassmaster Opens, points standings, and league qualification rules
Registration Process
No public registration
Entry determined through B.A.S.S. qualification and invitation criteria
Judges, Officials, and Governance
No judges or jury members
Tournament outcomes are governed by official rules and supervised by B.A.S.S. tournament officials
Fan Experience and Activities
Live tournament coverage and weigh-in events
Large-scale fan engagement at select stops, including the Bassmaster Classic
Sponsor exhibits, meet-and-greet opportunities, and community events vary by location
Awards and Recognition
Event titles, prize money, and Angler of the Year points
Season performance determines qualification for championship events and future Elite participation
6. Jacksonville Kingfish Tournament 2026
The Jacksonville Kingfish Tournament is one of the most recognized saltwater fishing tournaments in the United States, known for its offshore focus, large participation numbers, and strong community involvement. Unlike pro-only bass circuits, this event blends serious competition with festival-style activities, making it popular with anglers, families, and spectators alike. The tournament centers around offshore strategy, weather planning, and seasonal migration of coastal fish species.
Organized and Hosted By
Jacksonville Marine Charities, Inc.
Supported by local partners and the Jacksonville fishing community
Jacksonville Kingfish Tournament 2026 Schedule and Locations
The tournament runs as a multi-day event with different fishing divisions, youth programs, and onshore activities spread across more than a week. Here are the key phases, dates, and locations for the 2026 event:
Tournament week: Runs from July 9 to 18, 2026, with all activities based in Jacksonville, Florida.
Main offshore tournament days: Held during mid-July 2026 in the offshore waters near Jacksonville, where competitive kingfish fishing takes place.
Weigh-ins and onshore events: Scheduled throughout tournament week at Jim King Park and the Boat Ramp at Sister Creek, serving as the central hub for daily weigh-ins and activities.
Exact daily fishing times and weigh-in schedules are released closer to the event and vary by division and weather conditions.
Tournament Format and Timings
Offshore, team-based competition
Multiple divisions, including the main kingfish event and specialty categories
Designated fishing days followed by official weigh-ins
Timings depend on weather, tide windows, and safety considerations
Target Species
King Mackerel
Cobia
Participation and Eligibility
Open to amateur and professional offshore anglers
Team-based participation
Separate categories for adult teams, women anglers, and junior anglers
Youth divisions focus on education, conservation, and sportsmanship
Registration Process
Registration completed online through the official tournament platform
Early registration offers reduced entry fees
Teams must register a captain and a vessel
Additional optional entries are available for side tournaments and divisions
Judges, Officials, and Governance
No judges or jury members
Results determined by official tournament rules and certified weigh-in officials
The tournament committee oversees compliance, safety, and scoring
Fan Experience and Activities
Daily weigh-ins open to the public
Food vendors, exhibitor booths, and sponsor displays
Live entertainment and social events during tournament week
Youth fishing events and family-friendly activities
Awards and Recognition
Cash prizes across multiple divisions
Awards for top catches and specialty categories
Recognition for junior anglers and community contributors
7. National Walleye Tour 2026
The National Walleye Tour is one of the top competitive circuits dedicated to walleye fishing, attracting skilled anglers who specialize in precision trolling, jigging, and structure-based strategies. The 2026 season highlights large natural lakes and river systems where seasonal movement and weather awareness play a major role in success.
Organized and Hosted By
National Walleye Tour (NWT)
Operated by the Masters Walleye Circuit
National Walleye Tour 2026 Schedule and Locations
The 2026 schedule spans major walleye fisheries across the Midwest and Northern United States, with each stop selected for its strong population and competitive potential. Here are the confirmed events, dates, and locations:
Event 1: Runs from April 9 to 10, 2026, on Lake Erie in Monroe, Michigan.
Event 2: Scheduled for May 20 to 21, 2026, at Lake Oahe in Mobridge, South Dakota.
Event 3: Takes place June 18 to 19, 2026, on Bay de Noc in Gladstone, Michigan.
Event 4: Held July 30 to 31, 2026, on the Bay of Green Bay in Oconto, Wisconsin.
Championship: Closes the season from August 27 to 29, 2026, at Lake Sakakawea in Garrison, North Dakota.
Tournament Format and Timings
Two-day competitive events
Cumulative weight scoring format
Traditional weigh-ins are held at designated locations
Daily launch and weigh-in times vary by venue and weather conditions
Target Species
Participation and Eligibility
Open to professional and semi-professional walleye anglers
Team-based competition format
Anglers must meet circuit eligibility and safety requirements
Registration Process
Online registration through the National Walleye Tour platform
Entry fees required per event
Teams must comply with equipment, licensing, and safety regulations
Judges, Officials, and Governance
No judges or jury members
Tournament officials oversee rule enforcement and weigh-in verification
All catches verified according to official NWT regulations
Fan Experience and Activities
Public weigh-ins at host locations
On-site viewing opportunities at select venues
Sponsor exhibits and angler interactions during weigh-in periods
Awards and Recognition
Event payouts based on placement
Championship awards for top-performing teams
Season points determine championship qualification
8. Costa Offshore World Championship 2026
The Costa Offshore World Championship is a premier international offshore fishing tournament that brings together elite teams from around the world. Known for its strong conservation focus and competitive offshore format, the event highlights advanced bluewater strategy, teamwork, and precise execution in challenging ocean conditions.
Organized and Hosted By
Offshore World Championship (OWC) Organization
Supported by international partners and host-region authorities
Costa Offshore World Championship 2026 Schedule and Location
The 2026 championship is hosted in one of the world’s most respected billfish destinations, selected for its consistent offshore action and conservation leadership. Here are the key phases, dates, and locations for the event:
Championship week: Runs from April 19 to 23, 2026, and is based in Quepos, Costa Rica.
Official fishing days: Take place during championship week in the offshore Pacific waters near Quepos.
Exact daily start times, fishing windows, and weigh-in schedules are announced closer to the event and depend on weather and ocean conditions.
Tournament Format and Timings
Team-based offshore competition
Points-based scoring system
Catch-and-release format for billfish species
Multiple fishing days with cumulative scoring
Target Species
Black Marlin
Striped Marlin
Sailfish
Participation and Eligibility
Invitation-only event
Teams qualify through recognized offshore tournaments worldwide
Participation is limited to top-performing teams from partner events
Registration Process
No open public registration
Qualified teams receive invitations through sanctioned tournaments
Registration completed through the official championship process
Judges, Officials, and Governance
No judges or jury members
Certified observers and officials verify catches and releases
The tournament committee oversees rule compliance and scoring integrity
Fan Experience and Activities
Public awards ceremonies and closing events
Media coverage highlighting offshore action and conservation efforts
Limited on-site spectator access due to offshore format
Awards and Recognition
World Championship titles awarded to top teams
International recognition within the offshore fishing community
Conservation awards recognizing ethical angling practices
What Fans and Anglers Can Expect From Fishing Tournaments in 2026
Fishing tournaments in 2026 will offer a more engaging experience for fans through expanded live streaming, real-time scoring, and improved digital coverage. Viewers can follow events more closely, gaining insight into on-the-water decisions, strategy changes, and how anglers respond to shifting conditions throughout each tournament.
For anglers, these events provide valuable learning opportunities that translate into everyday fishing. Watching professionals adjust fishing techniques, manage pressure, and plan around weather and seasonal patterns helps improve real-world decision-making. At the same time, tournaments continue to place stronger emphasis on conservation, responsible fish handling, and ethical angling, benefiting both fisheries and future anglers.
Conclusion
Fishing tournaments in 2026 highlight how competitive angling continues to evolve across bass, walleye, saltwater, and offshore circuits. Each event showcases advanced fishing techniques, smart decision-making, and a strong focus on conservation and responsible fish care. For anglers, these tournaments offer real learning value by revealing how professionals adapt to seasons, locations, and target fish species. For fans, they deliver exciting coverage and deeper insight into the sport. To explore fish species, techniques, and local fishing opportunities inspired by these tournaments, visit Guidesly and connect with trusted resources that help turn professional insights into better fishing experiences on the water.
FAQs
1. How can I watch major fishing tournaments live?
Most major tournaments stream live through official platforms, offering time scoring, on-water footage, and commentary so fans can follow every decision as it happens.
2. How do fishing tournaments help recreational anglers improve?
Professional fishing tournaments influence recreational anglers by showcasing seasonal patterns, location choices, and risk management strategies that can be adapted to everyday fishing situations successfully.
3. Do fishing tournaments support conservation efforts?
Most tournaments enforce strict conservation rules, including live release systems, fish handling standards, and penalties, helping protect fisheries while maintaining competitive fairness for future generations.
4. Can anyone participate in professional fishing tournaments?
Entry requirements vary by circuit, but many high-level tournaments require prior qualifications, points standings, or invitations rather than open sign-ups for amateur anglers.
5. When are fishing tournament schedules usually announced?
Fishing tournament schedules are released months ahead, but daily launch times, weigh-ins, and fan activities are usually announced closer to each event, locally posted.
6. How are saltwater fishing tournaments different from freshwater events?
Saltwater tournaments often differ from freshwater events by using team formats, offshore strategy, weather planning, and multiple species rather than single species scoring systems overall.
7. Do fishing tournaments include youth or junior programs?
Many tournaments support youth involvement through junior divisions, educational programs, and conservation messaging, helping introduce fishing to younger generations responsibly in organized competitive environments nationwide.
8. How does the weather affect fishing tournament results?
Weather plays a major role in tournament outcomes by affecting fish movement, bite windows, and strategy adjustments that anglers must make throughout competition days on the water.
9. What can viewers learn by watching fishing tournaments?
Viewers can learn advanced fishing concepts by observing lure selection, timing decisions, and area rotation choices made by professionals under pressure during live tournament coverage.
10. Why do anglers follow tournament results closely?
Following tournament results helps anglers track emerging patterns, seasonal shifts, and fisheries trends that may influence future recreational fishing success across different regions and waters.
