Professional bass fishing is set for a showdown this fall as the industry’s two most well-known leagues potentially face off for the first time in an official capacity. World Bass Enterprises (WBE) announced the launch of “The Champions” tournament, a new event scheduled for Oct. 28 through Nov. 1 that will crown a champion and award the largest payout in the history of the bass fishing so far.
The event marks a milestone for the bass fishing community by bringing together the top 25 anglers from the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series and the top 25 from Major League Fishing’s Bass Pro Tour. For years, fans have debated which circuit holds the world’s elite talent; this October, those athletes will finally settle the score on the waters of Tennessee’s Old Hickory Lake.
A Jaw-Dropping Purse
The winnings of the tournament have will set a new benchmark for professional angling. With a total prize pool exceeding $3 million, the individual winner is set to take home a $1.25 million grand prize. This payout represents the largest single check ever awarded to a bass fishing champion. The rewards remain substantial further down the leaderboard, with second- and third-place finishers slated to receive $500,000 and $300,000, respectively.
Jacob Wheeler, a four-time MLF Angler of the Year, noted that while the prize money is remarkable, the opportunity to compete against a unified field is what the athletes have truly been waiting for. He described the tournament as a long-overdue chance to move past friendly banter and determine a true champion through direct competition.
A Multi-Day Outdoor Festival
The five-day event, which includes three days of fishing competition, is being positioned as a major draw for the Nashville region. Sanders Ferry Park in Hendersonville will serve as the primary hub, offering a family-friendly atmosphere complete with a Friday night headline musical act, a fireworks show, and a ceremonial flyover…