What's Happening?
The 2026 Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series is heading north, with anglers and fantasy fishing enthusiasts preparing for the upcoming event at Lake Champlain. Trey McKinney and Cory Johnston, leaders in the Angler of the Year (AOY) standings, are among
the top picks for the competition. The event is expected to showcase the skills of anglers in a non-FFS (forward-facing sonar) environment, with McKinney favored for his expertise with jerkbait, swimbait, and jig. The northern end of Lake Champlain is anticipated to be a strategic location for the competition.
Why It's Important?
The Bassmaster Elite Series is a significant event in the fishing community, drawing attention from both professional anglers and fantasy fishing fans. The competition at Lake Champlain offers a platform for showcasing angling skills and strategies in a diverse fishery. The event also highlights the growing popularity of fantasy fishing, where enthusiasts engage with the sport by predicting outcomes and following their favorite anglers. This engagement can drive interest in fishing as a recreational activity and support related industries.
What's Next?
As the competition unfolds, participants and fans will be closely watching the performance of top anglers like McKinney and Johnston. The results could influence standings in the Angler of the Year race and impact fantasy fishing leagues. The event may also provide insights into effective fishing techniques and strategies, particularly in northern fisheries. Stakeholders, including sponsors and local businesses, will be monitoring the event's impact on tourism and economic activity in the region.
