MLF Announces 2026 Forward-Facing Sonar Restrictions Across All Circuits

 

MLF announces new 2026 forward-facing sonar restrictions across all circuits, aiming to balance technology with traditional skills for more dynamic competition.
MLF announces new 2026 forward facing sonar restrictions across all circuits aiming to balance technology with traditional skills for more dynamic competition

Major League Fishing (MLF) will introduce new forward-facing sonar restrictions beginning in 2026 across all professional and boater/co-angler levels. These updates follow positive feedback from fans and anglers after similar limits were implemented on the Bass Pro Tour in 2025.

The goal is to promote multi-dimensional angling by balancing modern technology with traditional fishing techniques while enhancing competition, participation, and payouts. A full FAQ is available at MajorLeagueFishing.com.

2026 Forward-Facing Sonar Rules

Bass Pro Tour

  • No changes from 2025.
  • Use is limited to one declared competition period per day.
  • No restrictions during Heavy Hitters or Fishing Clash Team Series.

Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit

  • Forward-facing and 360-degree sonar allowed for one continuous 3-hour segment each day.
  • Compliance monitored through electronic lock boxes and onboard livestream cameras.

Toyota Series & Phoenix Bass Fishing League

  • Boaters allowed one continuous 3-hour sonar window per day.
  • Co-anglers act as accountability stewards.
  • Co-anglers may use a portable transducer only during the boater’s sonar window.

Abu Garcia College Fishing

  • No restrictions on forward-facing or 360-degree sonar.

Abu Garcia High School Fishing

  • Forward-facing and 360-degree sonar not allowed during regular-season events.
  • Permitted during the National Championship held with the World Finals.
  • State-association events follow each association’s rules.

About Major League Fishing

Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, Discovery Channel, Outdoor Channel, CBS Sports Network, World Fishing Network and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 20 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.