B.A.S.S. has unveiled the 2026 Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation presented by Lowrance schedule, with four qualifying events on some of the country’s most renowned fisheries and a championship location to be announced at a later date.
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B.A.S.S.
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. has unveiled the 2026 Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation presented by Lowrance schedule, with four qualifying events on some of the country’s most renowned fisheries and a championship location to be announced at a later date. The B.A.S.S. Nation trail offers everyday anglers the opportunity to fish their way from the grass-roots level to the biggest stage in bass fishing: the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
“The 2026 B.A.S.S. Nation Regional Championship schedule brings together some of the most iconic and competitive fisheries in the country,” said GL Compton, B.A.S.S. Nation tournament manager. “Each regional will not only test our anglers’ skills in different conditions, but also create great opportunities for our host communities to showcase their passion for bass fishing.”
The trail begins April 10-12 on Cherokee Lake in Jefferson City, Tenn., a deep, clear reservoir nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. Known for its strong populations of both largemouth and smallmouth bass, Cherokee offers challenging conditions that reward versatility and precision.
From there, competition shifts to Toledo Bend Reservoir in Many, La., April 22-24. As one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the country, Toledo Bend has long been a bucket-list destination for bass anglers. With thousands of acres of hydrilla and abundant cover, it consistently produces heavy bags and record-class bass.
The Mississippi River at La Crosse, Wis., May 8-10, offers an entirely different challenge. Anglers will navigate backwaters, wing dams and current-driven main-river channels, where shallow-water power fishing and adaptability are often the keys to success.
The regular-season finale will be held July 31-Aug. 2 on Lake Champlain in Plattsburgh, N.Y.Nestled along the Adirondack Coast, Champlain is revered for its world-class smallmouth fishing and the chance for anglers to also chase trophy largemouth. With breathtaking scenery and big weights expected, it’s a fitting capstone to the 2026 Nation season.
Local communities are gearing up to welcome anglers and fans alike.
“Jefferson County is proud to host the 2026 Bassmaster B.A.S.S. Nation Series on the beautiful waters of Cherokee Lake,” said Jefferson County Director of Tourism Lauren Hurdle. “As one of our most cherished natural resources, Cherokee Lake is recognized nationwide for its exceptional bass fishing and stunning scenery. We look forward to welcoming anglers, their families and fans from across the country, and to sharing both our world-class fishing and the warm Southern hospitality that make our community so special.”
“We’re thrilled to welcome the 2026 B.A.S.S. Nation event to the Adirondack Coast,” said Alyssa Senecal, Assistant Director of Tourism & Marketing at the Adirondack Coast Visitors Bureau. “The City of Plattsburgh and our entire region are passionate about fishing and outdoor recreation, and hosting anglers from across the country showcases not only the world-class bass fishing on Lake Champlain but also the warm hospitality and stunning scenery that make this area unforgettable.”
Through the B.A.S.S. Nation program, grass-roots anglers have the opportunity to advance from their local clubs to regional championships, then to the Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Championship presented by Lowrance. From there, top performers can earn a berth in the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series and the legendary Bassmaster Classic, proving that the dream of going “from the club to the Classic” is alive and well in 2026.
2026 B.A.S.S. Nation Schedule
April 10-12 — Cherokee Lake, Jefferson City, Tenn.
April 22-24 — Toledo Bend, Many, La.
May 8-10 — Mississippi River, La Crosse, Wis.
July 31-Aug. 2 — Lake Champlain, Plattsburgh, N.Y.
B.A.S.S. Nation Championship — To be announced
Registration Dates
• State Nation Early Entry Codes — Jan. 6, 2026 at 9 a.m. CT
• State Nation members zoned for each Qualifier — Jan. 13, 2026 at 9 a.m. CT
• All Nation members — Jan. 20, 2026 at 9 a.m. CT
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