The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission announced winners of its School Fishing Program's Fishing & Conservation Challenge. Independence Classical Academy placed first, Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy second, and David L. Anderson Middle School third. Prizes were provided by Mud Hole Custom Tackle, Hobie Eyewear, and Flambeau Outdoors.

Low-water conditions from severe drought are affecting Nebraska reservoirs this summer, with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission closing several boat ramps. Boaters should check the Public Access Boating map at OutdoorNebraska.gov for current ramp conditions and contact managing agencies directly for the most up-to-date information.

The BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water announced its free state-approved boating safety course is now available in 15 additional states including Arizona, Delaware, Hawaii, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. The self-paced online course covers navigation, safety equipment, and emergency preparedness, with completion in two to four hours.

Capt. Adam Peeples with One Shot Charters landed a 113-inch, 790-pound bluefin tuna on a Penn 70 while live baiting for blue marlin. The fish fought for approximately 90 minutes before sinking in 2,200 feet of water, requiring a difficult retrieval. Peeples emphasizes the importance of proper equipment and meat preservation for offshore bluefin fishing.

PORT 32 Marinas, LLC announced new 50- and 60-foot floating slips at PORT 32 Tampa featuring wave attenuator technology, electrical service, and water access. The expansion increases wet-slip capacity for boaters on Florida's Gulf Coast, with CEO Austin Schell highlighting the infrastructure designed for member convenience and safety.

Yamaha Motor Finance Corporation, U.S.A. closed a $400 million term securitization backed by dealer powersports and marine inventory loans, marking the company's first ABS transaction and the industry's first dealer floorplan ABS including powersports and marine receivables since 2015. The transaction received Aaa/AAA ratings from Moody's and Fitch.

The University of Montevallo mathematically secured its 6th consecutive Bass Pro Shops School of the Year title presented by Abu Garcia, earning 6,455 points at the Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship. Carson-Newman University finished 2nd and the University of North Alabama claimed 3rd place in the Association of Collegiate Anglers rankings.

The American Sportfishing Association's Million Pound Challenge invites ASA members nationwide to remove 1,000,000 pounds of trash from waterways this summer. Participants can organize cleanups at boat ramps, shorelines, rivers, lakes, and coastal communities, with ASA providing promotional tools and campaign visibility to showcase efforts across the country.

The Maine Department of Environmental Protection is seeking permits to apply ProcellaCOR EC herbicide to combat invasive variable-leaf water milfoil in Messalonskee, Androscoggin, and Little Sebago Lakes. Public informational meetings are scheduled for June and treatments planned for July and August 2026.

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Inland Fisheries biologists are restoring fish habitat on Toledo Bend Reservoir by planting native eelgrass in strategic locations. Over two weeks, LDWF crews stocked 110 containers of eelgrass totaling 220 square feet near Negreet Creek and North Toledo Bend State Park, with additional weekly plantings planned.

The Conservation Angler unveiled its new Ambassador Program, connecting guides, anglers, fly shop owners, and conservation leaders to protect wild steelhead across the Pacific Rim. Led by President John R. McMillan and Science Director George Pess, the initiative integrates angler science through the Northern Crown Initiative to gather long-term biological data and drive conservation action.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is hosting free summer webinars covering muskellunge fishing, Boundary Waters fish surveying, rare fish species sampling, moose research, and duck harvest changes. Sessions feature DNR experts including Kamden Glade, Brent Flatten, Brett Nagle, Amanda McGraw, and Bram Verheijen, held every other Wednesday at noon with live captioning and recorded archives available.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is hosting a free two-day Alternative Methods Catfishing Clinic on June 19-20 at Columbia Bottom Conservation Area in Spanish Lake. Participants ages 9 and up will learn to use trotlines, jug lines, and limb lines, with hands-on experience on the Missouri River led by MDC Conservation Educator Scott Boyd and regional staff.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife investigated Dudley Market in Venice for unlawfully selling seafood while falsely advertising it as sustainable and lawfully sourced. Managers Conner Mitchell and Taylor Grant, along with vessel operators, were ordered to pay over $100,000 in penalties and prohibited from commercial fishing in California.

MassWildlife instructors invite anglers ages 15+ to a hike and fish event at Wachusett Reservoir Gate 35. Participants will hike approximately 1.5 miles to fish from shore, with equipment available to borrow. Contact Astrid Huseby at astrid.huseby@mass.gov for questions.

Wisconsin's Department of Natural Resources invites the public to the 14th annual Free Fun Weekend on June 6-7, 2026, with waived state park admissions, fishing licenses, and trail passes. The event offers opportunities to explore 50 state parks, 15 state forests, 44 state trails, and thousands of lakes and rivers, with free fishing clinics available for beginners.

Great Falls Family Fishing Day returns June 6 at Wadsworth Pond Park, featuring educational stations on fish identification, knot tying, and casting. The event, supported by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, Walleyes Unlimited, Montana Trout Unlimited, and other partners, offers free fishing tackle to youth completing all stations.

NOAA Fisheries announces a 43-day recreational fishing season for greater amberjack in Gulf federal waters from September 1 to October 14, 2026, up from 26 days in 2025. The season closure protects the overfished population, with a bag limit of 1 fish per person per day and 34-inch minimum fork length requirement.

Effective June 1 through September 30, ODFW has suspended minimum and maximum size limits and daily bag limits for rainbow trout and bass at Thief Valley, Pilcher Creek, and Wolf Creek reservoirs in Union County due to drought conditions. The temporary rule change allows anglers to harvest fish before the reservoirs are drained by late August.

The American Sportfishing Association (ASA) and Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) expressed disappointment over a U.S. District Court decision blocking 2026 South Atlantic red snapper Exempted Fishing Permit pilot programs for Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina, causing immediate disruption to anglers and coastal businesses.

Idaho Fish and Game asks anglers to report tagged fish caught while fishing to help biologists manage fish populations and adjust bag limits. Tags provide valuable data on angler catch rates, fish migrations, and survival rates. Reward tags valued at $25-$200 must be mailed to Idaho Department of Fish and Game in Boise.

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources announced new red drum regulations effective July 1, 2026, based on Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission stock assessments showing population decline. Changes include reducing daily harvest to one fish per person and 18-25 inch slot size, with support from Coastal Conservation Association South Carolina and state legislators.

TPWD offers resources and guidance for Free Fishing Day on Saturday, June 6, including access to over 150 lakes, rivers, Neighborhood Fishin' locations, kayak trails, and state parks. The agency provides tips for beginners and encourages anglers of all skill levels to participate in this free fishing opportunity.

The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources invites residents and visitors to participate in Free Fishing Weekend on June 6-7, 2026, allowing everyone to fish without a license. All other regulations remain in effect, and communities across Kentucky are hosting special events for anglers of all ages.

Delaware's Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control increased bluefish daily possession limits for 2026-2027, raising the limit from three to five fish for private vessel and shore anglers, and from five to seven for for-hire vessel anglers. The change aligns with management measures approved by the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council and Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission.

Author Noel Vick explores how hatchery-stocked trout transition from passive feeders to educated predators once stocking ends, requiring anglers to employ technical spinning techniques and specialized equipment like DAIWA's PRESSO spoon system to successfully target holdover fish.

Oregon residents and nonresidents can fish, clam, and crab for free June 6-7, 2026, with no licenses required. ODFW staff, volunteers, and partner organizations including Silverton Lions Club, Silverton Kiwanis Club, and I'm Hooked Inc will host events statewide providing equipment and instruction.

Maryland DNR offers license-free fishing on June 6, June 13, and July 4, allowing residents and visitors to fish without licenses in tidal and nontidal waters. These days provide opportunities for experienced anglers to introduce friends to fishing and for all anglers to catch invasive species like Chesapeake Channa and blue catfish.

Danny Naugle of Cassville set Missouri's new yellow bass state record with a 2-pound, 7-ounce catch from Table Rock Lake on May 13, breaking the previous 1995 record. Naugle used his tried-and-true crappie fishing method with an ultra-light rod and lights to attract the 16.5-inch fish.

Major League Fishing's Fisheries Management Division and Zoeller Pump Company awarded a $5,000 grant to Mighty River Recovery to support St. Johns River habitat restoration, water quality improvement, and citizen-led conservation efforts led by Executive Director Joe Balog.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources announced $4.035 million in Waterways Grant-in-Aid Program funding for seven communities across Benzie, Emmet, Mackinac, Marquette, Ottawa, and Sanilac counties to improve public boating access through marina dredging and site improvements.

Yamaha Motor Corp., USA announced Q1 2026 grant recipients for its Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative program, awarding over $237,000 to 13 organizations across 10 states. Grants support trail restoration, maintenance and construction, facility safety improvements, and land stewardship projects nationwide.

NEBO introduces the 1500-Lumen Rechargeable Flashlight 2-Pack, featuring four light modes, 3x adjustable zoom, USB-C charging, and aircraft-grade aluminum construction with IPX7 waterproof rating. Available at an MSRP of $39.99.

Z-Man® partners with ChatterBait® inventor Ronny Davis to launch the all-new ChatterTail™, a modern inline spinner featuring a vibrating blade that delivers aggressive thump and hunting action. The lure combines classic inline spinner profile with enhanced performance for all species and skill levels.

VMC introduces the Snitch Jig, a versatile walleye lure featuring a sculpted blade that rotates at slow speeds, emitting vibration and flash. Compatible with live crawlers and finesse plastics like CrushCity's Mooch Minnow and Mayor, it comes in 10 eye-catching colors.

Rapala introduces two new storage solutions: the Rapid Pouch, a water-resistant clear PVC bag for soft baits in small and large sizes ($12.00-$17.99), and the Rapid Pack, a soft plastics storage solution with a clear PVC window and removable divider ($14.99-$19.99).

Lew's has released the Custom TLX 150 baitcast reel, designed for coastal and freshwater environments. The reel features a rigid aluminum frame, ParaMag® RX magnetic cast control, and machined aluminum Speed Gears® for durability and smooth retrieves, available at dealers starting June 1, 2026.

Daiwa introduces its new Light Jighead for 2026, featuring realistic baitfish head design with 3D eyeballs, powder-coated durability, and a specialized U-shaped line-tie. Available in five weights from 0.5g to 3.0g and three colors, the jighead is designed for finesse fishing applications including bass, trout, and crappie.

Fish Monkey's Freestyle glove offers versatile warm-weather fishing protection with UPF 50-plus sun protection, non-slip Monkey Grip palm, and touchscreen-compatible fingertips. The customizable design allows anglers to remove select fingertips for personalized fishing styles across multiple applications from bass fishing to kayaking.

13 Fishing partnered with four-time national walleye tour champion Duane Hjelm to develop the new Jigging Rap Rod, specifically designed for Rapala's Jigging Rap lure. Available in Myth and Oath series with prices starting at $99.99, the rod features a parabolic bend and fast-action tip for optimal bait action.

NOAA Fisheries is calling for nominations for the Sport Fishing and Boating Partnership Council, a Federal Advisory Committee that advises the Secretary of Commerce and Secretary of the Interior on aquatic conservation and recreation programs. Nominations must be received by June 4, 2026.

Revelyst Inc. announced Dave Mellon's appointment as President of Simms Fishing Products and Revelyst Outdoor Performance. The former Grundéns CEO, who previously held leadership roles at Simms, will oversee the Bozeman-based platform and drive growth across its portfolio of iconic outdoor brands.

Garmin announced the Signal VHF 400 and VHF 220 all-in-one marine radios featuring 3.5-inch color touchscreens, integrated Class B AIS transponder, advanced noise cancellation, and VHF audio playback. The radios integrate with Garmin chartplotters and support the new Signal RM 100 remote station for helm control.

Outdoor Cap announced a new Red Dirt Hat Co.®/Mossy Oak® headwear collection combining Western style with camouflage patterns through a retail-ready program. The collaboration with Red Dirt Hat Co.® and Mossy Oak® offers independent retailers low minimums and fast shipping, alongside expanded offerings from Lazy J Ranch Wear® and American Cattle Co.

Yamaha pro Paul Marks won $4,000 through the Yamaha Power Pay contingency program after his victory at the Tedy's Team Bassmaster Elite on Lake Murray, catching over 90 pounds. Marks' win marks his second Elite Series title, both achieved on herring fisheries where he specializes in targeting bass keyed on blueback herring using his Yamaha V MAX SHO outboard.

Saltwater Underground with Nick Honachefsky earned three Telly Awards, including two Silver and one Bronze, for its distinctive approach to saltwater fishing television. The show, which airs on ESPN2, Discovery Channel, Sportsman Channel, and Waypoint TV, was recognized in Travel and Tourism, Sports, and Education and Discovery categories at the 47th annual Telly Awards.

Outdoor Sportsman Group's GAME & FISH TV achieved over 50 million minutes watched in April with 430 million monthly active users. The free streaming platform features content from Outdoor Channel, Sportsman Channel, World Fishing Network, and MyOutdoorTV, including Major League Fishing coverage and shows like "Bragging Rights with Zona & VanDam."

Shimano Pro Alex Davis won the National Professional Fishing League event at Lay Lake presented by Work Sharp with a three-day total of 51 pounds, 10 ounces, using Shimano Curado rods and reels. Davis finished just ahead of second-place angler Patrick Walters in the closely contested tournament.

Jack Story of Atlanta, Georgia, won the 43rd Phoenix BFL All-American Championship on Lake Murray with a three-day total of 61-8, becoming the youngest-ever winner at 18 years old. Story earned $100,000 and qualified for REDCREST 2027, holding off Brooks Anderson of Marietta, Georgia, who finished second with 60-14.

Skeet Reese, 2024 Bass Fishing Hall of Fame inductee and founder of Reese Fishing, announces the Big Bass Battle presented by Reese Fishing at Clear Lake June 25-28, 2026. The event features a $90,000 Ranger boat prize package and is sponsored by Bass Pro Shops, Ranger Boats, Mercury, Lowrance, and Power Pole.

Dad’s Day is the 21st this month, and those of you lucky enough to still have your dad around are no doubt looking for something beyond the usual Bass Pro Shops gift card to go along with the backyard barbecue.

Here are a few suggestions that have come over the transom in the past few weeks:

Jacob Wheeler Ventilated Hoodie ($54.99)

Built for long days under a high sun, this lightweight hoodie carries the design input of MLF bass pro Jacob Wheeler and it shows. The polyester-spandex blend stretches easily when casting or landing a fish and the shirt is so light you barely realize you’re wearing it. The wispy fabric is moisture wicking, which keeps you cool as well as avoiding that clammy feeling, and the company says it’s antimicrobial so you can wear it for multi-day trips where you may not have a spare handy. The hood protects the back of your neck, a prime spot for skin problems to get started. It’s also a good protection against no-see-ums, if you’re in their territory. It’s priced well under what many of these things go for; Academy Sports.

Plano Guide Series Tackle Bag ($139.99)

The Plano Guide Series Tackle Bag has the classic look of something from the bamboo fly rod era, but it’s got some neat features including six Plano lure boxes inside to keep your stuff organized and easy to find plus a magnetic pad on top to secure fishing pliers and other metallic gear. Stuff it with lures if you want to make an over-the-top gift; Plano.

Shimano Miravel Spinning Reel

The Miravel series is built on the company’s ultra-light “MagnumLite” frame, with the 2500 and 3000 models weighing just 7.2 ounces. However, they can be cranked down to produce up to 20 pounds of drag, making them suitable not only for serious bass angling but also for saltwater powerhouses like reds and snook. Pricing is moderate as quality reels go, at about 145; Shimano.

Mayfly Time Across the South

Though they’re called “May” flies, there are more mayflies around in June and July than there are in May, and sometimes there are big hatches into August across the Southeast.

Fish rarely ignore a food source, and these aquatic-born insects can be a big one. They are so abundant in Lake Guntersville, for example, residents who leave their dock lights on during a hatch often wake up to find them stacked six inches deep under their lights

Mayflies can concentrate bass, bluegills, crappies and other species in amazing numbers. Tossing almost any sort of small topwater in an area where the insects are falling on the water, or where they’re emerging from the surface, draws instant strikes. (They hatch in water, emerge to sit on lakeside trees for a few hours to complete their wing growth, then fly around for a single day to mate, then die, often falling back into the water.)

It’s not hard to find places where mayflies are doing their thing—run your boat along any shoreline with overhanging trees or with dock lights over the water just at dawn and you’re likely to see thousands of them swarming.

Fish a small topwater lure—it doesn’t have to look like a mayfly—and you’ll catch not only largemouths and whopper bluegills but also other species that don’t usually hit topwaters including crappies, catfish and even an occasional drum.

I’ve done well at Guntersville with the Rebel Crickhopper as well as an F4 Rapala. These tiny lures are best fished on ultra-light spinning tackle and 6-pound-test mono, which adds to the fun when a sizeable bass or catfish latches on. I’ve caught bass to six pounds on the F4, a tricky proposition on the fly-weight tackle and tiny hooks.

Flies that look like mayflies also do very well, of course. Sponge spiders in a brown-yellow color are super effective. You’ll only need to throw 30 to 50 feet to get plenty of action when the flies are hatching.

If you don’t have a fly rod, you can throw these flies 18 inches below a casting bubble on spinning gear. Usually, if you cast where the insects are falling into the water, you don’t even have to move the bug—the fish just come up and suck it down.

Bluegill sometimes bed near areas where mayflies show up as well, giving you a double guarantee of action. The tasty bream typically are on the beds on the weeks of full and new moon in May, June and July across much of the South. Look for their bowl-shaped beds on gravel or shell bottom at depths of 18 inches to 4 feet.

To be sure, if you’re a dedicated tournament basser chasing mayflies is no way to win, but if you’re just out for some fun fishing on the weekend, they almost guarantee action—and a fish fry at the end of the day.

– Frank Sargeant
Frankmako1@gmail.com