Building a late-season fishing clothing system featuring Whitewater's Great Lakes Pro Insulated Jacket, Bib, Beacon Technical Hoodie, Torque 7.4V Heated Vest, and Thermoclyne Vest to stay warm, dry, and comfortable on fall fishing trips.

ACR Electronics received the National Boating Safety Award from the Sea Tow Foundation for its campaign promoting electronic visual distress signaling devices (eVDSDs) as safer alternatives to pyrotechnic flares. The award, presented at IBEX 2026, recognizes ACR Electronics' and sister brand Ocean Signal's multi-channel efforts to drive maritime industry adoption of electronic flare technology.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) and Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) received NASBLA's Compass Award for their groundbreaking Ohio Recreational Boating Memorandum of Understanding, the first of its kind in the United States, establishing standardized procedures for transportation projects affecting recreational waterways.

Boaters and anglers across Arkansas face lower-than-usual water levels on rivers and reservoirs this fall. The AGFC and Army Corps of Engineers recommend checking posted signs, moving slowly at boat ramps, watching depth finders, and trimming motors up to safely navigate hazards like exposed stumps and shallow areas.

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, in partnership with the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, approved approximately $1.5 million in funding for 11 boating access improvement projects planned for 2027, including new ramps, dock replacements, and infrastructure maintenance across Utah's lakes and reservoirs.

B.A.S.S. has announced the 2027 Bassmaster College, High School and Junior Series schedules featuring six college events across the Lunkers and Legends Trails, plus four high school and junior events. The tournaments will take place at premier bass fisheries from Florida to New York, providing young anglers competitive experience and opportunities to develop their skills.

B.A.S.S. revealed live-sonar designations for all nine 2027 Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series events and the next two Bassmaster Classics during the Bassmaster Coin Flip Show presented by Walls. Live sonar will be permitted at the 2027 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour on Lake Hartwell, while the 2028 Bassmaster Classic will prohibit live sonar.

The National Professional Fishing League (NPFL) is now accepting applications for the 2027 season, with a deadline of November 13. League president Brad Fuller emphasizes that character and alignment with league values are prioritized alongside professional accomplishments, with accepted anglers committing to all six regular-season events.

The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, in partnership with Wildlife Forever, is accepting entries for the 2027 Vermont Student Fish Art Contest. K-12 students are invited to submit illustrations and creative essays featuring Vermont fish species, with winners selected across five grade categories and featured in the 2028 Fishing Guide and Regulations publication.

Genetic sampling shows over 90% of striped bass in North Carolina's Tar, Neuse, and Cape Fear rivers are hatchery-origin fish. The Lake Gaston Striper Club discussed a major stocking initiative on the Roanoke River from 2023-2025, with ongoing genetic evaluation of different stocking treatments to determine the most effective approaches for fishery recovery.

The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department continues its fall trout stocking program for the third consecutive year, stocking over 2,000 trophy-sized brook and rainbow trout averaging 13-14 inches into Knapp Ponds #1 and #2, Lakes Paran and Shaftsbury, and East Creek. Fisheries biologist Lael Will notes this provides anglers fall foliage fishing and winter catch-and-release opportunities.

Louisiana's annual Southern Flounder closed season runs October 15 through November 30 for all commercial and recreational sectors. The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission eliminated previous bycatch exemptions as the Southern Flounder stock is currently overfished. The closure allows mature female flounder to escape inshore waters and spawn offshore.

New York offers diverse fall fishing opportunities statewide as fish feed heavily before winter. Species like salmon, steelhead, walleye, bass, lake trout, and muskie are accessible across Great Lakes tributaries, Finger Lakes, and regional waters with specific techniques and locations detailed for each region.

Michigan lawmakers introduced HB 6345 on September 23, legislation restricting the sale and use of lead fishing tackle in state waters, including sinkers of one ounce or less and lead jigs under 1.5 inches. ASA and partners are working with Michigan DNR and anglers to protect access to affordable fishing tackle.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is accepting public comments through December 7, 2026, on proposed rule changes allowing two-pole fishing for game fish including walleye, bass, channel catfish, and northern pikeminnow year-round in the Snake and Columbia rivers. A virtual public hearing via Zoom is scheduled for December 7 from 6–8 p.m.

October and November offer phenomenal saltwater fishing in the South as baitfish migrate down the coast. Anglers can target predator species like redfish, snook, tarpon, and cobia by locating baitfish schools in inlets, harbors, and offshore waters using lures that mimic natural bait or live baitfish.

Legendary bass pro Rick Clunn emphasizes systematic observation and fish behavior analysis over equipment adjustments. His approach uses lure selection as an information-gathering tool, breaking down large reservoirs into manageable sections by identifying productive variables and eliminating unproductive ones.

This article provides essential maintenance tips for braided fishing line, including rinsing after each trip to remove salt and debris, allowing line to dry completely before storage, inspecting the first 20-30 feet regularly for damage, and loosening drag when storing gear to prevent line compression and memory issues.

Flambeau Outdoors introduces two new dry box models for marine storage: the compact 7415DM for safety essentials and the larger 1409 with lift-out tray. Both feature continuous rubber gaskets, all-plastic construction, and are made in the U.S.A.

Lew's introduces MACH Bottomland baitcast and spinning combos featuring Mossy Oak Bottomland camo, designed for bass, crappie, and panfish. Both models feature IM6 graphite blanks and FishSkins polymer split-grip handles, with retail prices ranging from $99.99 to $129.99 at participating retailers.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife awarded $2.7 million in grants for six boating access projects, including improvements to the Tolowa Dee-ni Nation's Smith River boat ramp, California's first designated water trail on the Lower Owens River, and upgrades at Sly Park Recreation Area. An additional $704,000 supports the Invasive Golden Mussel Program, with $3 million more available for fiscal year 2027-28 projects.

Southwick Associates launched the Angler Monitor, a quarterly consumer research service tracking fishing participation and equipment purchases across the United States. The service helps manufacturers, retailers, and industry associations understand angler behaviors and purchasing patterns to inform strategic business decisions.

Berkley introduces the Frittside X, a premium crankbait featuring a reinforced circuit board bill for increased durability while maintaining the trusted Frittside action. The bait includes patented FlashDisc Technology, Fusion19 hooks, and thirteen custom-painted colorways, available now at $17.99 MSRP.

Lund Boats introduced the all-new Model Year 2027 HG Pro Series in 22-foot and 24-foot configurations, featuring heavy-gauge aluminum construction, a Pro hardtop cabin, 100-gallon fuel capacity, and a 52-inch insulated livewell designed for anglers pursuing challenging big-water fisheries.

Savage Gear is expanding its 3D Line Thru Soft Shine Glide lineup with a new 9-inch model designed to target trophy bass and other predatory fish. Built from a 3D scan of a real shiner, the lure features a realistic soft-body profile with natural swimming action and is available in eight colors at $39.99.

Savage Gear introduces the 3D 4Play Herring, a realistic swimbait created from a 3D scan of a real blueback herring. Designed for high-speed retrieves and tested on Lake Lanier, Lake Murray, and Lake Hartwell, the bait features balanced action, a V-wake, and tail shimmy to target aggressive feeding fish.

Hardy launches Tactus, an advanced light-line fly rod series designed by Howard Croston featuring Sintrix FLT construction and specialized Dry Fly and Nymphing families. The Nymphing rods include a unique two-tip system with interchangeable solid nano-carbon and tubular carbon tips for enhanced precision and control.

DAIWA launches the SEABORG™ 300J and 300JL power-assist reels, featuring a downscaled frame with a 738 ft/min winding speed and MAGMAX-G motor delivering 113 lbs. of momentary power. Designed for deep-drop fishing, the reel enables handheld rod-in-hand operation while maintaining extreme performance for bottom fishing and pelagic species.

Z-Man Fishing Products introduced Ball HeadZ, a redesigned round ball jighead featuring a hybrid split-grip keeper, BKK black nickel needlepoint hook, and baitfish-inspired sculpting. Available in 16 combinations from 1/8 to 1/2 ounce, the jighead is designed to work with ElaZtech plastics and traditional baits, shipping now at retail prices from $5.99 to $7.49.

Whitewater Fishing's Thermoclyne Hooded Jacket and Thermoclyne Vest return for fall with 5.0 and 4.8-star customer ratings respectively. Featuring Sorona Aura insulation, DWR-treated nylon shells, and packable designs, both pieces offer lightweight warmth and versatile layering for anglers in Storm and Dropoff colors.

Z-Man unveiled the Micro Finesse ChatterBait®, a premium micro-sized bladed jig developed with BFS enthusiast Jimmy Ly. The lure features a custom needlepoint hook, stainless-steel bait keeper, and pre-rigged 2-inch Baby BallerZ™ trailer made from ElaZtech superplastic for multispecies versatility including panfish, trout, and bass.

The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission seeks public comment through October 9 on Chesapeake Bay menhaden protections. Michigan introduced HB 6345 restricting lead fishing tackle sales and use. Senators Ted Cruz and Katie Britt introduced the Responsible Cormorant Management and Control Act of 2026 to establish regional management frameworks.

Oregon's Fish Screening Task Force will meet virtually on October 20 at 8:30 a.m. at Klamath Community College's Conference Center Building #7. The meeting agenda includes updates on the Fish Screening Program, upcoming task force vacancies, and fish screening progress in the Klamath Basin, with public comments accepted at 10:00 a.m.

Mercury Marine, a division of Brunswick Corporation, unveiled the Vessel Interface Module (VIM) at IBEX 2026. This configurable solution enables Mercury propulsion systems to intelligently respond to vessel conditions, preventing interference between major systems and protecting onboard equipment while enhancing the boating experience.

Yamaha Marine's "Power Into Fall" sales event runs through December 14, 2026, offering customers extended Y.E.S. coverage and dealer credits on select four-stroke outboards ranging from 2.5 to 450 horsepower, plus Siren subscription bonuses.

Spanish Fly Next Generation premiered on Field & Stream TV, honoring late Captain Jose Wejebe's fishing legacy by blending archival footage with new adventures in the Florida Keys. Hosted by Captain James Marko, the series features friends, family, and anglers influenced by Wejebe, with proceeds supporting the Jose Wejebe Spanish Fly Memorial Foundation's conservation education efforts.

Tyler Nelson and Sawyer Reynolds of Bandys High School finished third at the 2026 Strike King Bassmaster High School National Championship on Kentucky Lake and earned an additional $6,250 through Yamaha's Power Pay contingency program, which rewards anglers using Yamaha outboards at participating tournaments.

Justin Kerr from Lake Havasu City, Arizona won his second WON Bass U.S. Open title at Lake Mead with 26.30 pounds, earning a 2026 Ranger Z520R and $70,000. Sean Coffey finished second with 26.22 pounds, while Matthew Keats won the AAA Division with 24.15 pounds. The event was shortened to two days due to Tropical Storm Rachel.

Utah Division of Wildlife Resources confirmed a live adult zebra mussel below the Westwater Recreation Area on the Colorado River in September, following earlier DNA detection. The Utah Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division and partner agencies are coordinating response efforts to prevent further spread of this aquatic invasive species threat.

Bonefish & Tarpon Trust's Florida Keys Shark Depredation Project tracked lemon sharks during a 2026 cold spell, discovering they traveled hundreds of miles before returning to exact locations in Flamingo. The research reveals significant challenges for translocating conflict animals and demonstrates sharks' remarkable navigational capacity.

For decades, fiberglass ruled the bass-boat market at the top end. If you wanted the biggest, fastest, most sophisticated tournament rig, you bought fiberglass. Aluminum boats were lighter, tougher and less expensive, but you accepted some compromises in speed, ride and overall refinement to get those advantages.

Plus, aluminum boats just didn’t have the pizazz. Some were downright ugly.

That pecking order no longer necessarily applies.

Consider the TRACKER Savage 215. At 21 feet 3 inches, with a 250-horsepower rating and an all-welded aluminum hull, it's a genuine big-water bass boat. With a Mercury 250 Pro XS, TRACKER lists an estimated top speed of 68 to 73 mph. The boat has the deck space, storage, livewell capacity and electronics capability you'd expect in a tournament rig. And it looks good.

Xpress builds the 21-foot-2-inch XR21 with its high-performance pad hull and a 250-horsepower rating. Vexus offers the 20-foot-8-inch AVX2100, a 96-inch-wide boat with a 250-horsepower rating and a hull designed to deliver fiberglass-like performance. Ranger's Alpha 208 is a 20-foot-8-inch aluminum boat with a pad hull, foam-filled construction and a 250-horsepower rating. Crestliner's MX 21 is another 21-foot tournament boat rated for 250 horsepower, with a 60-square-foot front casting deck. Gator Trax builds its 20-foot Strike as a custom aluminum fishing boat and offers it with a 250.

These are full-size tournament boats, with the speed, deck space and storage serious bass anglers expect.

Price is where aluminum starts making a strong case.

Current pricing puts boats such as the Ranger Alpha 208, Vexus AVX2100 and Xpress XR21 roughly in the $60,000-to-$75,000 range before you start piling on electronics. A loaded Gator Trax can cost considerably more, but it is also essentially a custom-built boat. On the fiberglass side, a Ranger Z520R with a 250 Pro XS is around $90,000 before some of the higher-end equipment packages, and other premium fiberglass boats can push well beyond $100,000 when fully equipped.

The comparison isn't perfect because manufacturers package equipment differently and dealer discounts can change the numbers substantially. But a fisherman shopping carefully can put a very capable 20- or 21-foot aluminum bass boat in his driveway for tens of thousands less than a comparable premium fiberglass rig.

Less Weight, Tougher Skin

Weight is one advantage. Because many aluminum boats weigh less than comparable fiberglass rigs, they can draw less water. There are places where a heavy fiberglass boat has to turn around while a properly designed aluminum boat can keep going. That matters on shallow reservoirs, backwaters, flats and lakes where low water exposes stumps, rock and other hazards. It can also matter during the spawn, when bass move into areas that deeper-drafting boats can't reach. Plowing through heavy weeds is another advantage of the lighter aluminum hulls, which usually float higher.

That extra clearance can open up water that a deeper-drafting boat can't reach. Aluminum alone doesn't make a better fishing platform, but getting into places other boats can't go gives an angler an advantage before the first cast.

Durability is another consideration. A fisherman who bangs an aluminum hull into a stump or drags it across a rough shoreline may leave a dent or scrape. That can be easier to live with than a serious gouge or crack in a fiberglass hull. Aluminum can be repaired, of course, and either material can suffer serious damage, but minor impacts and scrapes often are less troublesome with aluminum.

A 70-mph aluminum bass boat would have been difficult to imagine as a mainstream tournament rig years ago. Today, the Savage 215 can reach that territory with a 250 Pro XS, and some other premium aluminum pad boats can approach the same speeds. A comparable fiberglass boat may still have an advantage at the very top of the speed range, and hull design, setup, propeller, load and water conditions can make several miles per hour of difference.

Once both boats are running somewhere around 65 to 70 mph, however, the practical distinction for most fishermen becomes fairly small.

Fishing layouts have improved, too. The better aluminum boats now have enormous front casting decks, deep rod lockers, tournament-size livewells and enough electrical capacity to support the same collection of trolling motors and large-screen electronics found on fiberglass boats.

The lighter weight can also mean a less expensive trailer and a smaller tow vehicle, with potential fuel savings on long drives to the lake. For anglers who travel considerable distances to fish, the savings can add up over a season.

Fiberglass Is King for Smooth Rides

Ride quality remains a major reason to buy fiberglass. When a large reservoir gets rough, the additional weight and hull characteristics of a premium fiberglass boat can make a long run considerably more comfortable. The best fiberglass hulls have also been refined for years to produce very good high-speed handling and predictable behavior when the boat is aired out.

Fit and finish remain advantages for fiberglass. A well-built bass boat has a solid, finished quality that many aluminum boats don't duplicate. The molded compartments, smooth surfaces, upholstery and overall fit and finish are part of the attraction. For some fishermen, that is worth real money.

So is ownership itself. If you've wanted a Ranger Z520R, Phoenix 920, Skeeter, Caymas or another premium fiberglass boat for years, there is no requirement that you justify the purchase. Boats are recreational equipment. We buy the ones we like.

If your boat spends much of its life crossing big reservoirs in rough weather, fiberglass still has plenty going for it. If shallow-water access is important, if the boat is likely to encounter stumps and rocks, or if spending $20,000 or $30,000 less can make or break your budget, aluminum deserves a close look.

– Frank Sargeant, Editor
, The Water Wire