The recreational boating industry urges Congress to advance the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026 to protect waterway access and modernize infrastructure. NMMA prioritizes fixing recreation fee retention, aligning data standards, modernizing lease terms, and streamlining marina improvement approvals to support the $230 billion boating industry and 812,000 American jobs.

The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) supports the administration's pro-growth policies outlined in the State of the Union address. NMMA President and CEO Frank Hugelmeyer emphasized that policies promoting economic certainty, competitive tax structures, and stable market conditions benefit the recreational boating industry, which generates $230 billion in annual economic impact and supports over 812,000 American jobs.

Tennessee-based Malibu Boats acquired Saxdor Yachts for approximately $175 million. Founded in Helsinki, Finland in 2019, Saxdor has delivered over 2,000 boats and operates three facilities in Finland and Poland with 800-plus employees. CEO Steve Menneto stated the acquisition supports Malibu's vision of becoming a global marine solutions provider.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Catch a Florida Memory Triple Threat Throwdown Season 4 launched March 1 and continues through September 13, offering saltwater anglers a chance to win a $4,500+ kayak fishing bundle from premier partners Bonafide, YakAttack, Mustad, and Power-Pole. Triple Threat Club members can enter by submitting qualifying recognitions during the challenge period.

NOAA's Damage Assessment, Remediation, and Restoration Program restores habitats and recreational access after environmental disasters like oil spills. Projects in Charleston, Delaware, and New Jersey have rebuilt fishing piers, boat ramps, and trails while restoring marshes and oyster beds, reconnecting communities to outdoor recreation.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is beginning a native eelgrass revegetation project in Lake Poinsett, a 4,334-acre natural lake in Brevard County. The project will enhance fish and wildlife habitat, improve water quality, and provide better fishing and hunting opportunities for the St. Johns River waterbodies.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife conducted 438,272 watercraft inspections and decontaminated 30,039 high-risk boats in 2025, intercepting 136 mussel-fouled vessels. CPW discovered adult zebra mussels in the Colorado River near Grand Junction and Glenwood Canyon, expanding infested areas and prompting increased sampling and outreach efforts in 2026.

The Eastern Brook Trout Joint Venture released a new Esri StoryMap titled "Shared Waters" featuring underwater photography of Brook Trout in New England habitats. The project, funded by a Multistate Conservation Grant, celebrates the upcoming 20th anniversary of the National Fish Habitat Partnership in 2026.

With NOAA funding, the Quinault Indian Nation, Trout Unlimited, and The Nature Conservancy are using helicopters to build over 130 engineered log jams along 8 miles of the Queets-Clearwater watershed to restore salmon spawning habitat on Washington's Olympic Peninsula.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), in partnership with the Ohio Clean Marinas Program, is encouraging boaters to recycle boat shrink wrap through designated drop-off locations across Ohio. The Ohio Boat Shrink Wrap Recycling Program recycled 60,000 pounds of plastic last year, contributing to over 2.6 million pounds collected during its 20-year history.

The Mobile Bay National Estuary Program (MBNEP) updated its comprehensive 'State of the Bay' publication under new Director Jason Kudulis, who replaced retiring Director Roberta Swann. The 204-page report synthesizes data on ecosystem health, water quality, and restoration efforts funded by Deepwater Horizon settlement investments across Mobile Bay's 413-square-mile watershed.

The Missouri Department of Conservation invites the public to a free pond management workshop at Cape Girardeau Nature Center on March 11 from 5:30-8 p.m. MDC instructors will cover pond construction, fish stocking, fisheries management, aquatic plant management, and wildlife use. Contact MDC Fisheries Biologist Levi Frazier for questions.

Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife and Sportsman's Alliance of Maine offer beginner fly tying courses in Gray and Augusta. Participants learn different fly styles, required equipment, and create flies to take home, with sessions scheduled throughout March and April.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is hosting a four-part virtual Pond to Plate series in March covering fish cleaning equipment, techniques for scaled fish like crappie and bass, skinning methods for catfish and paddlefish, and a final demonstration combining all topics.

The Board of Land and Natural Resources imposed $10,000 in administrative fines against Trident Adventures LLC for unauthorized commercial helicopter diving operations in protected marine areas on Oʻahu's North Shore in June 2025. The company's permit did not authorize activities in the Pūpūkea Marine Life Conservation District.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department is partnering with SonicPure and Tonto National Forest on a pilot project at Canyon Lake's Boulder Cove to protect fish during golden algae blooms. Three solar-powered SonicPure units will use ultrasonic waves to target algae without harming aquatic life. The public is asked to avoid the hazard-marked equipment.

The American Sportfishing Association welcomes the 2026 fall Chinook forecast showing approximately 400,000 Sacramento Index fish, a significant increase from recent years. The Pacific Fishery Management Council will develop fishing seasons in April that balance expanded angler opportunity with conservation protections for ESA-listed stocks and Klamath River returns.

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife reminds anglers that the daily limit for herring, anchovy, and other bait fish is 25 pounds in aggregate. ODFW's February 2026 survey found abundant herring schools in Yaquina Bay, with anglers experiencing success harvesting near Sawyer's Landing, the commercial boat basin, and South Beach Marina.

North Carolina's sheepshead fishery has grown rapidly, with recreational anglers landing nearly 1.43 million pounds in 2024. New regulations effective March 1, 2026, will reduce the daily bag limit to five fish and increase the minimum size to 14 inches to help sustain the population.

New Jersey is installing updated "Trout Stocked Water" signs at stocked waterbodies featuring QR codes linking to trout stocking schedules, fishing resources, and the new map-based Fishing Regulations App for location-specific regulations.

Two Rivers State Recreation Area Trout Lake in Douglas County opens March 14, offering anglers higher catch rates of rainbow trout. Anglers must purchase daily trout tags for $6 with a four-trout daily bag limit, and can now practice catch-and-release fishing at the lake.

Yamaha pro Patrick Walters won the 2026 National Professional Fishing League Championship on Smith Lake, defeating Kyle Welcher by two pounds with a three-day total of 44 pounds, 11 ounces. Walters became the first angler in NPFL history to claim the triple crown, earning the $100,000 championship prize.

Austin Miles of Forney caught a 16.04-pound ShareLunker at Purtis Creek State Park Lake, while Andrew Scott of Waskom landed a 13.62-pound fish at Ellison Creek Reservoir, both setting waterbody records. The Toyota ShareLunker program, supported by TPWD and sponsors including Lew's, Strike King, and Bass Pro Shops, continues its selective breeding initiative for Texas largemouth bass.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Chesapeake Bay Office announced $44 million in grants through the Innovative Nutrient and Sediment Reduction Grant program and Small Watershed Grants program. Recipients including Ducks Unlimited, Trout Unlimited, Evergreen Heritage Center Foundation, and Watershed Alliance of York will restore wetlands, improve fish habitat, and reduce nutrient pollution across the Chesapeake Bay region.

Michigan State University, through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Forest Service and Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), is hiring for the Clean Boats Clean Waters program to educate boaters about invasive species and proper boat cleaning techniques.

Whitewater Fishing announces the launch of the Everyday Pant, a versatile fishing apparel designed with quick-dry nylon/spandex stretch twill, UPF 50+ sun protection, and articulated knees for unrestricted movement. Available in Charcoal, Flint, and Earth colorways with an MSRP of $69.99.

Flambeau Outdoors introduces the Super Half Satchel, a compact tackle organizer featuring patented Zerust® anti-corrosion technology molded into dividers to protect metal components from rust and corrosion. The satchel offers adjustable compartments for customizable storage and a secure latch system, ideal for spring fishing across boats, kayaks, and bank fishing.

Millennium Marine introduces the D-100 Deck Chair and D-200 Sidekick Fishing Double Seat, featuring aluminum construction, breathable mesh design, and 360-degree swivel capability for enhanced comfort and versatility while fishing in saltwater environments.

Millennium Marine introduces the Spyderlok Series, featuring three rod holder products designed for crappie fishing: the R-100 Spyderlok Gen 2, R-200 Single Spyderlok, and R-500 Pontoon Boat Rod Holder. All models feature premium anodized aluminum construction and patented Spyderlok technology for secure, adjustable rod positioning.

Savage Gear introduces the all-new Scandal glide bait, featuring an oversized profile, cross-tail design, and wide gliding technology for trophy bass, stripers, pike, musky, snook, and tarpon. Available in two sizes and six photo-printed colors with premium hooks and ventilated carry bag, priced at $79.99-$99.99.

Sunline introduces Almight, the first sinking braided line in the US market with 50% higher specific gravity than traditional braids. The four-plus-one fiber design reduces line drift and bow for better lure contact and faster sink rates in deep water presentations.

Kentucky's 2026-2027 license year for fishing, hunting, boating and outdoor recreation begins March 1, 2026. Licenses are available through the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resource's online portal, My Profile app, and agent locations statewide, with fees remaining unchanged from the current year.

AFTCO (American Fishing Tackle Company) and B.A.S.S. have renewed their multi-year partnership, expanding support for youth, conservation, and competitive programming. The renewed agreement includes AFTCO's continued role as a Supporting Sponsor, Conservation Partner, and supporter of the AFTCO Bass Bus Live Release Boat, plus participation in the AmBASSador Program and the AFTCO x B.A.S.S. Conservation Grant Program, which has provided over $177,000 in funding since 2018.

Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit announced that Matt Lester has accepted the position of Regional Sales Manager. Lester, who began his career with Yamaha in 2012, will support dealer growth and sales performance across his assigned region and reports to Ron Campbell, National Dealer Sales Manager.

NEBO, THAW, and TRUE provide essential survival and emergency gear including lighting, power solutions, heating products, and multi-tools designed for reliability during outages, extreme weather, and unexpected hazards.

Skeeter Boats launched skeetersaltwater.com and new Skeeter Saltwater social media channels to serve coastal and offshore anglers. Brand Marketing Manager Chris Brown stated the dedicated platform gives saltwater customers a space tailored to their boats, waters, and passion for the sport.

Fish Monkey offers passionate anglers a complete system of quality fishing products including lightweight gloves like The Stubby and Pro 365 Guide, merino wool-blend socks with compression fit, and UPF 50-plus face guards designed for sun protection and performance on the water.

Maryland seeks to become the first state with an official state shark by designating the extinct Otodus megalodon. Senator Jack Bailey and House Delegate Todd Morgan sponsored the bill, with Stephen Godfrey, curator of Paleontology at Calvert Marine Museum, presenting before committees. Megalodon teeth have been discovered across seven Maryland counties.

World Fishing Network launches "Reeling It In Tuesdays," a weekly programming block starting at 6 p.m. ET featuring professional fishing instruction. The lineup includes Legends of Rod & Reel, Bass Pro Shops Fisherman's Handbook hosted by Wade Middleton, Fishing University with Charlie Ingram and Ben Ballou, Angling Edge with the Lindner brothers, In Fisherman TV with Doug Stange, The Next Bite, Texas Team Trail, and Power-Pole National Redfish Tour.

Dr. Bob Ledda's new series premieres Friday nights at 8:30 p.m. ET on Outdoor Channel, featuring fly-in fishing adventures to Alaska's pristine destinations. The experienced ER doctor and pilot shares secret fishing spots discovered over three decades of flying the Kenai Peninsula through his All Alaska Outdoors Lodge.

B.A.S.S. announced that Lake Hartwell will host the 2027 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour on March 19-21, 2027, marking the fifth time the championship has been held on the fishery. Past champions on Lake Hartwell include Alton Jones, Casey Ashley, Jordan Lee, and Jason Christie.

Abu Garcia and Fenwick pro Pake South won the Bassmaster Open at Sam Rayburn Reservoir with a record-setting three-day total of 96 lb. 15 oz., winning by 15 lb. 14 oz. South used Fenwick World Class rods, Berkley Stunna 112 jerkbaits, Abu Garcia Zenon X reels, and Berkley fluorocarbon line to secure the victory during his Bassmaster Elite Series rookie campaign.

The National Professional Fishing League, Chilton County, and the City of Clanton announced the 2027 NPFL Championship will be held on Lake Mitchell in late winter, featuring approximately 40 qualifying anglers. NPFL president Brad Fuller highlighted this as the fourth annual Championship event and the start of their biggest year, with Alabama hosting three League events in 2026.

Unseasonably warm weather in Arizona is increasing rattlesnake encounter risks this spring. The Arizona Game and Fish Department's Audrey Owens advises staying on marked trails, watching your step, and backing away if you encounter one of Arizona's 13 rattlesnake species. Most bites occur when people attempt to capture snakes rather than leaving them alone.

A new Florida study is taking direct aim at one of the most persistent questions in sportfishing biology—whether bass that have been repeatedly caught and released become harder to catch than fish with little or no exposure to anglers. More importantly, it asks whether stocking naïve bass—fish that have never encountered hooks—can measurably improve angler success in heavily pressured public waters.

(A few lucky anglers already knew the answer to this question, having fished some of the private phosphate pit ponds in central Florida, where casting into untouched fisheries produces astounding action—but this is the first scientific effort at proving that premise.)

The work is being led by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, using an interesting experimental design. Instead of relying solely on hatchery fish, researchers are comparing three distinct groups: bass taken from heavily fished public waters, bass collected from unfished roadside ponds owned by the Florida Department of Transportation, and juvenile hatchery-reared bass with no angling exposure at all.

The underlying hypothesis is just this: experience matters. Bass that have been hooked, handled, and released may alter their behavior in ways that reduce vulnerability to anglers. Naïve bass—whether wild or hatchery-raised—should be easier to catch, at least initially.

Shock, Stock, and Tag

To test the idea, biologists are using a “shock and stock” approach. Adult bass are collected by electrofishing from both pressured public lakes and unfished DOT stormwater ponds, tagged for identification, and stocked into selected community ponds and fish management areas. Angling surveys and electrofishing are then used to track survival and catch rates.

In the first year of the study, only one pond received stocked adult fish, but the results were immediate and striking. Bass sourced from unfished ponds—true naïve fish—were caught at 1.7 times the rate of bass moved from waters already open to fishing.

Naïve bass struck lures more readily, were less selective, and showed none of the avoidance patterns often seen in heavily pressured fisheries. Pressured bass, despite being moved into the same environment, remained harder to fool.

For anglers, the takeaway is obvious: catchability isn’t just about how many bass are present. It’s about what those bass have learned. And also, maybe, about finding “secret spots” that other anglers have overlooked.

Hatchery Fish Enter the Equation

The second phase of the study widens the lens. Nine ponds are being stocked with juvenile hatchery-reared bass, all of them completely naïve to angling. After roughly 20 months—once those fish have experienced real-world fishing pressure—the same ponds will be stocked with adult wild bass collected from unfished waters.

By comparing angler catch rates before and after the adult stockings, researchers can tease apart two questions. First, do naïve hatchery bass provide higher catch rates than pressured wild fish as they grow? Second, does adding naïve adult bass produce a measurable, immediate increase in angler success that juvenile stockings cannot?

Electrofishing surveys will assess survival and integration into the population, while angler data will reveal what ultimately matters most to anglers: how often bass are caught.

The study also includes a cost-benefit analysis, recognizing that agencies operate under tight budgets. Hatchery fingerlings are relatively inexpensive per unit, but their payoff may be slow and uncertain. Moving adult fish is labor-intensive, but if it produces faster improvements in catch rates, the return on investment could be higher in heavily pressured systems.

Why Pressure Changes Everything

The idea that bass learn to avoid lures isn’t new. Controlled studies have shown that individual bass can associate specific lure shapes, sounds, or presentations with capture. In high-pressure waters—especially small community ponds—those lessons accumulate quickly.

Urban and suburban fisheries are ground zero for this effect. Limited acreage concentrates anglers, catch-and-release is common, and most bass may be hooked multiple times each year. Over time, the population may remain numerically healthy while becoming functionally “uncatchable” to all but the most skilled anglers.

That disconnect frustrates the public and creates a management dilemma. Traditional metrics say the fishery is fine. Anglers say it’s not.

By directly comparing naïve and experienced bass in the same waters, this Florida study bridges that gap between biology and perception.

What This Could Mean Going Forward

If results continue to show that angling experience sharply reduces catchability, fisheries managers may begin thinking differently about stocking goals. Instead of focusing solely on long-term population numbers, they may also consider behavioral freshness—periodically introducing naïve fish to reset catch rates in high-pressure systems.

Of course, maintaining water quality and good habitat for feeding and spawning remain essential. But it’s pretty clear that fishing pressure itself is a biological force, shaping bass behavior as surely as water temperature or food supply.

Managers may find new ways to improve community fisheries. But the study also confirms what many seasoned fishermen already suspect: in heavily pressured water, the bass haven’t disappeared. They’ve just learned to stay away from our lures.

– Frank Sargeant