The BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water is promoting National Safe Boating Week (May 16-22) with essential safety tips including checking life jackets, inspecting emergency beacons, filing float plans, and taking their free online boating safety course approved in 37 states.

The BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water launched Utah's only free approved boating course, approved by the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation. The self-paced online course meets state requirements for boaters ages 12-17 and includes interactive modules and videos. Upon completion, boaters receive an immediate digital certificate with the option to order a waterproof plastic card.

MarineMax's board, led by CEO Brett McGill, agreed in April 2026 to proceed with a sale process. Activist investor Donerail Group, which owns 5% of the company, has increased its acquisition offer, while Blackstone Group is reviewing documents for a potential acquisition.

Twin brothers Carter and Dylan Nutt finished 1-2 at the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 4 on Douglas Lake. Carter won his first Pro Circuit title with 48 pounds for $100,000, while Dylan placed second with 47-10 for $23,900. Carter's offshore expertise and crankbait strategy secured the victory and qualified him for REDCREST 2027.

Yamaha Pro Paul Marks captured his second Bassmaster Elite series win at Lake Murray on May 10, 2026, with a four-day total of 90 pounds, 14 ounces, earning the $101,000 top prize. Yamaha Pros dominated the tournament, taking seven of the top 10 spots, with Brandon Cobb finishing third and Robert Gee in fourth.

FWP proposes accepting an 82-acre island complex donation from Trust for Public Land on the upper Yellowstone River near Livingston to create Siskin Island Fishing Access Site. The site will be managed for habitat conservation and public access, with float-in camping and hunting allowed under weapons restrictions. Final approval is scheduled for June 12 by the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission.

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department, in cooperation with state and federal partners, plans to retreat Smishek Lake in May and June using EPA-registered copper-based mollusicide EarthTecQZ to eradicate remaining zebra mussels. Ben Holen, the department's aquatic nuisance species coordinator, noted that while last fall's treatment significantly suppressed the population, live mussels capable of reproduction remain, threatening downstream waters including Lake Sakakawea.

Nick Wiley has been appointed Executive Director of the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, bringing over three decades of conservation experience including 30 years with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and recent service as Chief Operating Officer for Ducks Unlimited, Inc.

The Alabama Conservation Advisory Board honored Commissioner Chris Blankenship's tenure at the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, recognizing his contributions to outdoor recreation expansion. Under his leadership since 2017, ADCNR invested over $525 million in improvements including state parks enhancements, beach renourishment, and acquisition of 100,000 acres for public access.

Maryland's department is hosting an in-person Coastal Recreational Fisheries Forum on May 18, 2026, featuring open discussions and updates from the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, and NOAA at Worcester County Library in Berlin, Maryland.

The Association of Collegiate Anglers (ACA) will host hands-on demo rides featuring Garmin's new Spy Pole and GT360UHD transducer during the ACA Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship at Pickwick Lake, May 19-20, 2026. Garmin Pros Beau Browning and Cody Huff will conduct 20-minute product demonstrations, with the first 50 anglers each day receiving $25 Bass Pro Shops gift cards.

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and First Baptist Church of Waldport will host the 27th annual family fishing event at Eckman Lake on May 16, featuring 1400 rainbow trout for youth ages 17 and younger. A carnival with games, food, and activities will run simultaneously across the street.

The Kids Fishing Day Team celebrates its 33rd anniversary on June 13 at Michigan DNR Pocket Park in Escanaba. The free event for youth ages 16 and younger features bluegill fishing, archery, pellet gun ranges, and activities like minnow races and face painting, with support from Bay de Noc Great Lakes Sports Fishermen, Inc., Michigan DNR, and U.S. Forest Service's Hiawatha National Forest.

Michigan's Natural Resources Commission has implemented a protected slot limit for walleye on Lake Independence and Teal Lake in Marquette County. All walleye smaller than 15 inches and between 18 and 23 inches must be released, with a daily possession limit of five fish, only one exceeding 23 inches.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public input on 41 preliminary proposals for 2027–2028 fishing regulations through May 31. FWP will host a Region 2 meeting in Missoula on May 21 at 6:30 p.m. at the FWP office to present proposals and discuss ideas, including changes to Racetrack Pond and Warm Springs Wildlife Management Area regulations.

The Gulf Council will convene at the Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore for a three-day meeting June 1-3, 2026, with public comment on June 3. The Council will take final action on Reef Fish Amendment 63 regarding red grouper commercial quota pools and address shrimp bycatch methodology, for-hire data collection, and various snapper and grouper management measures.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is hosting a virtual public meeting on May 20 at 4 p.m. to discuss 2027-2028 coastal recreational bottomfish management options and Marine Area 1 (Ilwaco) optional halibut fishing days in June. The Pacific Fishery Management Council (PFMC) manages West Coast bottomfish on a two-year cycle and is considering harvest levels and management measures.

NOAA Fisheries seeks public comments on Amendment 62 to modify red grouper management measures in the Gulf, including revised status determination criteria, overfishing limits, and sector allocations based on Gulf Council Scientific and Statistical Committee recommendations. The comment period closes June 01, 2026.

Governor Ron DeSantis announced a record 39-day Atlantic red snapper season and 140-day Gulf season for 2026, following federal approval of Florida's Exempted Fishing Permit. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission will assume management of the Atlantic recreational red snapper fishery using state-specific data and real-time management tools.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources encourages residents to report multiple dead fish using a new online form or by calling the state duty officer at 651-649-5451. Fish health supervisor Isaiah Tolo states public reports help facilitate timely water and fish sampling responses.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public input on 41 preliminary proposals for 2027-28 fishing regulations through May 31. FWP will host a public meeting in Bozeman on May 19 at 6 p.m. at their office to present proposed changes, answer questions, and collect angler feedback.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources invites organizations statewide to host free fishing events June 6-7, 2026. Fishing clubs, civic groups, churches, and others can provide clinics for all ages, with gear available from nearly 60 tackle loaner sites. Organizations must register by May 22 with Jarrod.Folkman@wisconsin.gov.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is partnering with MyCatch by Angler's Atlas for a statewide walleye fishing challenge running May 15 through June 28. Anglers report catches via the mobile app to help fisheries biologists assess walleye populations while competing for cash prizes and weekly challenges across Michigan's inland waters.

Sedrick Neinhuis from Lowell, Michigan caught a new state-record gizzard shad weighing 4.45 pounds on April 22 in the Grand River. The fish surpassed the previous record of 4.12 pounds set in 1996 on Lake St. Clair. DNR fisheries biologist Matt Diana verified the record-breaking catch.

Lookingglass Creek, a Grande Ronde River tributary, opens May 15 for hatchery spring Chinook fishing through June 14 or until quotas are met. ODFW Assistant District Fish Biologist Mike Lance notes this marks the fifth consecutive year of the fishery. Anglers may retain two adipose fin-clipped adult Chinook and five jacks daily, with new regulations allowing bait use.

Applications are now open for Florida's Statewide Alligator Harvest Program and Alligator Super Hunt. The statewide hunt application deadline is May 18, while Super Hunt applications remain open through June 18. Applicants can submit through tax collector offices, license agents, or online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.

DAIWA announced the release of the PRESSO Attra, a Japanese casting spoon designed for both stocked and wild trout. The copper spoon features deep-cup geometry, comes in three weights and nine colors, and is rigged with micro-barbless hooks for efficient catch-and-release fishing.

Abu Garcia introduces new Max Spinning and Casting Rods built on 24-ton graphite blanks with technique-specific actions, complementing the popular Max reels. The versatile lineup includes 19 models ranging from 6' to 7'6" in one- and two-piece options, priced at $59.99-$69.99.

DAIWA US exclusively distributes XBRAID FINESSE X8, an extreme low-diameter braided line using revolutionary IZANAS® polyethylene fibers. The proprietary WX Weave manufacturing process delivers superior sensitivity and strength for finesse fishing techniques targeting bass, walleye, and trout across North America.

Flambeau Outdoors introduces the Super Half Satchel Soft Bait Organizer 4510 with Zerust® technology, featuring rugged thermoplastic construction and patented anti-corrosion dividers that provide up to five years of protection in marine environments.

Fish Monkey launches a new Americana color pattern in its merino wool blend sock collection, available in No Show Tab and Mini Crew styles. The socks feature arch compression, moisture-wicking technology, and are proudly made in the USA by one of the nation's oldest sock mills.

Whitewater Fishing has launched the Great Lakes Pro Jacket and Bibs, featuring a proprietary 3-layer 4-way stretch system with 20k waterproof and 30k breathability ratings. Developed and tested against Great Lakes conditions, the suit combines AquaGuard waterproof zippers, anti-slip technology, and multiple storage pockets for serious anglers.

NMMA President and CEO Frank Hugelmeyer joined Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum at the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable Health Forum to discuss outdoor recreation's role in national policy, public lands access, and economic impact. The discussion highlighted how the Department of the Interior's policies support the recreational boating industry and American marine manufacturing.

Yamaha Marine and Skeeter Boats served as presenting sponsors for the 28th annual Dick Hiley St. Jude Bass Classic in Wabasha, Minnesota, raising over $1.3 million. The tournament featured 100 competing boats, with champions Adam Walters and Trevor Rasmussen winning $25,000, while Joe Hall and Aaron LaRocque won a ZX200 Skeeter Boat powered by a Yamaha 200-horsepower V MAX SHO outboard.

Johnson Outdoors is offering spring instant savings through June 24, 2026, on select Humminbird HELIX 5 and 7 units and Minn Kota Ultrex, Terrova, Riptide Terrova, Edge, and Endura models. Savings range from $30 to $300 USD, available through Humminbird and Minn Kota websites and participating dealers.

ICAST 2026 is introducing new programming including ICASTLive!, Meet the Market business matchmaking, Retailer Leadership Breakfast, Retailer Lounge, and an ICAST Pop-Up Shop. The world's largest sportfishing trade show offers enhanced experiences for exhibitors, retailers, and buyers.

NFL Hall of Famer Randy Moss will serve as ambassador for World Bass Enterprises' inaugural "The Champions" tournament featuring a record $3.25 million purse. World Bass Enterprises is also the presenting partner of Moss' new bass fishing series "Chasing 10 with Randy Moss" debuting on YouTube, produced by Big 84 Productions and featuring former Minnesota Vikings teammates Cris Carter and Jake Reed.

Outdoor Channel presents the "Taste Of The Wild" block airing Mondays in May, featuring shows hosted by Chef Mike Robinson, Daniel Vitalis, Steven Rinella, Scott Leysath, Pat Martin, and Chef Jean-Paul Bourgeois exploring wild game cookery and outdoor cuisine traditions.

Waypoint TV celebrates the premiere of Saltwater Experience Season 20, marking a landmark milestone for the respected saltwater fishing series. Captains Tom Rowland and Rich Tudor continue their decades-long partnership showcasing world-class flats fishing from the Florida Keys, with the season streaming exclusively on Waypoint TV.

The Alabama Bass Trail announced its 2026 season premiere on July 4th across Gray Media's Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment, Peachtree Sports Network, and Tennessee Valley Sports & Entertainment. The partnership will bring elite tournament competition and over $750,000 in seasonal prizes to 11.9 million households across 25 markets.

Fly Fisherman Magazine's original film "The Shoals," directed by Ben Annibali and featuring Editor/Publisher Ross Purnell's pursuit of Giant Trevally at St. Brandon Atoll, premieres May 9 on Outdoor Channel. Supported by Patagonia, COSTA, G. Loomis, The Fly Shop, and Scientific Anglers, the film showcases one of the world's most remote and pristine fishing destinations.

Waypoint TV announces the premiere of Into the Blue Season 18, featuring Captains Scott Walker and Steve Rodger returning for offshore fishing action in the Florida Keys. The long-running saltwater series delivers elite-level fishing content across multiple streaming platforms including Amazon Prime, Tubi, and DIRECTV.

In March, the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources announced a breakthrough in genetics. Collaborating with the Center for Aquaculture Technologies, researchers with the agency’s Thoroughbred Bass Program have identified specific genetic markers linked to enhanced size potential in native largemouth bass. If it proves out, it could mean bigger largemouths across the northern half of the nation, where thus far the widely stocked Florida strain lunkers have not taken hold.

With these markers, biologists can now screen wild bass and selectively breed broodfish that carry the genetics associated with larger growth. The selectively bred fish could then be stocked into public waters, where they will interbreed with wild fish and gradually shift the population toward a higher trophy potential.

A Genetic Approach to Bigger Bass

Kentucky biologists have put in a lot of effort on the project. They collected fin clips from 300 largemouth bass from 30 lakes — half weighing more than five pounds, half under 3½ pounds. All fish were confirmed as pure native bass, and their genomes scanned for millions of genetic markers. The genetic signals that consistently separated the big fish from the small now form the foundation of a screening panel that hatcheries can use to choose broodfish with the best growth potential.

“This process is similar to traditional selective breeding in agriculture,” said Jeff Ross, assistant director of the Fisheries Division. “The only difference is we are using genetic markers to guide which fish to breed.”

The goal isn’t to replace native populations with exotic strains — something many northern states have previously avoided — but rather to enhance the existing gene pool from within, preserving local adaptations while boosting size potential.

Why This Matters — Especially North of the Mason-Dixon

In the southern United States, many fisheries have long used Florida largemouth bass genetics to increase size structure in lakes and reservoirs. The Florida strain (Micropterus salmoides floridanus) tends to grow faster and reach larger sizes in warmer waters than northern largemouth bass, which are native to much of the rest of the country.

As a consequence, stocking Florida bass or hybrid crosses between Florida and northern strains has been a common management tool in many southern and mid-southern states for decades. Research from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission showed that stocking Florida bass fingerlings into large reservoirs led to widespread hybridization with northern largemouth bass, even in waters outside the Florida bass’s native range—and the hybrids got bigger faster.

Virginia’s Department of Wildlife Resources also runs an F1 hybrid program, producing first-generation crosses between pure Florida bass and pure northern bass — sometimes called “tiger bass” — because those F1s often exhibit what managers call hybrid vigor, growing rapidly and performing well on the line. These fish are stocked in reservoirs like Lake Norman and B. Everett Jordan Reservoir as part of multi-year evaluation projects.

Other states, including Texas, actively raise both northern and Florida strain bass in hatcheries and stock accordingly, tailoring strain choice to local climate and management goals. For example, Florida bass production in Texas began in the early 1970s and contributed to the state’s reputation as a premier bass fishery, while northern strain fish are stocked where cold water tolerance is needed. Hundreds of anglers have contributed huge live bass to the state’s ShareLunker breeding program over the past 40 years, and the state has become famous as a destination for catching huge largemouths.

Despite these efforts, managers in cooler, northern climates have often steered clear of transplanting Florida genetics because of thermal tolerance issues and concerns about out-of-range subspecies disrupting locally adapted populations. Florida bass can struggle with rapid temperature fluctuations and longer, colder winters — traits that northern largemouth excel at due to their evolutionary history in temperate waters.

That’s where Kentucky’s approach is unique: by using genetics to improve trophy potential from within northern populations, biologists are circumventing many of the ecological and regulatory challenges that come with importing external strains.

In most parts of the northern United States, managers have had few options to increase bass size potential without risking ecological mismatches by moving fish outside their native range. Kentucky’s genetic markers could change that calculus.

“If we can select broodstock based on these markers, we can breed fish with a higher probability of reaching trophy size that are still native to our waters,” Martin said.

Beyond Size: Keeping Bass in the Net

There’s another angle to this work as well. Angling pressure itself can influence fish genetics over time by selectively removing larger or more aggressive individuals. That can leave behind populations with lower average growth potential. By introducing selectively bred bass into wild waters, managers hope to replenish genetic traits that contribute to larger size and vigor, potentially offsetting the genetic effects of intense harvest pressure.

It’s not a silver bullet: spawning cycles mean that hatcheries get only one shot a year to select broodfish and produce fry for stocking, and initial implementation in 2026 may be delayed due to testing panel production. Still, biologists are collecting and testing hundreds of wild bass this season to ensure the program is ready for 2027.

A New Tool for Modern Fisheries Management?

Kentucky’s program represents an early but promising use of modern genomics in fisheries management. Rather than relying on subspecies transplants or hybrid stocking that must be repeated annually, genetics-based selection offers a sustainable, locally adapted path to trophies, especially in regions where traditional Florida genetics aren’t an ideal fit.

As other states follow the genomic era into fisheries science, programs like this could pave the way for more refined, population-specific enhancements — and give anglers in traditionally cooler climates the chance to chase bigger bass without risking the rise of “frankenfish” characteristics that might harm the overall fisheries.

– Frank Sargeant
Frankmako1@gmail.com