The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds boat operators to be mindful of wake risks during peak summer boating season. The DNR recommends maintaining safe distances from shore, reducing speed in congested areas, and being courteous to other water users to prevent property damage, shoreline erosion, and habitat degradation.

The Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division of Alabama's Department of Conservation and Natural Resources will temporarily close Waterfront Public Boat Ramp on Lake Guntersville starting July 13, 2026 for major upgrades including parking expansion, a new four-lane launching slab, and floating access pier. 

CCA Florida announces the 2026 STAR competition presented by Yamaha, a youth-focused tournament running May 23 through September 7. The competition awards over $150,000 in prizes, boats, and scholarships, including $100,000 in college scholarships for participants ages 6-17 who fish and submit photos of their saltwater catches.

Wyoming Game and Fish Department installed and maintained 130 beaver dam analogs along Lone Tree Creek and Bolton Creek to improve riparian health and water quality. These structures, designed to mimic natural beaver dams, slow water flow, extend green-up periods for wildlife, reduce sediment erosion into the North Platte River, and protect trout spawning habitat.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) broke ground on the Island Unit Restoration Project, which will restore 270 acres on the Skagit Wildlife Area to natural intertidal estuary habitat over two years. Brumfield Construction, Inc. will lead the project, benefiting Endangered Species Act-listed Puget Sound Chinook salmon and other wildlife species.

Inspectors at Montana's Anaconda boat check station prevented a potential ecological disaster by decontaminating a Minnesota wake boat carrying hundreds of zebra mussels and Eurasian watermilfoil before it could reach Georgetown Lake. FWP's aquatic invasive species bureau chief Tom Woolf emphasized the critical importance of watercraft inspections in protecting Montana's waters.

Alabama's Marine Resources Division deployed the 408-foot Argosy VI, a former riverboat casino, as an artificial reef 23 miles south of Orange Beach. The vessel joins the New Venture and Lulu as part of a three-ship reef program designed to enhance fishing and diving opportunities in Alabama's artificial reef zone.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is reconstructing the aging Net River Dam in Baraga County through a collaborative project with Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, GEI Consultants, and MJO Contracting. Work began in late June and will be completed in fall, restoring water levels and improving wetland habitat in the 200-acre impoundment.

With NOAA funding, Trout Unlimited is leading the Salmon SuperHwy partnership to restore fish passage across Oregon's coastal watersheds. The effort has helped threatened Oregon Coast coho rebound dramatically, with over 150,000 returning annually since 2021, while also improving infrastructure and supporting local communities.

The Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies commended the White House's Make America Beautiful Again Report, praising Secretary Burgum and Director Nesvik for enhanced coordination with State Fish and Wildlife Agencies. The report highlights expanded public access to outdoor recreation and conservation initiatives by the Department of the Interior and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The Angling Trades Association will host its first-ever UK Angling Summit on November 19th, 2026, at the Arden Hotel in Birmingham. The event will unveil ATA's five-year growth plan focused on sustainable recreational angling and feature industry experts discussing key topics impacting UK trade.

The American Museum of Fly Fishing hosts an Open House Festival on October 17 in Manchester, Vermont, celebrating fly fishing history and culture. The event features the grand opening of "Foundations in Flow: The Four Pillars of Fly Fishing," with workshops, fly tying, casting activities, and free museum admission.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife will host a virtual public meeting on July 15 to discuss proposed rotenone treatments of Fish Lake in Spokane County and Upper West Branch LeClerc Creek in Pend Orielle County. WDFW warmwater fish program manager Kenneth Behen explained the treatments aim to remove undesirable fish species and restore native cutthroat trout populations.

Scientists from William & Mary's Batten School and VIMS use electrofishing to tag and study spawning striped bass in Virginia's Chesapeake Bay tributaries. Since 1988, the VIMS Striped Bass Program has provided critical data on survival rates and migration patterns to inform state and federal management decisions as the species faces overfished status and declining populations.

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick finalized 2026 Regional Fishery Management Council appointments, including Paul Risi, Warren Elliott, Dave Blazer, Rob Southwick, Anthony Overton, Ed Walker, and Kesley Banks. The RFMCs manage marine fisheries supporting 15 million anglers and contributing over $145 billion in annual sales.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has stocked over six million largemouth bass in tidal rivers since the early 1980s through its Tidal Bass Program. The initiative uses the Joseph Manning Hatchery at Cedarville State Forest to spawn broodstock collected from the Potomac River, releasing young fish at various life stages from May through November to enhance recreational fishing opportunities.

Idaho Fish and Game's winter drawdown at Moose Creek Reservoir successfully controlled invasive pondweed and improved the warmwater fishery. One year after the drawdown, bass and bluegill populations are larger and more abundant than in 2019, with bluegill catch nearly doubling.

NOAA Fisheries collaborates with the California Collaborative Fisheries Research Program, involving researchers from six California universities, 36 sportfishing vessels, and over 2,500 volunteer anglers to monitor fish populations and evaluate Marine Protected Areas. Captain Paul Fischer and his charter boat Outer Limits host volunteers to collect data on coastal fish stocks like rockfish to inform stock assessments and fisheries management.

The Missouri Department of Conservation recommends frogging at Paydown Access and Bell Chute Access in Maries County, and Whetstone Creek Conservation Area in Callaway County. Frogging season runs June 30 through October 31, with an eight-frog daily limit.  This unique outdoor hobby requires minimal equipment and is accessible to all ages.

Florida's 2026 recreational bay scallop season opens July 1 through September 24 in Franklin County, northwestern Taylor County, and portions of Levy, Citrus, and Hernando counties. Daily bag limits are two gallons of whole scallops or one pint of meat per person, with vessel limits of 10 gallons or four pints. Harvesters must follow safety regulations, obtain a saltwater fishing license, and avoid damaging seagrass habitat.

Shane Allen of Powell became the first angler to catch and document all 24 Wyoming game fish species at qualifying lengths, doubling the Ultimate Angler requirement. Accompanied by Carol Anders, Allen traveled thousands of miles across nine lakes to complete the Wyoming Game and Fish Department's Master Angler challenge.

Bassmaster Magazine released its annual 100 Best Bass Lakes rankings highlighting premier bass fishing destinations across the United States. The rankings, compiled by Bassmaster's editorial staff with input from fisheries biologists, B.A.S.S. Nation leaders, and local experts, showcase largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass fisheries from coast to coast during America's 250th anniversary celebration.

Garmin announced the LiveScope 2 Series, featuring three new transducer models with 20% more resolution and up to 250 feet range. The LiveScope 2 HD offers 50% more detail at closer ranges, while all models connect directly to compatible Garmin displays, eliminating the need for a separate black box. Retail prices range from $1,999.99 to $2,199.99.

Applications for Arkansas's 2026 alligator hunting season are open until July 31 at www.agfc.com. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is offering permits across nine public hunting locations in three management zones for hunts scheduled September 18-21 and September 25-28, with AGFC Herpetologist Amanda Bryant noting new archery options for private land hunters.

Fish Monkey is launching the Hydro Block Waterproof Glove for Fall 2026, a premium cold-weather fishing glove featuring a 100-percent waterproof barrier, breathable membrane, merino wool liner, and touchscreen-compatible panels. Designed by founder Tim Mossberg, the glove balances protection and dexterity for anglers in harsh conditions.

Okuma has launched the Tavares Inshore Travel Combos, lightweight 3-piece carbon rod and reel systems designed for packable performance in saltwater inshore fishing. Available in 7'6" Medium and Medium Heavy actions with 3000 and 4000 spinning reels, these combos feature carbon construction, stainless steel guides, and Carbonite drag systems, priced at $179.99.

Lew's announced the HyperMag ITB 150 baitcast reel featuring a magnesium frame, ParaMag® ITB magnetic braking system, and Hamai CNC-machined Speed Gears® for precision casting and durability. The reel is designed for tournament and recreational anglers, with availability soon through authorized Lew's dealers.

Z-Man introduces the EVO Swim Jig, a tournament-grade lure combining the refined styling of the ChatterBait Elite EVO with premium swim jig performance for heavy cover fishing. Professional anglers Stephen Browning and Beau Browning collaborated on development, praising its custom 5/0 hook strength and versatile skirt design.

Shimano North America Fishing debuts the Poison Glorious freshwater bass rod series at ICAST 2026, featuring 15 models across casting and spinning configurations. The series combines JDM-inspired sensitivity with traditional cork handles and introduces FusionGrip Technology to the U.S. market, priced at $539.99-$599.99.

NEBO introduced the 1K EDC Pocket Light, a compact LED flashlight delivering 1000 lumens with USB-C rechargeability, magnetic base, and cap clip functionality. The water-resistant light features five modes, up to 10 hours runtime, and is priced at $39.99.

Z-Man® introduced a proprietary Sinking ElaZtech formula that adds natural sink, density, and versatility to its signature superplastic material. Developed through collaboration with material scientists, the new formulation maintains durability while enabling applications in finesse approaches, mid-depth presentations, and heavy-cover techniques. 

FishLab has launched the Nature Series Minnow, a bait designed with natural movement and balanced presence for predator fish tracking. Available in 3, 3.5, and 4 inch sizes across seven colors, the minnow is versatile for drop-shot, jig head, and trailer applications, launching August 2026 at $9.99.

Okuma Fishing Tackle introduces new fillet knives and a complete kit featuring 8CR stainless steel blades with titanium plating, ergonomic handles, and sharpening tools. The products will be showcased at ICAST 2026 in the Fishing Tools category, with availability beginning July 2026 through authorized dealers and online retailers.

Z-Man Fishing Products introduces the Kingpin™, a soft stickbait made from innovative Sinking ElaZtech® material. The naturally sinking lure features a symmetrical body for balanced wacky rigging and maintains a subtle action while lasting significantly longer than traditional soft plastics. Available in 3-inch and 5-inch sizes at retailers nationwide in Fall 2026.

FishLab Tackle has launched the Nature Series Neko Flex Shad, a reinforced soft bait featuring a stainless-steel internal spine and integrated spring system for enhanced durability and versatility in finesse presentations. Available in 3", 4", and 5" sizes with multiple colors, the bait produces strong vibration and is designed for Neko rigging, jighead, and dropshot techniques.

13 Fishing introduces three new Myth Series spinning rods: Jigging Rap Spinning developed with Duane Hjelm, Shaker Spinning, and Power Cork Spinning. All feature Japanese PVG40T blank construction, Fuji guides, and premium cork handles, priced at $199.99.

Old Town Watercraft launches the Sportsman 120 PRO, a 12-foot paddle kayak featuring fully customizable design with 140 inches of aluminum accessory tracks, bow and stern motor mounting options, and compatibility with Minn Kota Kayak Terrova and Humminbird fish finders. The kayak offers premium performance across paddle, pedal, and motor-assisted propulsion options.

Okuma Fishing Tackle unveils the Makaira Yellowfin Tuna Limited Edition Lever Drag 2-Speed Reel, featuring a bold multi-colored anodization inspired by yellowfin tuna. The reel incorporates Okuma's Dual Force Drag system, helical cut gearing, and 2-speed capability for offshore big-game fishing, starting at $749.99.

AFTCO is providing $25,000 in conservation grants to seven B.A.S.S. Nation groups in 2026, including Tennessee B.A.S.S. Nation, Kansas B.A.S.S. Nation, Illinois B.A.S.S. Nation, Georgia B.A.S.S. Nation, Lake Oconee Bassmaster, New Mexico B.A.S.S. Nation, and Florida B.A.S.S. Nation. This brings AFTCO's total contributions to over $202,000 since the program's inception in 2018.

C-MAP announced coverage improvements for the Americas, delivering high-resolution enhancements across the Great Lakes, U.S. East Coast, and 278 inland lakes. The update includes detailed refinements to Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Chesapeake Bay, and Massachusetts coastal waters, with 249 lakes updated in Massachusetts and 61 newly added lakes.

This article chronicles Lauri Rapala's creation of the revolutionary Rapala lure in 1930s Finland, detailing how balsa wood and hand-tuning produced the distinctive "wounded minnow action." The iconic Shad Rap, introduced in 1982, became a legendary fishing lure that remains unmistakable in its performance across 140 countries.

Striped bass season is underway across the country, offering anglers exciting action and nutritious meals. Hi Mountain Seasonings recommends pairing their Gourmet Fish Seasoning with Pineapple Sriracha Bacon Seasoning to create restaurant-quality striped bass dishes. President Hans Hummel highlights how the combination delivers impressive flavor in minutes.

Bass Pro Shops announced plans for a new 148,000-square-foot destination retail location in La Mesa, California, expected to open in 2028. Founded by Johnny Morris, the store will be Bass Pro Shops' sixth California location and will employ over 150 Outfitters while featuring immersive outdoor experiences and conservation initiatives.

World Fishing Network launches "Reel Tips Tuesdays" educational programming block starting at 6 p.m. ET, featuring shows like Let's Fish TV, Arkansas Great Outdoors with Carlton Wing and Leigh, Fishing the Midwest with Mike Frisch, Angling Edge with the Lindner team, Facts of Fishing with Dave Mercer, Fishing 411 with Mark and Jake Romanack, Hook the Future with Captain Don Dingman, and National Walleye Tour presented by Bass Pro Shops & Cabela's.

Outdoor Channel, Presented by Canik, premieres four new cooking and fishing shows on Mondays at 7 p.m. ET featuring Chef Mike Robinson's Wild Fish Masterclass, Jess Pryles' Feast By Fire, MeatEater Roasts, and Carter Andrews' Gone Again, celebrating wild game and fish cuisine.

The Alabama Bass Trail has officially set the field for the 2027 Alabama Bass Trail 100 with 100 teams and 200 anglers from 12 states. The tournament features record purses totaling $750,000, with each event guaranteeing a $50,000 first-place prize, double the 2026 payout.

Major League Fishing announced Bass Pro Shops REDCREST 2027 will take place April 16-18, 2027, on Logan Martin Lake near Birmingham, Alabama, featuring 40 top professional bass anglers competing for a $300,000 top prize and the championship trophy.

Every year Bassmaster drops its 100 Best Bass Lakes list, and every year it kicks off the same argument at boat ramps and bait shops across the country: did they get it right? This year's edition, dressed up in America250 bunting, is no exception. It's a fine list. It's also a list with some head-scratchers.

The Snubs

Lake Guntersville, Alabama is the most glaring case. Guntersville isn't just a good lake — it's arguably the single most storied largemouth fishery in the Southeast, a perennial Bassmaster Classic and Elite Series host with a track record of producing amazing numbers of quality largemouths despite withering pressure that continues almost year around. And yet it lands at number four in the Southeastern Division, behind Santee Cooper, the Kissimmee Chain, and the Withlacoochee/Rousseau system. Those are all legitimate fisheries, no argument there—Santee-Cooper seems to be particularly hot right now.

But anyone who's fished Guntersville's endless grass beds and river holes knows it belongs in the national top ten conversation, not buried on a regional sub-list. Ranking it fourth in its own division feels like underselling a lake that's hosted more marquee tournaments than almost anywhere else on this list.

Toledo Bend is another one that seems oddly modest. It's one of the largest reservoirs in the South, a factory for both numbers and giants, and it's sitting mid-pack in the Central Division below lakes like Bussey Brake and Caney Creek — fine fisheries, but ones with a fraction of Toledo Bend's tournament pedigree and size.

The Overachievers

On the flip side, a few lakes seem to be riding reputation, or a hot recent moment, further than the fundamentals justify.

Lake J.B. Thomas taking the number two overall spot nationally is the boldest call on the list. It's described as "the hottest emerging big-bass fishery," but “emerging” is the operative word. A lake can have an incredible run for a season or two on the strength of a stocking program or a wet cycle before water levels swing the other way. Ranking it ahead of places like Lake Fork, Kentucky Lake, or the St. Lawrence, all of which have decades of proven consistency, is a bet on momentum over track record.

Diamond Valley Lake in the Western Division is another lake whose ranking looks driven more by trophy-fish headlines than depth of fishery. It's a legitimate big-bass lake, but the West's ranking depends heavily on a handful of famous catches rather than the kind of broad, sustained tournament success that defines lakes like Clear Lake or the Delta.

The Bigger Picture

None of this is really a knock on Bassmaster's methodology; tournament results, fisheries data, and angler feedback will always produce a list shaped by whoever had the best year, not necessarily the best lake, full stop. That's the nature of an annual ranking.

But it's worth remembering that "best" and "hottest right now" aren't the same thing, and a list built partly on buzz will always shortchange the quiet, dependable giants — the Guntersvilles and Toledo Bends of the world — in favor of the lake everyone's talking about this season.

See this year’s full listing at www.bassmaster.com.

– Frank Sargeant, Editor of The Water Wire
Frankmako1@gmail.com