Wes Logan finished fifth at the FXR Bassmaster Elite on Lake Guntersville and earned an additional $2,500 through the Yamaha Power Pay program. The Alabama native praised his Yamaha 250-horsepower V MAX SHO outboard for its reliability in extreme cold conditions, emphasizing proper maintenance and the benefits of competing with Yamaha-powered boats.
Abu Garcia announced a partnership with Montevallo University Bass Team, the latest addition to its growing collegiate sponsorships. The partnership supports student-anglers through Major League Fishing College Series and Abu Garcia College Rivalry events, providing tournament-proven gear and resources for competitive development.
Skeeter Boats has extended its premier sponsorship with B.A.S.S. through 2028, continuing as the Official Boat Sponsor while serving as presenting sponsor of the Redfish Cup Championship and Bassmaster High School Combine. The partnership reinforces Skeeter's commitment to competitive fishing across all B.A.S.S. platforms.
Elite Series Pro Tucker Smith of Birmingham, Alabama, has joined Shimano North America Fishing's Pro-Staff. The 24-year-old won the 2025 Tackle Warehouse event on Lake Fork with 127 pounds, 8 ounces, and earned Dakota Lithium Rookie of the Year honors. Smith will collaborate with Shimano on product development and gear testing.
Justin Hamner, the 2024 Bassmaster Classic champion, officially joined the Skeeter Pro Team for 2026, along with Austin Cranford, Jace Lindsey, and Tyler Campbell. The anglers will compete using Skeeter FXR boats powered by Yamaha V MAX SHO engines throughout the season.
Yamaha Marine announced six new anglers joining its 2026 Pro Fishing Team: Austin Felix, Andrew Loberg, Beau Browning, Aaron Jagdfeld, Tristan McCormick, and Banks Shaw. These professional anglers will compete across tournament trails nationwide, representing Yamaha's premium brand and serving as ambassadors for competitive fishing.