Bassmaster Classic returning to Knoxville in Spring 2026
B.A.S.S. officials announced Wednesday that the 2026 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour will be held in Knoxville with competition on the Tennessee River lakes of Fort Loudoun and Tellico and daily weigh-ins at the University of Tennessee's Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center in downtown Knoxville. In addition. the Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo will be held at the Knoxville Convention Center and World's Fair Exhibition Hall.
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'We are thrilled to return to the site of two of our most successful Classics in history,' said B.A.S.S. CEO Chase Anderson. 'East Tennessee fully embraces the Classic for what it truly is — a celebration of the sport of bass fishing. The fan experience in Knoxville is second to none, with all event venues within walking distance. With our ever-growing global fanbase, we expect the 2026 Classic to be even bigger and more exciting.'
With daily takeoffs from Volunteer Landing, located downtown along the Tennessee River, the 2023 Classic drew a record crowd of 163,914 spectators. It generated an economic impact of $35.5 million for Knoxville and East Tennessee, bringing in $2.85 million in state and local tax revenue and supporting 12,698 jobs throughout the event. In 2019, the Classic generated an economic impact of $32.2 million for Knoxville and East Tennessee.
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'Knoxville shines during major events like the Bassmaster Classic,' said Kim Bumpas, president of Visit Knoxville. 'Both the anglers and fans enjoy an unmatched experience, from the Tennessee River to the world-class venues hosting events throughout Classic weekend. We are excited to welcome everyone back in 2026.'
'B.A.S.S. is extremely excited to return to Knoxville for the 2026 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour,' said Chris Bowes, B.A.S.S. vice president of tournaments. 'This event should be just as competitive as past Classics on Fort Loudoun and Tellico lakes. We expect to see all three black bass species cross the weigh-in scales, and with such a versatile fishery, competitors will be able to play to their strengths. One thing that won't change is the breathtaking backdrop of Knoxville and the convenience of its world-class venues for both anglers and fans.'
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The field will include 58 anglers who will qualify through Bassmaster Elite Series, St. Croix Bassmaster Opens presented by SEVIIN, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Championship presented by Lowrance, Bassmaster College Classic Bracket presented by Lew's and the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Team Championship. Prizes include $300,000 first-place prize and a total purse of over $850,000.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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