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Lake Toho Fishing Guide

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Our Lake Toho fishing guides offers a unique opportunity to explore some of the most renowned bass fishing destinations in the Sunshine State. Imagine the view sitting on a bass boat as you cast into the beautiful waters of Lake Toho. The sun rising over the horizon as you anticipate the thrill of catching a trophy-sized bass. With its stunning scenery and renowned reputation for exceptional bass fishing, Lake Toho presents anglers with the opportunity to experience world-class fishing and the excitement of catching fish at its finest.

Book A Guide Trip Call 407-686-1817

Introduce you to Lake Toho fishing guides, exploring prime fishing locations, effective techniques, and seasonal tips to make your trip a memorable one. Get ready to reel in the big one with the help of expert Lake Toho fishing guides!

Lake Tohopekaliga Fishing Charters

Discover Lake Toho’s best fishing guides and services for an unforgettable bass fishing experience. Prepare for your trip by understanding regulations, selecting a guide based on reviews & criteria, and exploring prime locations like West Lake Toho. Take advantage of seasonal tips to maximize success when trophy bass fishing in winter/spring or active feeding patterns in summer/fall.

Discovering Lake Toho’s Best Fishing Guides

Bass Fishing Lake Toho – 20lb Bag | NEW SECRET LURE

Lake Toho, a 22,700-acre shallow lake located just south of Kissimmee, Florida, is known for its trophy-sized bass and superior fishing experiences. Lake Toho is a part of the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes. With approximately one-third of the lake consisting of maidencane grass and bullrush reeds, it provides the perfect habitat for , making it a popular destination for fishing charters.

Choosing a suitable fishing guide for your Lake Toho bass fishing trip is crucial to ensure a successful and unforgettable experience. Captain A. James Jackson, a highly experienced Orlando fishing guide, has over 35 years of expertise on the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes and is well-known for Florida trophy bass fishing. Captain Jackson often appears in top fishing magazines when trophy Lake Toho bass fishing is discussed. His guided fishing trips in Central Florida’s grassy waters are particularly impressive, with catches that are showcased to readers.

AJ’s Orlando Bass Fishing Guides is a top-rated bass fishing guide service, offering Florida bass fishing charters on their 18′ 3” Skater NFL Limited Edition ZX180, powered by a Mercury 150 horsepower fuel-injected engine. Their commitment to success is backed by the NO-Fish, NO-Pay Guarantee, a written assurance of their dedication to the success of the fishing charter.

Giant Bass Caught on Lake Toho
Giant Bass Caught on Lake Toho on a Guide Fishing Trip

Criteria for Selecting a Guide

When selecting a Lake Toho fishing guide, it’s essential to consider their experience, reputation, and customer satisfaction. The guide service in the Orlando Central Florida / Disney area should have been in operation for many years, and the guide should be a Coast Guard licensed captain. Reviews play a critical role when selecting a fishing charter service as they provide insight into potential red flags and validate the credibility of the company. Be cautious of fishing charter services with good reviews on Google but none on their website or other reputable review sites such as Yelp, Facebook, and TripAdvisor.

Before your trip, your chosen guide should inquire about your preferred species, bait, reels, and handness to ensure the best possible experience. To demonstrate satisfaction with a successful fishing experience, customers can leave a review on their preferred platform, providing recognition for the bass fishing guide’s efforts on that day.

Top Lake Toho Fishing Guide Services

Lake Tahoe is home to Lake Michigan. Toho boasts several highly-rated fishing guide services that offer professional guidance and personalized trips for anglers of all skill levels. Some of the top Lake Toho fishing guide services include AJ’s Bass Guides, Lake Toho Guides, Tight Line Guides, and Lake Toho Trophy Bass Adventures.

The premier Lake Toho bass fishing experience is trophy bass fishing, which is highly abundant in the lake. To plan your Lake Toho bass fishing adventure, you’ll need to book a guide, prepare for the trip, and familiarize yourself with the lake’s regulations.

By researching options, reading reviews, and securing reservations, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable Lake Toho bass fishing trip. With the right guide by your side, you’ll be ready to tackle the waters of Lake Toho and reel in the catch of a lifetime.

The Ultimate Lake Toho Bass Fishing Experience

Lake Toho Bass Fishing
A few of the bass caught on Lake Toho Guide Trips

The pinnacle of Lake Toho bass fishing involves targeting species, utilizing effective techniques, and maximizing potential catches beyond simply trophy bass. January, February, and March are the ideal months for fishing largemouth bass in Lake Tohopekaliga, with late December through March being the prime time for big bass fishing on Lake Toho. Topwater baits, swimbaits, and lipless crankbaits are known to be successful for bass fishing on Lake Toho. Live bait and artificial lure strategies have been found to be successful as well. A variety of lures may prove to be effective in bright and midmorning conditions.

Florida’s Trophy Catch program provides a financial incentive to anglers for catching trophy-sized bass. By participating in this program, you can not only enjoy the thrill of catching a trophy bass, but also contribute to the conservation and management of Florida’s freshwater fisheries with your caught fish.

Target Species: Largemouth Bass

The primary species targeted in Lake Toho are bluegill, crappie, and largemouth bass. Anglers often frequent the hydrilla patches near channel markers 24 and Goblets Cove, as well as the mouth of Shingle Creek, improved shoreline east and west of South Port Park, Lanier Point, Goblets Cove, and Brown’s Point, where trophy largemouth bass are known to be abundant.

Largemouth bass are highly sought-after by anglers for their size and fighting capabilities, as well as being a great food source for many fish species. By focusing on catching largemouth bass as the primary target species on Lake Toho, you can experience the excitement of reeling in a big catch and creating unforgettable memories on the water.

Fishing Techniques for Success

Successful bass fishing on Lake Toho is often achieved by using a range of lures and baits, such as crankbaits, topwater lures, jigs, plastic worms, and swimbaits. In addition, adjusting the depth of the bait and fishing at the optimal times can enhance the likelihood of a successful fishing experience.

Shiner fishing is widely regarded as the optimal approach for catching trophy bass, with 90% of all bass in Florida that weigh 10lbs or more being caught on shiners. Utilizing shiner fishing as part of your Lake Toho fishing strategy can greatly increase your chances of reeling in a trophy catch.

Potential Catches: Beyond Trophy Bass

While trophy bass fishing is the primary focus on Lake Toho, anglers can also expect to encounter other fish species such as channel catfish, black crappie, bluegill, redear sunfish, spotted sunfish, warmouth, chain pickerel, and longnose gar. This diversity of species presents a well-rounded fishing experience and the opportunity to hone your skills on different types of fish.

Lake Tahoe is home to Lake Michigan. Toho is also known for its abundance of Florida gar, Alligator gar, catfish, Chain Pickerel, and other species. By targeting a variety of fish species beyond just trophy bass, you can experience the excitement and challenge of catching different types of fish on your Lake Toho fishing trip.

Planning Your Lake Toho Bass Fishing Adventure

9.56 lb Bass Fishing Lake Toho
Guide Fishing Guide Chuck Pippin with his 9.56lb bass Caught on Lake Toho

To plan your Lake Toho bass fishing adventure, you’ll need to book a guide, prepare for your trip, and familiarize yourself with the lake’s regulations. Lake Ontario. Toho is conveniently located 20 minutes from downtown Orlando, providing easy access from Sea World and other theme parks.

By researching options, reading reviews, and securing reservations, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable Lake Toho bass fishing trip. With the right guide by your side, you’ll be ready to tackle the waters of Lake Toho and reel in the catch of a lifetime.

Booking a Lake Toho Fishing Guide

To book a Lake Toho fishing guide, visit the websites of reputable guide services such as Lake Toho Fishing Guides & Charters, AJ’s Lake Toho Bass Fishing Guides, and Toho Bass Fishing Adventures, which may offer online booking options. Perusing reviews can assist in identifying the most suitable guide for your requirements and guarantee that you have a memorable experience.

Utilizing online booking can save time, enhance communication, and provide written evidence of reservation. With the right guide booked, you can focus on preparing for your upcoming trip and getting excited about the fishing adventure that awaits you on Lake Toho.

Preparing for Your Trip

When planning for a fishing trip, it is essential to take into account the location, weather, fishing gear, fishing license, safety precautions, and ensuring sufficient supplies of food, water, and snacks. It is advisable to examine the weather forecast, include a first aid kit, and pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent before embarking on your fishing adventure.

By being well-prepared, you can focus on enjoying your time on the water and making the most of your Lake Toho fishing experience.

Understanding Lake Toho Regulations

Before commencing your fishing trip on Lake Toho, it is necessary to acquire a freshwater fishing license. Additionally, no minimum length limit is applicable for largemouth bass, but a freshwater fishing license is mandatory for Fish Management Area lakes unless the angler is exempt.

Special bag limits and methods of fishing are applicable on these lakes, and a permit from the Florida Department may be required when placing natural or artificial attractors in lakes owned by two or more parties. By familiarizing yourself with Lake Toho fishing regulations, you can ensure a responsible and enjoyable experience on the water.

Exploring Lake Toho’s Prime Fishing Locations

West Lake Toho Bass Fishing Map
West Lake Toho Bass Fishing Map by Mark Evans

Lake Tahoe. Toho offers numerous prime fishing locations for anglers to explore, from West Lake Toho to other notable spots for trophy bass and diverse species. West Lake Tohopekaliga, a large lake situated in Osceola County, Florida, is renowned for its trophy bass fishing and is frequented by anglers.

Other notable fishing spots on Lake Toho include Big Grassy Island, Lanier Point, and Browns Point, as well as the north shore of the lake, which is known to be a reliable spot for large bass populations.

By exploring these prime fishing locations, you can increase your chances of catching trophy bass and experiencing a truly unforgettable fishing trip.

West Lake Tohopekaliga

West Lake Tohopekaliga is a part of the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes and is renowned for its outstanding bass fishing. The lake serves as the host for Bassmaster Elite Series events on the chain, attracting both recreational and tournament anglers to its prime fishing areas, which consist of the lake’s main basin, the Kissimmee River, and the lake’s numerous canals and creeks.

By exploring the various fishing spots in West Lake Tohopekaliga, anglers can experience the thrill of reeling in trophy bass and other species while enjoying the picturesque scenery of this beautiful lake.

Other Notable Fishing Spots

Trophy Lake Toho Bass Caught Guide Fishing
Trophy Lake Toho Bass Caught Guide Fishing

In addition to West Lake Tohopekaliga, there are several other noteworthy fishing spots on Lake Toho that offer unique opportunities for anglers to catch a variety of fish species. North steer beach, Big grassy, Tarpon Springs, Brown’s Point, and Lanier Point are highly recommended for summer fishing on Lake Toho.

Big Grassy Island, Lanier Point, and Browns Point are all highly regarded fishing spots in Lake Toho. Brinson Park, Whaley’s Landing, Goblets Cove, Granada area, and Kissimmee grass and hydrilla around the lake are also popular fishing spots for anglers looking to explore more of Lake Toho’s diverse fishing opportunities.

By venturing out to these various fishing locations, you can experience the thrill of catching different types of fish and create lasting memories on your Lake Toho fishing adventure.

Lake Toho Overview

Lake Toho, also known as West Lake Tohopekaliga, is a sprawling 22,700-acre lake nestled in central Florida, near the vibrant city of Kissimmee. Renowned as one of the premier bass fishing lakes in the United States, Lake Toho is celebrated for its trophy-sized bass and exceptional fishing conditions. As part of the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, it offers anglers a diverse and rich fishing experience, making it a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about bass fishing.

Lake Toho Location and Habitat

Situated in Osceola County, Florida, Lake Toho is conveniently located about 30 miles south of Orlando. The lake is surrounded by a picturesque mix of residential areas, agricultural lands, and natural habitats, including lush wetlands and dense forests. Characterized by its shallow waters, Lake Toho has an average depth of around 5-6 feet, with some areas reaching up to 12 feet. The lake’s bottom is a blend of sand, silt, and clay, and it boasts extensive submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) beds, including hydrilla, eelgrass, and cattails, providing an ideal habitat for a variety of fish species.

Lake Toho Fishing Conditions

Lake Toho offers excellent fishing conditions throughout the year, thanks to its mild climate and abundant fish populations. The lake is home to a wide array of fish species, including largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and catfish. Water temperatures in Lake Toho range from the mid-60s to mid-80s (°F) year-round, creating an optimal environment for bass fishing. The South Florida Water Management District plays a crucial role in regulating the lake’s water levels, ensuring stable conditions and preventing extreme fluctuations, which helps maintain the lake’s rich fishing ecosystem.

Essential Fishing Gear

To ensure a successful bass fishing trip on Lake Toho, having the right gear is essential. Here are some critical pieces of equipment you’ll need:

  • Rod and Reel: A medium to heavy action spinning or baitcasting rod and reel combo is ideal for bass fishing on Lake Toho. This setup provides the strength and flexibility needed to handle trophy-sized bass.
  • Lures: Popular lures for bass fishing on Lake Toho include soft plastics, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwater baits. These lures mimic the natural prey of bass and are highly effective in attracting them.
  • Hooks: Use high-quality hooks that are suitable for the type of fishing you’ll be doing. Sharp, durable hooks are crucial for ensuring a good catch.
  • Sinkers: Split shot, egg sinkers, and bass casting sinkers are all useful for fishing on Lake Toho. They help in getting your bait to the desired depth.
  • Pliers or Forceps: Essential for removing hooks from fish safely and efficiently.
  • Net: A large, soft-mesh net is crucial for landing and handling fish without causing them harm.
  • First Aid Kit: Always have a basic first aid kit on hand to address any minor injuries or emergencies that may occur during your fishing trip.

Lake Toho Boat Ramps and Access Points

There are several convenient boat ramps and access points around Lake Toho, making it easy for anglers to get out on the water. Here are some of the main locations:

  • Kissimmee Lakefront Park: Located at 69 Lakeview Dr, Kissimmee, FL 34741, this park offers a large boat ramp, ample parking, and amenities such as restrooms and picnic tables, making it a popular choice for anglers.
  • Lake Toho Marina: Situated at 101 Lakeshore Blvd, Kissimmee, FL 34741, this marina provides a boat ramp, parking, and essential amenities like fuel, bait, and tackle, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your fishing adventure.
  • Big Toho Marina: Found at 3255 Boggy Creek Rd, Kissimmee, FL 34744, this marina offers a boat ramp, parking, and amenities such as fuel, bait, and tackle, making it a convenient starting point for your fishing trip.
  • Southport Park: Located at 200 E. Lakeshore Blvd, Kissimmee, FL 34741, this park features a small boat ramp, parking, and amenities like restrooms and picnic tables, providing a quieter access point to the lake.

These boat ramps and access points around Lake Toho ensure that anglers have easy and convenient access to the lake’s prime fishing spots. Be sure to check current conditions and regulations before launching your boat to ensure a safe and enjoyable fishing experience.

Seasonal Tips for Lake Toho Bass Fishing

Kissimmee Grass Line in Lake Toho
Summer Fishing Lake Toho

To make the most of your Lake Toho bass fishing experience, it’s essential to understand the best times for trophy bass fishing and how to adapt to the changing conditions during different seasons. Winter and spring are the optimal seasons for trophy bass fishing, while summer and fall are known for active feeding patterns and changing conditions.

In winter and spring, the water temperature reaches its highest daily or weekly levels, resulting in increased bass activity and making it the best time for trophy bass fishing. During summer and fall, the cooler and clearer water temperature results in fish being more active and feeding to prepare for the winter months.

Understanding these seasonal patterns can help you plan your Lake Toho fishing trip at the optimal time and equip you with the knowledge needed to adapt your fishing techniques for the best chances of success.

Winter and Spring: Peak Trophy Bass Season

The most favorable time to catch trophy bass in Lake Toho is between April and May in the winter and spring months. Utilizing speed worms, swim jigs, and flukes in pristine water over isolated vegetation can yield the best results.

By focusing your fishing efforts on these prime months and employing the most effective techniques, you can significantly increase your chances of reeling in that trophy bass you’ve been dreaming of.

Summer and Fall: Active Feeding and Changing Patterns

During the summer and fall months, bass on Lake Toho tend to move out of shallow areas in the Kissimmee grass or hydrilla that they inhabit during this period. This is the time to focus on active feeding patterns and adapt to changing conditions for a successful fishing trip.

Various active feeding patterns include surface feeding, mid-water feeding, and bottom feeding, each offering unique opportunities to catch different types of fish. By understanding these patterns and adjusting your techniques accordingly, you can make the most of your summer and fall fishing trips on Lake Toho.

Summary

In conclusion, Lake Toho offers a world-class bass fishing experience, with its renowned trophy bass, prime fishing locations, and effective techniques. By selecting the right guide, planning your trip, and understanding seasonal patterns, you can make the most of your Lake Toho fishing adventure. So grab your fishing gear, book a guide, and get ready to create unforgettable memories on the beautiful waters of Lake Toho.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the public boat ramp on Lake Toho?

You’ll find the Lake Tohopekaliga boat ramp at the Big Toho Marina located at 69 Lakeview Drive, Kissimmee, FL 34741 Big Toho Marina & Public Boat Ramp

Where is Big Toho Marina?

Big Toho Marina is located at the lake’s northern end in historic downtown Kissimmee. 69 Lakeview Drive, Kissimmee, FL 34741. The marina is also known for the delicious hamburgers it flips up daily at the on-site grill. You’ll also find a full line of bait and tackle. Big Toho Marina Location

What is the best time of year to fish Lake Toho Florida?

The best time of year to fish Lake Toho in Florida is during the cooler months of fall and winter (October–March). Bass tend to be most active during this time and the colder water temperatures can trigger baitfish to bunch up, making them easier targets for largemouth bass.
This makes the cooler months the ideal time to fish Lake Toho for bass. Anglers should take advantage of the cooler temperatures and the increased activity of the bass to maximize their chances of success.

Where can I fish in Lake Toho?

You can fish at North Steer Beach, Brown’s Point and Goblet’s Cove on Lake Toho for bass, as well as in Shingle Creek and St. Cloud Canal when water flow is present.
Eight man-made fish attractors also offer excellent fishing opportunities in the deeper areas of the lake during summer months.

What is the best time of year for trophy bass fishing on Lake Toho?

The ideal time to go trophy bass fishing on Lake Toho is from February to May, with the peak season occurring during the spring months.

What are some effective lures and baits for bass fishing on Lake Toho?

For successful bass fishing on Lake Toho, anglers can find success with a variety of lures and baits such as Pippin8r Worms, topwater lures, jigs, plastic worms, and swimbaits.

What are some prime fishing locations on Lake Toho?

Anglers on Lake Toho can head to Big Grassy Island, Lanier Point, Browns Point, and the north shore for a successful fishing experience.
These areas are known for their abundance of bass, crappie, and bluegill. Anglers can also find catfish, gar, and other species in the lake.
The lake is also home to a variety of species.

Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s, Dick’s Sporting Goods Face Federal Price-Fixing Lawsuit

Bass Pro Shops, along with its affiliate Cabela’s, is among several large retailers and manufacturers facing a federal class action lawsuit in Utah. The complaint accuses them of participating in a long-running conspiracy to fix prices in the archery and bowhunting market.

The lawsuit was filed by a Pennsylvania consumer and also names Dick’s Sporting Goods, Lancaster Archery Supply, and the Archery Trade Association (ATA) as defendants. The plaintiffs allege that these companies violated U.S. antitrust laws by using minimum advertised pricing (MAP) agreements to limit competition and artificially keep prices high.

According to the complaint, the Archery Trade Association, a Minnesota-based trade group representing more than 2,500 members, was instrumental in coordinating the alleged price-fixing scheme. The lawsuit claims that the defendants viewed price competition as a serious threat and worked together to enforce MAP policies across the industry. Products allegedly impacted include bows, arrows, arrowheads, and targets, with some items selling for hundreds of dollars.

Gary Smith Jr., an attorney with Hausfeld LLP representing the plaintiffs, stated that the alleged cartel has illegally inflated prices for American bowhunters and archers for over a decade. He added that the lawsuit is seeking to recover those overcharges on behalf of affected consumers.

The suit estimates that hundreds of thousands of consumers who purchased archery equipment since 2014 may be entitled to compensation. It seeks monetary damages and a court order to end the alleged anti-competitive practices.

Bass Pro Shops, which purchased Cabela’s in 2017, along with Dick’s Sporting Goods and the Archery Trade Association, have not publicly commented on the lawsuit. The case is filed as Joseph Santarlas v. Bowtech et al. in the U.S. District Court for the District of Utah.

This article includes reporting from Reuters.

You can access the full docket and filings for the lawsuit Joseph Santarlas v. Bowtech Inc. et al (Case No. 2:25-cv-00436) through the following public legal databases:

Disclaimer:
This article summarizes publicly available information and court filings related to the case Joseph Santarlas v. Bowtech Inc. et al, currently pending in the U.S. District Court for the District of Utah. Portions of this article include reporting originally published by Reuters. All parties named are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise in a court of law. This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

MLF Bass Pro Tour Stage 5 Kentucky Lake

Calvert City, Kentucky — June 5-8, 2025

Calvert City next week, where Major League Fishing’s Bass Pro Tour will make its long-awaited debut on Kentucky Lake for Lowrance Stage 5 Presented by Mercury. For four days, 66 of the best bass anglers in the world will compete for a $150,000 top prize, crucial Angler of the Year points, and spots in the Heavy Hitters all-star event and REDCREST 2026 championship.

Tournament Updates

Updates will be updated as they are available.

About BPT Stage 5 Kentucky Lake

This stop on the Bass Pro Tour has been highly anticipated, not only because of the high stakes on the line, but because Kentucky Lake itself is in the middle of a well-documented resurgence. After years of battling invasive species and struggling fish populations, the lake has rebounded. Subsequently, it’s drawn some of the sport’s biggest names eager to showcase what these waters now offer.

A Homecoming for Several Pros

Among the 66 pros, a handful bring deep familiarity with Kentucky Lake. Jake Lawrence, from nearby Paris, Tennessee, comes in with a pair of recent Toyota Series victories on these waters in 2023 and 2024. He’s joined by Kentucky natives John Hunter (Shelbyville) and Bradley Roy (Lancaster), both looking to leverage their home state advantage.

Lawrence, who’s having a breakout rookie season on the Bass Pro Tour with four top-10 finishes in five events, sees this stop as a chance to show the national audience what Kentucky Lake has become.

“I’m really looking forward to finally being able to showcase the new Kentucky Lake on a level like the Bass Pro Tour,” Lawrence said. “Our lake has gone through cycles over many years, and we’re currently on the high end of the upswing.”

According to Lawrence, both largemouth and smallmouth bass populations have made significant comebacks in recent years. With many fish in strong year classes, anglers will have plenty of opportunities to target quality bass throughout the tournament.

Expect Heavy Limits

The event will feature MLF’s signature catch, weigh, immediate-release format, which means anglers will see live updates on SCORETRACKER® throughout the day. Every bass must weigh at least 1 pound, 8 ounces to be deemed scorable. With so many quality fish in the system, it’s very possible we’ll see anglers approach 60-pound totals on the strongest days. Lawrence estimates 35 to 45 pounds per day will likely be the benchmark to survive each round.

In recent years, Kentucky Lake has already produced its share of big bass:

  • Cole Floyd landed a 9-pound, 9-ounce giant
  • Jake Lawrence himself caught an 8-8
  • Matt Becker reeled in a 7-8

Those kinds of fish only fuel the excitement for what could happen during Stage 5.

Community Impact

Beyond the fishing, the event brings major economic benefit to the region. Elena Blevins, Executive Director of the Kentucky Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau, emphasized the importance of hosting national events like this:

Jeremy Whitmore, Executive Director of the Calloway County Tourist Commission, echoed those sentiments.

Full Fan Experience

While much of the action will play out online through MLFNOW!® livestreams and SCORETRACKER® updates at MajorLeagueFishing.com, fans will also have plenty of ways to get involved in person:

  • Launch & Takeout
    • Launch: 7:15 a.m. CT daily at Kentucky Dam Marina (466 Marina Drive, Gilbertsville, KY)
    • Takeout: 3:45 p.m. CT at the same location
  • Pre-Tournament Meet & Greet
    • June 4, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Jet-A-Marina (4616 US-62, Calvert City, KY)
    • 19 pros will be onsite signing autographs and taking photos
  • MLF Fan Experience & Watch Party
    • June 7-8, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Kentucky Dam Swim Beach (Gilbertsville, KY)
    • Live coverage on the MLFNOW! big screen, food, live music, hourly giveaways, and kids’ activities
    • The first 50 kids each day will receive a free Abu Garcia rod and reel

The Format

The tournament structure will feature two days of qualifying rounds. After Friday, the top angler automatically advances to Championship Sunday. Anglers ranked 2nd through 20th battle it out in Saturday’s Knockout Round, where weights are zeroed. From there, only the top nine move on to the Championship Round, where one final day of fishing will determine who takes home $150,000.

For Kentucky Lake, this is more than just a tournament — it’s a statement that one of America’s most iconic fisheries is officially back in the national spotlight.

Tailgate Tour Grassroots Tournament at Lake of the Ozarks

Osage Beach, MO – May 19, 2025 – The Tailgate Tour Grassroots Tournament Series, powered by iKon Boats and presented by Mercury Outboards, rolls into its second stop at the legendary Lake of the Ozarks on June 7, 2025, promising big payouts, fierce competition, and grassroots bass fishing at its finest.

Launching from Public Beach 2 (PB2) in Osage Beach, Missouri. Hosted by iKon Boats, this no-pro, grassroots tournament brings weekend anglers the kind of high-stakes action typically reserved for the big leagues.

This Ultimate Angler sanctioned event features a guaranteed $10,000 first-place payout, 100% payback of all entry fees, and the chance for teams to qualify for the no-entry-fee Championship, where a ready-to-fish 2026 iKon VLX20 awaits the grand champions.

Event Details:

  • Event Name: iKon Boats Tailgate Tour – Lake of the Ozarks
  • Presented by: Mercury Outboards
  • Date: Saturday, June 7, 2025
  • Launch Location: Public Beach 2 (PB2), Osage Beach, MO
  • Entry Fee: $200/team
  • Annual Membership Fee: $95/team (only one membership required per team)
  • Team Format: 2 Anglers per team
  • Payout: $10,000 guaranteed for 1st place
  • Payback: 100% of entry fees
  • Field Limit: 200 Boats
  • Launch Order: Determined by order of registration
  • Pre-Tournament Meeting: Held 30 minutes prior to take-off

Why Fish the Tailgate Tour?

  • No pros allowed – Strict eligibility rules ensure a level playing field for grassroots anglers
  • Fish one event or all four – Qualify for the championship by finishing in the Top 5 of just one qualifier
  • Open to all boat brands – You don’t have to fish from an iKon to win
  • Fun off the water too – Raffles, food, demo rides, and more at every stop
  • Championship Perks – All 20 teams earn cash or prizes, plus a special $10,000 “Beat Wheeler” side pot if you win the championship and out-fish Jacob Wheeler

Championship Stakes:

Qualify for the Championship by placing Top 5 in any of the four qualifiers. The championship event features:

  • No entry fee
  • Cash & prizes awarded to all 20 qualifying teams
  • Grand prize: 2026 iKon VLX20 bass boat, ready to fish
  • BONUS: Win the Championship and beat pro angler Jacob Wheeler to earn a $10,000 side pot

Registration:

Anglers must register through Fishing Chaos:
https://share.fishingchaos.com/club/aRbh9zL4s5kL8Hl0mgNr

NOTE: Entry fees are due by 11:59 PM the night before the event. Late entries may be accepted up to 2 hours before launch and will incur a $25 late fee.

About the Tailgate Tour:

Built for weekend warriors, the iKon Boats Tailgate Tour Grassroots Tournament Series celebrates the heart and hustle of everyday anglers. With strict rules excluding professional competitors, and a generous payout structure including contingency bonuses and prizes, this is a series where local heroes rise and anyone with the skills and drive can win big.

Media Contact:
Chuck Pippin
[email protected]
https://ikonboats.com/tgt/

Tailgate Tour Hits Kentucky Lake Amid Tornados

May 17, 2025 – Kentucky Lake, KY

Just hours after EF2 tornadoes tore through Western Kentucky, the Tailgate Tour stormed into Kentucky Lake with 200 boats, over $15,800 in payouts, and a crowd that showed up with more than just rods and reels they showed up with heart.

The Tailgate Tour event was a Ultimate Angler Sanctioned event. The tournament was more than a bass tournament, it was a community comeback story. On May 16th, violent tornadoes touched down in Casky and Allegre, leaving paths of destruction in Christian and Todd Counties with winds peaking at 120 mph. Yet, just 12 hours later, anglers launched into the morning mist of Kentucky Lake, ready to compete, and bring some normalcy back to a shaken region.

The Numbers Don’t Lie: A $15,800 Payday and $4,500 in Raffle Prizes

With 100% payout and more than $4,500 in raffle prizes awarded, the Tailgate Tour delivered in every way. Anglers from across the region vied for top honors, a slot in the no-entry-fee Ultimate Angler Championship, and a shot at a fully rigged 2026 iKon VLX20 bass boat and a chance to beat Jacob Wheeler for an additional $10,000.

Top 5 Teams Qualifying for the Ultimate Angler Championship:

PlaceAngler(s)Weight (lbs)
1stLevi Kohl21.11
2ndMeisenhelter / Holguin21.10
3rdMorgan / Knight20.96
4thGruner / Gruner20.41
5thGoldsberry / Cantley20.12

Each of these teams not only brought heavy bags to the scales but now move on to fish against the Jacob Wheeler with zero entry fees and one massive prize boat waiting.

Big Bass Honors – $500 on the Line

The Big Bass payout saw Fooshee & Kell bring in a chunky 5.39-pounder, edging out the Dowdy duo’s 5.04-pound bass. The top 10 big bass brought excitement to the weigh-in stage, with dozens crowding around to see who’d take the $500 bounty.

A Field That Fought Hard

The field capped at 200 boats, with strong performances across the leaderboard. Weights ran deep into the top 30, with bags over 15 pounds barely cracking the top 25. This is a testament to how Kentucky Lake is fishing this spring.

| 10th Place | Bornstein / Mullins – 18.10 lbs |
| 20th Place | Smalljaw – 16.33 lbs |
| 30th Place | Clary / Dixon – 14.75 lbs |
| 40th Place | White / Moore – 12.47 lbs |
| 50th Place | Chambers / Rowe Chambers – 6.87 lbs |

From Tornadoes to $10,000 Winner

The timing couldn’t have been more surreal. On May 16th, the evening skies turned dark and windy over western Kentucky:

  • Casky, KY: EF2, 10.1-mile track, 118 mph winds
  • Allegre, KY: EF2, 6-mile track, 120 mph winds

Despite the destruction the local angling community pushed forward. The Tailgate Tour became more than a tournament. It became a celebration of resilience, a chance for outdoor therapy, and an event lifted spirits while delivering world-class competition.

Looking Ahead: The Championship Awaits

For the top five teams, the road doesn’t end at Kentucky Lake. They’ve earned the right to compete at the Ultimate Angler Championship, where entry is free and the stakes couldn’t be higher: a brand-new, tournament-ready 2026 iKon VLX20 bass boat.

The Next Tailgate Tour Event June 7, 2025

he iKon Boats Tailgate Tour rolls into Missouri for Stop #2 presented by Mercury at Lake of the Ozarks on Saturday, June 7th, 2025, and anticipation is high. Backed by Ultimate Angler and powered by Mercury Outboards, this grassroots tournament series is turning up the heat with one of the most anticipated stops on the calendar.

With a $10,000 guaranteed first-place payout and 100% payback on entry fees, this event promises high stakes and even higher competition.

Lake of the Ozarks Tournament Information and Registration

Knoxville Writer Jacob Blake Previews Major League Fishing’s Habitat Build and Fan Event in East Tennessee

Harrison, TN – Major League Fishing (MLF) is bringing more than elite angling to East Tennessee this weekend. As part of its O’Reilly Auto Parts Stage 4 competition, MLF is partnering with Minn Kota, Kubota, and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) for a two-day community-focused initiative featuring a public meet-and-greet and a fish habitat restoration project.

Jacob Blake, a writer for the outdoor publication Guide Fishing, will be on-site to cover the events and provide readers with an inside look at how professional anglers are connecting with fans and giving back to local waters.

The outreach begins Friday, May 2, with a fan-focused meet-and-greet at Cigars International in East Ridge, Tennessee. From 6 to 8 p.m., attendees aged 21 and over are invited to meet MLF pros Brandon Coulter, Fred Roumbanis, and Terry Scroggins for an evening of cigars, conversation, and behind-the-scenes insights into the world of competitive fishing.

The following morning, on Saturday, May 3, the focus shifts to conservation as MLF pros join youth and adult volunteers at the Wolftever Boat Ramp in Harrison, TN, for a hands-on habitat restoration project. In partnership with TWRA, participants will construct and deploy artificial habitats, including MossBack Conservation Cubes and Reed Mats, designed to enhance fish populations and improve long-term sustainability of East Tennessee’s fisheries. Support from Kubota USA and Lowe’s will assist in transporting and installing the structures.

“For Guide Fishing readers, this is a chance to witness how the sport of bass fishing is evolving,” said Jacob Blake, Writer at Guide Fishing. “It’s not just about what happens on the water, it’s about who shows up for the lakes, the fans, and the next generation of anglers.”

The O’Reilly Auto Parts Stage 4 event runs May 1–4 on Lake Chickamauga and Nickajack Lake, with 66 of the world’s top anglers competing for a $150,000 top prize and points toward the 2026 REDCREST Championship. Hosted by Chattanooga and Fish Tennessee, the event underscores the region’s importance to competitive fishing and outdoor culture.

For ongoing coverage and post-event insights, visit www.guidefishing.com.

Bass Pro Tour Stage 4 at Lake Chickamauga and Nickajack Lake

BPT Stage 4 Day-by-Day Tournament Updates & Standings

Bass Pro Tour Day 1 – Qualifying Lake Chickamauga

Bass Pro Tour Day 2 – Qualifying Chickamauga Lake

Bass Pro Tour Day 3 – Knockout Round Nickajack Lake

Bass Pro Tour Day 4 – Championship Round

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – April 22, 2025 – The Major League Fishing Bass Pro Tour rolls into Tennessee next week for one of the most anticipated events of the season. From May 1–4, the spotlight turns to the iconic waters of Lake Chickamauga and Nickajack Lake as Stage 4, presented by OPTIMA Batteries and sponsored by O’Reilly Auto Parts, kicks off in Chattanooga.

This four-day event will showcase 66 of the top anglers in the world, all chasing the $150,000 top prize, valuable Fishing Clash Angler of the Year points, and qualification spots for Heavy Hitters and REDCREST 2026.

Bass Pro Tour Stage 4 Tournament Overview

Dustin Connell Winner REDCREST 2025
Dustin Connell Winner REDCREST 2025 | Image By: Garrick Dixon Courtesy of MLF

When Bass Pro Tour anglers last hit the water, Dustin Connell was hoisting another REDCREST trophy just below Nickajack Dam on the upper end of Lake Guntersville. Now, the season picks back up this time just a few miles upriver for O’Reilly Auto Parts Stage 4 Presented by OPTIMA Batteries, bringing the field of 66 pros to two Tennessee River fisheries that promise plenty of curveballs: Lake Chickamauga and Nickajack Lake.

Chickamauga needs no introduction. One of the most storied tournament lakes in America, it’s hosted Bass Pro Tour events in 2019 and 2021. But there’s a twist this time: only the Qualifying Rounds will take place on Chickamauga. The Knockout and Championship Rounds will shift to Nickajack a smaller, more river-like lake tucked between Chickamauga and Guntersville offering an unknown element that could shake up the standings.

Lake Chickamauga & Nickajack Lake Fishing Report

Expect Multiple Patterns to Shine at Lake Chickamauga and Nickajack for Bass Pro Tour Stage 4

Lake Chickamauga Fishing Report – April 28, 2025

Current Conditions:

  • Water Temperature: Approximately 65°F
  • Weather: Partly sunny with highs in the low 80s°F
  • Water Clarity: Moderate

Chickamauga stretches nearly 60 miles, covering more than 35,000 acres of prime bass habitat. But the real question on every angler’s mind is simple: What phase are the bass in?

Local hammers Michael Neal and Wesley Strader both predict bass will be in every stage of the spawn prespawn, spawning, and postspawn though they differ slightly on which phase will dominate.

Neal believes most of the action will be shallow. Some bass may be starting to slide offshore toward the famous Tennessee River ledges, but for the most part, he expects the best fishing to happen up shallow, targeting fish on beds or those chasing spawning bluegill and shad.

Last year’s Toyota Series event on Chickamauga backs him up. Banks Shaw won by a landslide targeting offshore postspawn bass but it was a rare bite no one else found. Most top finishers caught fish shallow, a style better suited to the Bass Pro Tour’s every-fish-counts format.

However, Strader thinks there could be more postspawn activity this year due to an unusually warm spring and higher water levels since late March. That might mean a stronger ledge bite earlier than normal.

In short: viewers can expect a mix of strategies from bed fishing and bluegill chasing in the shallows, to a few anglers probing offshore ledges for big postspawn bass.

Chickamauga Techniques To Watch For

Chuck Pippin Rigging A Speed Worm
  • Shallow water techniques like bladed jigs, topwaters, and wacky worms will dominate.
  • Offshore anglers will reach for deep-diving crankbaits, big worms, flutter spoons, and hair jigs.
  • The ever-popular jighead minnow + forward-facing sonar combo will definitely make an appearance — although anglers are limited to using sonar just one period per day under new rules.

Heavy fishing pressure could push some competitors toward finesse tactics, but make no mistake Chickamauga is still the Land of Giants. Earlier this spring, multiple bass over 10 pounds hit the scales.

Both locals predict it’ll take around 30 pounds per day to crack the Top 20 and make it to the Knockout Round. Neal believes the top Qualifying Round angler could rack up 110–120 pounds.

Nickajack Lake Fishing Report – April 28, 2025

Current Conditions:

  • Water Temperature: Approximately 65°F
  • Weather: Partly sunny with highs in the low 80s°F
  • Water Clarity: Improving

The road to the trophy won’t end on Chickamauga. After the Qualifying Round, anglers who advance will switch gears and tackle Nickajack a very different beast.

This presents a major strategy question: Push hard for the Qualifying Round win (and an automatic spot in the Championship), or save energy and knowledge for Nickajack?

Practice time is limited, and even locals like Neal admit they have very little experience on Nickajack.

Strader, however, knows Nickajack well. He describes it as more river-like, with steeper banks, fewer shallow flats, and a healthy mix of largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass. Unlike Chickamauga which has lost a lot of its grass Nickajack still boasts heavy vegetation, offering plenty of options.

Expect grass to play a big role, with bass likely spread from the shoreline out to deeper grass lines.