Levi Kitchen Eyes Future in Bass Fishing

Levi Kitchen achieved a major milestone by winning the 2026 Monster Energy SMX 250 Class World Championship. At 25, the accomplished rider already considers another passion for the future—professional bass fishing.

A member of the Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki team, Kitchen is an avid angler who frequently enjoys spending his free time fishing. Despite having much left to accomplish in motocross, Kitchen shared in an exclusive interview with OutKick OutDoors his aspirations to participate in tournament fishing one day.

Earlier this year, Kitchen took part in the Bassmaster Classic Celebrity Pro-Am. Teaming with professional angler Tristan McCormick, they did not lead the leaderboard, but Kitchen managed to catch a few fish and gain a deeper respect for the sport’s athletes. ‘It was amazing. Me and Tristan, we had a great time,’ Kitchen said. He found McCormick an excellent partner and friend despite not knowing him before the event.

McCormick, having familiarity with motocross through races at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch in Tennessee, was impressed by Kitchen’s fishing skills. ‘He actually said I wasn’t like some who claim they can fish a bit, but don’t really know anything,’ Kitchen recalled.

Participating in the event gave Kitchen insight into the rigorous demands of professional bass fishing. ‘It was an eye-opener,’ he noted. ‘I’ve always said racing is my focus now, but fishing professionally is something I’d like to try. It requires significant time commitment, respect for the sport, and learning.’

Growing up in Washington state, Kitchen developed his passion for the outdoors early, influenced by discovering an old fly rod around adolescence. Today, his primary fishing interest is bass fishing, especially in Florida, though he maintains a tradition of steelhead fishing in Washington with family and friends.

Kitchen cherishes fishing as a counterbalance to the high-stakes world of motocross. He regularly discusses fishing with fellow rider Malcolm Stewart, noting the calming presence fishing offers in contrast to motocross adrenaline.

Though Kitchen values the competitive aspect of fishing, he emphasizes the enjoyment and camaraderie it brings. During the Bassmaster Classic, he mingled with athletes like NFL Hall of Famer Randy Moss, appreciating the laid-back atmosphere unique to fishing events.

Despite his interest in fishing, Kitchen has no immediate plans to leave motocross. As the 250 SMX World Champion and instrumental in ending a Pro Circuit Kawasaki championship drought, he is focused on a long racing career. Recovering from a 2025 crash, Kitchen is determined to race strategically, aiming for Supercross and Pro Motocross titles in 2027, and hopes to advance beyond the 250 class.

While Kitchen remains committed to motocross, when retirement arrives, a transition to professional bass fishing seems likely, ensuring he remains engaged in a passion he loves.

For more on fishing and outdoors, follow OutKick OutDoors on Instagram and TikTok.