The Champions Tournament in Old Hickory Lake: A Historic Bass Fishing Event

The Champions tournament marks a significant event in bass fishing, drawing sixty top professional anglers to Middle Tennessee. The competition spans three days on Old Hickory Lake, with a prize pool of $3.25 million, including an unprecedented $1.25 million first-place reward.

Historic Showdown Between Leagues

This tournament is unique as it pits 30 anglers from the Bassmaster Elite Series against 30 from Major League Fishing’s Bass Pro Tour. The goal is to determine who truly reigns supreme in professional bass fishing. Jacob Wheeler, a star in Major League Fishing, emphasized the importance of this event, likening it to a championship meeting of different sports leagues.

“It would have to be number one,” said Wheeler. “The money’s one thing, but it’s the meaning of being the best for that year.”

Competition Structure

The tournament begins on Thursday at 7:30 a.m. CT with the anglers split into Team Stars (Bassmaster) and Team Stripes (MLF). They will vie for team honors over the first two days. The top 15 individual competitors will then advance to Saturday’s final round, where weights will reset, and the top prize will be decided.

Additionally, two amateurs, Eric Giessing and Kyle Carr, will compete alongside the pros, having secured their spots through a sweepstakes.

A Mix of Experience and Youth

Team Stripes captain Zack Birge is confident in his team’s advantage due to experience. He believes the veterans possess a broad array of traditional techniques, contrasting the younger anglers’ reliance on modern electronics.

“The experience definitely does play a role,” noted Wheeler on the veterans’ advantage.

Bassmaster Angler of the Year Trey McKinney, representing the younger contingent, remains unfazed by the competition. He considers all anglers equal once on the water.

Challenges of Old Hickory Lake

Competitors face tough conditions on Old Hickory Lake, characterized by low water levels and minimal current. McKinney notes these challenges as a potential equalizer, possibly enabling an amateur victory.

The use of forward-facing sonar introduces another strategic element. Available only on certain days, it adds complexity to the competition.

Drew Gill, an MLF pro and LiveScope expert, highlights its potential impact on the outcome.

“That intel from seeing underwater is just so darn valuable,” Gill commented.

Managing High Stakes

With significant money at stake, competitors must handle the pressure. Wheeler stresses controlling emotions as crucial for success in such high-stakes events.

McKinney dreams of more than a trophy. A victory offers retirement-level rewards.

“First thing I’m doing, heading to the beach,” McKinney shared.

OutKick OutDoors provides exclusive coverage, offering readers interviews and insights from the event. Follow along for updates and behind-the-scenes content through social media platforms.

Amber Harding is a writer for OutKick.