Chickahominy river

The Major League Bass Anglers 2026 tournament season continues to showcase outstanding competition, great sportsmanship, and impressive catches across some of the region's best fisheries!

The season opened at Lake Anna, followed by Lake Chesdin and the legendary Potomac River. The fourth tournament took anglers to the historic Chickahominy River, where another competitive field battled it out for the top spot.

Fourth Tournament Champions: Jarvis & Perry put together an outstanding performance, claiming 1st Place with an impressive total weight of 16 lbs 39 oz. They also landed the tournament's Big Fish, tipping the scales at an incredible 6 lbs 57 oz, capping off a dominant day on the water.

With the win, Jarvis & Perry take home the MLBA Belt, adding their names to the list of tournament champions this season. As the season progresses, the race for Team of the Year continues to tighten, with every tournament becoming more important than the last.

Congratulations to Jarvis & Perry on an outstanding performance, and thank you to all of our members who continue to make each tournament a success. We look forward to seeing everyone at the next stop as the competition for the 2026 MLBA Championship continues! 

“Where passion meets the water!”
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anglerS spotlight

First MLBA Open Tournament a Great Success!

The Major League Bass Anglers hosted our first Open Tournament of the 2026 season on 28 June 2026 on the Potomac River, and it was an outstanding day of fishing!

We had a great turnout with 14 boaters competing, creating a fun, competitive atmosphere from launch to weigh-in. It was exciting to see both familiar faces and new competitors come together to enjoy a day on one of the region's premier bass fisheries.

Congratulations to J.R. & Scott, who put together an outstanding performance to claim 1st Place and take home the tournament victory!

A huge thank you to everyone who participated and helped make our first Open Tournament a success. We appreciate your support and look forward to seeing everyone at future MLBA events.

Coming Up Next!

Our next MLBA Open Tournament will be held on 12 September 2026 at Lake Anna.

Whether you're a returning competitor or looking to fish your first MLBA event, we'd love to have you join us for another day of great competition, camaraderie, and bass fishing.

tips & tricks

July Fishing Tips & Tricks

“Beat the Heat – Find the Bass”

July is one of the hottest months of the year, and bass adjust their behavior accordingly. As water temperatures rise, fish become more predictable, seeking deeper water, shade, and oxygen-rich areas. The key to success is fishing smart, adapting to the conditions, and taking advantage of the low-light feeding windows.

1. Fish Early and Late

The best bite is usually around sunrise and sunset.

  • Start fishing before first light if possible.
  • Focus on shallow feeding areas during the first few hours of daylight.
  • Return to those same areas in the evening as temperatures cool.

2. Don't Miss the Topwater Bite

July offers some of the most exciting topwater fishing of the year.
Try:

  • Walking baits
  • Buzzbaits
  • Poppers
  • Frogs around lily pads and grass

Low-light conditions and calm water often produce explosive strikes.

3. Target Shade and Cover

As the sun gets higher, bass move into shade to conserve energy.
Focus on:

  • Boat docks
  • Overhanging trees
  • Laydowns
  • Grass mats
  • Bridge pilings

Pitch jigs, Texas-rigged worms, or creature baits into the thickest cover you can reach.

4. Go Deep During Midday

When the shallow bite slows, move offshore.
Look for:

  • Main lake points
  • Ledges
  • Brush piles
  • Humps
  • Creek channel edges

Deep-diving crankbaits, Carolina rigs, football jigs, and drop shots are excellent choices.

5. Follow the Bait

Summer bass rarely stray far from food.
Use your electronics to locate:

  • Schools of baitfish
  • Suspended fish
  • Underwater structure

If you don't see bait, keep moving until you do.

6. Wind Is Your Friend

Wind creates current and pushes baitfish into feeding areas.
Target:

  • Wind-blown points
  • Grass edges
  • Riprap banks
  • Main lake pockets

Moving baits like spinnerbaits, swimbaits, and crankbaits often shine in these conditions.

7. Watch for Summer Storms

Cloud cover before an afternoon storm can trigger a feeding frenzy.

  • Fish aggressively as the weather changes.
  • Keep an eye on the forecast and head to safety immediately if lightning is nearby.

8. Stay Safe in the Heat

July heat can be dangerous.

  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Wear lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing and sunscreen.
  • Always wear your life jacket when the big motor is running, and use your engine kill switch.

💡 Pro Tip of the Month

July rewards anglers who adapt to the heat. Fish the cooler hours, target shade and deep structure during the day, and always keep an eye on the bait. Stay patient, stay hydrated, and enjoy every moment on the water.