Only 4 of 10 Events Will Not Be FFS
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — A coin flip determined which events will allow forward-facing sonar (FFS). The new format, announced earlier this week, limits the use of FFS to a maximum of five regular-season Elite tournaments.
The results of the random coin flips created a mix of technology-driven and traditional fishing events:
- Lake Guntersville — Non-FFS
- Lake Martin — FFS
- Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway — Non-FFS
- Arkansas River — FFS
- Lake Murray — FFS
- Santee Cooper Lakes — Non-FFS
- Pasquotank River/Albemarle Sound — FFS
- Lake Champlain — Non-FFS
- St. Lawrence River — FFS
The 2026 Bassmaster Classic will remain an “all-tech” event, allowing forward-facing sonar since all qualifiers earned their berths under the existing rules.
Elite Series pros Gerald Swindle, Drew Benton, John Crews and Bryan Schmitt joined the live show and applauded the move. Swindle emphasized that the hybrid approach “keeps the sport grounded in tradition while still letting technology shine.” Benton added that the new format “will test versatility like never before,” while Crews noted that “fans are going to love the diversity of tactics showcased from one event to the next.” Schmitt may have summed it up best: "There's gonna be something to love for every fan out there."
“Forward-facing sonar has been a game-changer for the sport, but our anglers, members and fans asked us to find the right balance,” said B.A.S.S. CEO Chase Anderson earlier this week when announcing the rule. “The coin-flip format was designed to create transparency in choosing the venues, parity in fishing styles, and to highlight a wide range of skills to keep Bassmaster competition exciting for everyone.”