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Think You Can Beat Me at Bassmaster Fantasy Fishing in 2026?

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If you’ve ever played Bassmaster Fantasy Fishing and wondered why you never seem to crack the top of the leaderboard—or win any prizes—you’re not alone. The truth is, most fantasy fishing players make the same handful of mistakes every single season.

Before we talk leagues, prizes, or how to beat me (👀), you need to understand how the game actually works and where most players go wrong. Fix these mistakes, and you instantly give yourself a real edge.

Below are the five most common mistakes that tank otherwise great fantasy fishing seasons—and how to avoid them in 2026.

The 5 Biggest Fantasy Fishing Mistakes

1. Missing Lineups (The Season Killer)

This is the fastest way to ruin your year. One missed lineup equals a zero—and a zero usually means your season is over.

Pro tip: As soon as lineups open, immediately fill out a quick gut-pick lineup and enter a tiebreaker. You can always tweak it later, but at least you’re protected from a total zero.

Consistency over the season matters way more than nailing one perfect event.

2. Overthinking Your Buckets

In the traditional Fantasy Fishing game, it’s tempting to overanalyze every bucket.

  • Picking all favorites (chalk) means you have the same lineup as everyone else
  • Going all dark horses usually gets you burned

The key is a balanced approach—mixing solid, reliable picks with selective low-percentage anglers. Avoid extremes.

3. Chasing Hype Anglers

Every season has hype picks—anglers everyone suddenly loves because of recent buzz or social media chatter.

Hype doesn’t always translate to results, especially if the fishery doesn’t match that angler’s strengths. Understanding the lake, river, or fishery matters more than hype.

4. Not Planning Your Season

This mistake really shows up in Drain the Lake.

If you’re just picking anglers week to week without a season-long plan, you’re almost guaranteed to waste your best anglers at the wrong events.

Fantasy fishing rewards planning—not emotion.

5. Not Understanding the Fisheries

Bassmaster doesn’t fish the same bodies of water every year—and different lakes reward very different skill sets.

Knowing whether an event is on:

  • A river system
  • A shallow grass lake
  • A deep clear reservoir

…can make or break your picks.

The 3 Bassmaster Fantasy Fishing Game Modes Explained

Before you can win, you need to know how each game works.

Pick ‘Em (Best for New Players)

  • Week-to-week matchups
  • Pick which angler finishes higher
  • Fast, simple, and fun

The matchups are intentionally designed—AOY contenders, similar anglers, locals vs. locals. Knowing basic angler history and fishery tendencies gives you an edge.

Traditional Fantasy Fishing (RAPALA Game)

This is the classic format:

  • Bucket-based lineups (A, B, C, D)
  • Ownership percentages
  • Picks change every event

Early in the season, buckets are preset. Later, they shift toward Angler of the Year standings.

Key strategy:

  • Avoid full chalk lineups
  • Avoid all longshots
  • Focus on avoiding zero or bomb weeks

Longevity beats flash. The biggest prizes are at the end of the season.

Drain the Lake (The Thinking Person’s Game)

This is the long game.

  • You can only use each angler once all season
  • Bonus points for picking winners

The goal is simple:

Use each angler at the event where they are most likely to have their best finish of the year.

Even if an angler finishes 80th most of the season, catching them during their one Top 10 can be massive.

This is why season-long planning is critical.

Why Season Planning Matters (Real Example)

Imagine burning a favorite angler early in the year—say at Guntersville—just because you’re excited.

Later, that same angler dominates a better-suited fishery and wins… and you can’t use them.

That’s how championships are lost.

The Fantasy Fishing Planning Tool I Use

To solve this, I built a season-planning spreadsheet that I’ve used for years.

It allows you to:

  • See the entire season laid out by event
  • Track which anglers are available
  • Prevent accidental duplicate picks
  • Separate Classic picks from regular-season picks

I share this tool with channel members and anyone who signs up for it. It’s designed to save time, reduce mistakes, and maximize points.

If you want to win your group, brag to your buddies, or beat me outright—this tool helps.

Join the “Beat HellaBass” Fantasy Fishing Group

If you want to test your skills against serious players, join the Beat HellaBass Group—the largest private Bassmaster Fantasy Fishing group for the past several seasons.

Prizes Include:

  • Every Event Winners (Traditional + Drain the Lake):
  • Season-Long Winners (Each Game Mode):
    • $100 Omnia Fishing gift card
    • Doubles to $200 if you’re an Omnia Pro member

Winners also get bragging rights and shoutouts in future HellaBass videos.

How to Join (3 Easy Steps)

  1. Go to Bassmaster Fantasy Fishing
  2. Search for the Beat HellaBass group
  3. Enter the password: HELLABASS10

That password also gives you 10% off at Omnia Fishing, anytime you want.

There is no cost to join the fantasy group.

Why I Use Omnia Fishing for Fantasy Research

This isn’t about buying tackle—it’s about saving time.

I use Omnia’s:

  • Lake maps
  • Historical reports
  • Lure trends
  • Fishery breakdowns

…to understand each event better and gain an edge in all three fantasy games.

These same tools also help you become a better angler on the water.

Final Thoughts

Fantasy Fishing isn’t about perfection—it’s about consistency, planning, and avoiding mistakes.

If you want weekly lake breakdowns, lineup reminders, and strategy help:

Good luck… and I’ll see you at the top of the leaderboard. 🎣

Newsletter

🎣 HellaBass November Bites – Tips, Deals & My Fall Bass Hunts

Hey Visor Gang,
Fall bass fishing is in full swing in much of the country but coming to an abrupt end in the upper midwest. Last week the water temps were 49 degrees and we have below freezing temps in the forecast. Hopefully there are a few more trips chasing brown fish before we freeze up here in Minnesota.

Tip of the Month

“The Jig That’s Fooling Fall Bass”

  • Fall bass love a slow, subtle presentation. I’ve been having great success with a 3/8 oz BassTEK jig, fished slowly both deep and shallow with a new Yamamoto Shinobi Grub, Speed Craw or your favorite trailer.
  • 80% plus of my 6lb bass have come on a jig in October or November in Minnesota.

Monthly Omnia Discount Code

  • CODE: OMHB8AQQ
  • Get 10% off your next Omnia purchase all November long.
  • Shop Omnia →

Industry News / Deals

Featured Video

“I SOLD MY BOAT”

Hella Humor

  • “Bass fishing: 90% waiting, 10% yelling at your lure.”

Until next time….

Tight lines,
Rich – HellaBass
For Daily HellaBass content Follow me on [YouTube] | [Instagram] | [TikTok] | [Facebook]

Advanced Bass Tactics, Bass Basics, Product Reviews, Sponsors

🎣 Wacky Rig Hack: A Better Way to Use Chartreuse Without Overdoing It

If you’re like a lot of bass anglers, you’ve probably tried stick worms with pre-molded chartreuse tails. They’re eye-catching for sure—but sometimes they’re a little too loud, especially in clear water. In a recent video, HellaBass breaks down a smarter, more customizable way to add just the right amount of flash without overdoing it—and it could make a big difference in your hookup and catch rates.

🌟 Why Pre-Molded Chartreuse Tails Fall Short

While bright chartreuse tails can help trigger strikes, they often look unnatural in clear conditions or when fish are keying in on more subtle prey. Instead of buying multiple packs of worms with different levels of brightness, HellaBass recommends creating your own custom chartreuse accents.

✍️ The Simple Dye Trick That Makes a Big Difference

Using chartreuse dye pens or liquid dyes, you can add color to just the middle section of your soft plastic worm. This creates a subtle glow that still grabs attention underwater but doesn’t scream “fake bait.” It’s also way more versatile—you can do this with any color worm you already have.

“It’s a space-saver, a money-saver, and it looks more natural in the water,” says HellaBass.

🔄 Make Your Worms Last Longer with Arsenal Wacky Bands

Another secret weapon? The new chartreuse and clear wacky bands from Arsenal Fishing. These bands are made for both wacky and neko rigging, and they offer a ton of benefits:

  • Keep your hook centered for better hookup ratios
  • Prevent tail-nipping from small fish
  • Extend the life of your soft plastics
  • Add a splash of visibility with the chartreuse version

In the video, HellaBass walks through how to use the Arsenal Wacky Tool to easily rig your worm with one of these bands. It’s fast, clean, and works with any style of worm.

💡 Why This Hack Works

Customizing your wacky rig this way gives you the best of both worlds—natural presentation with just the right pop, and gear that lasts longer so you’re not constantly restocking your tackle bag. Whether you’re new to bass fishing or a seasoned pro, this technique helps you fish smarter, not harder.

🧰 Gear Featured in the Video

✅ Arsenal Wacky Tool & Bands (Save 15% with code HellaBass15)
✅ Arsenal Bands on Tackle Warehouse
✅ Arsenal Gear on Amazon

💬 Got a favorite wacky rig color combo? Tried this hack yourself? Drop your thoughts in the comments or share your pics—let’s talk bass.

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Join Us for our Dick Hiley St Jude Bass Fishing Classic St Fundraiser Event!

We are thrilled to announce our participation in the annual Dick Hiley St Jude Bass Fishing Classic. It is a beloved tradition that brings together fishing enthusiasts from all over. The event supports a great cause in St Jude and their great work in Children’s’ cancer research and treatment. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, and we can’t wait to see you there!

Dane Vocelka and I have set our team goal to raise $6,000+ to do our part. The video below shares our excitement and goals for this event.

Why You Should Support: The Dick Hiley Bass Fishing Classic is more than just a fishing tournament; it’s a community celebration. As a fishing community we are hoping to have a record setting event & raise over $1 Million to support St Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Here are a ways you can support us and the event:

  1. Support a Worthy Cause: You can donate direct to St Jude on our behalf via our fundraising page. All proceeds from the event will go towards St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, helping to advance research and treatment for childhood cancer. Click Here to Donate, every dollar helps!
  2. Exciting Auctions: We are running a series of outdoor and fishing related auctions throughout the month of April via eBay with 100% of all money goes direct to St Jude. Click here to see the auctions & follow along. Auctions will be for fishing tackle, gear, collectible fishing memorabilia, custom painted lures, PowerHouse lithium battery, fishing experiences and more.
  3. LiveStream Event: Tell your fishing friends and family, April 23rd 8pm central, Dane and I will be hosting a Live Stream event on YouTube where you can hang out, make live donations and win great prizes to support St Jude. Here is the link to set reminder for the Live Event.
  4. SHARE: Everyone’s situation is different, but we can all afford the time to spread the word and share this post or video with a friends or social media. Thanks!

Spread the Word: Help us spread the word about the Dick Hiley Bass Fishing Classic! Share this post with your friends and family, and follow us on social media for updates and announcements. St. Jude is a leading pediatric treatment and research facility dedicated to finding cures for catastrophic diseases, particularly leukemia and other cancers.

Event Details:

  • Date: May 2-4, 2025
  • Location: Wabasha, MN – Mississippi River

We look forward to seeing you at the event and making this year’s fundraiser the best one yet!

List of eBay Auctions:
HellaBass Fishing Experience on the Water
PowerHouse Lithium 36v Trolling Motor Battery
Tackle Kraft Custom Painted Crankbaits
Arsenal Tackle Packs
Horseshoe Custom Painted OG Wiggle Warts
Bass Fishing Books
Taddo Customs Eon Glide
DC Swimbaits
HellaBass Jersey
Misc fishing tackle
More to come……

List of Live Stream Prizes:
Arsenal Prize Packs
Dobyns Fishing Reel
DC Swimbaits
Custom Painted Crankbaits
Strike Force Fish Attractant
BassTEK Jig Packages
More to come….

Bass Boat Corner, Top Lists

8 Must-Have Items for Your Boat (That You Probably Don’t Have Yet)

Sure, you’ve got the legally required gear—life jackets, fire extinguisher, throw cushion—but what about the stuff that can truly save the day when you’re out on the water? These eight items might not be on your boat yet, but once you add them, you’ll wonder how you ever fished without them!

1. Boost Box

I used to swear by a set of jumper cables, but let’s be real—a compact boost box is a total game-changer. It takes up way less space and can instantly bring a dead battery back to life. Honestly, I rarely need it myself (shoutout to my PowerHouse Lithium starting battery with a built-in boost), but it’s great for helping out fellow anglers in need.

2. Extra Life Jacket (PFD)

Ever had to turn down a last-minute fishing invite because you didn’t have an extra PFD? Keeping a spare means you’ll never have to leave a buddy behind. Bonus: At a tournament take-off, you can be the hero when someone forgets theirs. The inflatable PFDs don’t take up much space in your boat!

3. Fish Fin Clips

Fish care is everything, especially if you’re running a livewell. These little weighted clips attach to a fish’s pectoral fins, keeping them upright and reducing stress. Translation? Healthier releases, fewer dead fish penalties, and peace of mind knowing you’re doing your part for conservation.

4. Marine Rope

It may seem old-school, but a good marine grade rope is still a must-have. While spot-lock trolling motors and shallow water anchors have replaced the need to tie off as often, a strong rope is clutch when you or another angler needs a tow back to the ramp.

5. Wet Wipes

Let’s face it—boat ramp restrooms are either non-existent or out of TP. Ditch the struggle of keeping toilet paper dry in a plastic bag and upgrade to flushable wet wipes. Your future self (and rear) will thank you.

6. Cable Ties (Zip Ties)

If something comes loose in your boat, chances are zip ties can fix it—whether it’s a battery tray, a transducer, or a rogue wire. Keep a stash handy, and pair them with pliers and electrical tape for a quick, MacGyver-style repair kit.

7. Multi-Tool

A toolbox takes up too much space, but a quality multi-tool? That’s the Swiss Army knife of fishing. Loose bolts, wiring fixes, last-minute tackle adjustments—this one tool does it all.

8. Quality Side Cutters

These aren’t just for cutting line. A solid pair of side cutters can safely remove deeply hooked baits, saving fish that might otherwise not survive. Even more importantly, they’re a lifesaver if you ever have to cut a hook out of your own hand (it happens to the best of us).

Final Thoughts

Stocking your boat with these essentials can make your time on the water safer, smoother, and way more enjoyable. Got any must-have items you swear by? Drop a comment—I’d love to hear what’s in your boat!

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Breaking Down New Water with Omnia Pro: Guide to Fast Fishing Success

Are you tired of sticking to the same old lakes? Do you dream of quickly finding fish on unfamiliar waters? Omnia’s suite of tools, including their waypoint management system, mapping features, and mobile app, can help you do just that. Here’s how to use them to efficiently scout and fish new locations, even when you only have a few hours to fish.

Pre-Trip Scouting with Omnia Fishing

Before even hitting the water, you can use the Omnia Fishing platform to get a head start.

• Fishing Reports: Check recent fishing reports to see what species are present, where they are being caught and hot baits that are producing. This helps you confirm the presence of your target species.

• Mapping Tools: Use the map to identify potential fishing spots. Look for key features such as:

◦ Shallow bays and creek inlets: These areas can hold fish, especially in the spring and fall.

◦ Points, reed islands, and docks: These structures are often fish magnets

◦ Vegetation: Identify areas with grass, pads, and other vegetation, as these can be prime locations all year long.

◦ Hard Cover: Look for shallow areas with hard cover, such as rocks or docks.

◦ Deep Water Access: Locate docks or shallow flat areas that provide access to deeper water.

◦ Bottom Composition: Utilize the Omnia Pro mapping features to identify hard bottoms, vegetation, and other structural features.

• Wind Direction: Use the app to note the wind direction and consider this when you are choosing where to fish.

• Waypoint Creation: Mark these locations on the map as waypoints. You can add notes, and even give them descriptive names. These waypoints will automatically sync to your Omnia mobile app. The waypoints that you set up act as a checklist for locations to check out when you are on the water.

• Navionics Integration: Use the Navionics mapping feature within the Omnia app to identify points, flats, and other underwater features not immediately apparent on standard maps.

Watch actual use of tools to find bass on a new lake fast!

On-the-Water Efficiency

Once you’re at the lake, the Omnia app continues to be a valuable tool.

• Mobile App Accessibility: Use the Omnia app on your phone or tablet to see the waypoints you’ve created. Instead of aimlessly searching, you can use your waypoints as a checklist. Go directly to the areas that looked promising during your pre-trip scouting.

• Scan and Confirm: Use your boat’s electronics to scan the waypoints that you made on the map and confirm the features that you thought you saw. If a spot isn’t producing, move on to the next waypoint on your list. The waypoints help you systematically cover the water.

• Real-Time Adjustments: Use the app to note water temperatures, wind conditions, and other factors, which can influence fish behavior.

• Waypoint Sharing: If fishing with others, you can easily share your waypoints via text or email directly from your phone.

• Save waypoints on the go: If you find a new feature or a new access point you can easily create a waypoint on your phone while you are on the water.

Waypoint Management and Data Integration

Omnia’s system isn’t just about marking spots.

• Detailed Notes: Add detailed notes to your waypoint. This might include:

◦ What you caught fish on

◦ Water conditions

◦ Time of year

◦ Type of cover

• Cloud Backup: Your waypoints are automatically backed up in the cloud, preventing data loss.

• Cross-Platform Access: Waypoints and notes are accessible from your computer, phone, and tablet, meaning you can research and record information anywhere.

• Premium Features: With a Omnia Pro account, you can access additional features such as weather conditions recorded at the time of a catch. This can help you identify patterns. You can also access different mapping layers such as vegetation and bottom hardness.

Watch to see Omnia Waypoint Tools

Key Takeaways

• Omnia’s waypoint system and app are valuable tools for quickly learning how to fish new bodies of water.

• Pre-trip planning is crucial for efficiently targeting fish so you spend more time catching fish and having fun on your next fishing trip.

• Using the mobile app allows you to quickly check your waypoints and make adjustments while on the water. By using the data gathered, you can begin to recognize patterns and plan your next fishing trips effectively.

• The free Omnia account provides many useful tools that will allow you to get on fish faster.

By using these tools, you can confidently explore new lakes and maximize your time on the water. Learn more about Omnia Pro here.

Bass Boat Corner

Storing Your Powerhouse Lithium Batteries for Winter

With the arrival of colder weather, it’s essential to properly store your Powerhouse Lithium batteries to ensure their longevity and optimal performance for years to come.

Here are some guidelines to help you winterize your lithium batteries:

General Recommendations

  • Optimal Storage Temperature: Keep your batteries in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. The ideal storage temperature is above 50°F.
  • Pre-Storage Charging: Charge your batteries to 80% capacity before storing them. This helps maintain battery health and ensures they’re ready for the next season.
  • Battery Inspection and Cleaning: Before storing, examine the battery case for any damage or cracks. Never charge batteries with damaged cases. Clean the battery with a dry cloth to remove dirt or residue.
  • Freezing Temperatures: If temperatures fall below freezing, it’s best to remove your batteries from storage. You can also use a 60-watt incandescent light bulb in the battery compartment to keep the temperature above 32°F. Do not use an LED bulb.

If Batteries Remain Onboard

  • Terminal Disconnection: Disconnect the battery terminals to prevent onboard electronics from gradually draining the battery during the off-season.
  • Moisture Prevention: Store the battery in a dry location within the boat, ensuring no risk of condensation buildup.

Specific Instructions for Ice Fishing Batteries

  • Periodic Charging: Charge your PHL Ice batteries every four months during periods of inactivity.

Important Reminders

  • Ideal Storage Voltage: Aim for a voltage between 3200 and 3300 mV for storage. You can check this on your cell page.
  • Turn Off All Loads: Ensure all loads are turned off before storing your batteries to prevent self-discharge.
  • Safe Mode Warning: If your battery enters “safe mode” (0% State of Charge), you have two weeks to recharge it. Otherwise, the Battery Management System (BMS) will become unresponsive and may require a service fee to repair.

By following these winterization guidelines, you can ensure the reliable performance of your Powerhouse Lithium batteries for many seasons to come!

Advanced Bass Tactics, Product Reviews, Tips and Techniques

Save Time & Money Rigging Your Favorite Swimbaits

We’ve all been there – you’re on a hot bite, but your swimbait is getting torn up after every few fish. You’re burning through baits, and spending more time re-rigging than fishing. But there’s a simple solution that can save you both time and money: the Arsenal Wacky Tool and Tube Shields.

Here’s how it works:

  • Identify the Hook Exit Point: Take your favorite swimbait jig head and your swimbait (like the popular Keitech swimbaits). Figure out where the hook point will come out of the swimbait when rigged.
  • Position the Band: Place a small, clear Arsenal Wacky Band around the swimbait’s body, right where the hook point will emerge. The 6mm band is perfect for a 2.8-inch swimbait, while a 7mm band works well for a 3.3-inch swimbait.
  • Use the Arsenal Wacky Tool: Expand the band with the tool and insert the head of your swimbait. Make sure the band sits directly over the hook exit point.
  • Thread the Jig Head: Carefully thread your swimbait jig head onto the swimbait, making sure the hook point comes out through the center of the band.

That’s it! Your swimbait is now securely locked onto the jig head. This method keeps the swimbait from sliding down or getting torn, even after catching dozens of fish.

Benefits of Using the Arsenal Wacky Tool and Tube Shields:

  • Increased Durability: Your swimbaits will last much longer, saving you money on replacements.
  • Reduced Re-Rigging Time: Spend less time fixing your bait and more time fishing.
  • Versatility: This technique works with various swimbaits and jig heads.

You can find the Arsenal Wacky Tool and Tube Shields at ArsenalFishing.com or Tackle Warehouse. Use code HellaBass15 for a 15% discount on your purchase at Arsenal Fishing. Stop wasting time and money on flimsy rigging. Grab yourself an Arsenal Wacky Tool and start catching more fish with your favorite swimbaits!

If you are more of a visual learner, here is a video on how to rig swimbaits to last much longer!

New Way to Save your Favorite Boot Tail Swimmers!
Bass Boat Corner, Uncategorized

SOLD: Caymas CX20 Bass Boat with Mercury 250hp

** Tournament Ready Bass Boat **
$60,500 (SOLD)
Private Party Sale – No Sales Tax on Boat or Motor!

Caymas CX20 w/ Mercury 250hp Pro XS (290hrs) garage kept
Motor warranty thru June 2027 (Buyer option to extend)
Graphs and electronics negotiable if not interested, just reach out.
Contact Info (email = Contact at RichLindgren.com) or DM HellaBass on IG or FB

Included Options:
-Dual Minnkota 8” Raptors
-Dual Humminbird Helix 10”s Gen4 (PROcise dual mount at console)
–Humminbird Helix 12 Gen4 (Precision Sonar dual mount at bow)
–Garmin 10″ with LVS34 Livescope Transducer on Precision dual mount at bow + FishObsessed Zero Degree Mount
–Minnkota Ultrex trolling motor (52″) (Lower unit replaced under warranty June 2024)
-Humminbird Mega 360
–PowerHouse Lithium 4 battery system with Run n’ gun charging system (2 x 36v TM / 12v 105ah Starter / 16v Dedicated Graphs)
-T&H Hydraulic Jackplate w/ Gauge
-T&H Hot Foot with slider
-Custom Caymas Boat Cover
-Butt Seat & Chair included
-Keel Protector
-RMP Raptor Navigation Light
-Bow Entry Step Ladder
-Dual Disc Trailer Brake Upgrade (New Trailer fenders replaced)

See Video Walk-through of this Boat Below and Photos:

Minnkota Raptors & Full PowerHouse Lithium System added after this video
Bass Boat Corner, Multimedia

Bass Boat Buying Tips from the Pros

If you’re in the market for a new or used bass boat, you’re probably feeling overwhelmed by all the options. What size boat is right for you? What features are important? And how much can you expect to spend? In this blog , we’ll share some tips from experienced bass anglers and boat salespeople to help you navigate the buying process and find the perfect boat for your needs.

Many decisions factor into a purchase before you can enjoy your boat on the water!

Determining Your Needs and Setting a Budget

First, it’s important to determine what you need in a bass boat. Do you need a boat for fishing in big water or small lakes? Will you be fishing tournaments or just for fun? How many people will be fishing with you? Once you know what you need, you can start to set a budget. Keep in mind that the price of a bass boat can vary widely depending on the size, age, features, and condition.

Here are some factors to consider when setting your budget:

  • New or Used: Used bass boats can be a great value, but it’s important to carefully inspect the hull, engine, and trailer for any signs of wear and tear.
  • Engine Size: The size of the engine will affect the boat’s speed and fuel efficiency. Also, sometimes there are size restrictions for certain tournaments you may fish.
  • Features: Features like livewells, trolling motors, and electronics can add to the cost of the boat.
  • Brand and Model: Some brands and models of bass boats are more expensive than others.

Researching and Choosing the Right Boat

Once you have a budget in mind, you can start to research different brands and models of bass boats. There are many great resources available online, such as Bass Boat Central and YouTube. You can also talk to other anglers, guides and boat salespeople to get their recommendations.

Example of Boat Video reviews available on YouTube

Here are some popular bass boat brands:

  • Phoenix
  • Caymus
  • Vexus
  • Skeeter
  • Champion
  • Bass Cat
  • Falcon
  • Blazer
  • Ranger
  • Triton
  • Express
  • Lund
Rod Locker Storage of Caymas CX20

When choosing a bass boat, it’s important to consider the following factors:

  • Hull Design: The hull design will affect the boat’s ride comfort, stability, speed and draft. Be sure to closely check the transom and the hull under the boat for any signs of cracking or damage to the gel coat or fiberglass.
  • Single or Dual Console: Many anglers appreciate the extra space of a single console, but if you fish with a spouse or a buddy a lot, sometimes a dual console makes more sense. Some newer boat models have a console that can be removed or put back in under 5 minutes.
  • Deck Size: The size of the front and back decks will affect how much space you have for fishing and storage for yourself and other people.
  • Storage: Make sure the boat has enough storage space for all your gear.
  • Electronics: Choose electronics that meet your needs and budget.
  • Trailer: The trailer should be in good condition and properly sized for the boat and don’t forget to check the axel, tires and hubs.
  • Contingencies: If you fish tournament, most brands have tournament contingency award bonuses for wins and high finishes. You should never solely make a decision based on this, but makes a good tie breaker.
Contingency Money can matter!

Other Important Considerations

  • Wait times for new boats can be long, ranging from 12 to 20 weeks or more. So plan ahead if you want to have a new boat for spring.
  • Financing options are available, with loan terms up to 20 years.
  • Demo days like the In Tune Marine demo event are a great opportunity to test drive different boats and get a feel for what you like.

Buying a bass boat is a big investment. By taking the time to do your research and carefully consider your needs, you can find the perfect boat for years of enjoyment on the water.

For a deeper dive, check out this video live stream on buying bass boats with Aaron Teal

Video Podcast on Bass Boat Buying Tips

Bass Fishing Videos, News, Tips, Tricks & More from HellaBass