By Blake Abbey, Kayak King Charters
As the Bassmaster Kayak Bass Fishing Tournament Trail continues to grow nationwide, I can’t help but wonder how far it will go. My passion for the sport is stronger than ever, fueled by the innovation and technology that have transformed what was once just a small plastic boat and paddle. Beyond the fun, kayak bass fishing offers health benefits and unique advantages for catching more fish. With the Florida Bass Nation Kayak Series season approaching, I want to share the upcoming schedule and a few tips for getting involved. The first step is downloading the TourneyX app on your Android or iPhone. This app handles all registrations and fish submissions. Next, you’ll need an approved measuring device: either a Ketch Board or YakAttack Leaderboard. Every fish must be measured and photographed on one of these boards.
All tournaments follow the CPR format: Catch, Photo, Release. This system is designed to protect fish health by reducing handling time. Unlike traditional weigh-ins, CPR events keep fish in the water longer and minimize stress. This is the four step process in the Florida Bass Nation Kayak Tournament: 1. Catch the fish: Anglers land the fish using a net to avoid damage. 2. Take a photo: The fish is placed on a tournament-certified measuring board and a photo is taken, often with a unique identifier card. Anglers keep their hands clear of the fish’s gills and ensure the mouth is closed against the bump board. 3. Release the fish: The angler immediately releases the fish back into the water, typically within moments of it being caught. 4. Submit the photo: The photo is uploaded to a tournament app (Tourney X) to be judged by length rather than weight.
The 2025 to 2026 Florida Bass Nation Kayak Series features sixteen tournaments across the state. It’s a great opportunity to meet fellow anglers, explore new waters, and enjoy competitive fishing in a conservation-minded format. To join or sign up, visit www.floridabnks.com.
I hope to see you on the water November 1, 2025, chasing Florida’s giant bass!
South Region
November 1: Harris Chain of Lakes
December 13: Walk in Water / Arbuckle
January 3: Lake Istokpoga
February 7: Kissimmee Chain
March 7: Headwaters / Stickmarsh
April 4: Lake Okeechobee
May 2: Lake Garcia / Blue Cypress
June 6: Lake Placid
North Region
November 22: Orange Lake
December 13: Lake Miccosukee
January 24: Lake Seminole
February 28: St. Johns River
March 28: Sand Hill Lakes
April 25: Rodman Reservoir
May 23: Lake Talquin
June 27: Lake Rousseau / Withlacoochee River
