USA Fishing Events
Discover major fishing tournaments, competitions, fishing education programs, family events, and outdoor gatherings happening across the United States.
Not every fishing event is designed for the same type of angler. Use the sections below to find an event that matches your experience level. Professional tournaments are best for anglers following competitive fishing, while intermediate events offer more opportunities to compete and develop skills. Beginner and family events are a good starting point for learning and enjoying fishing in a supportive environment.
Best Fishing Events for Pros
Major competitive events and professional-level tournament series for experienced anglers and serious fishing fans.
Bassmaster Elite Series
The Bassmaster Elite Series is one of the highest levels of competitive bass fishing in the United States. The 2026 schedule includes major fisheries such as Lake Champlain and the St. Lawrence River.
Official ScheduleBassmaster Classic
One of the most recognized events in competitive bass fishing. The 2026 Classic took place on the Tennessee River in Knoxville and included tournament competition, weigh-ins, seminars, and a large fishing expo.
Event InformationBassmaster Opens
The Opens provide a competitive pathway toward higher levels of tournament bass fishing. The 2026 series features eight tournaments across two divisions.
Official OpensMajor League Fishing
Major League Fishing organizes major professional tournament circuits and championship-level bass fishing competition across the United States.
Visit MLFICAST
ICAST is a major sportfishing trade show featuring new fishing products, industry demonstrations, networking, and fishing-related events. The 2026 show was held in Orlando.
Visit ICASTICAST Cup Bass Fishing Tournament
The ICAST Cup is part of the ICAST event schedule and gives participating anglers an opportunity to compete during one of the industry’s largest sportfishing events.
Official ScheduleBest Fishing Events for Intermediate Anglers
Events and tournament series that can be useful for anglers who already understand the basics and want more experience.
B.A.S.S. Nation
The B.A.S.S. Nation provides organized tournament opportunities for anglers developing their competitive fishing experience and looking toward higher levels.
View ScheduleBassmaster Team Championship
The Bassmaster Team Championship provides a team-based competitive format and is a useful event to explore if you enjoy tournament fishing with a partner.
Official ScheduleBassmaster Kayak Series
A tournament series focused on kayak anglers, with events held on fisheries across the country. The 2026 calendar includes rivers, lakes, and championship competition.
View ScheduleBassmaster College Series
The College Series offers organized bass-fishing competition for eligible college anglers and provides experience in tournament formats.
View EventsBassmaster High School Series
A structured tournament series for eligible high school anglers. It can be useful for young anglers who already have basic fishing skills and want organized competition.
View ScheduleBassmaster Junior Series
Junior events introduce younger anglers to organized tournament fishing in a structured environment while helping them gain experience.
View ScheduleBest Fishing Events for Beginners
Beginner-friendly programs, family fishing days, and educational events where visitors can learn basic skills without needing tournament-level experience.
Basic Fishing
A beginner-focused program covering basic fishing skills. Limited loaner equipment is available, making it a useful option for people who are just getting started.
Event DetailsIntroduction to Fishing
A ranger-led introduction to fishing that teaches basic fishing skills and local fish information. Fishing rods and bait are provided for the program.
Event DetailsFamily Fishing Day
A family-friendly event where participants can learn casting, fish identification, and fishing basics with help from refuge staff.
Event DetailsKids Fishing Day
A family-friendly youth fishing event for participants 16 and under. The program includes fishing, prizes, and an opportunity to enjoy an outdoor fishing experience.
Event DetailsFamily Fishing Day
A free family fishing program covering casting, tackle, bait, fishing regulations, ethics, and aquatic conservation.
Event DetailsWinthrop Kids Fishing Day
A youth-oriented fishing day combining outdoor education with hands-on fishing. Volunteers and staff are available to help young participants.
Event DetailsSenior Fishing Derby
A community fishing event designed for seniors and participants with permanent disabilities. Fishing tackle and bait are provided by the event organizers.
Event DetailsFishing with a Ranger
A ranger-led fishing session designed for people who are new to fishing. Loaner rods and bait may be available, depending on the program.
Event DetailsKid Fish
A hands-on youth fishing event that teaches fishing identification, safety, knots, casting techniques, and basic fishing skills before participants fish.
Event DetailsHow to choose the right fishing event
The best event for you depends on your experience, interests, age eligibility, location, and whether you want to learn, watch, or compete.
New to fishing?
Start with a beginner or family fishing event. These programs are usually more focused on learning basic skills than competition.
Already know the basics?
Look at organized series, kayak events, team competitions, or regional tournament programs that match your level.
Following professional fishing?
Professional series and major championship events are excellent choices for watching high-level competitive fishing and learning from experienced anglers.
Before attending a fishing event
Event information can change, so always open the official event page before making travel plans or registering.
Confirm the date
Check the organizer’s official page for the latest date, time, location, and schedule.
Check requirements
Review age limits, registration requirements, licenses, permits, equipment rules, and entry requirements.
Read the official rules
Tournament and organized fishing events can have specific rules. Use the official organizer page for the current requirements.
Find an event and enjoy the fishing community
From professional tournament trails to family fishing days, fishing events are a great way to watch experienced anglers, learn new skills, meet other fishing enthusiasts, and discover new places to fish. Always check the official event page for the most current information before attending.