SCOTTSBORO — Lake Guntersville is set to be the scene of one of the largest bass fishing tournaments in the nation with the largest pot in the sport’s history.
First place, according to event organizers, is guaranteed a payout of $500,000.
“Lake Guntersville and Scottsboro offer outdoor recreational activities unlike any other place in the world,” said Alabama Senate Majority Leader Steve Livingston of Scottsboro. “The Ultimate Angler World Championship will put Alabama on the map as a premier destination for competitive fishing, attracting visitors from across the globe and driving growth in our tourism industry.
“Scottsboro looks forward to welcoming anglers and spectators to experience everything Alabama has to offer — from world-class outdoor recreation to local restaurants, hotels, and history.”
Scottsboro Mayor Jim McCamy revealed that the expected economic impact for the area is substantial.
“Based on standard economic factors and formula, for the 7-day event, the coordinators for Ultimate Angler project an economic impact for Northeast Alabama of $10.2 million,” he said.
Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth, a sportsman from Rainsville, is excited for what the event will offer to participants and spectators.
“The Ultimate Angler Championship is not just a fishing tournament; it is an opportunity to unite anglers from diverse backgrounds, highlighting their talents while fostering camaraderie and mutual respect for a sport we all love in the place where tournament bass fishing began … the great state of Alabama,” he said.
Slated for Oct. 5-11, 2025, the Ultimate Angler Tournament is modeled after The Masters golf tournament and will be open to qualifying college anglers, amateurs, and pros. The tournament winner will be the first and only champion crowned across multiple bass fishing leagues and tournament trails.
The event is the first time Unified Pros, a nonprofit alliance of professional athletes, and the State of Alabama have worked together to launch a bass fishing tournament.
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