Leech Lake chosen to host 2026 B.A.S.S. College Championship

B.A.S.S. has announced that Leech Lake in Walker, Minn., will be the host fishery for the 2026 Strike King Bassmaster College Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops, scheduled for Aug. 20-22.

The event will mark the first time a collegiate bass tournament has been held at the central Minnesota lake.College anglers from across the country will compete for a national title on one of the Upper Midwest’s premier bass fisheries, adding a new chapter to the championship’s history.

Located in north-central Minnesota, Leech Lake is the third-largest lake entirely within the state, spanning more than 112,000 acres with 195 miles of shoreline. Known for its diverse structure — including expansive weed beds, rocky points, sand flats and large bays — Leech Lake offers a dynamic playing field for anglers. While widely recognized as a world-class walleye destination, the lake also features a strong and growing largemouth and smallmouth bass population, making it an ideal venue for a late-summer championship event.

“Leech Lake is an incredible fishery that will challenge every team in the field and reward anglers who can adapt,” said Glenn Cale, B.A.S.S. Tournament Manager for the College, High School and Junior Series. “We are excited to bring the College Championship to Minnesota for the first time and to showcase Leech Lake to a national audience. This will be the first College tournament held on Leech Lake, and we believe it will provide a memorable and competitive championship experience for these student-anglers.”

Throughout the season, teams will compete in qualifying events in both the Legends and Lunkers Divisions to earn points toward a berth in the championship, where a national title and coveted opportunity to advance to the Bassmaster College Classic Bracket presented by Lew's are on the line.

In August, competitors can expect classic northern patterns to come into play. With water temperatures typically warm and vegetation at its peak, largemouth bass are often found relating to thick grass, docks and shallow cover, while smallmouth bass may group up on rock structure, mid-lake humps and points. The expansive nature of Leech Lake will reward teams who can manage long runs, locate productive areas and adjust to changing wind conditions, which can play a significant role on the broad, open basins.

Walker, Minn., located on the shores of Leech Lake, offers a welcoming host community with a strong outdoor heritage. The area has extensive experience hosting major fishing events and provides convenient access, ample lodging and fan-friendly viewing opportunities.

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