Ballard Claims Nitro Z18 at Clarks Hill Lake Big Bass Classic

CLARKS HILL LAKE, Ga. — The Big Bass Tour rolled into Georgia for the Bass Pro Shops & Cabela’s Big Bass Classic at Clarks Hill Lake, delivering three days of steady action, strong numbers, and a championship moment that came early on the final day. 

When the scales closed, it was BJ Ballard who stood on top, thanks to an 8.26-pound largemouth that he weighed in during hour one of Championship Sunday — a fish that would hold through the remaining six hours of competition to secure the overall victory and a brand new Nitro Z18 powered by Mercury Marine. 

In true big bass fashion, Ballard’s winning fish came at the perfect time. Hitting early in the final day gave him a long wait, but no one could quite catch him. 

Big Bass Tour Momentum Continues
From early morning giants to consistent action all weekend long, Clarks Hill Lake delivered exactly what anglers have come to expect from the Big Bass Tour — opportunity, accessibility, and the chance to land a life-changing fish.
 
Ballard’s win adds another memorable chapter to the 2026 season, as anglers continue their pursuit of big bass, big payouts, and championship moments across the country.
 
For full results, photos, and upcoming tournament information, visit BigBassTour.com.