Big Bass Tour Opens 2026 Season with Explosive Action on the Harris Chain of Lakes

TAVARES, Fla. — The 2026 Big Bass Tour season officially kicked off in a big way at the legendary Harris Chain of Lakes, delivering three days of intense competition, heavyweight bass, and massive payouts during the Monster Energy Big Bass Classic presented by Lake County. 

Anglers from across the country converged on one of Florida’s most iconic fisheries to compete for a guaranteed $163,000 prize pool, highlighted by hourly payouts and the chance to claim a fully loaded 2026 Nitro Z18 boat. 

The Harris Chain once again proved why it’s considered a premier big-bass destination. Over the course of the event, twenty-two bass weighing more than seven pounds were brought to the scales, showcasing the fishery’s ability to produce true giants.

Top Overall Weights – Harris Chain of Lakes 

Clayton Wiggins’ tournament-leading 10.41-pound bass topped the leaderboard and set the tone for the 2026 Big Bass Tour season.

Big Bass Energy All Weekend
With hourly payouts keeping anglers locked in from the first cast to the final weigh-in, the energy around Hickory Point Recreation Facility stayed high all weekend. Fans, families, and fellow competitors gathered lakeside to witness some of the biggest bass weighed in anywhere in the country so far this year.

Despite shifting early-season conditions, the Harris Chain delivered exactly what it’s known for, giant Florida largemouths, consistent action, and dramatic leaderboard moments.

Looking Ahead
With the season opener in the books, the Big Bass Tour now heads to Lake Conroe, Texas, as anglers continue the chase for big bass, big checks, and championship glory in 2026.

For full results, photos, and upcoming tournament information, visit BigBassTour.com.