Trautsch Capitalizes Early on Championship Sunday to Win in La Crosse

Published on 08-05-2026

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER (LA CROSSE), WI. — The Humminbird Big Bass Classic presented by Explore La Crosse marked the Big Bass Tour's return to action during the summer break, delivering another competitive weekend on the Upper Mississippi River where every ounce mattered.

When the scales closed on Championship Sunday, it was Cole Trautsch who claimed the top spot with a 5.52-pound largemouth, a fish he weighed in during hour one of the final day. That early Sunday catch proved to be enough to hold off the field through the remaining six hours of competition, earning Trautsch the overall victory and the $20,000 Grand Prize.

Championship Sunday Delivers

The Upper Mississippi River once again lived up to its reputation for producing a tightly contested leaderboard. After quality fish hit the scales throughout the first two days, Trautsch wasted no time making his move on Sunday morning. His 5.52-pound largemouth vaulted him into the lead, and despite several close challengers, no one could top it before the final weigh-in.

Top Overall Weights – Upper Mississippi River

Cole Trautsch – 5.52 lbs
Samuel Bush – 5.45 lbs
Lucas Hajek – 5.44 lbs
Brent Serum – 5.31 lbs
Charles Novotny – 5.04 lbs

With less than half a pound separating the top five, the event showcased just how competitive the fishery can be.

While the Upper Mississippi River fishes differently than many of the southern stops on the schedule, it once again proved it has the ability to produce the tournament-winning bite when it matters most.

The Fall Swing Is Almost Here

With La Crosse in the books, the Big Bass Tour now turns its attention to the final stretch of the 2026 season. The tour heads south for three consecutive fall events, beginning with Douglas Lake, Tennessee, before continuing to Lake Guntersville, Alabama, and concluding the season at Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia.

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

Trautsch Capitalizes Early on Championship Sunday to Win in La Crosse

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