Knoxville Hosts 2026 Bassmaster Classic, Expects 150K Fans

The Bassmaster Classic will return to Knoxville, Tennessee, from March 13-15, 2026, marking the event's third appearance in the city. The competition will feature 58 anglers vying for a first-place prize of $300,000 and a total purse exceeding $850,000, with weigh-ins held at Thompson-Boling Arena. Previous events in 2019 and 2023 drew record crowds, with over 160,000 attendees in 2023 alone, generating an estimated economic impact of more than $35 million for the local economy. B.A.S.S. CEO Chase Anderson expressed excitement about returning to Knoxville, highlighting its vibrant fan experience and the city's capability to host such major events. The event will also include a Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo featuring over 200 exhibitors at the Knoxville Convention Center. This announcement comes amid Knoxville's growth as a sports destination, with recent developments including a new multi-use stadium for the Smokies baseball team and a professional soccer team.