BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – B.A.S.S. continues to innovate and strengthen its Elite Series with several major updates, including the formation of the Bassmaster Elite Angler Board of Professionals (ABP), a restructured payout system, and a comprehensive Angler Services program. These changes aim to improve communication, foster collaboration, and enhance opportunities for Elite anglers both on and off the water.
Elite Angler Advisory Board Created for Better Collaboration
To ensure clear communication and productive dialogue between Elite Series anglers and B.A.S.S., the organization has introduced the Bassmaster Elite Angler Board of Professionals (ABP). This newly formed advisory board consists of six Elite anglers—Ben Milliken, Alex Wetherell, Lee Livesay, John Crews, Drew Benton, and Mark Menendez—who were selected by their peers to represent the diverse career stages of the Elite Series field.
The ABP provides a structured platform for Elite anglers to voice concerns, discuss opportunities, and collaborate with B.A.S.S. leadership. Veteran angler and ABP leader John Crews emphasized the importance of this new initiative, stating, “The formation of the ABP is an organically created group of Elite Series anglers aiming to keep communication with B.A.S.S. consistent, productive, and positive. It’s an honor to lead this inaugural group and work toward improving the relationship between the league and its anglers.”
The ABP has already made progress, holding its first meeting to discuss the 2025 payout structure. By working together, the board and B.A.S.S. finalized a system that reflects the preferences of the majority of Elite anglers while including a $200,000 additional investment from B.A.S.S.
2025 Elite Series Payout Modifications
After thorough discussions and multiple votes among anglers, the payout structure for the 2025 Elite Series was adjusted to better align with the goals of the angler community. To boost payouts for the Elite Series and the Bassmaster Classic, anglers agreed to contribute $10,000 each for the season, with the funds fully reinvested into payouts.
“This is a step forward in ensuring our anglers feel their input is valued while making the league more competitive and rewarding,” said Chase Anderson, B.A.S.S. CEO. “The ABP has provided a collaborative space to address important topics like payouts, and we’re confident this will strengthen our sport for years to come.”
For full details on the updated payout structure, visit the 2025 Elite Series and AOY Payout Schedule.
Angler Services Program Enhances Professional Development
Recognizing the importance of helping anglers grow their personal brands, B.A.S.S. has launched a new Angler Services program. This initiative focuses on marketing, sponsorship pitches, and off-the-water development to help anglers maximize their career potential.
The program will be led by former Elite Series pro and Bassmaster Classic champion Davy Hite, who will serve as the angler liaison. Additionally, B.A.S.S. Director of Marketing Will Flowers will oversee the Angler Business Services segment, offering resources for marketing support and brand building.
“We are excited to work closely with Elite anglers to ensure they have the tools to succeed both on and off the water,” said Flowers. “This program reflects our commitment to supporting the growth of professional bass fishing and helping our anglers achieve their goals.”
What’s Next for B.A.S.S.
The Bassmaster Elite Series continues to evolve as the gold standard in professional bass fishing. With the introduction of the ABP, enhanced payouts, and new Angler Services, B.A.S.S. is doubling down on its commitment to advancing the sport.
The 2025 Elite Series kicks off at Clarks Hill Reservoir on January 23–25, while the new Angler Services program will begin offering resources in the coming months. Stay updated on all the latest developments by visiting Bassmaster.com.
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About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
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