In 2021, Justin Atkins is fishing his first season on the Bassmaster Elite Series. The former college angler from Mississippi State won't be considered a rookie due to having a successful career on the FLW Tour and surpassing the career earnings threshold. Atkins won the 2018 Bassmaster Open at Logan Martin Lake and also took home the 2017 Forrest Wood Cup title at Lake Murray. Atkins qualified for the Elites by finishing 2nd in the Overall Angler of the Year race.