B.A.S.S. is saddened to learn of the passing of Jack Barber, a dedicated angler, Army veteran and passionate advocate for bass fishing. He was a hero to many.
Barber served his country with distinction from 1967 to 1989, and carried that same commitment and discipline into his time on the water. A proud representative of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, he was a constant presence in PVA fishing events and a tremendous supporter of the sport at every level. The PVA, which includes 33 B.A.S.S.-affiliated chapters across the country, provides a pathway for anglers to qualify for the B.A.S.S. Nation Championship — a stage Barber reached four times (2015, 2023, 2024, 2025).
The Texan earned PVA Angler of the Year honors at the Capital Clash in 2023, securing another berth to the B.A.S.S. Nation Championship at Lake Hartwell. Competing on the same stage used by the sport’s top professionals was a moment he cherished, reflecting both his love of competition and his appreciation for the opportunities the sport provided.
More than his accomplishments, Barber will be remembered for his passion, his perseverance and the way he represented the fishing community with pride. He embodied the spirit of B.A.S.S. Nation — competitive, resilient and deeply connected to the sport.
He will be missed.
