The morning takeoff, weigh-in and Expo are the main events of the Bassmaster Classic. Did you know there is much more to do during bass fishing’s biggest week? Family, fan-friendly events are planned to make your Classic experience even more fun and memorable.
The 2026 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour is set for March 13-15 in downtown Knoxville, Tenn., and the campus of the University of Tennessee at Knoxville.
Make the most of your Classic experience with these 15 can’t-miss experiences during bass fishing’s biggest week.
1. Meet pros at Media Day
The annual Classic Media Day, traditionally a private event for media, has opened its doors to allow fans a peek behind the curtain. Hosted at the Bass Pro Shops in Kodak, Tenn., the event will offer additional fun activities for fans, including food trucks and the chance to meet pros inside of the store, so be sure to check it out.
When: March 12, 12 to 3 p.m.
Where: Bass Pro Shops, 3629 Outdoors Sportsman Place, Kodak, Tenn.
2. Attend the Classic Kickoff Party and Pro-Am weigh-in
The night before the tournament begins, B.A.S.S. launches Classic week in a big way with the annual Classic Kickoff Party, a family-friendly community event with food, kids’ activities and even a concert.
When: Thursday, 4-9 p.m.
Where: Covenant Health Park, 500 E. Jackson Ave.
3. Take in a takeoff
Nothing gets a bass nut’s blood pumping quite like a tournament takeoff, and there’s no greater takeoff ceremony than at the Classic — especially when it’s held on downtown Knoxville’s riverfront on the Tennessee River. Get there early!
When: Friday, Saturday, Sunday at 7:45 a.m.
Where: Volunteer Landing, 400 Neyland Dr.
4. Join the Tailgate Party
Just because college football season is over, doesn’t mean you can’t do some tailgating, and Knoxville is the perfect place for it. Bring the whole family to the Progressive Bassmaster Classic Tailgate presented by Maxam Tire.
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday
Where: Knoxville Convention Center, 701 Henley St.
5. Get a sneak peek at the Classic Expo
Being a B.A.S.S. Life or Nation member has its perks, like getting first dibs on the Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo on Friday, March 13, at the Knoxville Convention Center. The Expo formally opens to the public at noon, but members get a one-hour head start.
6. Cheer on your favorite pro at weigh-in
Let’s see some g-g-g-giant bass! Bassmaster Classic Weigh-ins presented by Yokohama will take place on the campus of the University of Tennessee in Knoxville.
When: Friday, Saturday, Sunday at 3 p.m. for B.A.S.S. Life and Nation members, and 3:15 p.m. for the public. Show starts promptly at 4:15 p.m.
Where: Food City Center, 1600 Phillip Fulmer Way.
7. Get a free gift on Military and First Responder Appreciation Days
While we honor our nation’s frontline personnel every day, the Classic demands special treatment. March 13 is Military Appreciation Day, and March 14 is First Responder Appreciation Day. Be one of the first 100 active-duty military members or first responders to come to the Bassmaster booth at the Expo on your respective day, show your service ID, and we’ll give you a free hat — plus a well-deserved thank you.
8. Bring your family to the Kids Zone
If you have outdoor-loving kids, they’ll love the Classic Kids Zone outside the World’s Fair Exhibition Hall that’s adjacent to the Knoxville Convention Center. They can try their luck at the catfish pond (don’t worry, they’re biting), witness high-flying Super Retriever Series canine athletes launching off the dock and so much more. The Kids Zone is open during normal Expo hours.
9. Get a Classic T-shirt
Make everyone in your bass club jealous when you wear your commemorative 2026 Classic tee to the next local derby. You can also wear it to work, to church, to your niece’s wedding … anywhere, really.
10. Take a demo drive
Head out on the Tennessee River to experience the power and performance of the latest Yamaha-powered Skeeter boats and Mercury-powered Ranger and Nitro models immediately following takeoff each day.
11. Explore Knoxville
There’s so much to do in Knoxville that exploring the city deserves its own story … so that’s what we did. Check out Joe Sills’ recommendations for what to do and where to dine on page 38 of the 2026 Classic Preview issue of Bassmater Magazine. For more ideas, go to visitKnoxville.com/sports.
12. Watch Bassmaster LIVE … live From the Tailgate Party
Hosts Tommy Sanders, Davy Hite, Ronnie Moore and the rest of the crew will be breaking down all the action while it’s happening from a special studio set at the Tailgate Party located at the Plaza Terrace, outdoors at the Knoxville Convention Center.
13. Get a selfie with the Ray Scott Bassmaster Classic Trophy
The Classic is a place to dream big, and we’re inviting you to the Bassmaster booth at the Classic Expo to have your photo taken with the trophy that every bass pro dreams of winning. While you’re there, get a free commemorative Classic pin, or inspire a friend or family member to grow their love of fishing by treating them to a B.A.S.S. membership.
14. Help us crown a Classic champ
The Day 3 Classic weigh-in is can’t-miss excitement. Get there early to get the best seats, then get ready to scream when you witness history. One fortunate — and deserving — angler will go through the life-changing experience of being crowned Bassmaster Classic champion. And you can be a part of it.
15. Download the Bassmaster Classic app
The new Classic app is your ultimate companion to the Super Bowl of Bass Fishing. It’ll guide you to events around town and dish show offers directly to your phone. Find the Classic app in the Apple App Store.
5 Can’t-miss Classic Expo experiences
Aside from the final weigh-in, the Outdoors Expo is the most popular attraction at the Bassmaster Classic. This year’s show will sprawl throughout the Knoxville Convention Center and the adjacent World’s Fair Exhibition Hall. Make sure you leave plenty of time to see it all.
- Check out the latest tackle, apparel and gear from companies like Under Armour, Strike King, Daiwa, Rapala, Lew’s and many more.
- Sit at the helm of the most advanced bass boats from top makers, including Nitro, Skeeter, Ranger, Bass Cat, Vexus, Xpress, Caymas, iKon, Lund and Allison.
- Get autographs from today’s pros and fishing legends, like Jimmy Houston, Hank Parker, Bill Dance and others.
- Score sick deals on outdoor gear. The “Classic Special” discount is real. Don’t miss out.
- Enter to win free prizes, offered throughout the show by B.A.S.S. partners. For details, look for signs and listen for regular announcements while you’re at the Expo. Or check for them on the Classic app.
