I’m really looking forward to next week’s 2025 Bassmaster Classic at Fort Worth, Texas.
Words cannot describe what an amazing event the Classic is, and I’m sure Fort Worth will be a great venue. It sure was when the Classic was there in 2021.
There are a lot of fine end-of-season championships, but none compare to this one. It legitimately is the Super Bowl of Bass Fishing and the pinnacle of all tournaments.
It is every bass angler’s dream to compete in it. That’s why there are so many pros leaving other circuits to fish Bassmaster events with hopes of getting to the Classic.
I’ve attended several. Even with all the years I’ve been around the sport, I still get goosebumps seeing and hearing thousands of people go crazy when the winner lifts that trophy over his head.
If you’ve never been to a Classic you are truly missing out. It’s not only the greatest bass tournament of the year — there are also so many cool and free activities associated with the event that you will never run out of things to do.
There’s a big Kick-Off Party held in Fort Worth’s historic stockyards Thursday afternoon followed by the first-day takeoff where fans can join in on that celebration as well. I’m amazed at how many people show up each morning to send off the guys.
And, of course, the Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo at the Fort Worth Convention Center is unlike any outdoor show you’ve ever attended. The exhibitor list is so big you probably won’t be able to see it all in one day.
There are literally hundreds of exhibitors, many of whom unveil new products during the Expo. In addition to the major manufacturers, you will find small companies that offer cool products you probably have never seen.
Naturally, we at Phoenix Boats will be there along with nearly every bass boat company. It’s a perfect place to check out all the boats and features to help you determine your next rig.
We will be featuring our new 721 ZXL for the first time at a Classic. We introduced it last July and the response at local and regional outdoor shows around the county has been nothing short of phenomenal.
It is built on the same tried-and-true 721 hull we’ve had since 2007 with a redesigned front deck to provide a wider fishing platform along with improved tackle storage system.
Anyone who has run our 721 hull will tell you it has an excellent hole shot, top speed and incredible turning capabilities that have made it one of the bass boat market’s most popular boats. The additions we’ve made to the ZXL provide a better fishing platform and amenities for discriminating anglers.
Working a show booth can be a grind, but the Classic makes it more fun because we get to interact with serious anglers.
I’ll be there, but you might also see me wandering the tackle aisles checking out the plethora of gear that I might not see anywhere else.
If you’re in the area, come see us. And if you’ve not been to a Classic, start making plans now for the 2026 event in Knoxville in Phoenix’s home state of Tennessee.
