Celebrating America with a B.A.S.S. tradition

Morning takeoffs and afternoon weigh-ins always begin with a tribute to America.

Posted on
Photography by
Andy Crawford
Captions by
Craig Lamb
It is a steadfast B.A.S.S. tradition dating back decades. A flag bearing 50 stars and 13 stripes is held at sunrise to signal the beginning of another day of competition. 
‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ is heard live or prerecorded as the American flag is held by volunteers. No two flag bearers are the same. All are equally united by a song and flag. 
Anglers, fans, family and friends stand at attention to honor those freedoms and sacrifices made to allow all to enjoy a truly all-American sport. 
The ritual is repeated each afternoon as anglers return for weigh-ins. This year that tradition will happen at more than 50 tournaments across a span of 10 different levels of competition, from junior and high school to college and club to the highest level of the sport. The tradition is carried through to hundreds of local tournaments conducted by the B.A.S.S. Nation. 
Photos are captured from the land and from above by the Bassmaster photographers. Unlike stadium events, the atmosphere and patriotism are like none other in sports.
Each day brings a different look, a different angle of the sun, and people from all walks of life brought together by bass fishing.
We celebrate you — the fans and anglers — for joining us at takeoffs and weigh-ins to first celebrate America and then our beloved sport. Enjoy this special collection of photos and memories during 2026, also the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the United States of America.