Explore every episode of the podcast Best on Tour Breakdown

The Bassmaster Elite Series field is changing. Why does the system work this way, who won’t be back in 2027, and how difficult is it to earn another shot?

Jordan Babcock sits down with Bassmaster commentator Ronnie Moore to break down Elite Series requalification, the anglers who won't return in 2027, and how career Angler of the Year averages determine who stays and who goes.

Plus, could Bassmaster bring back a legend through the Legends Exemption? Do you have to be a “scoper” to survive in today’s Elite Series? Will a woman ever qualify for the Elites? And what options do anglers have when their time on the tour comes to an end?

How did we get to the point where a coin flip is deciding which Bassmaster Elite Series events will allow forward-facing sonar?

In this conversation, Jordan sits down with John Crews to go behind the scenes of how Bassmaster and the Elite Series anglers arrived at the 50/50 forward-facing sonar format and ultimately, why a coin flip became the solution.

We talk about what the anglers actually wanted, why Bassmaster decided against a full Livescope ban, and the challenges of creating a system that anglers, sponsors, electronics companies and host cities could all live with.

We also get into the politics of building the Elite Series schedule, how host cities influence where the tour goes, why some great fisheries never make the schedule, and what John would change if he were the one calling the shots.

Plus, we break down the results of the coin flip for the 2027 Elite Series schedule, what the scope/no-scope schedule means for some of the biggest fisheries, and where John thinks the 2028 no-scope Bassmaster Classic could be headed.

Chapters:
00:00 How did we get here?
01:15 Why Bassmaster went 50/50 with FFS
02:54 The 2025 angler survey
05:01 Why not just ban forward-facing sonar?
06:06 How the coin flip came about
07:30 Breaking down the 2027 coin flip results
10:51 If John Crews ran the Elite Series
12:36 Lakes John wants the Elites to go to
16:47 Could coin flips still decide the rules in 10 years?
18:45 Are people are starting to understand the coin flip?

John's 2027 coin flip reaction video referenced 👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgCbIaqwOTU

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👇 Links & Timestamps👇

0:20 Buzz - 2026 Elite Series Highlights: AOY, ROY, New Records, Century Belts, and more
AOY post 👉 https://www.instagram.com/p/DcrUjeAtBYa/
ROY post 👉 https://www.instagram.com/p/Dctc2wzRqNx/
Evan Küng post 👉 https://www.instagram.com/p/DcteKGkRFAW/
Century belt post 👉 https://www.instagram.com/p/Dcyi78lxDuA/
Back-to-back BASS AOY blog 👉 https://bestontour.net/blog/complete-list-of-every-bassmaster-aoy/#back-to-back
Bassmaster stats 👉 https://www.bassmaster.com/anglers/

15:18 Banter - Reviewing Bassmaster pundit picks: Predicting each rookie’s
best Elite finish in 2026
Bassmaster article referenced 👉 https://www.bassmaster.com/elite/news/predicting-each-rookies-best-elite-finish-in-2026/

29:59 Baits - Hideup Coike Shrimp
Get some 👉 https://realdealtackle.com/search?options%5Bprefix%5D=last&q=coike+shrimp&sca_ref=10514177.lonIbY6kZ5hdLE&sca_source=botbd_ep21
Article shown 👉 https://www.bassmaster.com/elite/slideshow/top-lures-of-st-lawrence-elite-2026/

37:31 Business - How international conflicts affect the fishing tackle industry
Article shown 👉 https://angling-international.com/2026/08/10/ukraine-targets-top-russian-online-tackle-seller/

41:55 Bonus - 2027 MLF Bass Pro Tour cuts & additions
Article shown 👉 https://majorleaguefishing.com/press-releases/major-league-fishing-announces-2027-bass-pro-tour-roster/

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The Best on Tour Breakdown is the behind the scenes briefing on the buzz, banter, baits, and business of bass fishing.

👇 Links & Timestamps👇

0:28 Buzz - Bassmaster's Top 10 Bass Lakes in the United States
Graphic shown 👉 https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1625214549050858&set=pb.100046869864358.-2207520000
Bassmaster's list 👉 https://www.bassmaster.com/best-bass-lakes/slideshow/top-10-best-bass-lakes-of-2026/

7:03 Banter - What's the next big thing (that's NOT an urchin)?
Full video 👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqefowGnbG0

13:57 Baits - Missile Baits Magic Worm
Get some 👉 https://realdealtackle.com/products/missile-baits-magic-worm-14-pack?sca_ref=10514177.lonIbY6kZ5hdLE&sca_source=botbd_ep20

19:37 Business - Rapala issues a positive profit warning
Article shown 👉 https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/inside-information-rapala-vmc-corporation-184000789.html

24:15 Bonus - Jeremy Lawyer & Terry Scroggins crappie fishing
Video shown 👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kDb8VOU7IwU

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The Best on Tour Breakdown is the behind the scenes briefing on the buzz, banter, baits, and business of bass fishing.

This is the finale of our ICAST 2026 series, where we present highlights from all four interviews we did and add additional context and commentary. Watch/listen to the full interviews for more, and please let us know your feedback on this series! Thanks for watching or listening.

👇 Links & Timestamps👇

1:13 Influencer - Hilary Martin
Full interview 👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I8QsvEEccTI

8:53 Pro Angler - Josh Bertrand
Full interview 👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=af6mxp1pKTQ

17:16 Brand Owner - John Crews
Full interview 👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cksKizjjGyQ

24:55 Sales Rep - Carl Carson
Full interview 👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OlDvl-_SrZc

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What is ICAST really like behind the scenes? In our new Best On Tour ICAST 2026 video series, we take you inside the biggest event in the fishing industry through the eyes of the people who actually live it. From pro anglers and brand owners to sales reps and influencers, this series pulls back the curtain on what really happens at ICAST, and how the industry actually works!

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The Best on Tour Breakdown is the behind the scenes briefing on the buzz, banter, baits, and business of bass fishing.

What does a fishing industry sales rep actually do at ICAST?
In this episode of our Best On Tour ICAST series, we sit down with industry veteran Carl Carson to break down the side of ICAST most people never see.
From months of preparation and booth setup to nonstop meetings and relationship-building, Carl shares what it really takes to represent brands and drive business at the biggest trade show in fishing.
We also dive into how ICAST has evolved over the years from catalog sales and surprise product launches to today’s fast-moving world of social media, influencers, and early releases.

In this episode:
• What a sales rep actually does at ICAST
• The insane prep before the show even opens
• How brands sell products months (or years) in advance
• Why some reps never even see the show floor
• Where real business and deals actually happen
• How social media changed product launches forever
• The biggest trends shaping the fishing industry

This is just 1 of our interviews for our ICAST 2026 series. We’re talking to some of the most influential people in fishing to bring you real insight from inside ICAST.
👉 Make sure to SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss the next episode!

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What does it actually take to succeed at ICAST as a fishing brand?
In this episode of our Best On Tour ICAST series, we sit down with Missile Baits owner and Elite Series pro John Crews to break down the real business behind one of the biggest trade shows in the fishing industry.
From year-round preparation to last-minute chaos, John shares what it takes to launch new products, build relationships, and turn ICAST into real sales, not just exposure!
We also dive into how fishing brands succeed (or fail) at ICAST, what some companies get wrong, and how the game has evolved with influencers, content, and modern marketing.
If you’ve ever wondered how baits actually go from concept to sell-out success… this is an inside look!

In this episode:
• How much planning really goes into ICAST
• The stress of launching new products
• Why some companies fail at trade shows
• How Missile Baits approaches sales vs marketing
• The evolution of product launches in the fishing industry
• Building long-term relationships in the business
• Advice for anglers trying to break into the industry

This is just 1 of our interviews for our ICAST 2026 series. We’re talking to some of the most influential people in fishing to bring you real insight from inside ICAST.
👉 Make sure to SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss the next episode!

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Everyone sees ICAST… but not everyone understands what it’s really like.
In this episode of our Best On Tour ICAST series, we sit down with MLF pro Josh Bertrand to break down the reality of ICAST from an angler’s perspective.
From long days in the booth to nonstop media, sponsor obligations, and after-hours networking, Josh shares what actually goes into being a professional angler at one of the biggest events in the fishing industry.
We also dive into how ICAST has changed over the years, the truth about sponsorship opportunities, and what anglers should (and shouldn’t) expect when they attend.
If you’ve ever thought ICAST was just fun and free gear… this one might surprise you.

In this episode:
• What pro anglers actually do at ICAST
• The reality behind sponsor obligations
• Why ICAST is more work than most people think
• How anglers balance multiple brands
• The truth about getting sponsors at the show
• Why the third day of ICAST matters more than you think
• How social media has changed everything

This is just 1 of our interviews for our ICAST 2026 series. We’re talking to some of the most influential people in fishing to bring you real insight from inside ICAST.
👉 Make sure to SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss the next episode!

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What is ICAST really like behind the scenes?
In this episode of our Best On Tour ICAST series, we sit down with Hilary Martin to break down what it’s actually like working one of the biggest events in the fishing industry as an influencer.
From balancing sponsor obligations to meeting fans, creating content, and navigating the chaos of the show floor, Hilary shares a real, inside look at ICAST.
We also dive into her journey from attending her first ICAST at just 14 years old to becoming a recognized name in the space, plus how she manages brand relationships, content creation, and everything in between.

In this episode:
• How Hilary Martin prepares for ICAST
• What brands expect from influencers at the show
• Behind-the-scenes of sponsor relationships
• Balancing content creation vs obligations
• Growing up in the fishing industry
• The rise of female anglers in the sport
• What makes ICAST such a big opportunity

This is just 1 of our interviews for our ICAST 2026 series. We’re talking to some of the most influential people in fishing to bring you real insight from inside ICAST.
👉 Make sure to SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss the next episode!

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👇 Links & Timestamps👇

0:30 Buzz -
The Leash 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/The_Leash_Outboard_Motor_Tether/descpage-PSRTL.html?from=BOT

4:40 Banter - Michael Neal's #1 Tip For Success
Full video 👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dvHMtKhuZl4
Facebook post shown 👉 https://www.facebook.com/reel/935596059522591

10:16 Baits - Missile Baits Buzz Wagon
Get some 👉 https://www.missilebaits.store/products/buzz-wagon?bg_ref=MUYPk8OMKF&tid1=bot_youtube

16:20 Business - Behind the scenes of ICAST

24:29 Bonus - 2012 Bassmaster Classic, Red River, Gerald Swindle cuts off stuffed giraffe's foot!!

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The Best on Tour Breakdown is the behind the scenes briefing on the buzz, banter, baits, and business of bass fishing.

Will this event be a success? Are you going to watch/attend? Leave a comment!

Huge thank you to Brian Bird and World Bass Enterprises for coming on the Best on Tour Breakdown podcast for this interview.

This pay-per-view event could change professional bass fishing forever. Today's guest is risking millions of dollars of his own money… in an attempt to completely change what professional bass fishing could become. We’re talking about a tournament with a bigger payout than the Bassmaster Classic & Major League Fishing's REDCREST combined, x2...

The Champions tournament by World Bass Enterprises is possibly the biggest gamble in bass fishing history.
We're gonna talk about the tournament rules — because there are rules in this event that we've never seen before.
We're gonna talk about the live stream for folks at home — why is it pay-per-view?
We're gonna talk about the fan experience — is it actually worth traveling to attend this event in person?

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The Best on Tour Breakdown is the behind the scenes briefing on the buzz, banter, baits, and business of bass fishing.

In this bonus episode of the Best on Tour Breakdown podcast, Jason Christie joins us to reveal the strategy and setup he used to win the recent Bassmaster Elite Series event on the Pasquotank River / Albemarle Sound to win his 10th Bassmaster title (putting him in elite company) and another $100,000 towards his career earnings. He swore he'd never buy an urchin, now here he is revealing pro tips on how to rig an urchin / coike style bait!

Jason's signature reel 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/SPRO_Jason_Christie_Elite_MG_Casting_Reels/descpage-JCELM.html?from=BOT
Sunline Shooter 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Sunline_Shooter_Fluorocarbon/descpage-SNSH.html?from=BOT
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👇 Links & Timestamps👇

0:28 Buzz - The Forward Facing Sonar Debate
Mark Daniels Jr video mentioned 👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t44KfcD1gpc

8:02 Banter - Banks Shaw
Stats graphic shown 👉 https://www.facebook.com/share/p/14hv3MhjfzX/

15:35 Baits - Coike Straight
The bait 👉 https://realdealtackle.com/products/hiedup-coike-straight-elastomer-110-mm?sca_ref=10514177.lonIbY6kZ5hdLE&sca_source=bot_breakdown
Video shown 👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qj1StYmfRgs

19:55 Business - Contingency programs
Yamaha Power Pay 👉 https://yamahapowerpay.com/

22:42 Bonus - Pat Schlapper's DIY jigs
Do-it Molds 👉 https://store.do-itmolds.com/

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The Best on Tour Breakdown is the behind the scenes briefing on the buzz, banter, baits, and business of bass fishing.

Click here 👉 https://bestontour.net/weather for the worksheet + your free 30-day Bass Forecast PRO membership

We all know that weather is extremely important when it comes to fishing, but there are a ton of misconceptions out there. Do bass "feel" barometric pressure changes? Does the moon phase matter? What does refraction have to do with catching fish? How does all this apply to my specific body of water? We at Best on Tour partnered with Bass Forecast to bring you The Ultimate Weather Guide for Bass Fishing, where you will learn the answers to all these questions and much more!

Mike Mehlmann, CEO of Bass Forecast, joins Jordan on this special "Masterclass" edition of the Best on Tour Breakdown. Follow along as they discuss the 7 keys to weather, how they relate to bass behavior, and how the Bass Forecast app makes it easy to figure out what's going down on the water.

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👇 Links & Timestamps👇

0:25 Buzz - "The Champions" tournament by World Bass Enterprises
More info 👉 https://www.worldbassenterprises.com/

5:13 Banter - Best rod for Coike fishing
The rod 👉 https://realdealtackle.com/products/phenix-m1-casting-rod?variant=43681427685591?sca_ref=10514177.lonIbY6kZ5hdLE&sca_source=botbd_ep16
Video shown 👉 https://www.instagram.com/p/DYqKe5YR_kN/

8:33 Baits - Dave Lefebre's $200,000 Chatterbait setup
The bait 👉 https://realdealtackle.com/products/z-man-evergreen-jackhammer-chatterbait?variant=43000408539351?sca_ref=10514177.lonIbY6kZ5hdLE&sca_source=botbd_ep16
The trailer 👉 https://realdealtackle.com/products/zoom-uv-ultra-vibe-speed-craw?variant=42999762616535?sca_ref=10514177.lonIbY6kZ5hdLE&sca_source=botbd_ep16
(Bass Pro trailer mentioned is discontinued)
Video shown 👉 https://www.tiktok.com/@davelefebre/video/7644542249111440654

13:26 Business - West Marine Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy
Article shown 👉 https://boatingindustry.com/breaking-news/2026/05/18/west-marine-files-for-chapter-11-bankruptcy/

16:03 Bonus - Bassfan rankings update
Post shown 👉 https://www.instagram.com/p/DY4fgalRo88/

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The Best on Tour Breakdown is the behind the scenes briefing on the buzz, banter, baits, and business of bass fishing.

0:22 Buzz - Carter Nutt Wins Pro Circuit on Douglas Lake

3:25 Banter - New Tennessee State Record Largemouth Bass

7:12 Baits - Bassmaster Tuesday Night Live Winning Baits (Mike Iaconelli & Drew Benton)
Berkley Powerbait Maxscent General 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Berkley_Powerbait_Maxscent_The_General_Worm/descpage-DMGS.html?from=BOT
Berkley Fusion Wacky Jighead 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Berkley_Fusion19_Weighted_Wacky_Head_5pk/descpage-WTW.html?from=BOT
Nories Front Flapper 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Nories_Front_Flapper_Curly_Creature_Bait_4_5pk/descpage-NFFC.html?from=BOT
Nories Laterrie 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Nories_Latterie_Neko_Rig_Worm_525_8pk_/descpage-NLATSW.html?from=BOT
SPRO Wacky Snack 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/SPRO_Wacky_Snack_Worm_7pk/descpage-SSNS.html?from=BOT

13:26 Business - New Sunglasses from Gamakatsu
Learn more 👉 https://gamakatsu.com/gspecx?utm_source=best_on_tour&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=bot_breakdown&utm_content=ep15

16:03 Bonus - New Coike Models Available Now
Kyu Coike (9mm) 👉 https://realdealtackle.com/products/hiedup-kyu-coike?sca_ref=10514177.lonIbY6kZ5hdLE&sca_source=bot_youtube_ep15
Coike Fish Elastomer M (17mm) 👉 https://realdealtackle.com/products/hiedup-coike-fish-elastomer-m-1?sca_ref=10514177.lonIbY6kZ5hdLE&sca_source=bot_youtube_ep15
Coike Straight (110mm) 👉 https://realdealtackle.com/products/hiedup-coike-straight-elastomer-110-mm?sca_ref=10514177.lonIbY6kZ5hdLE&sca_source=bot_youtube_ep15
Blog shown 👉 https://bestontour.net/blog/new-coike-models-out-now/?utm_source=best_on_tour&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=bot_breakdown&utm_content=ep15

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The Best on Tour Breakdown is the behind the scenes briefing on the buzz, banter, baits, and business of bass fishing.

The 5 B's in this episode:

1:09 Buzz - Tuesday Night Live Pairings
Blog shown 👉 https://bestontour.net/blog/bassmaster-tuesday-night-live-teams-officially-announced-after-fan-voting/?utm_source=best_on_tour&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=bot_breakdown&utm_content=ep_14

11:58 Banter - Jason Christie & Drew Cook
Video shown 👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2EMvuSLmt0E

15:52 Baits - What baits will play in Bassmaster Tuesday Night Live?

20:31 Business - The business behind Bassmaster Tuesday Night Live
Post shown 👉 https://bestontour.net/blog/bassmaster-tuesday-night-live-2026-announcement/?utm_source=best_on_tour&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=bot_breakdown&utm_content=ep_14

26:28 Bonus - Mark Zona & Dave Mercer fishing together?
Video shown 👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QVVMBSgfBjw

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In this bonus episode of the Best on Tour Breakdown, Jason Christie joins us to reveal the strategy and setup he used to win the recent Bassmaster Elite Series event on the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway to win his 9th Bassmaster title and another $100,000 towards his career earnings.

The winning gear:
Booyah Covert Single Colorado Spinnerbait 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Booyah_Covert_Single_Colorado_Spinnerbaits/descpage-BCSCSB.html?from=BOT
Covert Heat Map (spinnerbait selection tool) 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/bass-fishing/gear-guides/booyah-covert-series-spinnerbait-heat-map-for-bass-fishing.html?from=BOT
YUM Covert Trailer 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Yum_Covert_Trailer/descpage-YCTT.html?from=BOT
SPRO Jason Christie Elite MG Casting Reel 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/SPRO_Jason_Christie_Elite_MG_Casting_Reels/descpage-JCELM.html?from=BOT
Falcon Cara Casting Rod 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Falcon_Cara_Casting_Rods/descpage-FCNC.html?from=BOT
Sunline Shooter Fluoro 👉
https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Sunline_Shooter_Fluorocarbon/descpage-SNSH.html?from=BOT

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The Best on Tour Breakdown is the behind the scenes briefing on the buzz, banter, baits, and business of bass fishing.

The 5 B's in this episode:

1:02 Buzz
Banks Shaw wins another one
Article shown 👉 https://majorleaguefishing.com/pro-circuit/shaw-comes-from-behind-for-another-tennessee-river-win/?utm_source=best_on_tour&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=bot_breakdown&utm_content=ep_13

5:43 Banter
These are the top 10 bass anglers in the world
Post shown 👉 https://www.instagram.com/p/DVhB7udjtjT
BassFan World Rankings 👉 https://www.in-fisherman.com/bassfan/world-rankings/542043/?utm_source=best_on_tour&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=bot_breakdown&utm_content=ep_13

10:52 Baits
Dylan Nutt's Bassmaster Classic winning bait: Berkley Lab Series Minnow
Reel shown 👉 https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1JuJZxT4kv/

18:48 Business
Dylan Nutt denied sponsorship by Abu Garcia 9yrs ago
Post shown 👉 https://www.instagram.com/p/DWIMTtBlMOs

22:43 Bonus
KVD returns to competitive fishing?
Article shown 👉 https://usangling.org/kvd-to-play-dual-role-for-usa-at-world-championship/?utm_source=best_on_tour&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=bot_breakdown&utm_content=ep_13

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In this bonus episode of the Best on Tour Breakdown, Mark Zona & Dave Mercer join me to discuss the reality that comes with being a Bassmaster Classic winner. We go into some of the behind the scenes questions that many people often wonder about: How many media interviews is he getting hit with right now, and how much more money is he about to make beyond the $300,000 prize?

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The Best on Tour Breakdown is the behind the scenes briefing on the buzz, banter, baits, and business of bass fishing.

The 5 B's in this episode:

1:10 Buzz
The new $3M World Bass Enterprises tournament
More info 👉 https://worldbassenterprises.com/?utm_source=best_on_tour&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=bot_breakdown&utm_content=ep_12

9:52 Banter
Guy pulls his lower unit from bottom of frozen lake
Post shown 👉 https://www.instagram.com/reels/DTLY-Kyka9N/

15:15 Baits
Top 5 Jig Trailers (LureLens)
LureLens channel 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@TheLureLens?sub_confirmation=1

22:40 Business
Randy Blaukat: Are Fishing Seminars Dead?
Post shown 👉 https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1434200288098665&id=100045261228676

28:08 Bonus
Texas angler catches 13+lb bass THREE TIMES!
Article shown 👉 https://www.wired2fish.com/news/texas-angler-catches-the-same-bass-weighing-over-13-pounds-a-third-time/?utm_source=best_on_tour&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=bot_breakdown&utm_content=ep_12

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Enter the giveaway 👉 https://bestontour.net/11-2/?utm_source=best_on_tour&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=bot_breakdown&utm_content=ep_11

The Best on Tour Breakdown is the behind the scenes briefing on the buzz, banter, baits, and business of bass fishing.

The 5 B's in this episode:

2:14 Buzz
Kevin & Dylan Riney: Arkansas Legacy Lunker Interview
Watch the FULL interview here 👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSqOHuc-ScQ

10:30 Banter
Is social media more influential than tournaments when it comes to lure sales?
FB post shown 👉 https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17XdnBTvFX

16:46 Baits
LureLens REVEAL! Check out the channel 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@TheLureLens?sub_confirmation=1

20:16 Business
The finances of tournament fishing...

23:50 Bonus
Belle Kusske: Lake Biwa trip with Masayuki Matsushita (thanks to Kenta Kimura)
Belle's socials:
https://www.instagram.com/bellekusske
https://www.instagram.com/gooseriverapparel

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The Best on Tour Breakdown is the behind the scenes briefing on the buzz, banter, baits, and business of bass fishing.

The 5 B's in this episode:

1:12 Buzz
Rick Clunn's return to competitive bass fishing, this time in the NPFL!
FW article mentioned 👉 https://thefishingwire.com/rick-clunn-bass-blaster-interview-bass-fishing-legend-insists-i-never-retired-before-npfl-return-at-age-80/?utm_source=best_on_tour&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=best_on_tour_breakdown&utm_content=ep_10

3:23 Banter
Which PBs should count vs which ones should not...
FB post shown 👉 https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1KNsNGCCvr/

7:28 Baits
Vintage Bagley crankbaits, Wiggle Warts, collecting, and more.
Check out Bagley's new baits 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/catpage-BAGLY.html?from=BOT

14:16 Business
The rise and fall of the Googan Squad from an industry perspective.
Shop Googan baits 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/catpage-GOOGANSQUAD.html?from=BOT
IG post mentioned 👉 https://www.instagram.com/reel/DSk32aCElyv/

22:56 Bonus:
Back deck forward facing sonar setups.
IG video shown 👉 https://www.instagram.com/reel/DS1P7XUE69U/
Shop BeatDown mounts 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/catpage-BEATDOUTDOO.html?from=BOT

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The Best on Tour Breakdown is the behind the scenes briefing on the buzz, banter, baits, and business of bass fishing.

The 5 B's in this episode:

0:54 Buzz
Drew Gill is the youngest MLF angler to hit $1,000,000 in earnings
Article mentioned 👉 https://majorleaguefishing.com/bass-pro-tour/gill-sets-the-bar-as-mlfs-youngest-bass-fishing-millionaire/?utm_source=best_on_tour&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=best_on_tour_breakdown&utm_content=ep9

5:44 Banter
The "illegal" bait in question 👉 https://youtu.be/wlWt_uOivfY

9:53 Baits
Bill Lewis Big Gizz 👉 https://realdealtackle.com/products/bill-lewis-big-gizz?sca_ref=10514177.lonIbY6kZ5hdLE&sca_source=bot_youtube

14:40 Business
Golf vs fishing (Justin Rackley AKA Lake Fork Guy clip from BTL) 👉 https://youtu.be/giNNlpr1GyU?t=1605

22:52 Bonus:
Bass catches world record bass in Bass Lake (USA Today FTW article) 👉 https://ftw.usatoday.com/story/sports/outdoors/2025/12/16/fishing-boy-catches-world-record-bass-in-bass-lake/87788339007/?utm_source=best_on_tour&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=best_on_tour_breakdown&utm_content=ep9

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The Best on Tour Breakdown is the behind the scenes briefing on the buzz, banter, baits, and business of bass fishing.

The 5 B's in this episode:

1:45 Buzz
Polygraphs in bass fishing
FB post mentioned 👉 https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1FcqD62nKp/

8:27 Banter:
B.A.S.S.'s updated no-info rule 👉 https://www.bassmaster.com/classic/news/b-a-s-s-announces-updated-no-information-rule-for-classic-elite-series-elite-qualifiers-and-opens/?utm_source=best_on_tour&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=best_on_tour_breakdown&utm_content=ep8

16:12 Baits:
Berkley PowerBait Triple Minnow Rig Kit 👉 https://realdealtackle.com/products/berkley-triple-minnow-rig/?utm_source=best_on_tour&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=best_on_tour_breakdown&utm_content=ep8

19:10 Business:
BeatDown Outdoors Zeroed In FFS Transducer Mount announcement article in FTR 👉 https://fishingtackleretailer.com/beatdown-zeroed-in-ffs-transducer-mount/?utm_source=best_on_tour&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=best_on_tour_breakdown&utm_content=ep8
Shop the mount here 👉 https://beatdownoutdoors.com/products/zero-degree-livescope-mount/?utm_source=best_on_tour&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=best_on_tour_breakdown&utm_content=ep8

25:27 Bonus:
Ken Smith Fishing epic fail dyeing a Hideup Coike on wife's breakfast table! 👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4yeIEVy2uVo

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The Best on Tour Breakdown is the behind the scenes briefing on the buzz, banter, baits, and business of bass fishing.

The 5 B's in this episode:

1:21 Buzz:

2026 Cuts Blog 👉 https://bestontour.net/blog/2026-bassmaster-elite-series-roster-updates-cuts-qualifiers-more/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=best_on_tour_breakdown&utm_content=ep_7

How the Cuts Work Blog 👉 https://bestontour.net/blog/who-stays-who-goes-inside-the-bassmaster-elite-cut-rules/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=best_on_tour_breakdown&utm_content=ep_7

12:01 Banter:

Matt Pangrac's mexico bass 👉 https://www.instagram.com/p/DSG2J87kTwq/

16:00 Baits:

Freedom Flyer video 👉 https://www.instagram.com/p/DSGKnf_AUhA/

Shop Missile Baits Freedom Flyer: 👉 https://realdealtackle.com/products/missile-baits-freedom-flyer-minnow?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=best_on_tour_breakdown&utm_content=freedom_flyer

19:54 Business:

Ultimate Angler 2026 annonucement 👉 https://anglerschannel.com/the-ultimate-angler-announces-official-2026-dates?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=best_on_tour_breakdown

23:18 Bonus:

backlash_official post 👉 https://www.instagram.com/reel/DRT-gONk7Zt/

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The Best on Tour Breakdown is the behind the scenes briefing on the buzz, banter, baits, and business of bass fishing.

The 5 B's in this episode:

1:37 Buzz: Bassmaster Fan Cam 👉 https://www.bassmaster.com/eqs/news/introducing-the-new-bassmaster-fan-cam-presented-by-b-a-s-s-membership/

5:44 Banter: MLF official saves Jake Lawrence from falling out of boat! 👉 https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1CuGyWUGwt/

10:09 Baits: Roman Made Negotiator 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Roman_Made_Negotiator_Swimbait/descpage-RMMNSB.html?from=BOT

TW Colors 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Roman_Made_Exclusive_Negotiator_Swimbait/descpage-RMTWEX.html?from=BOT

Mother Chaser 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Roman_Made_Natural_Wood_Mother_Chaser_Swimbait/descpage-RMMCHSB.html?from=BOT

18:11 Business: NPAA Conference 👉 https://www.npaa.net/conference?utm_source=best+on+tour&utm_medium=podcast

22:00 Bonus: Manabu Kurita's world record bass 👉 https://www.bassfan.com/news_article/3571/record-holder-kurita-haunted-by-sight-of-monster?utm_source=best+on+tour&utm_medium=podcast

Livewell video 👉 https://www.facebook.com/MercuryMarine/videos/1052226841897109/?rdid=D3YE9f0XxwU3KYMV#

His FB page ​👉 https://www.facebook.com/manabu.kurita/

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https://bestontour.net

The Best on Tour Breakdown is the behind the scenes briefing on the buzz, banter, baits, and business of bass fishing.

The 5 B's in this episode:

1:20 Buzz: Bass Fishing Tournaments in Japan 👉 took 2 bags, 3 guys to carry his fish: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQyW16Vj8V3/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== 👉 results: https://bait-biwako.com/ https://www.instagram.com/p/DQ2jQ0mk5XB/?img_index=2

8:10 Banter: BOT Awards Catch of the Year Comments! 👉 https://www.instagram.com/bestontourbass/reel/DQzpFPDEesh/ 👉https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQxZTuLDiXj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

13:06 Baits: SPRO KGB Lil Guy 👉https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/SPRO_KGB_Lil_Guy_120_Glide_Bait/descpage-SKLG.html?from=BOT KGB Lil Guy setup! 👉 https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1893124768269096

17:57 Business: Professional Tournaments POSITIVELY impact host cities 👉 https://thefishingwire.com/shreveport-bossier-city-set-to-host-mlfs-bass-pro-shops-summit-cup-presented-by-zenni/?utm_source=MV_The+Fishing+Wire+Newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_content=HTMLLinkID%3a+12&utm_campaign=The+Fishing+Wire%3a+November+6%2c+2025

21:40 Bonus: INSANE Japanese Tackle Shops 👉 https://www.instagram.com/p/DPTGxCVkSwZ/?igsh=M3k3N3lpcWczZzZt

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https://bestontour.net

The Best on Tour Breakdown is the behind the scenes briefing on the buzz, banter, baits, and business of bass fishing.

The 5 B's in this episode:

1:30 Buzz: Ultimate Angler Championship! 👉 https://www.si.com/onsi/fishing/bass-fishing/forward-facing-sonar-myth-busted

6:09 Banter: Josh Jones - Oklahoma Trophy Bass Pioneer? 👉 https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1B1Ufj9TZZ/

10:03 Baits: Berkley Powerbait Maxscent Flux Gill 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Berkley_PowerBait_Maxscent_Flux_Gill_Creature_Bait/descpage-PBMF.html?from=BOT

12:58 Business: Omnia Fishing X Thorne Brothers 👉 https://www.omniafishing.com/omnia-videos/omnia-thorne?

17:06 Bonus: Will New Tournament Rules Go Down the Ladder? 👉 https://www.wired2fish.com/opinions-philosophies/how-bass-pro-ffs-rules-will-reshape-smaller-tournaments

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https://bestontour.net

The Best on Tour Breakdown is the behind the scenes briefing on the buzz, banter, baits, and business of bass fishing.

The 5 B's in this episode:

1:22 Buzz: No-info rules in pro bass organizations.

NPFL no info rule 👉 https://thenationalprofessionalfishingleague.com/2025/09/29/npfl-amends-no-info-rule/

6:30 Banter: Bass literally jumps in the boat! 👉 https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTMDoKD8b/

10:03 Baits: The Z-Man Swag LT Swimbait

Shop now 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Z-Man_Swag_LT_Swimbait/descpage-ZSLTS.html?from=BOT

Read the FTR article 👉 https://fishingtackleretailer.com/swag-lt-big-swagger-big-attitude-now-in-stock/

12:58 Business: Entry fee & payout structuring changes.

BPT payout structure changes 👉 https://majorleaguefishing.com/bass-pro-tour/major-league-fishing-announces-bass-pro-tour-payout-structure-enhancements-for-2026/

MLF entry fee & payout changes 👉 https://thefishingwire.com/mlf-announces-lower-entry-fees-bigger-payouts-for-2026-phoenix-bass-fishing-league/

17:06 Bonus: Holding Bassmaster pundits accountable. 👉 https://www.bassmaster.com/elite/news/predicting-each-rookies-best-elite-finish-in-2025/ ​

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https://bestontour.net

The Best on Tour Breakdown is the behind the scenes briefing on the buzz, banter, baits, and business of bass fishing.

The 5 B's in this episode:

Buzz: Jacob Wheeler's 6 year domination streak.

Banter: If you could only fish one lake for the rest of your life, which one would you choose?

Baits: The best new dice & fuzzy baits.

Business: How tariffs are affecting the bass fishing industry.

Bonus: Our new AI chat bot, ChatBOT!

Links mentioned in the show:

Sign up for our free newsletter 👉 https://bestontour.net

BassFan World Rankings 👉 https://bassfan.com/rankings.asp

Tackle Warehouse ICAST Viewers Choice Awards 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/bass-fishing/best-of/icast-viewers-choice-winners-2025.html

Tariff blog 👉 https://bestontour.net/blog/why-your-fishing-gear-costs-more-in-2025-tariffs-explained/

Follow Best on Tour:

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Timestamps:

0:00 Intro

1:03 Buzz

3:07 Banter

8:22 Baits

10:44 Business

13:23 Bonus