In a move that could reshape professional bass fishing strategy, B.A.S.S. has announced a major change to its forward-facing sonar (FFS) policy that will go into effect during the 2026 Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series season.
Starting in 2026, FFS will only be allowed at five of the nine regular-season Elite events, with the remaining four banning the use of the technology entirely—even during official practice. Which events will permit live sonar will be decided randomly, and the decisions will be revealed during a live show on September 4 at 10 a.m. CT on Bassmaster.com.
“No single technology should define bass fishing,” said B.A.S.S. CEO Chase Anderson in a press release. “This balanced approach keeps competition diverse, entertaining and true to the culture of our sport.”
What Stays and What Changes
The current 2025 rules — one transducer and a maximum of 55 total screen inches — will remain in place next season. However, 2026 will usher in a hybrid schedule where some tournaments will allow FFS and others will not. This is a direct response to growing concerns from fans, anglers, and stakeholders that the technology is changing the nature of tournament bass fishing.
Even the St. Lawrence River, the final stop of the season, will be subject to a coin flip. That means up to five of the nine events could ultimately ban FFS entirely.
The 2026 Bassmaster Classic will allow FFS use, since all qualifiers earned their way there under the 2025 rules.
Why the Change?
The update follows two years of internal review and external feedback. While B.A.S.S. made strategic schedule choices in 2025 to diversify fisheries and reduce FFS dominance, live sonar still played a role in nearly every tournament outcome. In response, the Angler Board of Professionals (ABP) voted to push for stronger restrictions.
“This new rule is exactly what the majority of the ABP voted for,” said Davy Hite, former Bassmaster Classic champion. “It creates amazing opportunities for fans to watch different skills shine, and it ensures our next Angler of the Year will be the most versatile angler on the planet.”
The move is intended to level the playing field, preserve traditional techniques, and keep bass fishing rooted in the skill diversity that has long defined the sport.
A New Era of Competitive Bass Fishing
The use of forward-facing sonar has been one of the most polarizing topics in the sport in recent years. While undeniably powerful, many in the community have questioned whether its use diminishes the role of instinct, patterning, and on-the-water decision-making.
With this rule change, B.A.S.S. isn’t banning the technology — but they’re making it clear that technology should enhance the sport, not dominate it.
Stay tuned to Bassmaster.com on September 4 to find out which events will feature FFS and which will not. One thing’s for sure: whoever wins Angler of the Year in 2026 will have proven they can do it all — with and without a screen.
