SAN CLEMENTE, Calif. — WON BASS, a division of Western Outdoor News, is proud to announce that the most prestigious event in Western bass fishing, the WON BASS U.S. Open, will return to its legendary home on Lake Mead in October 2026. This move marks the end of a four-year residency at Lake Mohave, which served as the tournament’s host site starting in 2022 due to historically low water levels at Mead.
"Lake Mead is where the U.S. Open was born and where its legacy was built over 39 consecutive years," said Billy Egan, WON BASS Tournament Director. "While Lake Mohave was a phenomenal host that provided incredible smallmouth fishing and a world-class experience, there is an undeniable magic to the U.S. Open at Mead. With water conditions stabilizing and infrastructure improved, we are thrilled to bring the 'Big Show' back to its original playground."
For nearly four decades, Lake Mead served as the ultimate proving ground for the U.S. Open, earning a reputation as the most grueling and respected "desert duel" in the sport. After shifting south to Katherine Landing on Lake Mohave to ensure angler safety and reliable boat launching, the tournament now returns to the venue where its rich history began.
The return to Lake Mead signals a new chapter for the U.S. Open, combining the tradition of the past with the modern professional standards of today’s WON BASS Tournament Trail.
Competition will once again operate out of Callville Bay, and the event will maintain its signature three-day Pro-Am format, pairing Professional and AAA anglers in a shared-weight competition.
The 2026 U.S. Open will continue to offer massive payouts, including a fully-rigged Ranger and Mercury Marine boat-and motor package for the Pro winner, along with "Golden Ticket" berths into the B.A.S.S. Nation Championship.
For more information, official rules, and schedule updates, visit WONBassEvents.com
