National Team Championship Anglers,
We’re looking forward to welcoming you to Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, July 23–25 for the 2026 National Team Championship!
As many of you know, the National Team Championship is a Bass Pro Shops-owned event, originally founded by Cabela’s, and has been produced by Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s for many years. The Walleye Federation (TWF), which also owns the Masters Walleye Circuit (MWC), has proudly served as the operations partner for this event for many years. As always, our team will be handling tournament operations, and we look forward to seeing you in Sault Ste. Marie.
As the event draws near, here are a few important reminders:
Fish Both the NTC and the Masters Walleye Circuit
As we have done several times in the past, this year’s event will once again be a dual event, giving anglers the opportunity to compete in both the National Team Championship and the Masters Walleye Circuit.
If you haven’t already, there’s still time to register for the Masters Walleye Circuit, which will be be held Thursday and Friday (July 23–24) alongside the National Team Championship.
The best part? The same basket of fish you weigh each day will count for both tournaments. There is no additional fishing required—simply enter the MWC, and your Thursday and Friday catches will be scored in both events.
The All-American 25 will still be contested on Saturday, July 25, as scheduled.
To register for the Masters Walleye Circuit, visit:
MastersWalleyeCircuit.com/Registration
Registration closes Monday, July 20.
Tournament Note:
We’ve received several questions regarding nightcrawlers. Nightcrawlers may be used on tournament waters. However, anglers fishing in Canadian waters should remember that nightcrawlers cannot be transported or possessed in dirt or soil bedding.
Special Launch Passes:
Thanks to the generous support of the Sault Ste. Marie Convention & Visitors Bureau, the majority of the cost of the launch passes has been covered. As a result, anglers can purchase a special launch pass for just $15, valid July 21–25, at:
Last Resort
1100 E. Portage Avenue
Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783
Please be sure to thank Linda and her crew for their support when you see them at Wednesday night’s rules meeting.
Rules Meeting:
A meal will be provided before Wednesday night’s official rules meeting, so come hungry and enjoy the opportunity to visit with fellow competitors before we review tournament procedures.
We appreciate your support and look forward to seeing everyone in Sault Ste. Marie for another outstanding National Team Championship. Safe travels, and we’ll see you soon!
Jeff Kelm
Tournament Director
The Walleye Federation
