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Waves of Success: Smallmouth Bass Bite Strong on Lake Ontario
28 Aug
Summary
- Tucker Smith leads with 27 pounds, 5 ounces of smallmouth bass.
- Rough conditions with 6- to 7-foot swells challenged anglers.
- Many anglers reported limits weighing 20 pounds or better.
Tucker Smith, a second-year pro from Alabama, surged to the lead on Day 1 of the 2026 Lowrance Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence River. He secured a five-bass limit of smallmouth weighing 27 pounds, 5 ounces, navigating challenging conditions with waves reaching up to 7 feet on Lake Ontario. Smith attributed his success partly to the wind pushing bait into his area, noting his strong performance in smallmouth-rich environments.
Despite the difficult weather, the St. Lawrence River yielded impressive results, with 90 of 98 anglers bringing back limits over 20 pounds. California's Bryant Smith followed closely in second place with 27 pounds, 4 ounces, also benefiting from windy conditions on Lake Ontario. Tennessee's David Mullins secured third place with 26 pounds, 14 ounces, having fished exclusively within the St. Lawrence River.
Kyle Welcher of Alabama caught the Phoenix Boats Big Bass of the Day, a 6-15 smallmouth. In the Angler of the Year standings, Trey McKinney leads, while Fisher Anaya tops the Rookie of the Year race. Bassmaster LIVE coverage continues on Day 2.
