One of the most dynamic and exciting opportunities
BASS has created for junior anglers is the Junior
Bassmaster World Championship (JWC). Just like mom
or dad competing in the BASS Federation Nation club
competitions, this program allows junior members the
opportunity to compete at a club, state and divisional
level, ultimately qualifying them for their Junior
Bassmaster World Championship of their own.
The competition format mirrors the BASS Federation
Nation tournament structure. Junior Bassmasters compete
on a club and state level for the chance to advance
to their respective Divisional competitions. The exposure
youth anglers gain to all levels of Federation Nation
competition has added versatility to the skills of
these developing young anglers. Youth competitors
now have a chance to qualify as members of their adult
state team. Juniors are mentored by Federation Nation
anglers and learn the elements that are central to
the passionate Federation Nation membership.
The qualifying ladder for the JWC provides youth with
a firsthand look at competition venues they can pursue
when they reach adult competition age. The junior
competitor who emerges as the top-performing angler
in his or her state advances to one of six Federation
Nation divisions. Click here to view a map showing
the six geographic divisions.
The first BASS Federation Nation divisional of the
year typically takes place in March or April with
the remaining five Divisional competitions taking
place throughout the spring and summer. The top-performing
anglers from each of six divisionals then qualify
for the JWC Championship, to be held in conjunction
with the BASS Federation Nation Championship. The
championship contenders fish for scholarship money
totaling $21,000 and the distinction as the top youth
anglers in the sport.
Junior clubs are sponsored by adult Federation Nation
Clubs with members of the adult clubs acting as mentors
and educators for these young anglers. Junior members
gain skills from how-to clinics, educational workshops
based on conservation, good fishing ethics, catch-and-release
and habitat restoration. Junior members also get involved
with other youth tournaments, adopt-a-waterway projects,
charitable programs and community service projects.
Junior Bassmaster Awards
$21,000 in academic college scholarships are awarded
to the 12 finalists.
$5,000: National Champion in each age group
$2,000: 2nd Place
$1,500: 3rd Place
$1,000: 4th Place
$500: 5th Place
$500: 6th Place
