Fish On at the Wild West Bass Trail Pro/Am Tournament

There may be plenty of fish in the sea, but for world class bass fishing, the Wild West Bass Trail brings their largest West Coast tour to the Columbia River!

a man fishing on a boat on the Columbia River

Wild West Bass Trail Tournament

This year's Wild West Bass Trail Columbia River Pro/Am Tournament will take place from Friday, August 4, 2023 to Sunday, August 6, 2023. Those wishing to participate must have Wild West Bass Trail 2023 Annual Membership which can be purchased here. Registration is also required and is $430 for amateurs and $855 for professionals. It is recommended competitors register as soon as possible as there is a 150 boat cap for the tournament.

History of the Columbia River Pro/Am

The WWBT held their first ever Columbia Cup Pro/Am Open from June 21-23, 2019 and brought some amazing prizes that drew in anglers from Arizona, Nevada, California, Oregon and more!

Competitors raced for their chance to win $10,000 from the Professional pool and $5,000 from the Amateur pool. Ultimately first place for both the professional and amateur cups went to local Kennewick residents! Pro winner Mel Williams collected 51.76lbs, while Am winner Josh Roy came in with 29.37lbs.

two men hold trophies in the air after winning the WIld West Bass Trail Pro/Am Tournament at Columbia River

Beginning on Friday, the anglers hit the waters a half-hour before sunrise and would fish up and down the river until 3 p.m., when weigh-ins were due. Spectators could see the boats flock in to make the cut-off. Family and friends would cheer the anglers on as they docked and were excited to see the large bass during the weigh-ins.

fisherman gather under Wild West Bass Trail tents

Some anglers were shocked to see swells up to four feet due to the wind. Mel Williams took advantage of his competitors’ struggle with the wind and current fluctuations and held steadfast to fishing for only largemouth, as opposed to a combination of large and smallmouth. That may have been what gave him the advantage.

"I have been visiting the Columbia River for over 20 years and it remains my favorite venue both because it is world class fishery and the scenery,” said Randy McBride, Tournament Director.

Brandon Hua holding his third place award during the Wild West Bass Trail Pro/Am tournament

Brandon Hua, an angler from Portland, took third overall in the amateur division and noted that he enjoyed his first competition on the Columbia River and is looking forward to participating in more events in the future!

The Richland Rod and Gun Club was present during each day of the tournament, teaching kids how to cast.

a grey boat parked in front of Lucas Marine Products

The Wild West Bass Trail Pro/Am fishing tournament is a memorable experience for every fishing enthusiast. Plan your visit to Tri-Cities during the tournament and enjoy more outdoor activities and comfortable accommodations.

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