Bassmaster Elite Series Returns to the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes for First Time Since 2007

KISSIMMEE, FL (September 15, 2026) — The Greater Orlando Sports Commission, in partnership with the Kissimmee Sports Commission, the Osceola County Tourism Development Council and the Osceola County Board of County Commissioners, is proud to welcome the return of the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series to the world-renowned Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, February 18-21, 2027. The event marks the first Bassmaster Elite Series competition on the fishery since the 2007 season finale, bringing professional bass fishing’s premier tour back to one of the sport’s most historic and celebrated destinations.

As announced by B.A.S.S. as part of its nine-event 2027 Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series schedule, the Kissimmee Chain will serve as the second stop of the season, following the opener on nearby Lake Okeechobee. The return underscores the continued reputation of the Kissimmee Chain as one of the nation’s elite bass fisheries and a destination capable of producing unforgettable moments in tournament history.

The last Elite Series event held on the Kissimmee Chain was the 2007 “Sunshine Showdown” on Lake Tohopekaliga, where Skeet Reese captured the coveted Bassmaster Angler of the Year title. Since then, the fishery has continued to cement its status, hosting numerous major tournaments and producing record-setting catches.

Known for its interconnected lakes, expansive vegetation, abundant trophy largemouth bass and exceptional fishing conditions, the Kissimmee Chain has been the site of some of the most remarkable performances in Bassmaster history, including Dean Rojas’ legendary 45-pound, 2-ounce five-bass limit in 2001. More recently, the fishery demonstrated its big-bass potential during the 2026 Bassmaster Open, won by Cody Stahl with a dominant 74-pound, 6-ounce total and a record-setting 22-pound, 1-ounce margin of victory.

“The Bassmaster Elite Series brings together elite anglers and passionate fans from across the country, creating a tremendous opportunity for our local businesses and hospitality partners,” said Jessica Beers, Executive Director of the Kissimmee Sports Commission. “We are proud to host this premier event and invite visitors to experience everything our destination has to offer, from locally owned restaurants and unique shopping opportunities to family-friendly attractions and outdoor recreation. We look forward to showcasing why Kissimmee remains one of the most respected bass fishing destinations in the country.”

“We’re thrilled to welcome B.A.S.S. and the Elite Series back to the Kissimmee Chain for the first time since 2007 and to once again put Central Florida in the national spotlight as some of the world’s best anglers compete here,” said Jason Siegel, President & CEO of the Greater Orlando Sports Commission. “The return of the Bassmaster Elite Series to Kissimmee is a tremendous opportunity to showcase the strength of Osceola County as a premier destination for competitive fishing and outdoor recreation. Events like this bring athletes, fans and visitors to our community while creating meaningful impact in our local economy. We’re grateful to our partners at the Kissimmee Sports Commission, Osceola County Tourism Development Council and the Osceola County Board of County Commissioners for helping bring this premier event back to our community.”

With national television coverage, extensive digital exposure, and one of the most passionate fan bases in outdoor sports, the Bassmaster Elite Series provides an unparalleled platform to highlight the destination’s natural resources and tourism assets. The event reinforces Osceola County’s longstanding position as a premier destination for competitive fishing and outdoor recreation.

Additional event details, spectator opportunities, and tournament activities will be announced closer to the event date.

About the Greater Orlando Sports Commission

The Greater Orlando Sports Commission (GO Sports) is a private, non-profit organization established to attract and manage sports-related events, conferences and activities that drive positive economic development in the City of Orlando, Lake County, Orange County, Osceola County, and Seminole County. Founded in 1992-93, the organization has hosted or co-hosted more than 1,700 events in the Greater Orlando area with a total economic impact exceeding $3.86 billion in spending within the community. For more information, visit www.GreaterOrlandoSports.com.

About Experience Kissimmee

Experience Kissimmee, the official tourism authority for Osceola County, Florida, is dedicated to creating economic opportunities by driving tourism to the region. With a vision to be a trailblazer in destination marketing, Experience Kissimmee promotes Central Florida’s diverse tourism experiences to the world. By welcoming millions of visitors each year, whether for leisure, business, or sports events, the organization is committed to supporting local economic growth and to positioning the region as a premier travel destination. For more information, visit https://www.experiencekissimmee.com/.

About B.A.S.S.

B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.

The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, Turtlebox Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Battery Tender, Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.