Decatur to Host 2025 College Fishing National Championship

Major League Fishing, in conjunction with Decatur Morgan County Tourism, announced that the 2025 Abu Garcia College Fishing National Championship will take place on Wheeler Lake in Decatur, Alabama, April 9–11.

The 16th annual College Fishing National Championship will mark the second time the three-day tournament has been held on Wheeler Lake and will showcase the nation’s top collegiate bass anglers. The teams will compete for a top prize of $43,500, including a new Phoenix 518 Pro boat and $10,000 in cash. The winning team will also advance to the 2025 Toyota Series Championship to compete as pros for a shot at winning as much as $235,000.

“The decision to bring the MLF College Fishing National Championship to Decatur underscores our commitment to showcasing our region’s natural resources and fostering partnerships within the sports tourism industry,” said Danielle Gibson, president and chief executive officer of Decatur Morgan County Tourism. “We look forward to a successful event that benefits our local economy and community.”

The second-place team will receive a Phoenix 518 Pro boat and advances to the 2025 Toyota Series Championship. The third-place finishers will receive $4,000 and every team in the top 10 will receive at least $1,000. College teams compete in nine regular season qualifying tournaments to qualify for the championship.

“Major League Fishing is excited to be returning to Wheeler Lake, a legendary bass-fishing destination, for the 2025 College Fishing National Championship,” said Kevin Hunt, Major League Fishing senior director of tournament operations. “The lake’s diverse and challenging waters will provide the perfect stage for the nation’s top collegiate anglers to showcase their talents and passion for the sport. We’re looking forward to an exciting event.”