On October 25th, 181 anglers took to the Lake of the Ozarks for the 4th Big Bass 250 and a chance to win a piece of the more than $70,000 in giveaways and payouts. 2025 saw a record number of bass caught with 1,151. Like year three of the Big Bass 250, where Stony Floyd took home the biggest bass and 1st place for a total of $16,000 in winnings, Tommy Brown claimed Biggest Bass (21.75") & 1st place for $17,000!
A large misconception bass boat anglers have about kayak fishing is there are no tournaments worth any real money. With $10,000 guaranteed (regardless of number of sign-ups) for the biggest bass caught, the Big Bass 250 is worth a shot for all levels of kayak anglers. All it takes is one cast.
Tommy Brown from Tennesse had the single best day in Big Bass 250 history with a five fish total of 96.25"! Here is how the top 10 shook out this year:
One of the biggest appeals for the Big Bass 250 is the giveaways. No kayak tournament in the nation steps up with giveaways quite like the Big Bass 250. Even if an angler has a bad day on the water, they can turn their luck around by winning big time fishing kayaks, motors, trailers, anchors and more. Fast-paced and packed with items, the Big Bass 250 makes attending the awards ceremony a 'gotta be there' event. Check out some of the major items given away this year.
Fishing Kayak Giveaways
Motors & Trailer Giveaways
Kayak Accessory Giveaways
River kayaking always adds a heightened sense of risk. You need extra gear, an increased understanding of paddle techniques and more awareness of your surroundings at all times. These risks become even more elevated when using motors to move upriver. Here is how to stay safer on the river when using motors.
Not a kayak, not a boat but something in-between. Jackson's Blue Sky Boatworks 360 Pro is a catamaran-style fishing vessel that blends the adaptability of a fishing kayak with the stability of a bass boat. Reach the same water kayaks can with the added benefit of more space and stability. Meet the Blue Sky Boatworks.
Choosing between a fishing kayak and a canoe comes down to more than personal preference — it's about matching the right watercraft to your fishing style, water type, and gear needs. Fishing kayaks offer superior maneuverability, customization, and hands-free pedal drive options that make them a favorite for anglers. Canoes, on the other hand, shine when it comes to hauling more gear, portaging, and loading for multi-day adventuring.
