CULLMAN, Alabama—The National Professional Fishing League and Visit Cullman are excited to announce that the 2026 NPFL Championship will be held on historic Lewis Smith Lake and hosted by Visit Cullman. The three-day event will run February 26-28 and feature 42 qualifying anglers from the 2025 season.
“Our first visit to Smith Lake will be an important one since it kicks off our 2026 season,” says NPFL president Brad Fuller. “It’s our third annual Championship event and will be the starting point for what’s going to be our biggest year ever. Alabama has hosted four previous league events, and we’ve enjoyed a strong relationship with the state and its bass fishing supporters who have made Alabama a major hub in the tournament world.”
Visit Cullman is one of the sport’s staunchest supporters.
“We are honored to host the 2026 NPFL Championship and welcome these elite anglers to Cullman County,” says Harmony Heard, Executive Director of Visit Cullman. “Smith Lake is one of the most unique and beautiful fisheries in the country, and we are thrilled to showcase our natural resources, hospitality, and the outstanding community that makes Cullman such a special place. Major fishing events like the NPFL Championship play an important role in strengthening Cullman’s local economy. Over this three-day tournament, visiting anglers and spectators will contribute to increased hotel stays, restaurant visits, and retail purchases, supporting small businesses throughout the community. We are grateful for our partnership with NPFL and look forward to welcoming them to our destination.”
Renowned as the most celebrated spotted bass lake in the world, Smith Lake produced several world records in the 1950s, ’60s, and ’70s. Since that time, the genetics of those giants have been transplanted across much of the country and still produce the biggest examples of the species. The lake also boasts a thriving population of largemouth bass.
