Zack Birge wins Angler of the Year at Lake Erie Bass Pro Tour

Major League Fishing Bass Pro Tour Angler of the Year professional bass fishing Lake Erie

Zack Birge has secured the Fishing Clash Angler of the Year (AOY) title during the Suzuki Marine Stage 7 of the Major League Fishing Bass Pro Tour at Lake Erie. Birge clinched the trophy after finishing the knockout round in fourth place.

Jacob Wheeler won the knockout round, catching 25 bass totaling 70 pounds, 11 ounces. Despite Wheeler's performance, he was unable to overcome a 12-point deficit to overtake Birge for the AOY title. The competition moves into the Championship Round, where the final 10 anglers will compete for a $125,000 top prize from a total purse of $600,000.

The event, held in Sandusky, Ohio, serves as the season finale for the 2026 Bass Pro Tour. Anglers are competing for points to qualify for the MLF Kubota Heavy Hitters all-star event and REDCREST 2027.

Entities

Bass Pro Tour · Jacob Wheeler · Lake Erie · Major League Fishing · Zack Birge

Sources

Birge Wins AOY, Wheeler Paces Knockout Round At *Suzuki Marine Stage 7* At Lake Erie Presented By B&W Trailer Hitches [thefishingwire.com]

about 6 hours ago

Watch LIVE Saturday & Sunday: MLF Bass Pro Tour Suzuki Marine Stage 7 Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches [huntinglife.com]

2 days ago