EVENT DETAILS
EVENT COMPLETE
EVENT HOST: ABT TOURNAMENTS
EVENT WEBSITE:
https://abt.org.au/2026-rapala-bass-pro-series-calendar-rules-forms-entry-lists-and-info-sheets/
DETAILS:
The Clarence River in New South Wales is a premier Australian Bass Tournament (ABT) arena, often hosting the Rapala BASS Pro Series and the BASS Australian Open. It is considered one of ABT’s favourite locations due to its “mighty” size and diverse fishing environments. This is an Individual event with the winner determine by the best 5 Bass by Length/Weight Curve.
EVENT DATE(S): 21/3/2026 – 22/3/2026
LOCATION: CLARENCE RIVER, NSW
EVENT TYPE: BOATER/NON BOATER
TARGET SPECIES: BASS
NO CATEGORIES: 2
NO COMPETITORS: 80
EVENT LOGISTICS & RULES
- Launch Point: Launch Point: Most Grafton-based events launch from Corcoran Park Boat Ramp.
- Format: Events are 100% app-based, utilizing the ABT Tournament Series App for a catch-measure-photo-release system with live scoreboards.
- Limits: Boaters have a 5-fish limit per session, while non-boaters have a 3-fish limit.
- Navigation Hazards: Anglers must observe 10-knot speed limits under bridges and exercise caution around cable ferries at Lawrence and Ulmarra.
- No-Go Zones: Fishing is banned near Harwood Dry Docks and Goodwood Island port security areas.
FISHING CHARACTERISTICS AND WINNING TACTICS
The Clarence River in New South Wales is a flagship venue for Australian Bass Tournaments (ABT), prized for its massive scale and diverse tidal environments that challenge even the most experienced anglers.
- Diverse Terrain: Anglers target deep rock ledges and reefs in the lower reaches, while the upper sections near Clarence Gorge are shallower and faster-flowing.
- Tidal Influence: The river is highly tidal, reaching over 100km inland to Copmanhurst. Rising tides often bring a hot bite, while “runout” tides are excellent for targeting fish near drain mouths.
- Structure Focusing: 2024 winner Tagan Heath secured a victory by exclusively targeting a single rock reef.
- Lure Selection:
- Surface: Buzzbaits, fizzers, and stickbaits (e.g., Bassday Sugapen) are deadly during low-light periods or in shallower, high-energy sections.
- Subsurface: Crankbaits and vibration lures (like TN60s) work well on deeper reefs. Spinnerbaits or chatterbaits are preferred for heavy timber and vertical presentations.
| Event | Winner | Winning Bag/Result | Key Strategy/Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Rapala BASS Pro | Dylan Walsh | 8.271kg (8/10 fish) | Utilized a “Coldstream strategy” and a strong buzzbait bite. |
| 2025 BASS Australian Open | Ben Hay | 10.068 kg (10/10 fish) | Focused on pre-fishing for two days to figure out fish movements. |
| 2024 13Fishing BASS Pro | Taigan Heath | 8.079 kg (10/10 fish) | Set up on a single rockpile (Maclean reef) and peppered it with various lures. |
RESULTS
BOATER SCOREBOARD
NON BOATER SCOREBOARD
