2026 GREAT Miami Riverway Smallmouth Bass Fishing Challenge Casts Off June 20
Family-friendly, catch-and-release virtual tournament returns to the Great Miami River with cash, gear, and free IGFA memberships up for grabs
DAYTON, Ohio — June 18, 2026 — The Great Miami Riverway, a program of the Miami Conservancy District, today announced the return of the GREAT Miami Riverway Smallmouth Bass Fishing Challenge, running June 20 through July 19, 2026. The month-long, family-friendly tournament invites anglers of all skill levels to compete from anywhere along the Great Miami River, long regarded as one of the region's premier smallmouth bass fisheries.
The 2026 Challenge is a catch-and-release, virtual tournament — there is no single weigh-in location or boat ramp to report to. Instead, participants use the iAngler Tournament app to photograph each catch and log basic details right from the water. Entries are unlimited, and all Ohio fishing regulations apply.
"There is no better river for smallmouth bass fishing," Donnie Knight, US Fish and Wildlife said, pointing to the Great Miami River's reputation among anglers throughout the region.
Free IGFA Memberships for Every Registrant
Thanks to a sponsorship from the International Game Fish Association (IGFA), every registered angler will receive a complimentary IGFA Digital Membership, a $20 value, for the duration of the tournament. The membership includes access to the IGFA World Record database, exclusive how-to and historical fishing videos, the World Record Game Fishes archive, the monthly International Angler digital publication, and member discounts on tackle, trips, and charters from IGFA partners.
Prizes Across Two Divisions
The Challenge features both a Conventional (spin/cast) Division and a Fly Division, each with multiple ways to win:
A celebratory awards event will follow the tournament, with location and date to be announced.
About the Great Miami Riverway
The Great Miami Riverway is a regional destination program of the Miami Conservancy District, connecting more than 99 miles of river and paved trail across southwest Ohio. Home to Ohio's first National Water Trail, the Riverway works with a coalition of local communities to grow recreation, tourism, and investment along the river corridor.
Sponsors
The 2026 GREAT Miami Riverway Smallmouth Bass Fishing Challenge is made possible by the Miami Conservancy District with support from DLZ and Molson Coors, alongside presenting sponsor the International Game Fish Association.
Registration & Rules
Anglers can register and review full tournament rules and regulations at https://www.ianglertournament.com/2026-great-miami-riverway-smallmouth-bass-fishing-challenge
