Photography by Andy Crawford
Lake Okeechobee, FL – Strike King is proud to announce that two of its pro anglers, Tristan McCormick and Aaron Jagdfeld, have successfully qualified for the prestigious 2026 Bassmaster Elite Series. Both fishermen earned their spots through the rigorous Bassmaster Opens Elite Qualifier (EQ) series, showcasing exceptional skill and determination.
Tennessee native Tristan McCormick secured his place after a consistent performance throughout the EQ series. He initially qualified for the EQs by finishing 15th in Division 1 of the Bassmaster Opens with 640 points. A two-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier, McCormick demonstrated his experience by climbing from 15th to 6th place in the standings at the Lake Okeechobee event. He ultimately finished 9th overall with 226 points, solidifying his invitation to the Elite Series.
After finishing as the runner-up in the 2024 College Classic Bracket, Michigan angler Aaron Jagdfeld qualified for the EQs through Division 2 of the Opens. Despite a challenging start to the season, Jagdfeld mounted an impressive rally, posting three top-40 finishes to earn his EQ qualification. Jagdfeld then delivered a standout EQ performance, including an eighth-place finish at Lake Champlain and a 12th at Wheeler Lake. A critical day 2 comeback at Lake Okeechobee propelled him to 29th in the tournament. This was just enough to clinch 3rd overall in the EQ standings with 242 points, locking in his Elite Series invitation.
Photography by Andy Crawford
The pathway from the Bassmaster Opens to the Elite Series, established by B.A.S.S. in 2025, is designed to identify the most consistent and skilled anglers in the sport. The success of McCormick and Jagdfeld highlights their ability to perform under pressure across diverse fisheries.
About Rather Outdoors
Rather Outdoors is a global outdoors corporation uniting some of the most recognizable brands in the fishing space. With historic and iconic brands such as Lew’s, Strike King, Quantum, Zebco, Fox, Matrix, Salmo, and Fox Rage, Rather Outdoors provides a wide assortment of fishing products worldwide in an effort to enhance angler’s success and the enjoyment of outdoor pursuits. To learn more about the Rather Outdoors brands, visit www.ratheroutdoors.com.
