Lake Arabie, South Africa – The world’s best anglers have arrived in South Africa this week for the 19th edition of the Black Bass World Championship, and The USA Bass Team is ready to compete for gold on the international stage. Representing the United States in this prestigious global event, The USA Bass Team carries with it a history of excellence, grit, and championship victories.

The USA Bass Team Legacy of Excellence

Since its formation, The USA Bass Team has been a dominant force in international bass fishing. With multiple Pan American Championship gold medals and multiple World Championship gold medals, the United States has built a reputation for producing the most competitive anglers on the planet. Now, the team sets its sights on the waters of Lake Arabie to add another chapter to its winning tradition.

Meet The USA Bass Team

This year’s roster features six of the most accomplished anglers in the world, each bringing championship pedigree and proven success:

• Jacob Wheeler – The world’s top-ranked angler and Bass Pro Tour superstar
• Logan Parks – Former Auburn University Bass Fishing Team president and Bass Pro Shops U.S. Open Champion
• Kyle Welcher – 2023 Bassmaster Angler of the Year
• Ott DeFoe – 2019 Bassmaster Classic Champion and Bass Pro Tour powerhouse
• Drew Gill – Rising star and 2024 Bass Pro Tour Rookie of the Year
• Scott Martin – Former Forrest Wood Cup Champion and Bassmaster Elite Series pro

The team is led by USAngling, the governing body for U.S. participation in international fishing competition.

Fishing in Pairs

At the World Championship, anglers compete in pairs to represent their country. The USA Bass Team pairings for Lake Arabie are:

• Jacob Wheeler / Kyle Welcher
• Scott Martin / Logan Parks
• Ott DeFoe / Drew Gill

Powered by World-Class Partners

The USA Bass Team is made possible through the support of leading brands in the fishing and outdoor industry, including:

• Visit Hot Springs
• Bass Pro Shops
• Ranger Boats
• MillerTech Lithium
• Lew’s Fishing
• Strike King
• Bob’s Machine Shop
• Gamma Lines
• BaitFuel
• TwistLock
• Major Bass Media

These partners ensure that The USA Bass Team has the resources to compete at the highest level and continue inspiring the next generation of anglers.

About the Black Bass World Championship

The Black Bass World Championship, sanctioned by FIPSed, brings together the best anglers from nations across the globe in pursuit of the most prestigious title in international bass fishing. The 2025 championship on Lake Arabie in South Africa marks the 19th edition of this world event and will test skill, adaptability, and teamwork in one of the most diverse fishing environments in the world.

About USAngling

USAngling is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that represents the United States in international fishing competitions. Its mission is to promote sportfishing, conservation, and youth participation through global competition and education.

Media Contact:
Amanda Moser, USAngling Secretary
Email: amoser@usangling.com