Events with activities for sportsmen and spectators alike are planned next February and May.
LEESBURG — It's tough to think about next winter while we deal with the swelter and storms of mid-July, but here's something to look forward to: Major League Fishing (MLF) has released the 2026 Tackle Warehouse Invitationals schedule, and Leesburg's Lake Harris will host the first event of the season.
The event, scheduled Feb. 6-8, will be presented by Discover Lake County, gathering professional anglers competing over three days for a top award of up to $115,000 and points to qualify for the no-entry-fee Tackle Warehouse Invitationals Championship and qualification into the Bass Pro Tour.
“We’re thrilled to welcome the Tackle Warehouse Invitationals to Lake County for the first time,” said Commissioner Kirby Smith, chair of the Lake County Tourism Development Council, in a media release.
“Our strong and growing partnership with Major League Fishing continues to elevate Lake County’s profile, and this event will bring national attention to the Harris Chain of Lakes. Hosting premier tournaments like this not only strengthens our local economy but also showcases our incredible natural resources and reinforces Lake County’s reputation as a premier destination for both competitive and leisure outdoor recreation activities.”
Every day of competition will stream live on MLFNOW! at MajorLeagueFishing.com and through the MLF app, MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) and Rumble. All six invitationals and the championship will also be televised nationally.
MLF events offer activities on land, too, with fan engagement activities. More about the spectator features of the event will be released closer to the date.
Invitations for the 2026 Tackle Warehouse Invitationals will be issued to qualifying anglers this fall.
Also, Orange Lake in Marion County will play host to MLF Heavy Hitters, May 16-21.
Hosted by the Ocala/Marion County Visitors & Convention Bureau, the event will feature the 30 pros that qualified from the 2025 Bass Pro Tour season competing for a top prize of $100,000 to the winner. Anglers will also be awarded Berkley Big Bass bonuses during the competition, which pay up to $100,000 for catching the single biggest bass.
This article originally appeared on Daily Commercial: 2026 Major League Fishing tournaments planned for Leesburg and Marion County
Category: General Sports
