Bassmaster Elite Series returns to Lake Murray with high-stakes competition and community 5K event

Columbia, S.C. – Experience the excitement of the 2026 Tedy’s Team Bassmaster Elite Series on Lake Murray, May 7–10, as top professional anglers compete across four days of world-class fishing action in the heart of South Carolina.

Daily take-offs begin at 6:30 a.m., with live weigh-ins each afternoon at 3:00 p.m., giving fans the opportunity to follow the competition in real time. Spectators are encouraged to attend launches and weigh-ins at Dreher Island State Park, where the energy of the tournament can be experienced up close along the scenic shores of Lake Murray.

The weekend brings even more to enjoy with the FREE Community Expo on May 9–10. This family-friendly event features live music, local vendors, food trucks, and interactive activities for all ages. Attendees can enjoy live performances from Jackson Truluck on Saturday and Rut Spence on Sunday, along with local favorites including Sarah’s Rockin’ Kitchen, Big Boys BBQ, Oh Goodness Southern Sips & Shells, and Nonnie’s Pops (Sunday only). 

Vendors and exhibits include Toyota, Bass Pro Shops, Mercury, Yamaha, Skeeter and Nitro Boats, Rapala, Yamaha, B.A.S.S., PiranH20, and Mountain Dew.

Kicking off Saturday’s festivities, the Bassmaster Elite Run to the Weigh-In 5K begins at 10:00 a.m., welcoming runners and walkers of all levels to a scenic course around Dreher Island. Proceeds from the race support Tedy’s Team, an organization dedicated to stroke research and education, adding a meaningful cause to an already exciting weekend.

“This event showcases the very best of Lake Murray Country,” said Vickie Davis, Executive Director at Capital City/Lake Murray Country. “From elite-level competition to community-driven experiences like the expo and 5K, it’s a weekend that brings people together on and off the water!”

Event Schedule:

Thursday, May 7 – Competition Day 1

6:30 a.m. – Take-off

3:00 p.m. – LIVE Weigh-In (Bassmaster.com)

Friday, May 8 – Competition Day 2

6:30 a.m. – Take-off

3:00 p.m. – LIVE Weigh-In (Bassmaster.com)

Saturday, May 9 – Competition Day 3 & Expo

6:30 a.m. – Take-off

10:00 a.m. – Bassmaster Elite Run to the Weigh-In 5K

11:00 a.m. – 5:00 PM – Community Expo

3:00 p.m. – LIVE Weigh-In (Bassmaster.com)

Sunday, May 10 – Competition Day 4 & Expo

6:30 a.m. – Take-off

12:00 p.m. – 5:00 PM – Community Expo

3:00 p.m. – LIVE Weigh-In (Bassmaster.com)

Parking Information – Dreher Island State Park

Adults: $6.00

SC Seniors (65+): $3.75

Children (ages 6–15): $3.50

Ages 5 & under: Free

Whether a dedicated angler or simply looking for a fun day outdoors, the Bassmaster Elite Series on Lake Murray delivers competition, entertainment, and lakeside energy all weekend long.