May 17, 2025 — Lake Almanor, CA
Looking for something reel-y exciting to do this weekend in the Sierra? Head to Lake Almanor for a splash of high-stakes action and laid-back lakeside fun as the Bass Angler Magazine (BAM) Kayak Series drops anchor for a one-day West Coast Championship Qualifier, hosted by Plumas Pines Resort, the Almanor Chamber of Commerce and Plumas County Tourism.
This isn’t your average quiet day of fishing — it’s a fast-growing, grassroots tournament series that’s taking the West Coast by storm. And this weekend, you can experience it all from one of the Sierra’s most scenic shorelines.
🎣 What to Expect
Saturday, May 17th at Plumas Pines Resort kicks off bright and early as anglers hit the water at sunrise (around 5:50 AM). Kayak rigs will be lined up and launched, each angler chasing the best five-bass limit of the day. Weigh-ins and final submissions wrap up by mid-afternoon, followed by an awards ceremony at the resort where big bass, big payouts, and big bragging rights will be handed out.
If you’ve never been to a kayak bass fishing event, you’re in for a surprise. These competitors may be paddling, but they’re packing serious skill and gear. It’s a great opportunity to meet passionate anglers, check out their customized rigs, and learn more about the growing sport of kayak fishing.
🏞 Why Make a Weekend of It?
Lake Almanor isn’t just for anglers — it’s a hidden gem in the Northern Sierra, with spring wildflowers, scenic drives, and incredible family-friendly recreation. While the anglers are out chasing big bites, visitors can rent a kayak or paddleboard at Plumas Pines Resort, grab breakfast or lunch with a lake view, or explore nearby trails and forest roads.
Families can stroll the shoreline, dip toes in the lake, or even spend the weekend camping or staying at one of the nearby lodges. It’s the kind of event that brings people together, even if you’re not the one casting a line.
🎣 About the BAM Kayak Series
This is the second stop of the 2025 BAM Kayak Series — a bold new tournament circuit launched by Bass Angler Magazine to highlight the best fisheries in the West and provide serious competition and visibility for kayak anglers. With top-tier payouts, a massive social following, and a genuine grassroots feel, this series is helping shape the future of competitive kayak fishing.
Whether you’re a fan of fishing, a curious first-timer, or just looking for a reason to spend the weekend lakeside, this event offers a great mix of outdoor excitement and small-town Sierra charm.
📍Plan Your Visit:
- Location: Plumas Pines Resort – 3000 Almanor Dr W, Canyondam, CA 95923
- Blast Off: ~5:50 AM, Saturday, May 17
- Awards Ceremony: ~3:00 PM at the Resort (food and drinks available)
🛶 Need a reason to go?
Catch the sunrise over Almanor. Watch skilled anglers in action. Cheer on local and visiting competitors. Enjoy a fresh bite to eat. And maybe, just maybe, fall in love with a quieter corner of the Sierra most travelers haven’t yet discovered.
