Sun Jan 18 14:00:00 UTC 2026: Headline: Rookie Jacob Walker Snags Last-Second Victory at Bass Pro Tour Stage 1

The Story:
In a dramatic finish at the B&W Trailer Hitches Stage 1 Presented by Mercury on Lake Guntersville, rookie angler Jacob Walker of Springville, Alabama, secured a stunning victory in the Qualifying Round. Walker, competing in his first regular-season Bass Pro Tour event, edged out fellow rookie Bank Shaw of Harrison, Tennessee, with a last-minute catch. With just 20 seconds remaining, Walker landed a 4-pound, 2-ounce largemouth bass, pushing his total to 174-9 on 48 scorable bass, a mere 12 ounces ahead of Shaw.

Walker’s late surge capped off a day-long duel with Shaw, where he capitalized on a bladed jig bite around shallow vegetation. While the victory grants Walker an automatic berth in Sunday’s Championship Round, the weights will zero out for the Knockout Round, leaving the Top 25 competitors with a fresh opportunity to advance. Walker credits his previous experience at REDCREST on Guntersville and strategic use of SCORETRACKER® for his success.

Key Points:
* Rookie Jacob Walker won the Qualifying Round at B&W Trailer Hitches Stage 1 Presented by Mercury on Lake Guntersville.
* Walker’s total weight was 174-9 on 48 scorable bass.
* He caught a 4-pound, 2-ounce largemouth with 20 seconds left to win.
* Walker beat fellow rookie Bank Shaw by 12 ounces.
* The Top 25 will compete in the Knockout Round with zeroed weights.
* Walker plans to fish another tournament on Smith Lake before the Championship Round.

Critical Analysis:
N/A

Key Takeaways:
* The Bass Pro Tour format allows for dramatic, last-minute shifts in standings.
* Local knowledge and experience on the fishery (Lake Guntersville) provide a significant advantage.
* Strategic use of SCORETRACKER® and understanding catch rates is crucial for success.
* Confidence and avoiding overthinking strategy are key to maintaining performance.
* Rookie anglers can immediately contend for top spots in the Bass Pro Tour.

Impact Analysis:
N/A

Read More