Everyone has someone they look up to, a hero in their eyes – even the top anglers in the world. At the 2025 Bassmaster Classic Expo I asked a number of bass pros about their angling heroes.
I was surprised by some and yet not by others. Are you surprised? Who is your angling hero? Comment below.
Through our involvement with the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame and attendance at many great fishing events, we’ve gotten to meet many of our “heroes” — the people who shape the sport we love.
Steve Yatomi was a larger-than-life personality who was at his best developing new international fisheries and bringing out the best in his fellow anglers and travelers.
Taku Ito is a champion and fan favorite on the BASSmaster Elite Series -- but there's another species that's captured the Japanese pro's heart and dreams.
Why do so many elite bass pros love tuna fishing? See why Skeet Reese and other top anglers chase big tuna—and why Panama should be on your list.