07/26/2026
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From: American Bass
Date: Thu, Jul 23, 2026 at 8:06 AM
Subject: American Bass Big Announcement!
To:
Big Announcement!
American Bass, the Largest Team Tournament Organization
in the West...since 1983!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
American Bass Announces Transition to New Ownership After 43 Years
After 43 incredible years, American Bass President Craig Sutherland has announced the sale of American Bass to the team at M2 Fishing. The 2026 tournament season will be completed under the current ownership, with the transition taking place following the conclusion of the 2026 Championships.
The same American Bass team that anglers know and trust will continue to operate throughout the entire 2026 season, including all Championship events, ensuring a seamless experience for competitors and sponsors alike.
"It has been an incredible journey and a true privilege to grow American Bass from a single tournament region in 1983 into one of the premier bass tournament organizations in the West, operating approximately 30 regions and hosting nearly 200 tournaments each year," said Craig Sutherland. "As my wife and I look toward retirement, it is time to focus on family while knowing that the future of American Bass is in outstanding hands."
American Bass has always been a family endeavor. Over the years, Natanya, Jason, Kaytlin, David Plotnik and Tammy Plotnik have each played an important role in building the organization and contributing to its success. Their dedication, along with the support of tournament directors, staff, sponsors, and thousands of loyal anglers, helped make American Bass what it is today.
"We are excited to have found a fantastic team to carry the American Bass brand forward," Sutherland said. "The team at M2 Fishing brings tremendous passion for the sport, innovative ideas for the future, and a deep respect for the legacy that has been built over the past four decades."
To ensure a smooth transition, Craig and his team will remain actively involved for the next several years, providing historical knowledge, guidance, and support as the team at M2 Fishing assumes leadership of the organization.
To all of our anglers, sponsors, tournament directors, and friends—thank you. Your loyalty, trust, and friendships have meant more than words can express. Together, we have celebrated countless weigh-ins, created lifelong memories, and built a community that feels like family. None of this would have been possible without your support.
While this chapter is coming to a close, the future of American Bass is bright. We look forward to celebrating an outstanding conclusion to the 2026 season with all of you and then watching the team at M2 Fishing lead American Bass into an exciting new era while honoring the traditions and values that have made it a respected name in tournament bass fishing for over 43 years.
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M2 Fishing
M2 Fishing LLC is proud to announce the acquisition of the American Bass Association (ABA). We are deeply grateful to Craig, Natanya, Jason, and Kaytlin, who have dedicated themselves to this great sport and organization for over four decades. Their commitment has built a legacy, and we are truly humbled by the opportunity to carry it forward.
The American Bass Association holds a unique place in West Coast bass fishing, and we could not be more excited about what the future holds.
For our anglers and regional directors, it remains business as usual. Our immediate priority is to listen, learn, and work together with the people who make ABA strong. We will build on the organization’s established foundation while exploring new ideas and opportunities that benefit anglers, directors, partners, fans, and the entire bass fishing community.
M2 Fishing has experienced tremendous growth over the past several seasons. By bringing M2 Fishing and ABA together, we are confident we can deliver even more outstanding events, expand opportunities, and strengthen tournament bass fishing throughout the West Coast and beyond.
To the M2 Fishing Staff and ABA Regional Directors: Thank you for everything you do. This organization succeeds because of your dedication, hard work, and passion.
To our anglers, fans, families, and supporters: Thank you for your continued support. The next chapter of American Bass begins now, and we look forward to sharing it with you.
Wayne St John
Director of Operations
M2 Fishing – American Bass
American Bass Main Office
(714) 423-4532
Full Website (All information – very large and extensive site): AmericanBass.com
Mobile Device Website (Mainly schedule/Results/Rules): AmericanBass.mobi
Facebook: Facebook/americanbass
Instagram: Instagram/americanbass
Twitter: Twitter/aba_bass
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American Bass | 12340 Seal Beach Blvd.STE B120 | Seal Beach, CA 90740 US
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