Matt Robertson Secures Historic Bass Fishing Championship Victory

NASHVILLE — Professional bass fisherman Matt Robertson has become $1.25 million wealthier, yet he remains committed to his humble roots. Robertson, well-known for his colorful personality, made it clear he won’t be leaving his trailer any time soon. “We ain’t moving out the trailer, baby. Trailer trash for life!” Robertson proclaimed at a news conference following his win at the inaugural World Bass Enterprises’ The Champions tournament on Old Hickory Lake, Tennessee.

The tournament saw Robertson back up his confident talk with action, weighing in 20 pounds, 2 ounces of bass. This feat secured the largest first-place award in the sport’s history. Although the prize money is substantial, Robertson seemed overwhelmed by the achievement, exclaiming, “Dude, it’s freaking insane. I don’t think it’s really hit me yet.”

Over the competition’s first two days, Robertson established dominance and continued with a remarkable performance on the final day, after weights were reset to zero. The tournament’s total purse was a record-breaking $3.25 million. Pake South finished second with 13 pounds, 7 ounces, winning $500,000, while Wesley Strader took home $300,000 for third place.

Robertson isn’t planning to spend his winnings on a lavish lifestyle. Instead, his plans include purchasing a new vehicle for his wife and acquiring a couple more trailers. “I’m for sure buying a couple more trailers,” he stated before the final weigh-in. “They’re bought, and my wife, she gets her new ride.”

Despite his larger-than-life persona, Robertson remains grounded and connected to his roots. He speaks candidly about his past struggles and how these experiences prepared him for high-stakes competition. He insists that the money will change his life but maintains his focus was primarily on winning the trophy, stating, “I want that damn trophy. Everybody talking about the 1.25. Like, I want the money too, but I want to get my hands on that trophy.”

In addition to his financial strategies, Robertson’s victory also reflected his innovative approach during the tournament. He chose to navigate through the lock at Old Hickory Dam, targeting smallmouth bass in the tailwater below — a decision that paid off when he caught the competition’s only 20-pound bag on the first day. His success continued as he secured his position at the top for the championship.

Interestingly, Robertson wasn’t the only angler with eyes on this productive area. MLF pro Ron Nelson also found quality fish in similar waters. Despite the competitive stakes, both anglers showed mutual respect, steering clear of each other’s catches. Nelson, who finished sixth and won $75,000, had only praise for Robertson, saying, “Matt’s a heck of a dude. I don’t know him, but I got a new friend now, I guess.”

The rivalry-turned-friendship showcased the integrity of competitors at this significant tournament, which involved top anglers from different professional circuits. Robertson credited his faith and timely assistance from lock operators with opening his path to success. The win was aptly described by Robertson as, “the Super Bowl of bass fishing.”

Robertson expressed gratitude to the event organizers, World Bass Enterprises and CEO Brian Bird, for their meticulous execution of the tournament. While Robertson now holds the title for the sport’s richest prize, he remains unchanged at heart. His trailer lifestyle and new purchases are a testament to his committed way of life.

Throughout the championship, OutKick OutDoors provided exclusive interviews and updates from Old Hickory Lake. You can follow Robertson’s journey and view video highlights on OutKick OutDoors’ social media platforms.