Mountain Home is set to welcome competitive anglers this week as the Nitro Boats Bassmaster Elite Qualifier, presented by Bass Pro Shops, takes place at Norfork Lake from Wednesday through Friday. The event marks the final qualification stage for those aiming to secure a spot in the prestigious Bassmaster Elite Series.
Each day of competition will feature takeoffs at 7:00 a.m. and weigh-ins at 3:00 p.m., both held at Buzzard Roost Boat Dock. This is the first of three Elite Qualifier events for the 2026 season, and anglers will face unique challenges as seasonal changes begin to affect the lake.
Norfork Lake, which is transitioning into its fall conditions, is currently experiencing the effects of persistent drought and summer heat, according to Rick Pierce, a Bassmaster Opens pro and local resident. Pierce, who lives just three miles from the lake, says that water levels remain near normal but evaporation has made the lake "moody." As of last week, the lake’s water level stood at 553.76 feet, slightly below the typical summer height.
“We haven’t had much rain and it’s been a hot summer, so we’ve had a lot of evaporation,” Pierce told *Bassmaster*. While an expected cooldown this week may bring more favorable daytime highs in the mid-80s, Pierce noted that the water temperatures will likely remain in the 80s, which will influence fish behavior.
Late September typically signals the early stages of fall transition for fish at Norfork, according to Pierce. While it is still too early for fish to begin schooling on baitfish in the creeks, he believes that they will be moving in that direction. Anglers can expect success using topwater techniques, given the shallow conditions created by the warmer water and higher concentrations of dissolved oxygen near the surface.
“Guys will catch ’em on walkers, buzzbaits, and ploppers,” Pierce said, predicting that fish will be found near bluffs, docks, and underwater structures such as riprap and submerged wood.
Tournament coverage will be available online at Bassmaster.com, with live streaming planned for Friday, September 25.
The Bassmaster tournaments are organized by B.A.S.S., a globally recognized authority on competitive bass fishing. With over 50 years of experience, B.A.S.S. operates at every level of the sport, from youth competitions to the elite professional circuit. Events like the one at Norfork Lake provide anglers with opportunities to progress to the highest levels of competitive bass fishing, culminating in participation in the prestigious Bassmaster Elite Series and Bassmaster Classic.