OGDENSBURG — The St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce announced today that the New York BASS Nation Tournament will return to Ogdensburg on Saturday, Sept. 19.

The tournament brings competitive bass fishing and community celebration back to the region, building on a record-breaking 2024 event along the St. Lawrence River.

During the 2024 competition, Dante Piraino, a Clarkson University graduate from Baldwinsville, set a smallmouth bass record with a 9-pound catch, surpassing the previous record of 8 pounds.

Kevin Steinruck of Sodus won the tournament after setting a event record with a five-fish weight of 27.6 pounds, breaking the previous mark of 24.6 pounds and earning $7,500 in total prize money and sponsor contingencies.

“The fishing was tremendous both days, blessed by the calm sunny weather,” said Fred Blom,president and tournament director. “The community was very welcoming and showed a lot of support.

Many thanks to Laura Pearson from the St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce and all the other chamber members who provide support and encouragement.”

Organizers expect the event to draw more than 100 anglers and their families to the North Country, providing a direct boost to local hotels, restaurants, gas stations, and retail businesses.

A typical BASS Nation event generates an estimated $265,320 in economic impact for the host community across a four-day period through lodging, dining, fuel, tackle, entertainment, and incidental spending.

More information about the New York State BASS Federation is available at nybassfederation.com.

Sponsorship opportunities and schedule details are available by contacting Laura Pearson at the St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce at Laura@slcchamber.org or 315-386-4000, ext. 6.