Fishing tournament officially begins today

June 23, 2026 Zac Oakes WJRS News

The 17th annual High School Fishing World Finals & National Championship officially gets underway today.

Around 500 anglers and thousands of spectators are expected to make their way into Russell County this week for one of the nation’s largest fishing tournaments.

Registration begins at Russell County High School today with fishing on Lake Cumberland getting underway tomorrow.

Weigh-ins will take place daily from tomorrow through Saturday at the Russell County Fairgrounds.

Visitors from 48 different states are expected to make their way into Russell County for the tournament, creating a significant local economic impact.

About Zac Oakes 9799 Articles

Zac Oakes is the News and Sports Director for LakerCountry.com and Laker Country WJRS 104.9 FM.

Community Conversation 7-24
In this episode of Community Conversation, Jeff Hoover welcomes Russell County Family and Consumer Sciences Agent Megan Gullett to discuss the many programs and services offered through the Russell County Extension Office. Megan shares updates on a busy summer that included 4-H Camp, county fair activities, and canning classes, while highlighting upcoming opportunities for the community.The conversation covers Extension Homemakers clubs, volunteer efforts, the local book club, food preservation classes, pressure canner testing, and upcoming cooking demonstrations featuring healthy recipes and easy family meals. Megan also explains how residents can get involved in Extension programs and stay connected through the Russell County Extension Office.
Community Conversation 7-22
Jeff Hoover welcomes members of the Adair County 16U All-Star Girls Softball Team and assistant coach Grace Loy. The team recently captured the Kentucky Senior League Softball State Championship and was competing in the Super Regional Tournament in Lawrenceburg.Coach Loy and players from both Russell County and Adair County discuss their championship run, the chemistry between the combined team, their journey through the tournament, and their hopes of advancing to the national championship. Hear from the young athletes about their love for the game, teamwork, and representing their communities on the softball field.
Community Conversation 7-21
In this episode of Community Conversation, Jeff Hoover talks with Dr. Samantha Gaddie, founding director of Campbellsville University's new agriculture program. Dr. Gaddie discusses the launch of the university's new agriculture degree, the hands-on learning opportunities available to students, the importance of supporting Kentucky's agricultural industry, and her vision for preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders. Learn how this new program will partner with local farmers and provide students with practical experience while staying close to home in South Central Kentucky.
Community Conversation 7-15
Jeff Hoover talks with Joyce Holt and Mike Berry about the 7th Annual Relay for Life Benefit Ride benefiting the American Cancer Society, including this year's new Biker Bingo fundraiser and ride details. He is also joined by Scott Jones and Daniel Buster from the City of Russell Springs to discuss an upcoming wood bat baseball tournament and the city's first-ever free Back to School Bash at Russell Springs City Park.
Community Conversation 7-14
Lake Cumberland Tourism Director Danielle Wilson joins Community Conversation to discuss the tremendous success of the recent High School Fishing World Finals, the economic impact on local businesses, and the possibility of bringing the event back in the future. Wilson also highlights upcoming events including the 127 Yard Sale, the Lake Cumberland Bluegrass Festival, Food Truck Friday, and the growing summer tourism season across Russell County and Lake Cumberland.