Two of Buchanan County’s young anglers will soon have the opportunity to compete against some of the best youth bass fishermen in the world.
Breese Bostic and Easton Stevens have qualified to represent Virginia at the 2026 TBF Junior World Championship, scheduled for July 29-31 on Lake Dardanelle in Russellville, Ark.
The prestigious tournament, hosted by The Bass Federation (TBF), brings together top youth anglers from across the United States and several international teams to compete for a world championship title. Qualifying for the event is considered one of the highest achievements in youth bass fishing.
Bostic and Stevens earned their spots after advancing through Virginia TBF Youth competition, where they represented Buchanan County and demonstrated the skills needed to compete at the national level.
The three-day championship will take place on Lake Dardanelle, one of Arkansas’ premier bass fisheries. Daily takeoff is scheduled for 6 a.m., with weigh-ins beginning at 2 p.m. Central Time at Lake Dardanelle State Park.
The tournament provides young anglers with an opportunity to compete on a national stage while learning from experienced volunteers and professional anglers. In addition to testing their fishing abilities, participants gain valuable experience in sportsmanship, conservation and competitive fishing.
As Virginia’s state qualifiers, Bostic and Stevens will carry not only the Commonwealth’s colors but also the pride of Buchanan County as they compete against elite youth anglers from around the world.
Their appearance at the Junior World Championship highlights the growing success of young anglers from Buchanan County and showcases the area’s strong outdoor and fishing tradition.
