New York has some of the best smallmouth bass fishing in the world on the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario tributaries. The state's diverse waters from the Adirondacks to Long Island create a massive KBF competitive landscape. New York anglers are known for their skill and toughness.
Top Species
Largemouth Bass
Top Water
St. Lawrence River
Season
State Challenge
Community
100,000+ Members
Where KBF members compete and catch fish in New York.
St. Lawrence River
Oneida Lake
Chautauqua Lake
Hudson River
Best Season: June through October
KBF is the nation's largest kayak bass fishing organization with a competitive structure designed to reward anglers at every level - from first-timers to seasoned pros.
Fish the KBF STATE Challenge and compete against other New York anglers for STATE AOY points, championship berths, and cash prizes.
Connect with the world's largest kayak bass fishing community. Share reports, swap tips, and find fishing partners across the country.
Every KBF membership includes exclusive discounts from top brands like YakAttack, Ketch, Dakota Lithium, American Legacy Fishing Co., and more.
Based on New York's fishing scene, season length, and competitive landscape - here's what we recommend.
$65 /year
New York's world-class smallmouth fisheries and large, competitive KBF community make Premium membership essential for serious tournament anglers.
$75 for 2026
Brand-new kayak bass anglers who want to compete right away without any prior tournament experience.
Join as GreenHorn$25 /year
Casual-to-competitive anglers who want full KBF access, gear discounts, and the ability to fish state and regional challenges.
Join as AmBASSador$65 /year
Dedicated tournament anglers who fish consistently and want every available earning opportunity in state and regional competition.
Join as PremiumActive Military, Veterans, First Responders, or Teachers?
KBF offers PREMIUM benefits at the $25 rate for those who serve. Veterans, Homeland Heroes memberships available.
Sign up through Fishing Chaos and choose your membership tier. You'll get instant access to the community and all member benefits.
Fish the KBF New York State Challenge any time during the month. Catch, photo, and release your best 5 bass from any eligible water in New York.
Log your fish through the Fishing Chaos platform. Scores are verified and posted in real time. REGIONAL Challenge entry is automatic.
Top performers qualify for the STATE Championship in October, the NATIONAL Championship in November, and ultimately KBF The TEN - $10,000 first place.
Sign up through Fishing Chaos to get your KBF membership, access the STATE Challenge entry, and start competing against New York's best kayak bass anglers.