Brandon Palaniuk put on an absolute masterclass at Lake Okeechobee, securing victory at the 2025 Champion Power Equipment Bassmaster Elite with a staggering total weight of 95 pounds, 4 ounces. Palaniuk’s impressive performance separated him from the competition by more than 15 pounds, solidifying his dominance on one of bass fishing’s most legendary waters.
Palaniuk’s Championship Performance
From the start, Palaniuk displayed a commanding strategy, dialing into a pattern that produced consistently massive bags. His ability to locate and adjust to the big bass of Okeechobee allowed him to maintain momentum throughout the tournament, finishing strong and leaving the competition in his wake.
“It was one of those weeks where everything just lined up,” said Palaniuk after hoisting the trophy. “Lake Okeechobee is a beast, but when you get in rhythm with it, you can do some amazing things. This win means everything to me.”
Runner-Up Battle: Garrett and Fujita Fight for Second
While Palaniuk ran away with the title, the battle for second place was intense. John Garrett secured the runner-up spot with a total weight of 79 pounds, 7 ounces, showcasing his skill in consistently locating big bites. Not far behind was Japan’s Kyoya Fujita, who claimed third place with 77 pounds, 4 ounces. Both anglers demonstrated remarkable adaptability throughout the event, proving that Lake Okeechobee rewards those who can adjust to its ever-changing conditions.
Scott Martin’s Self-Reported Disqualification
A major storyline from the event was the disqualification of Scott Martin, a hometown favorite and one of the most well-known anglers in the sport. Martin self-reported a violation that ultimately led to his disqualification from the tournament. While the specifics of the infraction have not been widely disclosed, his integrity in stepping forward speaks volumes about his character and commitment to the sport.
Martin addressed the situation, saying, “This is tough, but I hold myself to the highest standard in this sport. I respect the rules and wanted to do the right thing.”
A Legendary Win for Palaniuk
Brandon Palaniuk’s 2025 Bassmaster Elite Series victory at Lake Okeechobee will go down as one of the most dominant performances in recent Elite history. With a 95-pound, 4-ounce total, he once again cements his place among the greats of bass fishing.
The Elite Series now moves forward, but one thing is certain—Palaniuk’s name will be etched in the record books for this unforgettable performance on the Big O.