Texas‑born NASCAR star Denny Hamlin, who has spent the past year learning the ropes of bass fishing, voiced concern that forward‑facing sonar is becoming too dominant on the professional circuit. In an interview with OutKick OutDoors, Hamlin said the technology, while helpful for newcomers, threatens a “lost art form” of locating fish without heavy electronics.
Technology vs. tradition
Hamlin explained, “I think the guys on the pro tour, it’s a little too much. It’s probably better for TV that these guys are catching monster bass and, you know, 100‑pound bags, but I can see where it’s probably getting a little overboard.” He added that the arms race in sonar will only continue, making the sport easier for those who can afford the latest gear.
League responses
The Bassmaster Elite Series is already limiting forward‑facing sonar to five of its nine regular‑season events for 2026, using coin flips to decide which stops allow the device. Major League Fishing (MLF) has taken a different approach, permitting forward‑facing or 360‑degree sonar for only one of three daily competition periods, with anglers required to declare their chosen window in advance.
Hamlin’s personal take
Despite his reservations, Hamlin acknowledges the benefits for beginners. “For someone like me who’s a novice, it at least gets me in the game,” he said. He credits professional angler Chris Zaldain for accelerating his learning, noting that watching a pro cast and work a minnow has helped him catch more fish.
Hamlin also sees fishing as a therapeutic outlet that teaches patience—something he jokes he could always use more of. He prefers solo outings, saying, “Solo. Give me solo,” and admits that family life can make it hard to find time on the water.
Looking ahead
While currently focused on bass, Hamlin revealed plans to purchase an offshore boat within the next year, signaling a broader interest in fishing beyond freshwater. He hopes the sport will retain its traditional challenges even as technology advances, encouraging anglers to balance modern tools with the skillful pursuit of the “unborn child” beneath the surface.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
