In a move that shook the professional bass fishing world today, Scott Martin officially stepped away from the Bassmaster Elite Series, ending a high-profile chapter in his career under a cloud of controversy and personal exhaustion. B.A.S.S. confirmed his departure in an official statement, noting that Martin would not be participating in the remainder of the 2025 season.
The news didn’t come from the organization first—it came straight from Martin himself. In a candid and emotional video shared on social media, Martin addressed his followers with a tone of disbelief, sharing that he couldn’t believe he was once again having to speak on the same troubling topic. Clearly weighed down by the toll of recent weeks, Martin opened up about conversations he had with someone he’d never previously met—discussions that he described as above the board.
As speculation around the situation swirled, Martin emphasized that he had taken and passed an independent lie detector test, though he made the decision to forgo the official one required by B.A.S.S. That choice effectively ended his time on the Elite Series.
His exit comes at a time when integrity, procedure, and behind-the-scenes tension have come under a microscope. Though Martin didn’t go into full detail about the root of the issue, he did make it clear that he had his own thoughts about what was happening behind the scenes. Still, rather than continue to push forward, he made it clear he’s done dealing with the drama, expressing a desire to move on and focus on fishing events that bring him joy.
Martin, known for his competitive fire and deep legacy in the sport, appeared visibly stressed and worn, a far cry from his usual high-energy persona. He closed his message with a nod to something far more important than controversy—his daughter’s 18th birthday—saying it’s time to focus on what truly matters: family.
With his future in tournament fishing now pointing toward new waters, one thing is clear: Scott Martin is choosing his own for of peace over rising pressure, controversy, and drama.