Matt Robertson hauls in 20-pound bag to lead The Champions after Day 1 on Old Hickory Lake

Matt Robertson leads The Champions after catching five bass weighing 20 pounds on the opening day at Old Hickory Lake. The tournament brings together 30 Bassmaster anglers and 30 Major League Fishing pros, with a record $3.25 million purse and $1.25 million for the winner.

Fisher Anaya is second with 15 pounds, 7 ounces, 4 pounds, 9 ounces behind Robertson; Michael Neal is third on 13 pounds, 9 ounces. Only 15 anglers will advance after Friday, and weights reset for Saturday’s final. Competitors may use forward-facing sonar on either Thursday or Friday, but not both: Anaya used it on Day 1, while Robertson did not. Team Stars held eight of the top 15 places after Thursday, with Team Stripes taking seven.