On Wednesday, what started as a routine day on the water turned into heartbreak for the professional fishing world.
Three men died following a devastating boating accident during Major League Fishing’s Tackle Warehouse Invitational at Lewis Smith Lake in Alabama. The incident rocked the close-knit angling community and brought the tournament to a sudden and somber halt.
According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, two boats collided during the second day of the event, claiming the lives of Joey M. Broom, 58, John K. Clark, 44, and Jeffrey C. Little, 62. Officials said Broom died in the impact, while Clark and Little drowned after being ejected into the lake. Several others sustained injuries, though authorities have not yet released details on their conditions.
Sudden Loss In A Close Fishing Community
The crash shook both participants and organizers, many of whom shared years of experience together on the professional fishing circuit. “This is a heartbreaking moment for our entire organization,” said Kathy Fennel, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Major League Fishing. “Our deepest condolences go out to the families and friends of those affected by this tragedy.”
Lewis Smith Lake, known for its calm waters and scenic backdrop, hosted the second day of the multi-day Tackle Warehouse Invitational. The event typically draws dozens of anglers and fans, many of whom were left stunned as word of the collision spread. Law enforcement responded swiftly and remained at the scene Thursday to investigate what led to the crash.
We are on scene of a deadly boat accident that happened on Smith Lake this morning during the Major League Fishing Tournament. We know one person is dead and a fisherman with the tournament was involved. pic.twitter.com/glLugJt1AT
— Gillian Brooks (@GillianBNews) April 16, 2025
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Major League Fishing canceled Thursday’s final competition day due to the incident. Tournament staff and participants instead turned their focus to supporting the families and honoring the memory of the men who lost their lives.
The cause of the collision remains unclear. Authorities are continuing their investigation and have not released further information about how the boats came to collide or whether weather or mechanical issues played a role.
The tragedy leaves a deep void for a sport built on respect for the water and camaraderie among anglers. The fishing world now mourns three lives lost far too soon, and communities across the region rally around those left behind in the wake of an unimaginable loss.
