Last weekend, Japan’s highest-level bass tournament — the JB TOP50 Pro Series — took place at Lake Hibara in Fukushima Prefecture. This was the fourth stop of the five-event season, and it delivered both beautiful scenery and high-level competition.

Lake Hibara: Japan’s Scenic Smallmouth Stage

Lake Hibara is a natural caldera lake formed by a volcanic eruption. Surrounded by mountains and stunning scenery, it’s widely regarded as one of the most beautiful bass fishing destinations in Japan. The main target species here is smallmouth bass, typically weighing between 700 and 900 grams. Largemouth are also present, though in smaller numbers, and can range from 1,500 to 2,500 grams.

Tournament Format & Bag Limits

Unlike in the U.S., the number of bass in Japanese lakes has declined significantly over the years. Because of this, most Japanese tournaments — including JB TOP50 — have a three-fish bag limit. The event runs for three days, and the overall champion is determined by total cumulative weight.

Forward-Facing Sonar Takes Center Stage

With the event held in late summer, forward-facing sonar (FFS) played a major role. Japanese anglers are heavily invested in electronics, with it being common for competitors to spend the equivalent of tens of thousands of dollars on sonar units alone. The level of technology on boats at JB TOP50 rivals — and often exceeds — what’s seen in the U.S.

The Champion: Natsuki Fujita

This year’s Hibara event was won by Natsuki Fujita, who also claimed victory at the same venue two years ago. Bass fans in the U.S. may recognize the name: he is the older brother of Kyoya Fujita, who is currently making waves in the B.A.S.S. Elite Series. With his second win on Hibara’s smallmouth, Natsuki has cemented himself as one of the most skilled and consistent anglers in Japan.