Starting Order
The Vaal River Bass Classic features an exciting and transparent starting order system that rewards early commitment while also creating opportunities for every team.
Auction for Premium Starting Positions
The coveted starting positions 3, 4 and 5 for each tournament day will be allocated by public auction.
- Day 1 Auction: First week of August 2026
- Day 2 Auction: First week of September 2026
Full details of the online auction process will be announced closer to the event.
Positions 1 and 2
The prestigious No. 1 pole and No. 2 starting positions for each tournament day will not be included in the online auctions.
Instead, these positions will be auctioned live during the Official Opening Night at Emerald Resort & Casino on Thursday, 22 October 2026.
Separate auctions will be conducted for:
- Day 1 – Positions 1 & 2
- Day 2 – Positions 1 & 2
Day 1 Starting Order (Positions 6 Onwards)
All remaining starting positions (Position 6 onwards) for Day 1 will be allocated according to the date and time that a fully completed entry, together with payment, is received.
The earliest confirmed entry will receive the first available starting position, followed by subsequent entries in chronological order.
Day 2 Starting Order (Positions 6 Onwards)
For Day 2, all remaining starting positions (Position 6 onwards) will be determined by a random live draw.
The draw will be conducted live on the official Vaal River Bass Classic Facebook page, ensuring complete transparency and giving every team an equal opportunity to secure a favourable starting position for the second day of competition.
BID FOR POLE!
This unique system combines the benefits of rewarding early entrants, creating exciting auction opportunities, and ensuring fairness through a random draw, making the starting order an exciting part of the Vaal River Bass Classic experience.