07/21/2026
USA Surf Fishing Announces Senior Men’s Roster for the 2026 World Shore Angling Seniors Championship in Arborea-Oristano (Sardinia, Italy)
State College, PA- The USA Surf Fishing Team is proud to announce the athletes selected to represent the United States at the 2026 FIPS-M World Shore Angling Seniors Championship, scheduled for November 7–14, 2026, in Arborea – Oristano (Sardinia - Italy).
This prestigious international championship brings together the world’s top shore anglers to compete under FIPS-Mer rules in one of the most technically demanding formats in competitive surf fishing. Success requires exceptional casting ability, bait management, fish identification, adaptability, teamwork, and the ability to consistently produce results under changing conditions.
Representing Team USA will be a talented group of anglers whose combined experience spans competitive surf fishing, conservation, guiding, tournament leadership, and international competition.
Team Captain: Matt Bryson – Pennsylvania
A Pan American Silver Medalist, Marine Corps veteran, and international competitor, Matt Bryson brings valuable world-stage experience to Team USA. Following his participation in the World Shore Angling Pairs Championship in Gruissan, France, Matt returns to international competition with a proven track record of leadership, technical expertise, and strategic competitive fishing.
Paul Chapman – Rhode Island
Paul Chapman is one of the most accomplished surf anglers in the Northeast, with numerous tournament victories, Angler of the Year honors, and multi-species championships to his name. A surf fishing association chairman, Eagle Scout, conservation advocate, and educator, Paul brings versatility, leadership, and a championship mindset to the team.
Bob Zak – Delaware
A lifelong angler and captain of Team One More Cast, Bob Zak has built a reputation for leadership, adaptability, and success across a wide range of fisheries throughout the East Coast. His expertise in reading structure, tides, and shoreline conditions, combined with strong technical rigging skills, makes him a valuable asset in international competition.
Chad Bayless – Delaware
Since beginning his surf fishing journey in 2011, Chad Bayless has become known for his exceptional casting ability, technical rigging skills, and determination on the tournament field. His experience targeting multiple species along the Atlantic coast and his dedication to preparation make him a strong competitor on the international stage.
Shannon Ferguson – Virginia
Based in Virginia Beach, Shannon Ferguson is widely respected for his ability to read beach structure and consistently locate fish under changing conditions. A proven tournament angler with pegged-format experience, Shannon’s strategic approach and relentless work ethic make him a natural fit for FIPS-M competition.
Tracy Mastin – North Carolina
Professional fishing guide and owner of Faith Surf Fishing, Tracy Mastin brings more than a decade of surf fishing experience targeting a variety of species from the beaches of North Carolina. Known for his custom rig building, dedication to the sport, and strong work ethic, Tracy adds valuable practical knowledge and versatility to the roster.
The USA Surf Fishing Team believes this group represents a strong blend of competitive experience, technical skill, leadership, and dedication to the sport. Over the coming months, the team will begin structured training and preparation as they work toward representing the United States against the world’s best shore anglers in Italy.
The organization would like to thank all athletes who applied and expressed interest in representing Team USA. The depth of talent within the American surf fishing community continues to grow, and the future of international competition for the United States has never been brighter.
For media inquiries, federation participation, sponsorship opportunities, volunteer applications or event information, contact
:
Ben Hervey-Murray
Email: [email protected]
WhatsApp: +1 (714) 642-5770
Ryan Lambert VP
Email: [email protected]
About US Angling:
United States Angling Confederation serves as the national governing body for international competitive angling disciplines in the United States, promoting responsible fishing, conservation, and international competition opportunities for American anglers.
