Ultimate Match Fishing

Meet The Host

Joe Thomas

After a successful 30 year career as a professional bass angler Joe Thomas has entertained viewers as the host of both Ultimate Match Fishing and Exmark’s Reel in the Outdoors for over two decades. Drawing upon his competitive background, Thomas takes you inside the sport of pro bass fishing with uncompromising play-by-play analysis and in-depth commentary.

James 'Worldwide' Watson

James “Worldwide” Watson brings his bombastic personality to Ultimate Match Fishing in his dual role as co-host and referee. A former U.S. Army Drill Instructor, Worldwide is right at home with whistle in hand ready to penalize and punish the competitors for their infractions. As a former UMF competitor "Worldwide" won the 2022 championship by beating Jacob Wheeler in the most stunning upset in UMF history.