King Salmon, Alaska - The chubby contestants of Fat Bear Week 2026 have finally been revealed, and they've packed on quite an impressive pile of pounds!
On Friday, researchers with the Katmai Conservancy unveiled the bracket for the annual, single-elimination contest.
The general public will get to vote on the bears that they think did the best job fattening up their fur in anticipation of winter hibernation.
The chubsters competing in 2026 include some new faces, such as Bear 132, a mom competing with her three spring cubs, and subadult Bear 694.
Returning to the feeding frenzy is the defending champion, Bear 32 – better known as "Chunk."
This big guy is recognized by a distinct scar and a protruding tooth that came from a broken jaw in 2025. Though he's eluded the researchers lately, he seems to have packed on a bit more belly and is ready to compete!
Another notable contender is Backpack, the son of former victor Holly. As a cub, Backpack would climb on Holly's back as they swam in the river, giving him his famous nickname.
There's also Bucky, a young but fierce bear who's always willing to flex his muscles and assert some dominance.
Fat Bear Week 2026 kicks off on September 22 and will run through September 29. Voters must select which bear "best exemplifies fatness and success" in head-to-head competitions.
Daily voting takes place between noon and 9 PM ET on fatbearweek.org.