The news broke last fall that the Masters Walleye Circuit (MWC) would launch a new bass series. The North American Membership Group, which owns and operates the MWC, unveiled the new Masters Bass Circuit (MBC) today.
Note that the series is somewhat of a test run, and if successful, might follow the MWC model with additional divisions like East and West.
The MBC will function under a team format, with three 1-day qualifiers (50-boat limit) capped by a 2-day, 31-boat championship. First-place at the championship pays $20,000, while each qualifier pays $10,000 for a win. Anglers will also be eligible for contingencies.
MWC/MBC executive director Dan Johnson noted: "We're planning four tournaments in 2011. With sponsor contingencies like Cabela's Angler Cash, Stratos 2X Double Your Winnings and Ranger Cup, our payouts increase by more than $50,000."
An MBC Update with results, photos and sponsor recognition will appear in North American Fisherman magazine.
2011 Masters Bass Circuit Schedule
> June 11 -- Lake Winnebago Chain -- Oshkosh, Wisc.
> July 30-31 -- Bays de Noc -- Escanaba/Gladstone, Mich. (weather day built in)
> Aug. 19 -- Lake Minnetonka, Minn. (weather day built in)
> Sept. 24-25 -- World Bass Championship -- Leech Lake, Walker, Minn.
Registration opens Tuesday, Jan. 18. For details, visit MastersBassCircuit.com or call (877) 893-7947.
