I think Kevin was wrong for what he did. I think you're going to see more of this kind of stuff on the trail – some of these guys just don't belong on this trail.
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May 2009
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Kenny Merle of Verona, N.J. writes:
Sunday, May 31, 2009 -
Robert Vogelsang of Jessup, Md. writes:
Sunday, May 31, 2009RE: Kevin Langill – The problem was not day 3, but days 1 and 2. The marshals with Mr. Langill both stated he did nothing wrong, and they were ignored. As i stated earlier, this calls into question the value of the marshall program. I think the Elite pros behind the banning of co-anglers made a big mistake. There are a lot of bad feelings among the "regular" anglers who fish from the back of the boat. Of course, the lack of sponsor money in purses is the main problem. You should be encouraging anglers to demand more money in purses. They put on the show, but at least 80% lose money every year. There is nothing professional about that.
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Blake Lydenick of Sandpoint, Idaho writes:
Saturday, May 30, 2009I know Brandon Palaniuk personally and the things he has said are true. I think his true friends and anyone who knows Brandon would know that he would never cheat or use someway to get ahead in a sport he loves. Bass fishing is his life and he would never do anything to jeopradize his life as a fisherman. His character and morals would never fall as far as cheating.
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Tim Peek of Sharpsburg, Ga. writes:
Saturday, May 30, 2009Chris Jones, you are the man! Life is not fair, but God is. I have the utmost respect for you and truly feel that you will prevail in the end. Just come on down to Georgia and spend some time in my boat. I seem to get all my problems solved this way. Chris, you have thousands of friends and I am proud to be one of them. Keep in touch.
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Zach Meredith of Anaheim, Calif. writes:
Friday, May 29, 2009Wow, I'm just shocked and upset. What ever the reasons good luck to you, Chris, and thanks for the memories! Just don't give up on the world of fishing – you belong here.
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Gary Cossaboom of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada writes:
Friday, May 29, 2009I've had the pleasure of fishing many tournaments run by Chris Jones in the Stren Series. Chris is a class act, a true professional, and a man of his word. I missed him at Stren events when he moved on to the higher circuits and am saddened to see him leave the FLW family. I wish you well for the future, Chris, and success in whatever you do. God bless.
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Michael Thomas of High Point, N.C. writes:
Friday, May 29, 2009Hey ChrisI Along with countless others, I was shocked to hear that you were no longer with FLW. What a giant mistake they have made once again, I guess that is what keeps BASS at number one. Last year I was blown away to hear that Dan Grimes, after 25 years, was canned for no apparent reason. He made the Red Man Trail the most successful bass fishing venture in history. I guess that is how corporate America repays people who dedicate their lives to the sport we love so much.
As far as your future, don't worry – people recognize talent and both you guys have plenty of it, just ask any fisherman in America. Thanks for being the men who paved the way by always being fair and professional to all, regardless of who you were or what you ran.
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Michael Thomas of High Rock, NC writes:
Friday, May 29, 2009I just recently found this site and find it very interesting. I look forward to reading more and more about bass fishing in my area.
Good job!
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Chris Kinley of Durango, Colo. writes:
Friday, May 29, 2009I am very disappointed to see Chris Jones leaving FLW. Chris was always welcoming on stage and a great ambassador for the sport. He always took the time to speak with as many people as he could, even though he did not have the time for it. It is truly a shame that myself and others will not see Chris on the western circuits any more.
His passion was evident in his actions and how he carried himself. Chris, I wish you the best of luck and I hope to see you back soon, wherever that may be.
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John Davis of Shelby, N.C. writes:
Thursday, May 28, 2009RE: Chris Jones – It's sad to see someone so talented leave a sport we love so much.
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Howie Range of Gouldsboro, Penn. writes:
Thursday, May 28, 2009Mike Iaconelli is just simply an awesome person. He has helped numerous people in the past. He donated his time to take someone fishing on the Delaware River last year. The time was raffled off to help out a 911 eispatcher who works in the area. He then took the dispatcher out on another trip.
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Alexander Voog of Chicago, Illinois writes:
Thursday, May 28, 2009RE: Chris Jones's letter – Class, pure class. Best of luck on all accounts.
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Brian Waldman of Coatesville, Ind. writes:
Thursday, May 28, 2009I found the recent Dock Talk piece concerning the BASS Pro-Fizz FZ-1 tool and it's endorsement by BASS and Chris Horton rather interesting. In a recent (January 2009) issue of Fisheries Magazine, Dr. Gene R. Wilde, noted fisheries researcher from Texas Tech and who has published several papers specifically on largemouth bass, had an article published entitled "Does Venting Promote Survival of Released Fish?"
There has been an on again, off again relationship with depressurization of deep-caught fish, namely largemouth and smallmouth bass, in the various media outlets (bass magazines, website forums and articles). Dr. Wilde evaluated all the studies from the fishery world and concluded:
"The available evidence fails to demonstrate that venting fishes exhibiting symptoms of barotrauma promotes post-release survival. In fact, it is possible that this practice decreases survival of fish captured from deeper waters, presumably because of the greater severity of their barotrauma symptoms. Venting fish should not only be discouraged by fishery management agencies (e.g., Kerr 2001), but given the possibility that venting adversely affects survival of released fish, this practice should be prohibited, rather than mandated (i.e., NMFS 2008)."
The fizzing issue seems to be one of those areas where even experts disagree, and this recent endorsement only adds to the confusion. Perhaps a future in-depth story on the issue covering the pros and cons from both sides of the aisle would help BassFans make a decision one way or the other as to whether this is truly a good practice to be carried out regularly by anglers and tourney directors for the benefit and conservation of our bass fisheries.
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Mike Goodwin of Lake Havasu City, Ariz. writes:
Thursday, May 28, 2009Let me first say, I was numb when I got Charlie Evans' email that Chris Jones was no longer with FLW. I remember the very first event Chris covered in the west. I was so excited to see we now had the very bestin the business to lead us. He had an excitment about him I hadn't seen since Ray Scott.
I remember always acknowledging Chris on stage for making professional bass fishing in the west what it is today, but he would always say it was us anglers who deserved all the credit. This guy is so humble, but I'm here to say publicly he made the West go! Chris, this is with out a doubt your calling.
I will always have the picture of you and I on stage at the very first FLW National Guard event in the west here at Lake Havasu in 2007, holding the bass that won me $125,000. Wowwwwwwww! That is a memory that will never be taken away. I will also say you were missed the very day you left.
This is to all fishing organizations – do yourself a favor and go get this guy now. This lousy economy will turn around and with Chris as your fearless leader, he will make your events the best in the world. Tough shoes to fill, and a very tough act to follow.
FLW, BASS, WON Bass, anyone in the west, get busy and sign this young man and let him take over. Biggest no-brainer in the history of mankind. See ya soon, brother Chris.
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Chad Keogh of Black Creek, BC, Canada writes:
Wednesday, May 27, 2009Whether or not you're a fan of Mike Iaconelli's flamboyant antics when on the water, especially when he hooks a big fish or has a livewell malfunction, you can't argue that he's a great angler and amazing person to have done what he did for Katie. Way to go, Ike!
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Scott D. Putnam of Brainard, N.Y. writes:
Wednesday, May 27, 2009Just read the article in the L.A. Times about Ike making a little girl happy. People are always bashing the guy for his on-camera antics. How about giving him credit for his off-camera generosity? Nice job, Ike – don't change a thing!
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Brent Callicott of Union City, Tenn. writes:
Wednesday, May 27, 2009I have fished the FLW and Stren tours in recent years as a co-angler. Chris Jones is one nice fella and will be miised the short time he is out. Hope to see you back on some trail soon, Chris. The FLW folks will miss you, but not as much as the anglers you deal with.
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Doug Greene of Salyersville, Ky. writes:
Wednesday, May 27, 2009I would like to thank Chris Jones for all that he has done for the sport and being one of, if not the best, tournament directors I've ever been associated with. I hope you get back in the sport soon.
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Jim Barnick of Davie, Fla. writes:
Wednesday, May 27, 2009I just read Chris Jones' farewell letter to the fishing community and felt a need to comment. I'm not sure what the real problem is or was and I'm not sure we will ever get the whole story, but as a Southeastern Stren angler, I can say I have had the fortune of meeting Chris Jones on several occassions. I started as a co-angler and didn't know what to expect my first year in the series. Immediately, Chris made me feel welcomed and from that very first meeting, which lasted all of 3 minutes, he always remembered my name.
Tournament after tournament, Chris would go out of his way to say hello and ask how things were going. He always had encouraging words and always made you feel like he was pulling for you. I really believe Chris loves the sport and truly cares about the anglers and all the relationships he has forged, no matter how big or small. FLW and the sport of competitive bass fishing have lost a true friend. Chris will be missed by many and I truly hope more opportunities lie ahead for him in competitive bass fishing.
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John Marley of Belton, Texas writes:
Wednesday, May 27, 2009I never much saw Chris Jones as an emcee – he just didn't have the voice, dialect or demeanor for it. But no one can deny his passion for the sport – that definitely showed through.
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Joe Hunt of Lincoln University, Penn. writes:
Wednesday, May 27, 2009Chris Jones is a class act and a great tournament director. He will be missed.
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Keith Lebowitz of Dallas, Texas writes:
Wednesday, May 27, 2009As the former host of FLW Outdoors, I have never come into contact with a harder-working, more dedicated individual than Chris Jones. I am proud to call him a friend, and wish him the best. He will be successful in whatever arena he chooses to pursue. He has touched the lives of thousands of anglers nationwide, and earned the respect of not only myself, but all those who have come in contact with him. You da man, C.J.!
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Ray Arbesu of Las Vegas, Nev. writes:
Wednesday, May 27, 2009It's a terrible shame for our sport, and especially out west. Hopefully Chris will get on with someone else and help them rise to the top. Good Luck to him. Our fishing industry needs more good-hearted people like Chris Jones.
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Zach Kirby of Shelbyville, Tenn. writes:
Wednesday, May 27, 2009The sport, and in particular FLW Outdoors, lost a great one in Chris Jones. His passion for this great sport is contagious. I know he will one day be behind a mic and on the weigh-in stage again. Best wishes, Chris, and you will be missed.
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Scott Wall of Millbrook, Ala. writes:
Wednesday, May 27, 2009Why aren't the FLW and BASS sponsor deals made semi-public, or at least a general dollar value? There was a time when it was a game between FLW and BASS to announce the amount of the sponsor deal to see if one could outdo the other. As a matter of fact, it used to be announced proudly..."CITGO signs multi-million dollar sponsorship with BASS." When did this important piece of information become obsolete in our sport?
How much money are the BASS sponsors putting back into the sport when they sign up to become BASS sponsors? How much of the sponsor dollars go to support the leagues they have created and how much comes from the organizations themeselves? Has ESPN, more so than FLW, devalued the sponsorship so much that it is nothing more than a multi-tiered media buy and that's it? What about the activation and involvment all the way down to the children and grassroots levels? I'm not seeing this level of involvement since some key people left BASS and ESPN took over.
The sponsorships may be worth more money, but the value and the perception is not there at all. It's not rocket science that you can run a TV spot 10 times to get the audience you need to reach the numbers, but what type of audience is now being reached? A BASS guy used to own a Ranger, drove a Chevy with Flowmasters, and only bought gas at a BP station. If he pulled into a boat ramp he had something that announced he was BASS, whether it be on his truck, boat or person. Somehow along the way, the affinity was lost.
I don't see BASS guys shouting for Toyotas and Skeeters, and I don't see the BASS logo on the back of trucks, either. ESPN has turned an affinity-based, "cultlike" following into a brand-numbed weekend TV audience with little or no awareness or attention to the sport below what they see on the air. I think more people followed the pros more closely before ESPN stepped in than after. Wasn't this the goal – to create heros and a super league?
Maybe I'm wrong, but I think that what is bass fishing now is so far removed from what BASS fishing was that's it's has become no more than a joke! It's wrestling. Okay, I said it – BASS is now WWF, only not worth near as much.
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Scott D. Putnam of Brainard, N.Y. writes:
Wednesday, May 27, 2009Kevin Langill should rethink his "I wasn't going to give BASS anymore of my money" and "This comes at a good time" comments. You acting like an idiot came at a good time. You should save your money – you couldn't cut it on the Elites, and it showed.
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Chad Keogh of Black Creek, BC, Canada writes:
Wednesday, May 27, 2009Chris Jones is going out like he operated on stage – a class act. I can only hope that one of the other western tours (i.e. WON Bass, U.S. Angler's Choice, etc.) is big enough and smart enough to snatch Chris up. He is too good a tournament director to be left on the sidelines for long. Good luck, Chris, and I hope to be handing you a big bag of bass to put on the scale in the near future.
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Lewis Denney of Indian Mound, Tenn. writes:
Wednesday, May 27, 2009Chris Jones, you are a class act and will truly be missed. The best of luck in your future endeavors.
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Jim Valladares of West Covina, Calif. writes:
Wednesday, May 27, 2009Chris Jones is a class act.
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Ed Walker of Pinson, Ala. writes:
Wednesday, May 27, 2009All I can say is I will miss Chris Jones and his energy and passion for our sport. He and all the directors have surely helped grow our sport the past few years. I only wish good things for his future and for him to land right side up.
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Jim Nelson of Downers Grove, Ill. writes:
Wednesday, May 27, 2009As of today, May 27th, Comcast in my area does not have ESPN360.com.
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Bruce Johnson of Lakewood, Ohio writes:
Wednesday, May 27, 2009Great job, Ike! This is the difference between these pros and other sports.
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Butch Tucker of Moultrie, Ga. writes:
Wednesday, May 27, 2009Chris, your letter is very moving and no doubt written from the heart. You will be missed by many, especially the anglers and those you worked with. You were a tremendous asset to FLW and certainly made your contribution in regard to their success.
J Todd and I wish you nothing but the best. You'll be fine. Take care.
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Harold Sharp of Hixson, Tenn. writes:
Wednesday, May 27, 2009When Ray Scott decided to name his tournament idea he knew it had to be BASS, then he started to make it work with B for bass and A for anglers and S for sportsman, but he could not figure out the last S until outdoor writer Bob Steber suggested Society. I mention this because some members need to know that BASS does not stand for "Bad A-- Super Stars."
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Phyllis Harrell of Calvert City, Ky. writes:
Tuesday, May 26, 2009I plan on driving down for at least one weigh-in and can't wait to see who has the heaviest weight! Swindle isn't a fan favorite in these parts, so he might want to keep his tacky remarks about the locals to himself this trip. Several other big tournaments the same weekend, so Kentucky Lake will be crowded with bass boats.
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SFC Tom Anderson of Cambridge Springs, PA writes:
Monday, May 25, 2009Thank you for your Memorial Day reflection. I'm halfway through my tour at Camp Taji, Iraq. I keep tabs on the tournament trails through your site and seeing your lead on remembering those who've given the ultimate sacrifice only reinforces what a great community bass anglers are. Thank you.
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Scott Bennett of Calremore, OK writes:
Monday, May 25, 2009Thanks to all who have served!
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Jack Hamilton of Southside, AL writes:
Monday, May 25, 2009I have a special place in my heart and mind for all those who served in wars from the War of Independence to the present-day wars in the Mideast. Most of all I have a very special respect for the "Gold Star Mothers."
If you don't know, during WWII, a gold star was placed in the window of a home of a fallen soldier and the curtains were drawn and the lights turned on. The entire community knew that that family had lost a son in the war and they rallied around that family and especially the mother.
Over the years, regretfully, this practice has all but ceased, but I continue to believe that no one suffers more at the loss of a fallen son than his mother.
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Doug Lane of Longview. WA writes:
Monday, May 25, 2009Some one from Florida is a bit pithy about Lamiglas customer service? I've been a Lamiglas customer since 1982 and their service and product has been outstanding for the last 27 years. I use the exact same stuff Skeet Reese has used for years. To each his own.
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Doug Cobb of Greenwood, SC writes:
Sunday, May 24, 2009You guys do an excellent job reporting on bass fishing! Don't forget to post some info on the BoatUS Collegiate Championship. My son (Brandon Cobb 19 years old) is fishing and it would be great to give these guys as much exposure as possible. He's fishing for the Clemson University team (traveling about 16 hours to compete).
By the way, he has two 3rd-place BFL finishes this year in the Savannah River division.
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David Sykes of Ocean Isle Beach, NC writes:
Friday, May 22, 2009I'd like to thank Rick Clunn for all he has done for the sport of bass fishing. He's always been my hero and even after 30 years of competition he still has the drive to fish through sickness. What a "warrior"!
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Martin Danny Lamb of Lumberton NC writes:
Thursday, May 21, 2009After seeing the gap widen between Ehrler and Reese, and virtually stay the same between KVD and Reese, I questioned how this was possible with the year Reese is having. Looking at only 2009 finishes they are virtually even with Ehrler at 10.5 and Reese at 10.6. Looking at the total finishes between Ehrler and Reese for 2009 and 2008, Ehrler has an average finish of 23.0, Reese has an average finish of 19.3 with one of those being the Bassmaster Classic which you claim weighs heavily in your calculation.
Looking at VanDams 2009 finishes he checks in at 17.6 vs Reese's 10.6 And the total finishes of 2008 and 2009 they are again virtually even with VanDam at 19.2 and Reese at 19.3. So what gives? How can Reese finish right there with them over the last year and a half, win the Classic and fall further behind a week after finishing 2nd with Ehrler finishing 10th in last event and KVD 20th at Guntersville? Not to mention the fact that Reese has fished more events than Ehrler and still outfinished him.
BassFan says: Are you forgetting the fact that Ehrler fished against roughly 200 boats last year and roughly 150 this year, whereas Reese fished against roughly 100 both years?
In general, average finishes aren't a good parallel to an angler's world rank, because other factors are involved, such as how he finished against other ranked anglers in individual events.
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Robert Vogelsang of Jessup, MD writes:
Thursday, May 21, 2009When the PAA was formed,I hoped that professional fishermen would finally realize the need for increased sponsor money in the purse structure. I've been sadly disappointed by the lack of results. BASS recently signed two individual tournament sponsors. I wonder what bass would say if you asked how much money was involved, and how much went into purses. Why don't you ask them?
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Ken Miller of Gaines, MI writes:
Wednesday, May 20, 2009I see that the Berkley trailer travels back and forth across the country and has yet to make a stop here in Michigan. Is there a reason for that? Do you feel that it will not be well received enough to warrant stopping here? I think you'd be surprised and I hope that someday you take time out for us. Thanks for your time and consideration.
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David Rose of Lexington, KY writes:
Wednesday, May 20, 2009There's a weekend series on Kentucky Lake on June 6th as well. Should be fun. Hope Swindle brings plenty of Kleenex.
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Ed Stinnett of Vacaville, CA writes:
Wednesday, May 20, 2009What is Jay Kumar up to these days?
BassFan says: Let's see...
11:00 -- The Price is Right; 1:00 -- All My Children; 3:00 -- Knight Rider.
Seriously though, at last report Kumar's keeping quite busy. He's still a business partner with Scot Laney and the two are "trying to pull nickels out of the air."
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Terry Battisti of Idaho Falls, ID writes:
Wednesday, May 20, 2009Obviously some BassFans don't recall the Falcon event last year (2008) where Ish and Paul Elias got into it on the water and/or the on-the-water and off-the-water stuff that happened between Velvick and Martens. There have also been many other on-the-water confrontations - notably the Jim Bitter confrontation in Florida a couple years back.
Also the DQs of KVD and others. All happened with co-anglers in the boat.
On-the-water confrontations and DQs have nothing to do with whether or not cos are in the boat or not.
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Tim Brown of Ridgetop, TN writes:
Wednesday, May 20, 2009I checked the fuel economy out for the New Mercs and 'Rudes – they don't seem to be all that great. WOT is getting, at best, 3.5 mpg. With gas prices going up about a nickel a week, a few years down the road, we won't be able to afford to go out and fish, more less fish tournaments. Our sport's dying a slow death and no one seems to be getting on board and trying to heal it.
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Matt Stefan of Chicago, IL writes:
Wednesday, May 20, 2009I just wanted to bring to your attention the results from the recent Sturgeon Bay Open out of Green Bay in Wisconsin. This is the largest Midwest tournament (full field of 200 boats) that draws the best anglers from all over the region and several well-known names like guys from the In-Fisherman staff, Bob Izumi, etc.
This tournament is normally a 2-day tournament but the first day was cancelled due to 30 mph winds. However, The winning team had six smallmouths for over 32 pounds. There were two other 30-plus-pound limits and six smallmouths caught over 6 pounds. It took over 24 lbs to make the Top 50 and 114 teams weighed over 20 lbs. The results can be found at http://www.sbobt.org.
The reason I bring this up is to show my disappointment that BASS has canceled its tournament on Little Bay de Noc, which is located across Green Bay on the Michigan side. There's no doubt in my mind that this is truly the best smallmouth fishery in the world – better than Erie and St. Clair – and this would have been another event that would have exceeded the 100-pound mark. But again, the upper Midwest will go unnoticed!
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Morris Voan of Texarkana, AR writes:
Wednesday, May 20, 2009I too hunted for an Aaron Martens website to post my comments about his actions. I felt ashamed of the fact that he couldn't present himself in a more professional, friendly and sportsmanlike manner. Think about your words and actions and make your sponsors, family, and fans proud. Who do you think makes it possible to do what you do? It's the very same man you called a liar. We are the ones who supports the sport, sponsors and programs that pay your way.
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Gary Pryor of Hendersonville TN writes:
Tuesday, May 19, 2009Thanks to ESPN2 and BASS for not editing out the sickening display of poor sportsmanship by Aaron Martens. I agree with the comments of Mr. Lamb and Mr. Voan about Martens' antics and it's clear he's only after the almighty dollar with his "me-first" attitude. More pros are tossing ethics away and the number I have no respect for continues to increase.
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Todd Winters of Troy, N.Y. writes:
Tuesday, May 19, 2009I would like to thank BASS for doing away with co-anglers in the Elite Series. Now the pros can blame each other for not catching fish, and finally realize co's didnt hurt them, they hurt themselves. Not even a full year done and already fighting and DQs. Way to go, pros.
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Bryan Klinger of Ponca City, Okla. writes:
Tuesday, May 19, 2009RE: Reese's rods – It's obvious what rods he was using – the honey rods from Lamiglas. I have customs built on that blank, and you can't find a better crankbait rod, period.
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Barry Thomas of Windermere, Fla. writes:
Monday, May 18, 2009Great job, Skeet. Maybe Lamiglas' terrible reputation for customer service has taken its toll.
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Eddie B. Walker of Pinson, Ala. writes:
Monday, May 18, 2009RE: Beaver Lake shooting incident – I have to say I am a little tired of hearing and reading about incidents like this that almost always go unpunished. It seems that every year there is at least one or two things like this that goes on either in a BASS or FLW tournament. With the power of these two organizations, specifically ESPN and Irwin Jacobs, there must be some legal recourse to protect the anglers. These incidents are nothing short of attempted murder and at the very least assault with a deadly weapon. I wonder if the powers that be are going to wait until an angler is shot or even killed. It's fishing, for God's sake!
The story always seems to start out serious and by the time the public information officer or sheriff of the county gets done, it is minimized to "the old crazy guy that lives on the hill." When it's going to get serious is when the wrong angler gets shot at and returns fire. I know this is extreme, but take a survey of the average weekend angler out there and find out just how many handguns are in boats and I think everyone will be surprised.
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Darrol Samsil of Woodlawn, Tenn, writes:
Monday, May 18, 2009I was getting all excited about the Elite Series coming to Kentucky Lake in a couple of weeks just down from my house at Paris Landing State Park. It was brought to my attention that the FLW Tour will also be at Kentucky Lake the following week. Here is the fun part – the last day of the Elite Series will be the first day of practice for the FLW Tour. Since this will be a ledge-fishing tournemant, it should make for some interesting observations. My guess is a lot of FLW guys will be in unmarked boats doing a lot of watching themselves.
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Chris Mahfouz of Houston, Texas writes:
Monday, May 18, 2009I'm shocked at the feedback supporting Kevin Langill.
Folks seem to cite Langill's marshals siding with him as the reason they believe Langill. Several other Elite anglers and their marshals told a completely different story one much more in line with Duckett's account(s) of days 1 and 2.
I just do not believe there is any "siding" with the 'Bama boy by BASS or Trip Weldon. BASS interviewed as many eyewitness anglers and marshals as they could, and made a decision based upon a preponderance of evidence. What is not clear about that?
Langill's DQ on day 2 was the result of his own actions and an overwhelming amount of eyewitness evidence to support the DQ.
Langill's balance-of-season suspension was a result of his own immaturity, a blatant disregard for BASS rules on public conduct and media interviews, not to mention his on the water harrassment of Duckett on day 3.
I think BASS was very generous not to issue a lifetime ban to Mr. Langill.
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Martin Danny Lamb of Lumberton, N.C. writes:
Monday, May 18, 2009After returning from my weekend of fishing I decided to catch up on my recorded programs. After veiwing Bassmasters airing of the final day at Guntersville I was completely blown away by the arrogance of one Aaron Martens. I attempted to find a website for him but could not so I will put my statement here.
I have no problem with a pro approaching a recreational angler and requesting to fish his location (if he was there first, it is his until he leaves), but when he declines and you resort to calling him a liar in a public forum, that is different. Then to boot he stated that one of the locations he was fishing had been "poached." So now I guess if a recreational angler who fishes on public water and catches a fish that a pro might have caught is then a lawbreaker or poacher, as Martens stated.
I have something for Martens to ponder. When I am on my way to work, if I stop to get fuel I do not approach other customers and say, "Since your off and just loafing today, I should get my fuel first." Same at McDonald's for breakfast or at the stop sign/light when commuting. I wait my turn like a responsible adult. Sure, I am trying to earn a living and this other guy is just killing time, but that doesn't apply. He was there first and he has right to that spot simply because he was there first.
Furthermore, Mr. Martens, do you know for a fact the guy fishing did not have a tournament of his own? Or did you just make a childish statement because you did not get your way? What makes it your spot? He might have known about that location for the last 30 years, but because you located it one weekend it is now yours? If you were pre-fishing and he came up and said, "Mr. Martens, I am fishing a tournament today that is important to me, Could I fish here a couple of hours?" Would you let him? I bet not.
Just for the record, I am not a professional angler, never had the desire to be. I do however enjoy fishing tournaments and enjoying the public water that is there for all of us. Looking at the attitude of most of those who call themselves professionals this day and time, I am thankful that I never had the desire to fish professionally.
Remember, Mr. Martens, being a professional angler not only means performing as a professional, but conducting yourself as one also.
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Bill Day of Frankfort, KY writes:
Monday, May 18, 2009I saw Boyd Duckett run up and fish a guy's marker bouy at Lake Champlain last year. I guess he was already there "in his mind." These are the whiningest bunch of guys in pro fishing. Aaron Martins is a baby, too. But they sure can fish!
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Morris Voan of Texarkana, Ark. writes:
Monday, May 18, 2009I feel like I am watching the cowboys riding into town with only one bar, one stable, and one watering hole. Sure, the trail ride is tough, and it is the same on all of the men and women. I drew my feelings about Boyd Duckett when he fished in the Ulmitate Match Fishing shows as to what type of a person he was then. When you show your true colors in front of the camera, then take the time to review them yourself and see if that is what the hard-to-come-by Sponsors are looking for. The same with good ol' Aaron Martens' current win. I was happy to see him pulling it off until he became an insulting baby about someone else being in his area. When he called that man a liar on national TV, I was done with him. Did he make that call baised on his intimate knowledge of that man? Perhaps he knew without a doubt that he would not fish there the next week in a tournament that meant as much to him as this one did to Mr. Crybaby Aaron?
Had I been that man, without an apology from Aaron Martens himself, I would have to consider that personal insult an invitation, as in the old days of the cowboys. These men need to man up, act as the sport has always dictated, and not tear it down with their greed and petty self-worth before it is too late. Sponsors, perhaps you should start reining in the dogs that you feed daily, and tell them to stop barking and biting. Kevin VanDam may not be the friendiest person to the public after a tournament, but on the TV and water he doesn't cry and gripe about other fellow fisherman like this. Man up, boys, put on your big-boy panties and show us what you can do with a rod – not your mouth and status.
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Morris Voan of Texarkana, Ark. writes:
Monday, May 18, 2009I agree 100% There is no reason to have a marshal, or a rule for that matter – just let them settle it themselves if BASS doesn't listen with an unbiased, open mind. I felt that when the G-Man messed up with his boat ride, and Ike made a mistake by grabbing the wrong thing to take his anger out on, a rule is a rule. But this is just poor judgment.
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Morris Voan of Texarkana, Ark. writes:
Monday, May 18, 2009I would like to congratulate Aaron Martens on his recent win with the Bassmasters. I was, however, disgusted with his lack of true sportsmanship on his last day when he was not the only one fishing a certain hole. What made me sick was when he called a fellow fisherman a liar on national television. He is showing his true side when he continues these types of displays and I personally feel is not representing his sponsors well. My grandson was watching and even a 6-year-old said that wasn't very nice. Aaron, please get a grip, apologize to that man, and just man up and don't be a crybaby.
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Jeff Sullivan of Frostproof, Fla. writes:
Sunday, May 17, 2009First off I'd like to say that I am sad this event took place at Guntersville between Boyd and Kevin. I wasn't there, so I don't know what happened. Only the people who were there know for sure. The accounts vary widely, so there is no reason or justification for me to point fingers at what happened on days 1 or 2. Not at BASS, not at Boyd and the only thing I know definetly was wrong was Kevin on day 3 being out there bothering Boyd. He knows that though, I am sure.
I fished with Kevin in Florida last year and he was very nice to me. I have never fished with Boyd.
My point is not what happened at Guntersville. My comment is on the ethics we as anglers need to portray to other anglers, boaters and landowners. I have witnessed other events at tournaments, thankfully not involving a boat I was in, one being equal in nature with screaming, foul language, boat bumping and threats. I have also witnessed things not becoming of people when just spending a day on the water by anglers and non-anglers.
We as anglers need to show respect on the water to everyone. These types of things are the reason why bass fishing is frowned upon by some of the public. Although personally when I have been on the water and listened to someone complain about bass fishermen, (usually lakefront owners) they were the ones not acting right. One can only think of the shootings that are becoming more frequent. Is this a product of of how we act on the water as anglers? Not the shootings, because there could be no justification for that, but is it the root cause for these people to snap? The way some angler(s) had acted around them or their property?
I have had the opportunity to fish with many a pro and the way they acted was very professional and curteous to everyone around them.
I guess the best way to say what I want to say is that we all should make an effort to treat people right, on the water and everywhere else.
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Russell Corry of Rockingham, N.C. writes:
Sunday, May 17, 2009RE: Beaver Lake shooting incident – This is a perfect example of lazy police work! I feel I have the right to make this statement, being a member of law enforcement myself. It just show’s that most sheriff's offices show preferential treatment to locals over visiting tournament anglers. Every similar case that you guys at BassFan were able to come up with ends up with no charges being filed or a not-guilty verdict. At some point we as law enforcement officers are going to have to fully and fairly enforce the law. It’s a shame that it will take someone getting killed for any enforcement action to take place.
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Don Hendrix of Punta Gorda, Fla. writes:
Saturday, May 16, 2009RE: Langill DQ – I find it hard to believe that Bass Fishing has deteriorated to this. No more a sportsman's craft but a TV reality game of screaming people who I would classify as idiots, but my mother wouldn't like me to say that. What ever happened to those bass tournaments of the 1990s?
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Tim Maxfield of Bristol, Tenn. writes:
Saturday, May 16, 2009RE: Langill DQ – My brother, Carl Maxfield, fished BASS and FLW. He had similar incidents happen to him early in his career, but he handled it differently – more adultlike. This individual should be severely punished. Bass fishermen should set an example for the rest of us. We don't need people like this giving our sport negative vibes.
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Harold Sharp of Hixson, Tenn. writes:
Friday, May 15, 2009RE: DQ at Guntersville – The first set of official BASS rules had a 50-yard rule – it was very simple and everyone understood it. If your boat was anchored, you controlled a 50-yard circle around your boat. No other contestant was allowed to fish that area, and you could not invite someone to move in and fish that area. We never had a problem with this rule. A few years ago, BASS removed the 50-yard rule – why has not been explained. Since that time BASS has had several cuss fights between contestants over who fishes where.
BASS could stop this before someone gets hurt by simply returning the 50-yard rule. But then BassFan wouldn't have anything for fans to write about. This sure makes golf look more like the greatest sport and BASS look more like NASCAR and wrestling.
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Adam Henry of Atlanta, Ga. writes:
Friday, May 15, 2009Okay, I tried to be quiet, but I just can't anymore. For everyone who thinks BASS is biased toward their "top anglers," think again. Should I go down a list of anglers who have been DQd by Trip Weldon/BASS? KVD was DQd at Lake Murray for having a co-angler operate his boat during practice. He is a two-time Classic champion, has 15 Elite Series wins, four AOY titles, probably the most accomplished angler in the history of bass fishing. Weldon was not biased toward. him. Michael Iaconelli has been DQd a couple of times. He is an AOY holder and a Classic champion. Weldon was not biased toward him. Gerald Swindle was DQd at the Classic on Lay Lake. He is an AOY holder and a "fan favorite" on the Elite Series. Also, Gerald and Trip roomed together when Trip was fishing professionally. Weldon was not biased toward him. I could keep going down the list, but I think those examples should suffice.
What I am trying to say is Trip is not scared to DQ anyone and will not DQ anyone until he has all information at hand. He is the most fair tournament director BASS has ever had.
I was at the tournament on Friday and saw the marshals get interviewed. Every pro who was in the general vicinity of Duckett and Langill were also interviewed.
I've got news for you, Kevin, you ruined you own career with your shenanigans you pulled on the dock Saturday morning. Yes, Kevin, I do admire what you have done for the children in the past. But your little tirade on Saturday morning when you were threatening Boyd, that 10-20 kids saw, was not admirable at all. I was also present for that scene. Jumping on someone else's personal property and threatening them is in no way a positive role model to kids and also not professional at all.
I hope you take a real good look at yourself in the mirror and quit lying to everyone who is interviewing you.
You rammed Boyd's boat on Friday. First incident. You were DQd, so suck it up and beat Boyd at the next tournament. Your career lives on.
But instead you feel "your voice" had to be heard, so you pull your stunt on Saturday morning. Second incident.
You ruined your own career. Good riddance. Bass fishing doesn't need anyone like you.
Note to the public: Watch how many sponsors he loses, then think about who was right and who was wrong. My prediction is he won't lose every sponsor – I'm sure Langill lures will still support him.
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Robert Vogelsang of Jessup, Maryland writes:
Friday, May 15, 2009If two anglers find the same group of fish, should the angler who gets to them first on day1 have the spot for the entire tournament? I feel that the angler who arrived second has the right to go to the spot on day 2, but he should make his intentions known to the other angler. Not allowing this amounts to hole-sitting.
BassFan says: As this pertains to the Kevin Langill/Boyd Duckett situation at Guntersville, it's important to note that Langill was in an earlier flight than Duckett on day 1 and could have beaten him to those fish, but chose to visit another area first.
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Robert Allen of Calhoun, Ga. writes:
Friday, May 15, 2009If Kevin Langill's word is gospel, why did multiple pros, not just Grant Goldbeck, tell Trip Weldon that Langill's behavior was wrong? As to the marshals' testimony, there was equal testimony to the contrary from Duckett's marshals as well as those from the other aforementioned anglers. It's a wash! In such an instance, Trip has no choice but to take the word of other pros who were witnesses as the deciding factor.
And as far as motivation, what would Boyd Duckett have to gain by lying about it? He knows there are witnesses and he has plenty of money (he's a millionaire several times over). I know what motivation a desperate, struggling, young pro might have, but I in no way am accusing Langill of anything because I wasn't there.
I've said it before and I'll say it again – Kevin Langill may be telling the truth or he may not, but his incredibly stupid behavior at the launch and on the water on day 3 destroyed any credibility he or his version of the incidents may have had, and for that, he has no one to blame but himself. If he loses his BASS career, as it is all but certain he has, he did it to himself. He can fish FLW again and hope he succeeds there his second time around.
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Jason Borden of Union Grove, Ala. writes:
Thursday, May 14, 2009Boyd Duckett makes me sick with his "I did nothing wrong" crap. Hey Boyd, do me a favor. Don't ever come back to G'ville or Wheeler. I might just run over your line myself!
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Mark Kelly of Marietta, OH writes:
Thursday, May 14, 2009Any info on the date when Trilene TransOptic will be available? Read back in February that it was to be available in May.
BassFan says: We checked with Berkley and the new TransOptic will be available in limited supply this month, with full shipping to occur in June. We'll keep our ear to the track and let BassFans know when it's available for order.
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Phyllis Harrell of Calvert City, KY writes:
Thursday, May 14, 2009Sorry to hear about Mr. Young's incident, but very happy to know he's okay. He was staying at the inn where I work (near Kentucky Lake) when his boating accident happened and we've often wondered how he was doing and if he'd recovered. Glad to know he's back in a boat and fishing again after the accident!
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David Giudice of Madison, AL writes:
Thursday, May 14, 2009This really stinks. I don't not like the message that BASS is sending with this incident. What I'm seeing they're saying is if you're a rookie or never had a major win and if a pro who's in the top echelon of the sport has a complain against you, that you'll not be listened to nor believed. This hurts more then just Kevin Langill, but BASS as a whole by sending the wrong message.
I truly feel Kevin Langill was done dirty by Boyd Duckett and BASS, and to see this is a downright shame. What good is the marshal program if BASS doesn't use the marshals as they were intended? Why didn't Trip Weldon listen to Kevin or his marshals? There's two sides of every story, then there's the truth! So far all I've heard is Boyd Duckett's side and that's what BASS listened to.
I've fished with Kevin Langill and even had him in my home and I know him as a reasonable and honorable man. BASS, you are wrong this time and something needs to change before this kind of thing becomes a fact at every tournament where rookies are done wrong just on another pro's say-so!
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James Lewis of Ozark, MO writes:
Wednesday, May 13, 2009I've met both men and actually got to know Kevin Langill quite well last year at the Bassmaster Weekend Series Championship in North Carolina. Wasn't there for the confrontation but wish I was. This doesn't sound like the Kevin Langill I met. He and his family were some of the nicest and friendliest people I've ever met in bass fishing. I've met a whole lot of "pros" over the last 20 years and he's probably the nicest and most forthcoming with fishing help and information for the little guys. I've lost respect for Bassmaster in their decision for the rest of the year's disqualification. The one tournament yes, but the whole season? No. I think next year I'll probably switch to FLW and pro-ams myself.
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Donald Morin of Thompson, CT writes:
Wednesday, May 13, 2009Just another incident on the Elite Series. Bad economy and too much pressure to perform. Boys should learn to share. Boyd has a "name." Kevin does not. How will he be treated? We already found out. I'm torn between the rules and sportmanship. What if KVD encroached on another's spot?
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Joe Turner of Cleveland, TN writes:
Wednesday, May 13, 2009Re: shooting incident – About 3 years ago, I was fishing a club tournament at Neely Henry and someone on the bank opened fire with a small-caliber rifle. Bullets hit the water in front of me and ricocheted. In the end, the shooter was shooting at geese in his long front yard.
After talking to him it was obvious, and fortunately I was not hurt, however, shootings on the water are very dangerous to everyone – particularly if you have a situation like with Langdill and Duckett where "fish rage" has taken over.
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Martin Danny Lamb of Lumberton, NC writes:
Wednesday, May 13, 2009I have a hard time believing Goldbeck's account. I'm more inclined to think BASS is leaning on him to back their play. With the marshals taking Langill's side it makes me think something's just fishy. I think Mr. Duckett has more to do with this than is being brought to light.
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Don Gowen of Decatur, AL writes:
Wednesday, May 13, 2009A SAD DAY FOR B.A.S.S., KEVIN LANGILL, AND BOYD DUCKETT
The disqualification incident of Kevin Langill by B.A.S.S. at the Bassmaster Elite Southern Challenge on Friday, May 8, 2009 on Guntersville Lake was a very sad day for an angler who had spent four years and thousands of dollars pursuing his dream of becoming a Professional Bass Angler to see it all go down the tube because he would not be intimidated by B.A.S.S. or the man bringing unfounded charges, a sad day for a grass roots fishing organization that made bass tournament fishing what it is today, and a sad day for the former Bassmaster World Champion who brought all of this about. But things have changed from the days of Ray Scott and a fledging B.A.S.S. tournament organization, and with the acquisition of B.A.S.S. by ESPN, things have become more complex and guided by viewer ratings – the thing that is suppose to make ESPN money.
Having spent almost 40 years as a member of B.A.S.S., involved in Federation Nation activities, and supporting the B.A.S.S. Tournament organization as volunteer coordinator, media boat operator, a promoter of B.A.S.S. and its youth activities, and a friend of many of the folks engaged in producing the tournaments and submitting articles to BASS Times, I have come to know and value the relationship I have enjoyed with many of the B.A.S.S. employees and touring PROS on the Elite and Open circuits. I know and respect Director Trip Weldon, Tournament Managers Chuck Harbin, John Stewart, Chris Bowes – they have a hard job to do. I have known of Boyd Duckett for a number of years, especially through some of his friends; my grandson had the first photo made with Boyd after he won the World Championship for which I am grateful; and until this incident I have considered Boyd to be a straight-forward angler that could be trusted, was fair and reasonable, and I have been a fan of his.
I have also developed a personal friendship with Kevin Langill, primarily through his efforts in supporting the youth of our nation with his time and money. He has slept at my home and eaten from my table. I have seen the results of his efforts with youngsters and the disabled – both mentally and physically. He is an aggressive competitor but in all things he has been fair and reasonable and worked diligently not to offend and to make all around him feel comfortable. I think he is a fine young man and am grateful for the work he has done with our Junior Bassmaster Club, C.A.S.T. for Kids, and youth everywhere.
Therefore, I have no axe to grind in any direction and only offer these comments from my observations and facts known to me about this disqualification issue:
*On May 4, 2009 - Monday, Kevin began the official practice days on Lake Guntersville for the Bassmaster Elite Southern Challenge. After the first day of practice, he told me that he had found an excellent location that was loaded with bass just outside the creek mouth at Preston Island. He stated that he fished here before in prior Guntersville tournaments but had never had such quality bass to take the bite as he had for this upcoming tournament. He was enthusiastic about his chances for the tournament and looked forward for it to begin;
*On May 5, 2009 - Tuesday, I again had conversation with Kevin and he advised me that he had found four additional locations to fish in the tournament but still believed the location he had found on Monday as the most productive, but he was concerned because the prior Bassmaster World Champion Boyd Duckett had seen him catch a bass off the hole and had moved in on him in practice and indicated to Kevin that the spot was “HIS” personal fishing spot. Kevin was concerned about Boyd’s attitude concerning the location but as a young angler, he was determined not to be intimidated by Boyd’s demand of ownership of the spot. I was not surprised that a highly recognized angler would flex his reputation in such a manner, but thought of it as a normal occurrence on the tournament trail that these anglers have to contend with;
*On May 6, 2009 – Wednesday, Kevin stated the location still held fish and he had found one other bass on bed near Preston Island that might go 14 lb. He was extremely excited that this could possibly produce his KICKER fish of the tournament…..a tournament he badly needed to place high in – both from a monetary and career standpoint (his 2008 season having started badly with his step-father’s death in the Texas tournament and a ton of trouble that he had experience on the road with his tow truck going to recent tournaments – we worked on it in Decatur for almost a week);
*On the first day of the tournament – Thursday – May 7, 2009, I met Kevin at the dock at Lake Guntersville State Park, prior to the weigh-in and he advised me that he had a good sack of bass but he had had to share the his hole with Boyd Duckett, but both of them had caught good bags of bass. Nothing was said about any trouble on the water or otherwise…he simply took it in stride as the way things went in the tournament touring world. It appeared that Boyd was in an earlier flight and arrived at the location first. Langill’s Marshall made no mention of any trouble on the water that day. That night Kevin called me and advised that Mr. Trip Weldon had advised him “to stay away from Boyd Duckett.” I ask Kevin what he told Mr. Weldon and he said he told him that he had found the fishing location on Monday during practice, that Boyd had moved in on him on Tuesday, and that they both had fished the location on the first day of the tournament – Thursday – and that he though he had as much right to the location as much as Boyd did. When I questioned him relative to what Mr. Weldon said, he stated that Trip advised him again to “stay away from Boyd Duckett” without discussion as to anyone having “ownership” of the hole. Based on this, I am surprised to learn of Boyd’s comment that “I certainly don’t think I’m powerful enough within the BASS organization that I can get a guy DQ’d for getting on MY fish.” It appears that the decision had already been made as to the “ownership” of the fishing location while just half a mile south of the location there were five or six competitor boats all trying to fish one hump in the lake. I would submit that Boyd knew exactly how much power the former Bassmaster World Champion had on ESPN’s viewer ratings and this fact was recognized by the BASS organization. Boyd simply did not have the quality fish located, his reputation was at stake, and he went where he had saw bass caught. Despite his statement of non-involvement in securing the disqualification of Langill, Boyd continued to press for such action with BASS officials on Friday of the tournament;
*Friday – May 8, 2009 – the day for the field of 100 Elite Anglers to be cut from 100 anglers to 50 to fish on Saturday. Kevin advised me that Trip came up to him at the launch and again advised him “to stay way from Boyd Duckett.” NO DISCUSSION. The blast off occurred and Boyd beat Langill to the hole once again. Langill and his Marshall both state that when Langill came off of plane at the hole, he was at least 100 – 150 feet away from Boyd and they did not touch Duckett’s boat. Both boats fished the location throughout the day and when the wind came up it blew Boyd’s boat into Langill’s. The contact was not intentional on either of the angler’s part, as per the boat Marshall.
That afternoon I was taking photos of the anglers at the weigh-in when Boyd weighted in his bag of fish. Upon questioning by Keith Alan, Boyd stated something to the effect that he could have caught larger and more bass if someone had not have been on HIS hole. Boyd left the stage and after a couple of more photos, I started down to the dock to see if Langill’s flight had come in yet. At the entrance to the dock I was surprised to see Boyd in deep conversation with Chuck Harbin, the Tournament Director who was writing in earnest on a sheet of paper as Boyd dictated to him. As I passed, I heard Boyd make the statements “he did this, he did that.” Therefore, Boyd made an untrue statement when he said that “he provided no testimony as to what occurred that day, but instead asked WELDON to “poll” everyone else who’d been on the scene.” Evidently, Trip did not talk with both Marshalls from Langill’s boat. (Note: NO ONE ELSE has been identified as making any statement and certainly the two most unbiased men who were there – in the boat - not sitting a quarter of a mile away – and knew exactly happened (Langill’s Marshals from Day 1 and Day 2) have both stated that Langill DID NOT conduct himself in any unsportsmanlike way or manner on EITHER day. B.A.S.S. has stated they talked with EVERYONE concerned with this incident and this was an untrue statement….they only talked with Boyd and the folks HE brought to the dance…..NOT the two Marshalls in Langill’s boat. The basis principle of law states that if you can not cross-examine the witness, then any statement make by the witness is hearsay. NO ONE allowed any rebuttal of the statements made by Mr. Duckett.
When Langill came into the weigh-in dock, I found he again had a good bag of (5) bass. I questioned him if he had seen Boyd Duckett that day and he stated that he had and Boyd allowed his boat to drift into his boat on the hole. His Marshall, Mike Youtsey confirmed the incident but stated there was nothing to it, that both Boyd and Kevin had caught good sacks of bass off the hole. While Langill had gone to get his weigh-in bag from the BASS personnel, I had a conversation with Mike. He stated he certainly enjoyed fishing with Kevin that day, that he had learned a lot, and that he though Kevin was a might fine young man. He made no statements that any unsportsmanlike conduct had taken place on Langill’s part. Mike was told that he had been selected as one of the (6) Marshals to fish with one of the final (12) anglers on Sunday. He was elated.
Langill carried his sack of bass to the stage, they were weighted and I visited with some members of my bass club waiting the final results of the tournament. When the last sack was weighed, we noted that Langill had squeaked by the bubble and was in 49th place. Director Trip Weldon and Tournament Manager Chuck Harbin announced the pairing of PRO anglers and Marshals for the third day – Saturday, May 9, 2009. When Langill and his Marshall was called, they met and shook hands. Trip called Langill and the Marshal to the stage and Mr. Weldon advised the Marshall he would NOT be fishing with Langill the next day but he would be paired with someone else (the decision had already been made relative to Langill’s disqualification without hearing, evidence, or rebuttal). Langill was told by Mr. Weldon that he wanted to have a talk with him and at this point both Director Weldon and Tournament Manager Harbin departed the stage and left Langill standing in front of the stage – where he stood for almost an hour before going behind the stage to find Mr. Weldon and Mr. Harbin.
What appears to have taken place is an inquisition of Langill without benefit of counsel, evidence, hearing, rebuttal, challenge of witnesses, or production of witnesses on Langill’s part. Langill states that inference was made by the BASS officials that he was guilty as charged and that all questions directed to him was asking for confirmation of his guilt, not fact finding for the truth. End of discussion – Case Closed – Disqualified – all based on a complaint filed by the former Bassmaster World Champion – Boyd Duckett – which ended a young man’s career and took away any chance of livelihood as a bass fishing PRO. Any appeal of the decision(within 7 days of the tournament) would appear to be useless since the prize money won by Langill was withdrawn and Langill was deprived of the opportunity to participate in the Saturday competition to earn a berth to fish in the final (12) on Sunday. Could he have been the winner of the tournament? Mr. Duckett thinks HE could have.
On Friday night Langill tried to contact Mr. Duckett, Mr. Weldon, and Mr. Harbin but none of them would answer or return his calls. One must ask one’s self if anglers should pursue a career as a bass pro angler under these type circumstances. It appears that if you do not produce ratings for the television viewers, you do not rate very high with the tournament organization and if the angler thinks everything is going to be fair and reasonable, watch out, things can get complicated and very nasty in short order. There is only one judge and jury in this business and you can’t have witnesses and a lawyer present.
*Saturday morning – May 9, 2009 – prior to launch on the 3rd day of the tournament. Langill had secured his first day’s Marshall, Jim Beach of Ponchatoula, LA (the 2nd day’s Marshall had been scared off) to talk with Mr. Weldon who advised the Marshall he was out of order, out of place, and he would have no conversation with him – case closed – end of discussion. Mike Iaconelli tried to reason with Trip but was told to mind his own business – that it was not his fight. Langill went to Boyd Duckett to determine the reason he had filed the complaint and received no satisfaction. Then with all the frustration building from all the problems he had encountered in the last few months, and now his hard earned placement in a tournament was being taken from him based on what he believed to be an unfounded claim, and not being allowed any rebuttal allowed, his emotions overwhelmed him and he carried the issue to his fellow anglers – not a good, considered, or wise move since most of the folks did not know what the facts were regarding this issue, nor was it the time and place for such disclosure.
With all lost in a four year career because of a compliant filed by a fellow angler and believing he had been lynched by B.A.S.S., he carried his anger to the lake this Saturday morning. Langill would share the honey hole with his fellow anglers but Boyd would catch no fish if Langill was denied from participating in the tournament. Kevin’s actions were not what he had been taught and were not professionally justified, but he was striking back at perceived intimidation and unjust handling on the part of tournament officials. When I was able to make contact with him and determined what was happening, I advised him to put his boat back on the trailer and depart the lake. He did so and departed to North Carolina to his wife and son. He understands his actions on Saturday morning did not enhance his reputation, that anger – regardless of the cause – does not solve problems, and that resolve will meet the test of time and balance out the wrongs done on any issue. HE WAS WRONG on this day
What is sad is that a young angler’s career has ended with BASS because of a complaint filed by an angler who has reached the pinnacle of success, which angler has more than likely engaged in tournament activity similar to that which he complained about, and that a system is screwed to the benefit of the powerful and to the business model of the profit making machine. It is sad that BASS has lost a promising young angler on the pro circuit and that the system by which the tournaments are conducted is now perceived as not being a level playing field. It is sad to see the former Bassmaster World Champion degrade himself in such a frivolous manner to terminate the career of an angler that he should be helping along the path to success.
ONE MAN’S OPINION
Don Gowen
A Member of B.A.S.S. and the Federation Nation -
Floyd D. Payne III of Chicago, IL writes:
Wednesday, May 13, 2009Another shooting? Man! What's it going to take – someone to get (God forbid) seriously hurt or worse before authorities start penalizing, jailing these people? FLW and BASS better do something quick to work with the local law enforcement before a tragedy happens!
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Steven Rockweiler of Luling, LA writes:
Wednesday, May 13, 2009I predicted about 12 months that the sort of thing that happened with Duckett and Langill would be happening, and will be repeated again. A lot of the pros, especially the newer ones who are trying to get established, are getting in a pickle. Tough economy, fewer big sponsors, increased costs for everything from fuel to entry fees to lodging is taking a toll.
BASS only takes the top 37 pros for the Classic, so there's almost two-thirds on the outside looking in. Most of the lakes fished are well over 50,000 acres, and you'd think there was plenty of room to find decent stringers and place well. But except for a brief period when bass spawn, look at where the top stringers are coming from for most of the tournaments. Places along the main river and creek ledges. Primary and secondary points, and places where flats drop off to deeper water. In southern lakes, if there are shell beds in these areas, you've really got a good area.
KVD's really been fantastic over the years exploiting these structures with crankbaits for wins and high finishes. It'll become rare that an angler will be able to find enough quality bass in the shallows to hold up for 4 days. Most of the Elite field has caught on to this, and on lakes from Falcon to G'ville there's rumblings from pros that somebody's on my spot that I found in practice.
The pressure's surely there. Pressure to stay in the game, pressure to cut a check, and pressure to make it to the Classic (really great exposure for your sponsors and prospective sponsors).
I read a statement made by a retired pro a couple months ago. He lamented that most of the years he competed, the other pros treated each other with respect and courtesy – especially when it came to fishing spots. Looks like things have been ratcheted up in the modern era of bass tournament fishing.
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Robert Marek of Dallas, TX writes:
Wednesday, May 13, 2009Kevin Langill's behavior on day 3 was atrocious, not to mention his tirade on day 2. There's a right way and a wrong way to approach matters and obviously he hasn't figured that out yet. I say good riddance to that boor. BASS, FLW or any other tour doesn't need people like that. If his pro career with BASS is in jeopardy all he needs to do is look in the mirror to understand why.
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Mike White of Reynoldsburg, OH writes:
Wednesday, May 13, 2009This doesn't surprise me at all about Kevin Langill – he wanted to start a fight at the Southern Open in Florida on the Harris Chain. I'm glad to see him gone from fishing BASS. The sport doesn't need anyone like him.
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Chad Wallace of Columbia, La writes:
Wednesday, May 13, 2009Seems like this is a case of two anglers finding fish in the same area. Both are competitors and didn't want to give up the spot. I fish tournaments myself, and in some situations I've seen anglers run up on a fellow competitor and begin fishing next to him, or even cut him off. Even though no angler can literally claim a spot, some courtesy's usually shown – just not in this case.
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Wanda Grindstaff of Emerald Isle, NC writes:
Wednesday, May 13, 2009You're absolutely right! All anglers should be treated the same, with no favor given to any other. Langill had witnesses to support him but BASS chose to simply take someone else's word rather than showing respect to the sport and investigating it thoroughly. BASS needs to let go of the "good ole boy" mentality and operate professionally and fairly.
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William H. Barham of Edgewater, MD writes:
Wednesday, May 13, 2009It's a damn shame bass fishing has come to this.I don't fish much anymore to a severe disability, but every darn time I do go out I see this kind of crap. Guys jumping other guys' fishing spots, my fishing a shoreline and having another boat trespass between me and the shoreline. Or the ever great, "We're fishing a tournament, you don't mind do you?" and when you say "yes", they offer "well, too bad."
I'm 61 yrs. old and have freshwater fished the Maryland, Delaware areas, including the Potomac River, for a lot of years and have seen common courtesy go to heck for the last 20 years to where there just isn't any. There's also no helping a fellow angler in need. On a small lake in Delaware, on one of the farthest points from the ramp, I lost both of my batteries for some reason. I had enough trolling motor battery to steer while me, or my 74-year-old old big brother would paddle my 18' Rebel bass boat. On the way back to the ramp we passed four other bass boats, all of whom managed to turn the other way to ignore us so they wouldn't have to tow us at all. We finally got to the ramp and it was all I could do not to slice some tires before leaving. I didn't, but I really haven't been enthused about fishing since then.
Thank you for providing the venue for me to spout off. I'm sick of it!
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Jason Borden of Union Grove, AL writes:
Wednesday, May 13, 2009Langill Lures is putting out some awesome baits. I'm absolutely slaying the fish on G'ville with the Hover Trap. Any of the colors. When they stop biting one, just switch to another. Their other new baits that are on the way are just plain one of a kind and a swimbait that you can stack'em up with. Keep the lures coming Kevin and I'll keep fishing them.
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Patrick Mangold of Orlando, FL writes:
Tuesday, May 12, 2009If Langill would have gone home Saturday he might have saved his tournament career. Going back out to mess with Boyd is completely unprofessional. What sponsor wants that guy on their prostaff after a stunt like that (regardless of whether he was DQd for a valid reason or not)?
That's like getting written up at work for something you didn't do, then going back the next day and intentionally keeping the guy who told from doing his job.
If I did that and got canned, there are tons of guys out there waiting for my job. I can't imagine how many guys will jump at his spot on the Elite Series. Now's not the time for immaturity or showing your butt.
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Mike Maloney of Burlington NJ writes:
Tuesday, May 12, 2009I think it's a shame for what happened to Langill. It doesn't sound like he received fair treatment in the way this matter was handled. However, he definitely damages his case by showing up and looking for a confrontation at the dock and again on the water. Should've just left it alone and let his lawyer do the talking.
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William Tidwell of West Point, TN writes:
Tuesday, May 12, 2009Something just doesn't seem right about this situation. Why was Trip Weldon so quick to DQ this guy after talking with both marshals of Langill, when both of them said that Langill had done nothing wrong? Sounds like Weldon taking care of his Bama boy if you ask me. Just one more reason why FLW is No. 1!
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Robert Vogelsang of Jessup, MD writes:
Tuesday, May 12, 2009The real question about this incident is, Did the marshals riding with Langill tell the truth? If their account was accurate, and BASS officials ignored them, then what's the point of having the marshals?
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Aaron Beshears of Van Buren, AR writes:
Tuesday, May 12, 2009"I didn't plan on giving BASS anymore money anyway?" So you follow Duckett around when you're already disqualified and drive circles around his boat to the point that sheriffs are contacted? Now you're going to be a salesman for your product? You'll have to regain my respect before I spend a penny on anything you sell Kevin!
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Scott Putnam of Brainard, NY writes:
Tuesday, May 12, 2009So let me get this straight: After being DQd, Kevin gets in his boat and harasses Boyd? That was the mature thing to do. He deserved what he got. This is the Elite series. With that kind of stunt he belongs in the FLW. He ruined his own career. Don't buy his baits!
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Brad McElroy of Silver Creek, GA writes:
Tuesday, May 12, 2009I've fished with Kevin Langill in a Skeeter boat-owner's tournament for a couple of hours and met him by accident at a local tournament. I don't believe that Kevin would do all the things I've read online. He took the time to talk to me and my fiend in the parking lot and was great to fish with for a couple of hours. To DQ him for the season on one man's word is absolutely preposterous. He has a family to support and sponsors to represent. It's just wrong. I don't believe it.
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Joe Turner of Cleveland, TN writes:
Tuesday, May 12, 2009Such an event displays the pressure on some competitors. If you're a pro, you don't start wars – you figure out how to compete in a sportsmanlike manner. Another disgusting issue is local anglers at Guntersville "raiding" hotspots of the pros before the tournament's over. These people, including pros who can't contain themselves, are pitiful "sportsmen" and it's a shame they even fish local bass tournaments.
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Billy Lyle of Savannah, GA writes:
Tuesday, May 12, 2009At least with the Langill-Duckett incident, we know what's going on thanks to BASS and BassFan. No matter what happens and who did what, it's being published for all sides to render their own opinions. Total opposite of FLW.
This brings me to the World Rankings. It was mentioned that Langill will have to requalify through the BASS Opens to compete at the Elite Level. To fish the Elites, you must qualify first. FLW indicates that they have a qualifying process but we all know all you need is a Ranger boat and the cash and you get to fish. 'm sure there are good anglers at the FLW level. But please! Look at the 150-plus anglers on the FLW Tour. Realistically, the good anglers are only fishing against maybe 50 competitive fishermen. Is that really fair in judging the World Rankings when a true professional qualifying process takes place at the Elite Level? If Langill fished FLW, he could just pay the cash and come right back. Not very fair to the Elite guys who truly earn their rankings.
BassFan says: The BassFan World Rankings actually use a strength of field formula in calculations that utilizes the rank of other competitors.
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Ashley Morgan of Falkville, AL writes:
Tuesday, May 12, 2009It sounds to me like Langill is just a spoiled brat. I mean, having to be removed from the lake by the sheriff's department? How sad. He'll probably sink his lure company from this too. I won't be buying any of them. He gets what he deserves.
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James Gill of Natchitoches, LA writes:
Tuesday, May 12, 2009Things like this are what ruin the sport. Of course BASS was going to take the word of Duckett over Langill and that's one of the faults of the sport – their decisions are biased because of the big names. So what's the big deal of 2 anglers fishing close together. That's what the sport's about – the best of the best.
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Chris Mahfouz of Houston, TX writes:
Tuesday, May 12, 2009The Langill situation – how very sad, indeed. If all that has been written is the way this situation truly transpired, then Kevin Langill should be disciplined by BASS for his actions on Saturday.
Further, his sponsors, all of them, should drop him like a bad egg.
There's no room in our sport for behavior such as this from our professionals.
There's no acceptable explanation for Mr. Langill's actions. None.
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Chad Keogh of Black Creek, BC (Canada) writes:
Tuesday, May 12, 2009Kevin Langill's his own worst enemy. To be DQd for unsportmanlike conduct, and then turn around and harass the angler who turned him in the day before is simply childish and bully-like.
I'm certain that if he had just learned from his DQ and moved on, he could have continued to fish the Elite Series, but I think he just flushed that chance down the toilet.
There's always the FLW since they don't seem to have similar encroachment rules from my past experience.
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Ed Brown of Avon Park, FL writes:
Monday, May 11, 2009I think this ethanol article is both informative and insightful. However, I also think the process necessary to make comment to our legislative representatives is very complicated for the average person. Perhaps more information could be given in the article to assist those less knowledgeable as to where to send comments.
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Lance Carpenter of Clarksville, TN writes:
Monday, May 11, 2009As always with FLW, we'll never know the reason why they do what they do. Chris Jones was an outstanding Tournament Director and emcee. Obviously, whatever happened didn't effect his job performance at all. He was the best at what he did. In my opinion, much better than Charlie Evans! FLW needs to stop casting stones in a glass house.
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Tim Brown of Ridge Top, TN writes:
Monday, May 11, 2009How does ethanol damage your outboard? I have a 1989 model. If 10% is bad, why is 5% more disastrous? Give us more info please.
BassFan says:
The short answer is that ethanol can create water buildup in gas engines that promotes fuel breakdown and damage to internal components. Not as a big a deal for cars, which spend their time on land, but it is for boats that spend their lives on top of water. Here's the technical explanation from Yamaha:"Ethanol molecules have a stronger bond to water molecules than to gasoline molecules. In the absence of water, ethanol and gasoline molecules will bond. When water's added to E10 fuel, the bond between the ethanol and gasoline will weaken. When the percentage of water in E10 fuel reaches approximately 0.5%, the bond between the ethanol and gasoline molecules will break down and the ethanol molecules will attach to the water molecules. This is called phase separation."
The biggest issue with outboards involves storage. Some anglers launch only once a month, or once every couple months, which gives ethanol more time to approach a phase separation. The problem may be exacerbated in boats that are slipped vs. trailered. Outboard manufacturers regularly recommend fueling with ethanol-free gas.
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Tim Brown of Ridge Top, TN writes:
Monday, May 11, 2009Here we go again, Gas prices are on the rise and for what reason? I'd like to see BassFan do a story on what the marine industry is doing to help keep us fishing. I know the outboards have been updated and we can now get about 4 to 5 mpg instead of 1.5 to 2.5 mpg. But what else are they doing? We need better fuel economy, like 10 to 15 mpg!
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Dustin Grice of Brownwood, TX writes:
Monday, May 11, 2009I fished full-time for 5 years with FLW. I never won a tournament or gained any respect from the other pros. Like Kevin Langill, pros with Duckett's accomplishments would push me right out of an area. I learned after a couple times you need to hold your ground the best you can. However, I determined that how much I'd fight depended on who was there first. I understand where both of them are coming from. In this sport based on individual performance it's hard to compromise with someone you're competing against. Either way, someone needed to be the better man and just move on to a different area. From the looks of the weights there was plenty of other places to catch fish. I think both of them are wrong and both of them are right. It's all a matter of opinion and ego, that's fishing tournaments at it's best. It's all about being there!
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Michael Robinson of Acworth, GA writes:
Monday, May 11, 2009In 2004 I fished from the back of Mr. Duckett's boat. He was so aggressive on one spot that he caused the other angler (already in the area) to hold his hands out and say something. I have to believe Mr. Langill would not be so motivated to hire an attorney without good cause. Had Boyd legitimately found those fish? Maybe they both did. Boyd had no problem pushing his way into an occupied spot on the Big "O". This is similar to letting his boat blow into Langill to push him out or intimidate him into leaving.
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Mike Andrews of Oakley, CA writes:
Sunday, May 10, 2009Does Aaron Martens ever not complain about someone during or after one of his Elite Series tournaments? He's always complaining how someone is affecting his fish or someone stole his spot. Am I the only one who sees this?
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Kevin Davis of Los Angeles, CA writes:
Sunday, May 10, 2009Sounds like a bunch of BS to me. I've fished many BASS events and there has never been an issue or a person DQd for encroachment. There isn't any rule against it. That's just Duckett at his best!
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Matt Madsen of Pleasant Grove, UT writes:
Sunday, May 10, 2009Re: Tube Trends – Bobby Garland would fish the Gitzit on an exposed-hook, 1/16-ounce jighead that he sometimes clipped down to about 1/32. He would fish it on spinning tackle and 6-pound line. He'd throw that rig into some of the thickest cover and let a bass swim out of it. It was one of the most incredible things to watch. Bobby's gone now, but he deserves to be remembered as one of the great innovators in bass fishing and the inventor of the Gitzit. By the way, the name Fat Gitzit came because it was a fat tube that really got the fish.
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David Gregg of Haslet, TX writes:
Saturday, May 9, 2009Trip Weldon is one of the best tournament directors there is and he only makes his call after thoroughly reviewing all the evidence he's given. As the rules say, his decision will be final. Both of these pros know it takes a lot of working together when they both find the same fish. Sounds like Trip may need a heart-to-heart talk with all the pros.
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Chad Mulligan of Nashville, TN writes:
Saturday, May 9, 2009On precisely what planet are "the largest smallmouths in the world – those in the Great Lakes?"
BassFan says: Thanks for the reminder. The editor mistakenly removed the word "average." It has been reinserted. BassFan feels comfortable saying that, on average, Erie smallmouth limits are the largest in the world.
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Phyllis Harrell of Calvert City, KY writes:
Saturday, May 9, 2009If there were four other fishermen in the same close area, why didn't Boyd complain about them also, and what good is a marshal in a boat if his word means nothing? Was there no cameramen in the area? Too many questions and looks like once again, the rules apply only to some and not all.
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Will Yelverton of Hazel Green, AL writes:
Saturday, May 9, 2009I was sitting there watching Thursday. There were five pros in the area – Boyd and Grant Goldbeck were fishing the hump giving each proper room. Langill just came right in between the two and I couldn't believe it. I fish the BFL series and I know that wouldn't fly there. A little later Scroggins came up and fished the hump, but fished it from the other side. Hope they get it worked out, and Langill should know better. My two cents.
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Brian Moore of Knoxville, TN writes:
Saturday, May 9, 2009Kevin langill is a very good person and a hard-working man who helps the kids in fishing and has been railroaded by Trip Weldon.
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Jason Borden of Union Grove, AL writes:
Saturday, May 9, 2009I think it's a crying shame that Langill was DQd. I observed them fishing from my own rig both days and didn't see anything that would call for that ruling. If you DQ one of them then it should be both. I hope Langill takes BASS, ESPN or whoever for whatever he can. BASS will never get another penny of my money as I've lost all respect for the organization. I feel that BASS handled the situation very poorly and with a biased decision favoring Duckett, for whom I have also lost respect for.
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Chad Keogh of Black Creek, BC (Canada) writes:
Saturday, May 9, 2009It sounds like the marshals earned their keep in this instance. I agree with Boyd's approach to not testifying himself and relying on the testimony of the marshals and other pros in the vicinity. It shows how confident he was that Langill was in the wrong.
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Belinda (Jones)Longsworth of Calvert City,Ky writes:
Friday, May 8, 2009People who know Chris will stand by Chris because they know what kind of person Chris is and know he loved his job and all the people that he worked with and befriended along the way. This was a bad choice for FLW to get rid of a great tournament director it was not CHris's choice to leave but hopefully the friends he made will stay in touch with him. Hopefully there are bigger and better things that lay ahead for Chris. Best of Luck.
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Belinda (Jones) Longsworth of Calvert City, KY writes:
Friday, May 8, 2009People who know Chris Jones will stand by Chris because they know what kind of person Chris is and know he loved his job and all the people that he worked with and befriended along the way. This was a bad choice for FLW to get rid of a great tournament director. It wasn't Chris' choice to leave, but hopefully the friends he made will stay in touch with him. Hopefully there are bigger and better things that lay ahead for Chris. Best of luck.
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Stan Rudzinski of Mount Juliet, TN writes:
Thursday, May 7, 2009Re: Ethanol issue – I urge everyone to post a comment at the federal website. If you're in here reading BassFan you have the time to spend 5 minutes helping us keep our outboards running. Here's what I posted.
"The proposed change will simply result in numerous outboard motors suffering mechanical damage, possibly resulting in complete engine failure. If these conditions were suspected in motor vehicles this proposal would be dead. Please consider maintaining the current standards and not prevent hard-working Americans from enjoying one of the most relaxing, exciting pastimes that we have today – recreational boating and sport fishing.
"Since the 1970s, water-quality regulations and enforcement, along with millions of sportsman's tax dollars, have resulted in fabulous improvements to waters of the US nationwide. Don't lose sight of the people and effort that got us there by causing the recreational community to suffer the loss of trips to the lake with their family and friends. With today's economy those trips are already limited. Imagine the sad look of those kids you promised to take bluegill fishing when the motor blows halfway to that secret spot they've talked about since the first time you wet a line with them. Please stop this proposal from moving forward."
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Harold Sharp of Hixson, TN writes:
Thursday, May 7, 2009BASS announced the Toyota Tundra AOY Point Series would be scored on a 50-point sliding scale. Does this mean the winner gets 50 points and 2nd gets 49, 3rd gets 48, etc? Also, the points at season end will be moved one decimal point left and rounded off, so at the recent AOY standings, KVD would have 106 points and Niggemeyer would have 89 at 12th place. If this is correct, then Niggemeyer could win both events and collect 100 points for a total of 189 points and KVD could place 6th or better in each event and collect 45 X 2 = 90 points and have a score of 106 + 90 = 196 and be seven points ahead of the winner of both events. Is this the way this works?
I'm using older standings for this question, but the difference at year's end could be about the same between 1st and 12th. If this is how it works, it could be a big problem explaining how you can win both events and lose the AOY title. Anytime you give bonus points or carry over scores from other events you are asking for trouble.
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Steven Rockweiler of Luling, LA writes:
Wednesday, May 6, 2009I now pay just over 29 bucks for a gallon of synthetic 2–cycle motor oil. Less than 24 months ago I was paying less than 20 bucks for the same gallon. When the price of oil went sky high, the oil companies raised the price of the product. Heck, everybody raised the price of their products due to the cost of a barrel of oil – food companies, lumber, everything. Now that the price of oil has really declined, nobody wants to lower their prices down some. Hey, I wish I had an oil company sponsor, but I don't. Do you?
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Chris Waguespack of Bayou Gauche, LA writes:
Wednesday, May 6, 2009Re: BASS Championship Week – How exactly is the 50-point scale going to happen? Is it going to be 1st-12th awarded 50-0 or will it be one-point increments?
If the points go down to 0 for 12th place, I feel that it penalizes the leader going into the postseason. An angler can build a 400-point lead going into postseason – basically uncatchable in past formats. Because the points are cut by one decimal place, now he's down to a 40-point lead.
If he finishes below 5th in the last two tournaments, he can lose an AOY title that he ran away with for the rest of the year.
Just a thought.
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Sandy Melvin of Boca Grande, FL writes:
Wednesday, May 6, 2009Sorry to read about the loss of Harvey Ford. We all appreciated the hard work and support of the Okeechobee bass fishing community he put in for many years.
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Reid Flade of Virginia Beach, VA writes:
Tuesday, May 5, 2009RE: Bass Cat Owner's Tournament – A great tournament! The Pierces run it like a clock and I know of no one who didn't have a great time. The boat-support crew handled everything like none I've ever seen and even Ron and Rick Pierce could be found under a console if need be. None better. I'll be there again next year.
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Ken Wick of Star, ID writes:
Tuesday, May 5, 2009The FLW Western Series will suffer do to this extremely poor decision to let Chris Jones go. He was the best FLW had. The anglers that have called me are POed!
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Judy Remitz of Rush City, MN writes:
Tuesday, May 5, 2009Re: Johnson Opinion – I agree with your view on the ROY title in the Elite Series. The year my son Derek Remitz won the title was the only year there were truly all rookies competing for the title. I feel bad for the "newcomers" having to compete for a rookie title against veterans of the sport who are really not rookies.
I didn't realize BASS eliminated the ROY bonus. They're leaving few incentives for the entire field with some of the new rules this year and fewer tournaments. What's next? I also don't agree with the Top 12 fishing the last events for AOY money. Guys in 13th-100th are losing out on extra points for AOY money and the possibility of advancement for AOY points for the Classic. I've seen guys make some really big moves in those the last few tournaments of the year to clinch Classic berths and AOY points. That's what makes it exciting! BASS needs to re-evaluate.
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Michael McCoy of Mentor, OH writes:
Monday, May 4, 2009I heard a lot of rumors on why Chris Jones left the company and none of them are flattering. Does BassFan have a reason as to why he left?
BassFan says: Sorry, we don't. It's all hush-hush.
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Butch Tucker of Moultrie, GA writes:
Monday, May 4, 2009Re: Johnson Opinion – You make a valid point concerning the ROY race in the Elites. But where would you draw the line so you didn't have but two or three that were actually "rookies" as you define them? Billy has won an Open and been quite successful on other levels. The Opens aren't minor league anymore – just look at the rosters. And the guys rolling over from FLW, like Matt, Steve, and Bobby certainly aren't rookies.
Simply hard to define a "true" rookie on either side anymore.
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Belinda Longsworth of Calvert City, KY writes:
Monday, May 4, 2009I'm sure everyone will miss Chris Jones. He was great at his job. Unfortunately, it wasn't Chris's choice to leave FLW and all of the great people he's met and befriended.
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Robert Vogelsang of Jessup, MD writes:
Monday, May 4, 2009Re: Johnson Opinion – This situation is simple. The first year a person fishes on the Elite tour, that person's a rookie. Given the quality of competition on the Elite tour, you'd expect an angler to have a lot of experience before fishing at that level. Most "true" rookies don't last very long at this level and usually lose a huge amount of money before they quit.
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Tony Holzer of E. Palestine, OH writes:
Monday, May 4, 2009I hope Chris Jones left FLW on his terms. hHe was well liked by pros and cos – he treated everybody the same. Good luck Chris on your next venture.
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Nick Neves of Jerome, MI writes:
Monday, May 4, 2009In my opinion Chris JOnes was the voice of FLW Outdoors. Gonna miss the dude weighing in fish! He was always a great guy in my book. After a bad day on the lake he made me smile. After a good day on the lake he made it better!
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Jim Liner of Montgomery, AL writes:
Saturday, May 2, 2009What the heck? In two photos on the Bassmaster website it shows the winner, Chris Payne, with a net in his hand. I wasn't there, but this isn't legal, last I heard.
BassFan says: Use of nets is not permitted for the Bassmaster Elite Series. However, Bassmaster Open Rule 7 permits the use of nets in Open competitions.
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Dinty Musk of Rome, GA writes:
Friday, May 1, 2009Regarding ruining hollow-body swimbaits by not rigging them straight: A simple yet elegant solution to this problem is to rig the swimbait on a jighead with a wire weedguard. A drop of superglue to help the head stay in place, and the bass are in for a world of hurt. A multitude of head styles and sizes allow for customization of the presentation. I still don't get why people refuse to fish this bait on a jighead.
All Topics
May 2009
Dock Talk
Latest News
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EUFAULA, Okla. – Rising water. Falling water. Muddy water. Clearing water. Fish moving into flooded brush and onto beds. Oklahoma’s
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Consistent Rojas Finishes Atop Group A
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Villa Tops Trio With 30-Pound Hauls
By MLF Communications Staff
EUFAULA, Okla. – A Lake Eufaula that had been stingy on Day 1 of the MLF Bass Pro Tour event proved a bit more fruitful when
