Bassfan Feedback

• Tom Tanner of Jonestown, PA writes:

  Sunday, September 30, 2018

  It looks like the MLF has been very successful in putting their 80-man field together. Some people chose to stay the course with B.A.S.S. or FLW but many of the top anglers moved to MLF, so it looks like the revisions offered by the other organizations was too little, too late. Being a true professional angler is a very hard way to make a living and they have to follow the path that makes the most sense for themselves and their families.

  I've been watching fishing shows since I was a kid and there is something for everyone. I will probably continue to follow all three tours. I don't really root for "my favorite guy" – I just like to see how they all try to figure out the best way to catch more fish that day. That hasn't changed sine these guys all wore jumpsuits and trucker hats – they pioneered new tackle and new techniques that help us all catch more fish. Watch the shows, enjoy yourself, and then go fishing!

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• Robert Perez of Palm Beach Gardens, FL writes:

  Sunday, September 30, 2018

  RE: VanDam to BPT – Good for KVD – he is the champion of the sport and should make this interesting for fans of bass fishing! B.A.S.S. will survive and maybe change their formula to make the organization better through competition.

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• Ed Stiefel of Mahwah, NJ writes:

  Saturday, September 29, 2018

  Loyalty is gone. No such thing anymore. Feel bad for the aspiring young pros. Imagine working your tail off to make the Elites, then you get there and all the great pros are gone.

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• Capt. Tom Marks of Derby, NY writes:

  Saturday, September 29, 2018

  We are hearing a lot about the new MLF Bass Pro Tour. However, after the initial invitees to the tour, I have heard nothing about how future anglers can qualify. Is there any way an aspiring pro can work his way up? How can anyone qualify or will it always be invitation only?

  BassFan says: There will be a qualifying circuit in place for the 2021 season.

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• Sean Dillinger of Clearlake, CA writes:

  Saturday, September 29, 2018

  No word from Lucas?

  BassFan says: An announcement is expected soon.

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• Ed Thayer of New Castle, PA writes:

  Saturday, September 29, 2018

  Randall Tharp! I can't wait to see this! He'll never last on the BPT trail. Randall can't catch a fish without letting it flop around on the floor of his boat for at least 5 minutes.

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• David Bass of Jacksboro, TN writes:

  Friday, September 28, 2018

  Will the 2019 Bassmaster Classic qualifiers be allowed to fish the upcoming Classic on Fort Loudon in Knoxville, Tenn. this coming spring?

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• Wil Skucius of Joplin, MO writes:

  Friday, September 28, 2018

  B.A.S.S. 2019 will have a new meaning behind Rookie of the Year as it'll be half the field.

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• Tom Cox of Canton, GA writes:

  Friday, September 28, 2018

  Does B.A.S.S. have to allow the defectors who qualified for the Classic to fish it?

  BassFan says: B.A.S.S. announced earlier that all 2019 Classic qualifiers will be allowed to compete.

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• Doug Stevenson of Decatur, AL writes:

  Friday, September 28, 2018

  How about an article comparing the cost to the area of a possible carp invasion in Lake Guntersville or just stopping barge traffic so the carp can't get through the dam. There are usually only three or four barges a day and what makes them so special that we should subsidize them at the expense of our fishery?

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• Tom Cox of Canton, GA writes:

  Friday, September 28, 2018

  Would be interesting for BassFan to add current AOY standing next to the angler's name on the who is fishing where list. Do the low performers from any of the tours really expect to get much airtime?

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• Ed Thayer of New Castle, PA writes:

  Friday, September 28, 2018

  RE: Elite Series schedule changes – I wonder why the Chesapeake Bay event wasn't rescheduled?

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• David Wilkinson of New Orleans, LA writes:

  Thursday, September 27, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – I think this might be the beginning of the end of the Elites. Sad day in bass fishing.

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• Matthew Czerepak of Clarksville, TN writes:

  Thursday, September 27, 2018

  RE: B.A.S.S. schedule changes – I am just curious actually, but does this mean that the Bassmaster Elite Series will no longer be visiting the West Coast? That all of the fans and anglers west of say, Oklahoma, will no longer have the opportunity to attend an Elite event? I think it is a mistake to alienate this part of the market. I understand the issues facing B.A.S.S with the BPT and I also understand the strain it puts on the anglers to do this traveling. Being retired military, I understand being away from home is difficult. But at the end of the day this is a couple tournaments every few years to include a large market of fishermen (I am not from the West Coast, by the way).

  As far as the cost, B.A.S.S could have done something to compensate the anglers and offset the cost. As soon as BPT was announced, B.A.S.S suddenly found money in the coffers to increase payouts, so they had it to put in. Why not offset anglers' travel costs by giving everyone in the field a sum of money to pay expenses? Probably better then alienating a third of the country.

  Not sure B.A.S.S is making all the right moves.

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• Chad Keogh of Penticton, BC, Canada writes:

  Thursday, September 27, 2018

  RE: Angler decision tracker – One thing I thing would be interested to see is, what if one of the "non-invitee" anglers wind up getting a later invite? We know at least three anglers who got an invite have declined, so more invites will be sent. Could be interesting.

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• Shawn Edwards of Lake Lanier, GA writes:

  Thursday, September 27, 2018

  RE: Roy teams up with USA Cares – Just wanted to give a big thank you to Bradley Roy! As a bass fisherman and vet myself, I know the appreciation you and many of the Elite Series pros share mean a lot to the men and women who have defended this great nation.

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• Shaun Boyle of Aubrey, TX writes:

  Thursday, September 27, 2018

  RE: Legendary trio on BPT – What I would not give to have the opportunity to spend a day in the boat with any of these three. It would be pure awesomeness.

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• David Flippo of Amory, MS writes:

  Thursday, September 27, 2018

  RE: Thrift's omission – How can the No. 1 bass angler in the world per BassFan be a non-BPT invitee?

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• Rich Ison of North Vernon, IN writes:

  Thursday, September 27, 2018

  Tim Horton has made a name and career for himself in this sport. Regardless of who notices or not, we'll go to our jobs Monday morning while Tim will continue to make a living with a rod and reel in his hand. Not a bad gig, huh?

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• Tony Papazian of Salinas, CA writes:

  Thursday, September 27, 2018

  RE: Legendary trio on BPT – I have the utmost respect for all three anglers and have been a fan of all of them for over 30 years, but I'm curious if any of the three were invited to fish the BPT? If not, I would like to know if their response would be the same or different if they did get an invite. It sounds like Larry Nixon wasn't as he said he'd like to give the BPT a try. Every professional angler, whether they are fishing the BPT or not, should be extremely happy about them starting the tour as it is giving all professional anglers more opportunity to make more money. MLF/BPT is pushing professional bass fishing forward and B.A.S.S. has taken notice and has adjusted to compete.

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• Charles Bowman of Kernersville, NC writes:

  Wednesday, September 26, 2018

  The key to the BPT, B.A.S.S. and FLW mess will be what happens with KVD and Ike. In my opinion, these are the only two anglers who understand how to make and run their own business. These two guys have used their names to create a brand. They understand the business model of advertising and understand how to generate income from their brand. In other words, they have shown that they understand how to create and sustain an independent business model based upon their likeness, with tournaments simply a platform to promote themselves.

  If BPT and FLW do not allow anglers to advertise independently of the organization’s sponsors, then all the anglers are are commodities to the organization and are still at the whim and direction of the organization. The only freedom anglers will ever have is working as an independent contractor, to which BPT and FLW does not appear to allow.

  I think leaving B.A.S.S. Is a huge mistake. To me, it looks like guys grabbing for the bright, shiny ring like kids.

  BassFan says: There will be no sponsorship restrictions on the Bass Pro Tour.

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• Roger Pope of Statesville, NC writes:

  Wednesday, September 26, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – I've been a fan of MLF since the beginning, but to not invite Bryan Thrift, Andy Morgan, David Dudley or Scott Martin compared to some names on that list takes away some credibility – especially Thrift, BassFan's No. 1-ranked angler.

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• Dennis Pentecost of Milford, IL writes:

  Wednesday, September 26, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – Would Boyd Duckett have gotten an invite if it was not his tour?

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• Darrell Reach of Kansas City, MO writes:

  Wednesday, September 26, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – KVD?

  BassFan says: Kevin VanDam has not yet revealed his plans for 2019.

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• Frederick Dawson Clements of Rock Hill, SC writes:

  Wednesday, September 26, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – Was really hoping Thrift would finally break away from the FLW. Would love to see him and VanDam square off.

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• Sean Dillinger of Clearlake, CA writes:

  Wednesday, September 26, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – This answers some questions. It was not a performance-based selection. Where’s Thrift's invite? He’s number No. 1 by your list. Martin? This opens 80 spots between FLW and B.A.S.S. At least if we can get to either tour we won’t have as much talent to compete against.

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• Chad Keogh of Penticton, BC, Canada writes:

  Wednesday, September 26, 2018

  I disagree that all MLF is doing is finishing off FLW. FLW is the only tour/series that offers anything for the Western bass anglers. I think they'll do just fine.

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• Gus Dowdy of Leeds, AL writes:

  Tuesday, September 25, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – All MLF is doing is finishing off FLW – with BASS increasing payouts, all the spots opened by fleeing Elite Series pros will be filled by the best FLW anglers.

  Just wondering, if Tim Horton leaves B.A.S.S., will anybody even notice?

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• Greg Ginneberge of Spring Hill, FL writes:

  Tuesday, September 25, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – I think they're making a big mistake by expanding this to 80 anglers. Sure, it looks like the pros could make more money, which would be good for them, but for the viewer it will be overkill. With the current format of MLF you got to know the anglers because they were all there for at least 2 seasons. You built a bond with them even if you were just watching them on TV.

  How are we going to get to know all 80 anglers? How are they going to get all 80 to fish the current format in a week? If so, the fields will be a lot bigger and the exposure for each angler will be less. I hope they don't try to make it like current B.A.S.S. shows. That would be a waste. This is starting to look like the best of B.A.S.S. with a little FLW thrown in for flavor. I enjoyed the smaller format. To me, it was special.

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• Patrick Weis of Carlisle, PA writes:

  Tuesday, September 25, 2018

  RE: Favorite Zoom bait – I was fishing a tournament on the St Johns 7-8 years ago and needed something subtle to get around docks and scattered grass and pads. Picked up a Fluke rod and put on a weightless Speed Craw. Buzzbait, swimbait, jerkbait all in one. To this day I contend that it is the one plastic that can do everything!

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• Tim Reed of Tulsa, OK writes:

  Tuesday, September 25, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – It's not surprising who will be the first to announce that they are going to the BPT The original MLF anglers are all principals of the company and stand to make money either way. The only "surprise" in the announcements will be if one of them chooses to not fish the BPT!

  BassFan says: Not all of the original 24 MLF Cup anglers are investors – only about half of them.

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• Steven Rockweiler of Luling, LA writes:

  Tuesday, September 25, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – At least when Ray Scott dreamed up all of this competitive fishing deal, he put down on paper all rules and exactly how one qualified to participate.

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• Skip Bennett of Texico, IL writes:

  Tuesday, September 25, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – It looks like the payouts are over double than the other tours with close to the same entry fees. When their own money is on the table, the competitiveness will be stronger. This isn’t an entitlement game or penny slots.

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• Tim Farruggio of Long Branch, NJ writes:

  Monday, September 24, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – B.A.S.S. andFLW will have to most certainly step up their payouts to retain the best anglers. I can see a lot of anglers jumping ship for this kind of financial opportunity and I don’t blame them. It's time for the tours to pay these pros!

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• Mike Hawkes of Sabinal, TX writes:

  Monday, September 24, 2018

  What MLF is now doing is great. It’s exactly what the PAA tried 10-plus years ago. Imagine how things would be for the pros now if that had come together.

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• Chad Keogh of Penticton, BC, Canada writes:

  Monday, September 24, 2018

  RE: Errol Duckett opinion – No to be overly picky, but when you say BPT is different because its organizers are “actual anglers,"Ray Scott was on a bass fishing trip when he came up with the concept of B.A.S.S. He is an angler.

  My main point of contention, though, is that if BPT is charging entry fees, then nothing has changed. You stated the money comes from “Advertising. Period.” Why does this group of anglers need entry fees then?

  You have invited proven professional anglers who are the elite of the sport. You have advertising dollars. Just do the right thing and let them show up and compete. Then maximize the advertising and make a ton of money to operate the tour while the organizers make a comfortable living.

  That’s how true pro sports run. Why not BPT?

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• Pete Cook of Locust Grove, GA writes:

  Monday, September 24, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – I'm excited about this and just hope that I can somehow fish my way to this level because this has been talked about for a long time but just never put in place. So thankful for Boyd Duckett! Thanks again and I look forward to seeing this grow with more opportunities for people like myself with a dream to fish to at least have a chance.

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• Tom Cox of Canton, GA writes:

  Monday, September 24, 2018

  MLF should publish who they have invited to the new circuit. Why keep it secret?

  BassFan says: They need to protect the anglers until each invitee has made the decision whether to join. All have individual sponsorships and other factors to consider.

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• Justin Hallmark of Bertram, TX writes:

  Sunday, September 23, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – Leave Boyd out of the invite. He can go fish with Johnny Morris unless they can focus their energy, resources and money on growing B.A.S.S. Help get the sport to a professional level like the NBA, NFL, NHL, MLB, PGA, etc. Get B.A.S.S. on either ABC, CBS, or NBC in addition to ESPN. FLW should join forces with B.A.S.S. and make this thing bigger than whatever the new trail or circuit could ever imagine. Ultimate goal should be to treat anglers as professional athletes and eliminate entry fees all together. B.A.S.S. has the "Super Bowl of Bass Fishing," the Bassmaster Classic. The sport is based on grassroots fishermen, has history and is already established!

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• Hank Snow of Orlando, FL writes:

  Sunday, September 23, 2018

  FLW did a great service to B.A.S.S. by remaining status quo. Wouldn't suprise me at all to see some of their top talent fish with B.A.S.S. next season. It would make better business sense to do that than to stay with "status quo."

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• Michael E. Nolan of Gross Ile, MI writes:

  Sunday, September 23, 2018

  I've been a fan of national tournament fishing since the '70s (yeah, I'm old!). I support all three circuits and as a fan I'm excited about these recent "advancements" in the sport. That being said, many of these anglers are not being realistic about what being a "professional bass tournament pro" really is.

  The first thing people need to realize is the real "job", that pays the bills, is establishing yourself as an expert through your tournament results so you can sell tackle to consumers. Very few anglers make a decent living on their tournament winnings alone. The second thing anglers need to realize is tournament bass fishing doesn't lend itself to being a "spectator sport". MLF has made tremendous advancements in this area but the key is small fields (10 anglers at a time) in small areas. Up until now, B.A.S.S. and FLW have counted on large fields with large entry fees on large playing fields to financially support a majority of the payouts. Basically the same business model as a casino – people play for each other's money while the casino (in this case B.A.S.S. or FLW) takes a cut for supplying a stage for the event.

  The main thing anglers who keep trying to compare bass fishing to other sports need to realize is there is no way you are going to sell a ticket to a fan. The events are not held in privately owned stadiums, they are held on public water. In so doing the organization doesn't have control of many factors that can affect the outcome of the contest. Of course, I don't know the exact economics of how profitable organizations like B.A.S.S. and FLW are, but certainly if there was a lot of money to be made from running a tournament organization there would be more of them and they would not change hands as much as B.A.S.S. has.

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• Jason Reid of Orange County, CA writes:

  Saturday, September 22, 2018

  No, I’m not a pro, but I’ve been in the military for 22 years and I have this to say: All of the FLW guys crying about FLW not stepping up with the money ... do something about it. Go qualify for the Elites through the Opens. Be less of a whiner and stand out more and get invited to the MLF deal. FLW doesn’t need to change just because you want them to. Be the professional you say you are and adjust. Your cheese has moved. Move with it or die.

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• Chad Keogh of Penticton, BC, Canada writes:

  Saturday, September 22, 2018

  RE: Angler reaction to FLW letter – I don't think any of the current organizations will create a true pro league where anglers who qualify pay no entry fee. I thought BPT would be the ones, but by the looks of what was revealed here on BassFan, they want to to pay-to-play, too.

  It may take a third party with the desire to make a true professional tour that is less concerned about taking money from the anglers as part of their business model.

  I don't think that FLW anglers should be mad at FLW for staying the course. They have created a business model that works for them and a large group of anglers.

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• Skip Bennett of Texico, IL writes:

  Saturday, September 22, 2018

  My opinion of the way I’m reading everything that’s going on is, you should be grateful for what you have. The Elites may have brought more to the table only after finding out their ship was sinking. A little bit of something is better than a lot of nothing.

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• Patrick Bone of Cleveland, GA writes:

  Friday, September 21, 2018

  My main concern, is what is the world of bass fishing going to be when the generation as we know it are done? MLF doesn't seem to have a qualification process. I did make the Classic by winning a tournament that some may say is equivalent or not. Point being, the Classic may take the hind seat. Most fishermen, including myself, worked hard to get to a specific place. Not to say that if they run an invitees program, it would not be wrong. Those guys worked hard.

  I am all about growth, but it looks to me that the money dragon has reared its head. I would like to see a more structured format for up and coming anglers for MLF. Maybe they have it. B.A.S.S. has their work cut out for them. I won't say anything about FLW.

  In the meantime, I'm gonna fish at home and take some butt whoopings and occasionally give one!

  BassFan says: The Bass Pro Tour has revealed that it does have plans to launch a qualification circuit.

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• Darrell Williams of Weaver, AL writes:

  Friday, September 21, 2018

  Think about this with the moves that B.A.S.S. made to only having 80 anglers. That will give FLW more anglers to fish the circuit and that's where FLW is probably seeing more money to come in and to pay out more money.

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• Warren Wolk of Yardley, PA writes:

  Friday, September 21, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – Well, it's no doubt an exciting time in the top ranks of pro bass fishing with the formation of the Bass Pro Tour. With the excitement comes great changes in the topography of the sport, and these changes bring about a level of disappointment to this BassFan. It's an angle that seems profound, and one that I haven't seen covered in the usual bass fishing sites and pages.

  It seems an exodus is forthcoming and inevitable. Almost profound to me are the many stars of the B.A.S.S. Elite Series and the FLW Tour who are about to jump ship.

  What does this mean? It means that a lot of significant historical bass fishing records and feats are about to be finalized. This, to me, is actually kind of sad.

  I looked forward to seeing where KVD's career numbers would wind up. Is it possible that Kevin's next Classic will be his last Classic? It's quite possible. Is it possible that his amazing 25th career B.A.S.S. win last year was his last? It's quite possible.

  Argh. I didn't see this coming.

  Is it possible that my buddy Mike Iaconelli's amazing streak of 19 straight Classic qualifications is over? That his amazing win on the Delaware River was his last with B.A.S.S.? Yup, quite possible.

  Is it possible that great young stars like the Lee brothers, Jacob Wheeler, Josh Bertrand and Justin Lucas are never going to chase the records of guys like KVD, Clunn, Martin, etc.? Sadly, yes, it is possible.

  Is it possible that great fishermen like Aaron Martens, Greg Hackney, Jason Christie, Brandon Palaniuk and (lots of) others will never hoist the Classic Trophy? That their amazing careers are going to morph into the greatest catchers of 12-inch bass in the history of the sport? Possible.

  And finally, what will winning a Classic or FLW Cup mean when the fields are considered "watered down" by many fans?

  From this BassFan's view, the future isn't entirely bright.

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• Martin D. Lamb of Albia, IA writes:

  Friday, September 21, 2018

  RE: FLW angler reactions – Oh my, the cry babies have come out. There are companies hiring if you are not happy with your position as a professional fisherman. I am sure with your profound communication skills you can say, "Welcome to Walmart! How may I help you?"

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• Rueben Breaux of Westwego, LA writes:

  Friday, September 21, 2018

  RE: Western swing canceled – So much for the fans on the West Coast who wont get that experience. I find this extremely unprofessional and would be surprised if B.A.S.S. ever gets the opportunity again. Hopefully BPT will recognize the opportunity to cash in on B.A.S.S.' incompetency. Also, shout out to the FLW for being fully invested in the Western states.

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• Matthew Shutta of Chicopee, MA writes:

  Friday, September 21, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – I feel for the Elite Series anglers who got invites, or who think they might be getting one. It's got to be a confusing time for them. Maybe both MLF and B.A.S.S. have all of their details ironed out and the public are the only ones confused, but every few days B.A.S.S. announces another change. First they say its an 80-man field, but now all Elites are invited back. Add in your qualifying new Elites and you've got a chance at more than 80.

  The Elites thought they would have to weigh the MLF format against what they've been doing for years, but now the landscape of what they've been doing is going to change as well. Throw in the fact that they've got deadlines to make these career-changing decisions, and some are still fishing tournaments! I foresee changes happening to both organizations throughout the course of the next 12 months before it all settles.

  Both organizations say the anglers will have votes on different scenarios, so I expect that before the new season, and at the end of the next, there will be angler-influenced changes as well. It's not going to be free of stress, or anger, or resentment in the coming weeks/months, but it's all going to be good in the end, especially for the fans.

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• Zeth Kinnett of Edmonds, WA writes:

  Friday, September 21, 2018

  RE: Western swing canceled – Complete B.S. Whaa, whaa, whaa. If you don't want to come to the West to fish, then don't and lose your points. Simple as that. The cancellation is ridiculous. Oh well, the fishing is better out here than in the Southeast anyways. We have larger fish. Have fun catching 2-pounders when you could have been catching giant smallies and 10-plus largies.

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• Ed Thayer of New Castle, PA writes:

  Friday, September 21, 2018

  RE: West Coast swing canceled – I sure hope B.A.S.S. fills one of the two spots with a Chesapeake Bay event.

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• Chad Keogh of Penticton, BC, Canada writes:

  Thursday, September 20, 2018

  RE: FLW letter – FLW is a class act. They feel they were offering a great tour/series for a reasonable cost.

  B.A.S.S. reacted like they got caught charging "idiot tax." "Oh well, you caught me, so obviously you are not an idiot, and are therefore exempt!" Sad.

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• Jaxon Wyatt of Lexington, KY writes:

  Thursday, September 20, 2018

  Is B.A.S.S. going to change the rules everyday? Yesterday it was only 80 anglers, today it's everyone is invited back. I guess they're being proactive, but I can't keep up. I'm still not convinced the new tour is going to launch. Getting 80 guys to go all in is going to.be a challenge.

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• Ken Olver of Little Rock, AR writes:

  Thursday, September 20, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – What an ego. Pretty soon Johnny Morris will want to own everything and put people out of work, just like he did at Cabela's.

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• Jacob Cunnigan of Tampa, FL writes:

  Thursday, September 20, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – I think a whole tour of 1-pound fish is going to get old quick. While I do watch MLF, it gets boring watching a dink-fest episode. I watch almost every B.A.S.S. and FLW weigh-in on my computer, but what am I supposed to watch on MLF tour? I'll give it a try.

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• Riles Rick of Baton Rouge LA writes:

  Thursday, September 20, 2018

  Another nugget gleamed from the BPT announcement is the schedule. All tournaments done by June. In my opinion, this was created by the old guard to cater to the shallow-water power fisherman that they are. Just look at the leaderboards of the summer Elite events and see the youngsters dominate in the “video game” events. Now no West Coast swing. The fishermen are running both asylums. The way it should be.

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• Ron Russell of Corydon, IA writes:

  Thursday, September 20, 2018

  MLF doesn't want the average fisherman. It's all about who can give them the most television exposure. Call Kevin VanDam or Boyd Duckett and see what response you get when you ask to fish the MLF.

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• Martin Lamb of Albia, IA writes:

  Thursday, September 20, 2018

  B.A.S.S. isn't even attempting to hide that they are in panic mode.

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• Robert Munci of Albany, GA writes:

  Thursday, September 20, 2018

  I know the new owners at B.A.S.S. have plenty of capital, but how long are they going to pump money in? I think they're willing to take the loss while betting on the future. They'd better sell a lot of ads. All the talk of better marketing options for the anglers doesn't mean it will translate to revenue for B.A.S.S.

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• Skip Bennett of Texico. IL writes:

  Thursday, September 20, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – If it wasn’t for the 12-inch size limit waivers both organizations receive for certain tournaments there would be a lot fewer limits brought to the scales. Those one-pounders are in many cases, gold. I feel this BPT will hurt B.A.S.S. bad and FLW will be in good shape because of their catering to the “average Joe” up to the best in the sport.

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• Tim Farruggio of Long Branch, NJ writes:

  Wednesday, September 19, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – Don’t look for KVD to leave. NOT HAPPENING.

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• Chad Keogh of Penticton, BC, Canada writes:

  Wednesday, September 19, 2018

  RE: More BPT details – Why does MLF have to make things so complex? The whole format of the events is cluttered and confusing.

  I still don't truly understand the actual MLF format other than how the individual events work. I have no idea the flow of the events and how it leads to The Cup.

  I can't remember which representative for MLF was on one of the oodcast shows (I think it was BTL), and the hosts of the show didn't understand it, either.

  Just because you are trying something different doesn't mean you need to turn it into "The Homer" (Homer Simpson's over-optioned, self-designed car). KISS works.

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• Mark Runyon of Houston, TX writes:

  Wednesday, September 19, 2018

  RE: 2019 tour comparison – These are some interesting business models. I don't see how these are sustainable long-term without a new revenue stream. MLF may have good ratings for the Outdoor Channel, but there still miniscule in the broader TV world. I hope I'm wrong, but I see financial problems ahead.

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• Justin Hallmark of Bertram, TX writes:

  Tuesday, September 18, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – Now how about before the money? What about the grassroots fishermen? I’m a club fisherman who’s chased a childhood dream my whole life. B.A.S.S. has the B.A.S.S. Nation and FLW has the TBF, what does MLF/PBT offer the average fisherman?

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• Chad Keogh of Penticton, BC, Canada writes:

  Tuesday, September 18, 2018

  RE: Dollars & Cents – Well, I guess I jumped the gun like probably many other BasFans out there and assumed the BPT would be no-entry-fee like the MLF. Thank you, BassFan.com, for clearing this up. Now I am wondering why ANY pro angler would leave B.A.S.S. or FLW just so they can take a gamble on a new tour that is not really a leap forward, but a step sideways and maybe an inch or two forward, but remains to be seen. If I was a pro angler who made my name on either FLW or B.A.S.S., I'd be sticking to the devils I know and let others gamble on the new kids on the block.

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• Dale Hamblin of Mesa, AZ writes:

  Tuesday, September 18, 2018

  RE: Dollars & Cents – Good to see the money flowing into your sport. I would suggest you implement a restocking of the lakes you fish to replace the fish that don’t live long after you pull out of the parking lots. I am a lifelong fisherman and hunter and yes, I’ve fished tournaments also, but the immense pressure I’m witnessing now concerns me, as it must you also, due to your cutting back on the number of entrants and the limited attempts to avoid killed fish at the release areas – although it isn’t working.

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• Sean Dillinger of Clearlake, CA writes:

  Tuesday, September 18, 2018

  RE: Dollars & Cents –All the numbers are based on entry fees. If we had any idea the amount that is paid to these tours in sponsorship money I’m guessing they double what they pay in entry fees. I was expecting a little more from B.A.S.S.S. and way more from MLF.

  Regardless of all of this noise, FLW is king in my book. FLW is who is bringing people up the ranks through the BFL, Costa and then the FLW Tour. It will be sad to see Lambert and Rose leave.

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• Rick Riles of Baton Rouge, LA writes:

  Tuesday, September 18, 2018

  RE: Dollars & Cents – Wow, being a bass fishing junkie just got a lot more interesting. If B.A.S.S. cherry-picks what FLW has left, they will be done. Loyalty will be tested big-time now as B.A.S.S. has made it tougher for the anglers to bail. Cant wait to see how it shakes out.

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• Patrick Kelly of Independence, MO writes:

  Tuesday, September 18, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – It's television; the basic premise is you score a large enough following (audience) for your TV show and you get to stay on the air (bring in big dollars). For this, participant popularity and fan recognition matter – A LOT. So it shouldn't surprise anyone that those anglers deemed to be easily recognized by a public following, and have their own large following to boot, are going to get the invites. The only exception is for those who are directly involved in the operation – Duckett, Klein.

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• Curt Steinke of Scottsdale, AZ writes:

  Tuesday, September 18, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – This will.be a great thing for bass fishing, especially in my state where the results of the Classic are not even published in the newspaper. Run with it!

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• Joe Fedewa of Eagle, MI writes:

  Tuesday, September 18, 2018

  The selection process for the BPT must be severely flawed if guys like Thrift, Dudley and Martin did not receive invites. It would be nice to see a league where the all the top guys fished.

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• Jon Anderson of St. Michael, MN writes:

  Tuesday, September 18, 2018

  Even though MLF has been around for a couple of years, how is it that I have never heard how much the guys are winning? They obviously are fishing for money, but it sure seems like a big secret.

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• Paul J. Wallace of Cambridge City, IN writes:

  Tuesday, September 18, 2018

  I have no idea how this BPT will shake out, but after decades of the same tournament trails and pros having to pay their own way, it's time to try something new.

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• Keith Bardolf of Enterprise, AL writes:

  Monday, September 17, 2018

  RE: Blaukat opinion – Sounds like a lot of pros should have started THEIR own enterprise and then they would have credibility in their attempts to dictate corporate decisions.

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• Chad Keogh of Penticton, BC, Canada writes:

  Monday, September 17, 2018

  RE: Blaukat opinion – Randy is right that it is "MLF's ball" and they need to choose anglers who are the right fit for the format and will help grow it into the future. I'm sure they used some of the similar criteria that was mentioned and I trust them to make the right choices.

  After all, they are the ones who did the work to make BPT a reality and to finally raise professional bass fishing to a true pro sport where you are paid to fish. No more gambling your own money in hopes of winning it back as a pro angler.

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• Steven Rockweiler of Luling, LA writes:

  Monday, September 17, 2018

  The pros, as well as others, keep saying we have to "grow the sport." I have news for them, this sport has really expanded. It started with the colleges having bass fishing teams, and then the high schools. Almost all 64 parishes here have high school fishing teams, and some are now starting middle school fishing teams. Now don't get me wrong, I am all for the young people getting involved in fishing. But many people I converse with around the country have the same observations I am noticing. It is great to "grow the sport", but you gotta have bass to catch to have a sport.

  There has not been a launch built on this Delta in decades. Each day, the launches that are here are packed, seven days a week. Watch out for weekends and the endless tournaments. The Fisheries Dept. here says they have little monies for stocking bass. Each time a storm comes through, it takes out the bass in a section of this Delta. Add in, they are posting this Delta faster than they can print the signs. Our last fishing license increase went from 15 dollars to 22 dollars a few years ago. The Dept. just tried to raise them again. The last raise in fees was for a red snapper program. Now, red snapper are a great species, but few around here have the monies for the type of boat, equipment, and time to ply the Gulf to fish them. The Coastal Conservation Association backed this deal to the hilt. The monies would have been better spent for.hatcheries. The main hatchery in this state cost 20 million dollars, and only part of it produces fish due to leaking ponds.

  There have been no new lakes built in this state in decades. Many folks are telling me this is the same deal in their state. Yes, the sport has grown, and is growing, but the glory days of new lakes, launches, monies for such are OVER!

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• Ralph Yelverton of Doyline, LA writes:

  Monday, September 17, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – This sounds like a win-win-win for professional anglers, advertisers and the viewers.

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• Dennis Pentecost of Milford, IL writes:

  Monday, September 17, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – At least this new BPT is going to make B.A.S.S. and FLW know they must change their ways. Fishing for your own money is not a pro sport!

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• Rob Wilkinson of Fredericksburg, VA writes:

  Monday, September 17, 2018

  RE: Blaukat opinion – I’ve always enjoyed reading Randy’s opinions on a variety of bass fishing and environmental subjects, but this one seems a little like sour grapes. He’s wishing them the best of luck while sowing the seeds of doubt of their legitimacy due to the angler selection process. Maybe if I was a pro who wasn’t selected I would feel the same way, but for a fan who enjoys watching MLF, I’m ecstatic to see this development. To be frank, I’ve grown increasingly bored with the two big circuits and the product that they bring to the fan. MLF has tapped into something that is exciting to watch and something the average Joe fisherman can relate to – catching fish!

  Watching the MLF pros quickly break down a body of water and either be successful or fail is something the average guy knows too well. On top of it all, the catch, weigh, and immediate release format is sound conservation; livewells were a step in the right direction from the early catch-and-kill derbies, this format is better yet!

  Bring on the BPT! The fans will enthusiastically support it!

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• George Fiorille of Moravia, NY writes:

  Sunday, September 16, 2018

  RE: Bassmaster Open at Douglas – I thought B.A.S.S. outlawed aluminum boats to give all anglers a fair shot?That's not fair to allow a few with these special boats to use them and access areas most can't. Shame on B.A.S.S.!

  BassFan says: B.A.S.S. has no prohibition against aluminum boats. Elite Series angers who wish to use them must do so for the entire season. Competitors in the Opens are allowed to use them whenever they wish.

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• Tim Farruggio of Long Branch, NJ writes:

  Sunday, September 16, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – First of all, I’m not a big fan of MLF. Matter of fact, I find it kinda boring after a while – fish after fish after fish, all 12-inchers. My grandmother could catch those little fish.

  Nothing, in my opinion, will beat my five biggest bass against your five. Seeing Greg Hackney swing those 10-pounders at the Okeechobee Elite tournaments was priceless. I'm a fan of traditional B.A.S.S./FLW events.

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• Rick Riles of Baton Rouge, LA writes:

  Sunday, September 16, 2018

  RE: Blaukat opinion – Excellent points, Randy. I think the biggest criteria was the demographic and marketing ability of the competitors. The Elites are full of young guns who thrive both on and off the water at all aspects needed in today’s pro fishing business. The three FLW pros you chose to mention in MLF’s mind lack greatly in the marketing aspects and have chosen to remain in their low-key mode at a time when that choice brings ramifications. I foresee a huge percentage of the invitees accepting the invitation and MLF leaving the other two organizations in dire straits as the castoffs struggle to keep the sponsorship money needed to keep those anglers financially solvent.

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• James Tyler of Ft. Myers, FL writes:

  Sunday, September 16, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – While I do watch MLF, I still prefer the traditional tournament format. Whenever B.A.S.S. or FLW come to Lake Okeechobee I go to the weigh in. The Bass Pro Tour, if it follows MLF's current form, is a made-for-TV event. Not sure that will get me to my computer on tournament day.

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• Scott McDonald of Huber Heights, OH writes:

  Saturday, September 15, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – It seems like MLF should just use the BassFan World Rankings (or something similar to it) to get their qualifying top 80. I'm sure there's more to it than that, but it sure seems like this would set a fair baseline for the process.

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• Rick Pierce of Mountain Home, AR writes:

  Saturday, September 15, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – We were the original sponsor of MLF and we remain committed to both MLF and Bassmaster. While the controversy rings hot now, eventually the reality will be in other forms and not for more than a decade down the line from now. Today it’s bantering and jockeying for position, no matter whether that’s anglers on either of three sides or the three organizations. Knowing if there are differences in the core factors on each of the six sides won’t be known for decades. And yes, we remain strongly committed to both MLF and B.A.S.S., while respecting FLW.

  BassFan says: Rick Pierce is the president of Bass Cat Boats.

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• Steve Brown of Riverton, AL writes:

  Saturday, September 15, 2018

  RE: Blaukat opinion – Well said and predicted reactions from those not invited .. yet. Hang on – the 800-pound gorilla is on the move. I’m sure the initial 80-man roster will change and BPT has said there will be a disqualifying/qualifying process. I also believe there will be several moves in the future that will consolidate two of the top three tours, just not until the price is right, post the exodus of the top names who go to BPT.

  I agree there’s probably room for three “pro” trails, but let’s be honest, pay to play isn’t that attractive for fans to watch. I believe there’s only enough marquee anglers to field one actual tour. Sure, there are thousands with the time and money who will pony up to be called a pro and as long as demand is there, a secondary-level tour will exist. It’s simple economics, and why not?

  The real difference now is also simple economics with a dose of feel-good because the anglers have a piece of the action and decision-making.

  The BPT equals two billionaires and popular bass fishing pros ready to move, if that’s what it takes The announcements are only just beginning. Give it time. As a BassFan myself, I like what I’m seeing. The sport is now 50 years old as we know it. The premier league in it has had five owners without any real changes in how they deliver their product to the consumer or compensation to the participants. Actually, compensation has gone down in today’s dollars.

  Hang on Dudley, Morgan and Thrift. You’ll be tapped soon if you choose. When that time comes, I predict you’ll have a choice not unlike an NBA player whose agent has two cash bidders. But in your case it’ll be two tours offering payouts for you to consider. Multiple options, not a bad thing, and about time!

  Exciting times to be watching this sport we love.

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• Neil Ward of Pineville, KY writes:

  Saturday, September 15, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – MLF is a high-rollers' bass club. What real pro sport allows the players to control the game? MLF is a quasi-reality show, not an elite tournament circuit.

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• David Blades of Verona, AR writes:

  Friday, September 14, 2018

  RE: Blaukat opinion – I'm continually amazed at the people who want to dictate to others how to run there business.

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• Steven Rockweiler of Luling, LA writes:

  Friday, September 14, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – Two things I see here on the start of this tour. The initial name of the tour should be the Friends of Boyd and Gary Tour. And the other thing is I hate the MLF format. I am too old-school, I am afraid. Give me the guys who can figure out how to catch the largest five bass in a fishing day, not some guy sitting on a point or cut way-laying dinks. Good luck, fellas.

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• Gene Green of Greenwood, IN writes:

  Friday, September 14, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – Sounds exciting! Can’t wait to see how it works out!

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• Don Lingenfelter of Clayton, NY writes:

  Friday, September 14, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – Clayton, N.Y. is looking for more tournaments.

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• Chad Keogh of Penticton, BC, Canada writes:

  Thursday, September 13, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – I originally misunderstood the purpose of the BPT. It is not to work with B.A.S.S./FLW, it is to replace them as the top level of the sport. A true "professional" tour where anglers get paid to compete. Looks like everything I've wanted to see for over a decade. I wrote an op-ed for Bass Club Digest back around 2003 saying that we need immediate weigh-and-release format events at the top level. Now it IS the top level.

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• Shaun Boyle of Aubrey, TX writes:

  Thursday, September 13, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – This may water down the other tours, but this tour will benefit everyone over the long haul. I like the smaller field sizes and the name recognition of the gentlemen and maybe one day ladies that fish it and promote our blessed sport. I have great confidence, unlike other sports that have broken off and failed, that this will be a success. Here is hoping for great success and an event within a reasonable drive of North Texas so I can attend in person.

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• Steve Greene of Le Grand, CA writes:

  Thursday, September 13, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – 10 years in retirement, now they come up with this! Born to soon.

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• Joey Renfro of Nacogdoches, TX writes:

  Thursday, September 13, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – This idea is intelligent and sounds as much thought has been placed in it. Personally, in my 25 years (at the age of 16 fishing my first bass tournament in a local bass club to now at the age of 41 fishing the FLW Costa Southwest Division always as a boater), the truth is the sport is all over the place and has turned into a circus in my oppinion! B.A.S.S. has all the true history and the true integrity to date. FLW has changed this upcoming 2019 season to where a man cannot "pay his way" to call himself the highest-level pro.

  I am just one of thousands of the guys who have spent the entirety of my life juggling life due to my love of this sport. Fishing team trails, individual trails to ABA events, club tournaments, pot, night, working man, opens, Redman, BFL, Media, Christian angler – you name it, I probably have fished it. There is no respect out on the water anymore between the anglers. The integrity of the sport is in jeopardy, to be mild. Every tournament angler from high school events to the Elites have a life outside the sport, myself married with 2 kids.

  I hope the guys with all the power behind this idea read this. When we anglers explain to our family, children and loved ones why we spend all our "spare" time, money, sweat, tears, laughs, back pain, headaches to just be able to hear that morning National Anthem and walk across that stage with those fish. It is getting harder to explain why and be true to myself. Great idea and good read here.

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• Mike Geiger of Franklin, NC writes:

  Thursday, September 13, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – I think this will be good. I only wish they could make something for us regular guys to get a chance to fish it.

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• Tom Tanner of Jonestown, PA writes:

  Thursday, September 13, 2018

  RE: Balog on the BPT – I have to agree with Mr. Balog. The new MLF tour sounds great, but I've spent almost 40 years in the fishing industry and pulling anglers away from very strong and well-established organizations like B.A.S.S. and FLW will be a real challenge. I'm sure the money will be very attractive, but it all rests on whether industry and other sponsors feel that the exposure will be better than the existing tours.

  The Bassmaster Classic is the "Super Bowl" of sport fishing and it will take a monumental effort by MLF to create anything that approaches that level of fame and exposure. You are trying to compete with an organization that created the whole sport and has a 50-year nationwide track record. They aren't going to sit back and let MLF steal the show. It made sense for Bass Pro Shops to jump in so they have a major tour to promote their business, which may or may not be the best scenario for other industry sponsors. It would be interesting to know what the criteria were for selecting the initial 80 anglers – are these the "best fishermen" or the "best on camera ? Let's wait and see how many of them make the jump.

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• Chad Keogh of Penticton, BC, Canada writes:

  Thursday, September 13, 2018

  RE: Balog on the BPT – Money is enough for anglers to go to the BPT. I'm sure they reallize it is B.A.S.S. and FLW's love of money that kept these two top-level tours from doing the right thing and making professional bass fishing truly "professional."

  Being paid to fish, not just gambling on yourself with your own money like happens currently.

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• Craig Hughes of Kingsport, TN writes:

  Thursday, September 13, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – I think a huge thing for these guys you didn't mention is time. These events are done in a week, instead of almost 2 for B.A.S.S. and FLW. Plus it's a more true measure for these guys, with no practice or lead info. The exposure is much greater, as all of these guys will have cameras, as where the tours only have 4 to 6 cameras.

  The only thing, in my opinion, B.A.S.S. has to offer is the Classic. It will remain the big single event, at least for a while. Plus loyalty. But time with family, money, more enjoyable format and more exposure for sponsors is easily outweighed. FLW is the best at the BFL level, but hasn't promoted the Cup beyond the Classic. So loyalty is the only thing holding them there. I think it's good for the sport, and I hope most go to this format, as my take is it will grow the sport for everyone.

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• Skip Bennett of Texico, IL writes:

  Thursday, September 13, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – Maybe there is something negative going on inside B.A.S.S. causing this. Johnny Morris should have just bought FLW if he wanted a new toy.

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• Tom Cox of Canton, GA writes:

  Thursday, September 13, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – Wow! A major shot across the bow of FLW and B.A.S.S. If 50 current Elite Series pros make the move, what will the next season of the Elite Series look like? Bold move by Boyd and the MLF folks.

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• Mark Aaron of Gastonia, NC writes:

  Wednesday, September 12, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – And the winds of change have come! With MLF's power play in the tournament scene, it will be interesting to see how it forces the hand at B.A.S.S. and FLW when the payouts are announced (word around the campfire is $20K back to 40th). I've said for years, these guys were being taken advantage of. Gary Klein and Boyd Duckett just showed the powers that be that they're fed up with it.

  Congratulations! Let's see what the payouts at BASS and FLW do now?

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• George Kramer of Lake Elsinore, CA writes:

  Wednesday, September 12, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – Whenever we start to tout "conservation" in a fishing circuit (ala the 80-player MLF tour), I hear PETA say, yes, yes. And when the protectionists get closer to their actual goal, they'll rant, "Why do you use those weigh clamps on those poor fish?" before getting to their actual goal, "Why do you hook those fish at all when you are not using them for food?" Just remember, when you have a "feel good" moment about fish-handling, someone who wants you to stop fishing is also feeling good.

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• Travis Twigg of Charlestown, IN writes:

  Wednesday, September 12, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – Give us more, BassFan. You are a partner. When can we expect new info? Will they allow the qualified anglers fish the Classic? When will the anglers be able to talk, because you know several will.

  BassFan says: The BPT will not prohibit anglers who qualify for the 2019 Classic from competing in that event.

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• Ralph Yelverton of Doyline, LA writes:

  Tuesday, September 11, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – Watching the decision-making adjustments of the pros on MLF is very enlightening. And you see two pros make basically the same decision and one does better because of subtle differences in technique or water.

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• Chad Keogh of Penticton, BC, Canada writes:

  Tuesday, September 11, 2018

  RE: Bass Pro Tour – Great idea, but wrong group targeted, in my opinion. So they are going to send invitations to guys who are already pro anglers on the two big current tours? How is that not going to affect the two current tours negatively?

  They should have started a tour series for the weekend anglers (including co-anglers) to come up the ranks and qualify for the MLF. With the two current tours essentially excluding hundreds if not thousands of co-anglers, I'm certain there would have been demand.

  All tours should use the MLF format, in my opinion, since it has less impact on the fishery and works with virtually all local regulations (i.e. catch limits, slot limits, etc). But to create a whole tour for the guys who are already at the top of the current tours seems like the wrong answer.

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• Errol Duckett of Charlotte, NC writes:

  Tuesday, September 11, 2018

  RE: New MLF circuit - What a great opportunity for the anglers. My hat's off to them.

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• Vann Branch of Caden, AL writes:

  Tuesday, September 11, 2018

  RE: Bassmaster Opens schedule – Offer an Open level for seniors ... we have lots of time and money.

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• Lee Cox of Frederick, MD writes:

  Sunday, September 9, 2018

  RE: Favorite Zoom bait – I like them all but my favorite bait is the finesse worm for wacky-worm fishing. When I was guiding and taking out kids or inexperienced anglers it was the best choice for shallow, clear water and I could count on it producing for my clients.

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• Patrick Kelly of Independence, MO writes:

  Thursday, September 6, 2018

  RE: Christie's tough year – Jason, I believe you're in the top 5 of Elite pros on tour, even after the tough season you've had. As a teacher and coach you know how every athlete goes through their "slump" at times in their career. This happens to be your time. Being the real pro that you are, you'll shake it off and return to form soon, I have no doubt. One thing in the excellent article stood out to me; you said, "I have to keep it super simple for me because I don’t want to think too much." Focus on that. Good luck and know we're pulling for you here in Missouri.

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• Johnny McLean of Little Rock, AR writes:

  Tuesday, September 4, 2018

  RE: Cup relocation – I think one of the primary reasons they are moving is because Lake Ouachita is so tough in the summer and it does not make for good TV. The final tournament of the year should be tough and these guys are supposed to be some of the best in the world. Also, I would think that the City of Hot Springs would want to showcase Ouachita rather than Hamilton.

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