New tournament circuit announced today 2024
looking45 reply :
TULSA (September 11, 2018) – Major League Fishing (MLF) officials today announced a significant expansion beginning in 2019 with the goal of dramatically growing visibility and participation for the sport of fishing. The plans will help realize the founding partners’ original vision for MLF to elevate competitive bass fishing and its top-tier pros to a national exposure level and grow a fan base on par with other top major league sports.
The expanded MLF program includes the addition of the Bass Pro Tour, a premier 80-angler, eight-event tour with a championship and heightened payouts, made possible through enthusiastic support from Bass Pro Shops and Outdoor Sportsman Group (OSG). Both partners are supporting MLF as part of their commitments to the future of the sport through participation and conservation efforts.
Under the visionary leadership of noted conservationist and founder Johnny Morris, Bass Pro Shops has been committed to connecting new audiences to the outdoors and advocating for conservation for more than 40 years. These foundational values directly align with MLF’s innovative approach to competitive fishing.
“Bass Pro Shops has proudly supported MLF from its *** because we believed in its mission to elevate the sport of fishing. Today we’re very excited to take the next step and help showcase this great sport to every household in America,” Morris said. “We truly believe this partnership will create many positive and significant new opportunities for kids and families, professional anglers and the sport itself. Equally important to us is leveraging this popular platform to showcase the importance of conservation and promote responsible fishing practices.”
“MLF has delivered on its promised vision every step of the way since Day One,” Outdoor Sportsman Group Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Matt Hutchings said. “MLF has made fishing an even more popular spectator sport through televised events on Outdoor Channel and other networks, as well as Outdoor Sportsman Group’s diverse media platforms in publishing and online. The MLF model is a proven success and we are excited to continue the journey with all of our partners towards future prosperity.”
Today MLF tournaments reach a bigger audience than any other tournament of their kind, and television ratings and independent surveys consistently indicate the fast-paced, action-packed format resonates with anglers of all ages, and is especially effective at reaching the youth audiences essential for achieving long-term interest and growth.
MLF’s conservation-minded “catch, weigh and immediate-release” rules allow participation on waters where typical tournament formats can’t go. The model has earned respect and accolades from many state fish and game agencies.
While MLF will continue its popular Cup events and World Championship, airing on Outdoor Channel and CBS, respectively, it will now also have its own new Bass Pro Tour competitions and championship, and eventually tour qualifiers, all of which will use the same entertaining MLF format in which numbers caught can often contribute more to anglers’ scores than does big fish.
“Seven years ago, Gary Klein and I settled on a mission to expand the sport of professional bass fishing through competitive tournaments with an all new and exciting made-for-television format,” said MLF and Pro Bass Tour Anglers’ Association (PBT) co-founder Boyd Duckett. “After assembling 13 more of the sport’s top-level professionals, the PBT partnership was formed. We always believed if we elevated the visibility of our sport everyone in our industry would be a beneficiary.
“The preparation leading to this moment has been slow, methodical and well thought-out to ensure the outcome would be positive for everyone connected to the sport. As a result, we have a fully developed plan ready to go. Everyone in the fishing industry should appreciate the new path that Outdoor Sportsman Group and Mr. Morris have helped pave for the sport’s future because of their own personal beliefs toward conservation and the responsible use of our fish and water resources.”
MLF officials will announce the finalized MLF Bass Pro Tour schedule, format and anglers in the coming weeks.
MLF was formed in 2011 when Boyd Duckett and Gary Klein convinced television executives at Outdoor Channel to share their vision and invest in the concept for a live-action style broadcast during which all anglers could keep track of how other competitors were doing via on-board scoreboards.
“We’re especially proud to be supporting anglers themselves, who make up an important part of MLF’s ownership team,”added Morris. “Our support for this expansion does not diminish our enthusiasm or support for other popular tournament series including BASS, FLW and hundreds of grassroots events across the country.”
According to Nielsen ratings, MLF has been Outdoor Channel’s top-rated show in first quarters for three years in a row.
MLF also airs on World Fishing Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network and Discovery Channel.
For current MLF schedules, rules, pros and sponsors, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com.
RHuff reply :
Woah! Fantastic News!
12poundbass reply :
I'm guessing there's a ton of details to work out, like if they keep the catch, weigh, and immediate release format how are they going to cover every competitor?
Things will be interesting these next couple days, weeks, and months. I'm guessing there will be a bunch of overlapping in schedules MLF, FLW, and BASS. So who's in who's out?
looking45 reply :
Weighing fish for every contestant was my first question too? So there will be only one angler per boat? Where will they get the people to be the weigh master for each boat? Still a lot of details to be ironed out
Team9nine reply :
Everyone won't all fish at once - likely 40/40 first 2 days...
12poundbass reply :
On 9/12/2018 at 2:23 AM, looking45 said:Weighing fish for every contestant was my first question too? So there will be only one angler per boat? Where will they get the people to be the weigh master for each boat? Still a lot of details to be ironed out
BASS typically doesn't have a hard time getting people to pay to watch anglers, so I doubt MLF would have a hard time getting people to weigh fish and be a part of the action. I'd do it in a heart beat!
On 9/12/2018 at 2:27 AM, Team9nine said:Everyone won't all fish at once - likely 40/40 first 2 days...
Yeah but 40 cameras and cameramen? I assume that's what there going to do but whew that might be expensive, and logisticaly a nightmare, but we reap the benefits so I'm not complaining. ????
n8cas4 reply :
I also read from another media outlet that there will be a live component meaning followers won't have to wait months to see results. How they're going to do it …. I have no idea. BassmasterLive does "5 live" with 5 live camera's through most of the tournament day. But, how would MLF do it with say fields of 40 ? My guess is they will have a few live cameras, with a system similar to BASStrak keeping tabs on the weights of all the other competitors. True fans of professional bass fishing will know the results when they happen, while everyone else will see the TV show on CBS sports a month or so later.
This style of tournament is fun to watch, but it takes a whole week ...Will it be even possible for anglers to fish both the new Bass Pro Tour AND the Bassmaster Elites? What happens to the Bassmaster Classic without the Kevin Van Dam's, Iaconelli's, Skeet Reese, Greg Hackney, Aaron Martens?? What happens to the Elite series and FLW tour? Are they now just the farm system for MLF's new tour?
12poundbass reply :
On 9/12/2018 at 2:51 AM, n8cas4 said:I also read from another media outlet that there will be a live component meaning followers won't have to wait months to see results. How they're going to do it …. I have no idea. BassmasterLive does "5 live" with 5 live camera's through most of the tournament day. But, how would MLF do it with say fields of 40 ? My guess is they will have a few live cameras, with a system similar to BASStrak keeping tabs on the weights of all the other competitors. True fans of professional bass fishing will know the results when they happen, while everyone else will see the TV show on CBS sports a month or so later.
This style of tournament is fun to watch, but it takes a whole week ...Will it be even possible for anglers to fish both the new Bass Pro Tour AND the Bassmaster Elites? What happens to the Bassmaster Classic without the Kevin Van Dam's, Iaconelli's, Skeet Reese, Greg Hackney, Aaron Martens?? What happens to the Elite series and FLW tour? Are they now just the farm system for MLF's new tour?
If they keep the MLF format which it sounds like they're going to do I don't know how you could make it without having a camera in every boat?
Look at Jordan Lee's classic win, he came out of nowhere to win and there was hardly footage. Same with Steve Kennedy last year, nothing because he was so far back. In MLF every fish counts and we've seen enough times where a guy at the bottom finds a school and goes on a tear and comes back. You can't have, say 20 cameras and bounce back and forth between guys, I don't think anyways.
Team9nine reply :
Could potentially use Scoretracker live updates in combination with onboard cameras (GoPro, etc) to get near instant coverage, all run wirelessly to a central headquarters that coordinates all coverage.
Could also tier coverage options so free coverage is ST Live online, then PPV or MLF membership/pass to have access to your favorite anglers onboard camera or some such. Once you get the field cut down after days 1-2 (or 3), you could then live camera everyone left and just do some nice editing for TV coverage of cut rounds. Final rounds could stay as normal.
punch reply :
On 9/12/2018 at 3:00 AM, 12poundbass said:If they keep the MLF format which it sounds like they're going to do I don't know how you could make it without having a camera in every boat?
Look at Jordan Lee's classic win, he came out of nowhere to win and there was hardly footage. Same with Steve Kennedy last year, nothing because he was so far back. In MLF every fish counts and we've seen enough times where a guy at the bottom finds a school and goes on a tear and comes back. You can't have, say 20 cameras and bounce back and forth between guys, I don't think anyways.
If every marshall in the boat has a smart phone or tablet they could easily get footage all day and cut to an angler at any point during the day, as long as they have a data connection.
Tim Kelly reply :
On 9/12/2018 at 3:28 AM, punch said:If every marshall in the boat has a smart phone or tablet they could easily get footage all day and cut to an angler at any point during the day, as long as they have a data connection.
If it has any relationship with the existing MLF idea, the footage needs to be broadcastable quality. Smart phone footage would be very disappointing. Be barely acceptable for live coverage, but it's all about the TV show, so most of the coverage needs to be better quality.
BassNJake reply :
So a big announcement, that only confirmed the rumors and now leads to more questions.
I cant see some of the bigger names leaving to fish exclusively on another tourny trail.
So KVD is going to throw away chasing the most classic and AOY titles?
Ike will leave his 20 straight classic appearances and go fish a new trail built on promises?
Jordan Lee is going to pass on making it 3 straight classic wins?
Scott Martin will walk away from FLW after all the support they have shown him and Roland?
(FLW has an event out of Rolands marina every year)
I still see 3 separate trails with MLF scheduling around the Elite series and Flw being the 3rd wheel
n8cas4 reply :
So, essentially BASS is canceling the west coast swing (soon), so that their top stars can fish both trails?
That’s a lot of tournaments !
Ben Stacy reply :
On 9/12/2018 at 4:34 AM, BassNJake said:So a big announcement, that only confirmed the rumors and now leads to more questions.
I cant see some of the bigger names leaving to fish exclusively on another tourny trail.
So KVD is going to throw away chasing the most classic and AOY titles?
Ike will leave his 20 straight classic appearances and go fish a new trail built on promises?
Jordan Lee is going to pass on making it 3 straight classic wins?
Scott Martin will walk away from FLW after all the support they have shown him and Roland?
(FLW has an event out of Rolands marina every year)
I still see 3 separate trails with MLF scheduling around the Elite series and Flw being the 3rd wheel
Pretty sure you're gonna see KVD and a whole pile of others fish exclusively on MLF's Bass Pro Tour. They are owners and want to see this thing take bass fishing to a new level with no entry fees, big sponsors, huge payouts. It's coming and BASS and FLW are on the ropes. The west coast swing is rumored to be cancelled for 2019 for the Elites. You just shot an 80 person hole in the top 2 tours too - I'm hearing this is gonna be either you're in or you're out. No fishing multiple tours. MLF is gonna swing for the fences and you can't play nice. They want to, have to, crush the competition. They need sponsors to think they are gonna be the only show in town. It's capitalism folks, made in the USA and it's freaking awesome.
ohboyitsrobby reply :
I've heard it's an in or out thing too
webertime reply :
It is exclusive... you do MLF and nothing else. KVD and Skeet are MLF. Jason Lambert is too I believe.
Sponsor list is impressive.
12poundbass reply :
On 9/12/2018 at 6:12 AM, webertime said:It is exclusive... you do MLF and nothing else. KVD and Skeet are MLF. Jason Lambert is too I believe.
Sponsor list is impressive.
Source? Link?
webertime reply :
On 9/12/2018 at 6:14 AM, 12poundbass said:Source? Link?
Not giving up source, no link.
12poundbass reply :
On 9/12/2018 at 6:36 AM, webertime said:Not giving up source, no link.
????
Logan S reply :
I hope it works out for them...
Not hating, but what happens if/when that big sponsor money dump dries up? FLW was flush with sponsor money in the early/mid 2000's from Walmart and other non-endemics to the point they had 'teams' of anglers for each big sponsor and $Million dollar payouts in the Cup. Lots of people said FLW would overtake and dismantle BASS.....Look where we are now.
As a fan, I just want to be able to follow the pro tours so hopefully it works out and is entertaining. I do hope they don't try to box out the other tours by scheduling on top of them or doing non-competes...If their trail really is that much better than BASS/FLW they shouldn't need to strong-arm their participants into it.
Ben Stacy reply :
If you are trying to slay the beast you don’t leave things to chance. MLF is going for it. They may crash and burn but it seems like they have major media backing (CBS), Outdoor Channel, etc. with ties to big time sponsors. Their format hits on PC things like catch weigh and release so no fishies are harmed which makes it more appealing to a non-traditional fan. IMO MLF is operating with surgical precision and will succeed where others have failed but as you say, time will tell.
redux reply :
Ike is definitely going which kinda sucks because he is so horrid to watch on MLF. Between the screaming, tantrums, and terrible fish handling I've gone from being mildly entertained while he annoyed Deny to being disgusted by how childishly myopic he is while competing...YO!
He did a Live with Lucas after his Open victory and outright said the existing tours are greedy during a minor rant about dwindling pay outs. Lucas was non-committal. Ike's been yakking about this for years and has been very open about not liking BASS from the get go. Heck, they DQd him at an event years ago and made a rule just for him. No love lost there.
BASS and FLW are going to be reeling over the next few years and will probably be relegated to Farm Team status unless they make some major changes ASAP, if not sooner.
I'm just glad there is something more interesting than Berkley's take on the Whopper Plopper going on in 2019. As much as I love bass fishing, it can get awfully repetitive and predictable and this is a shakeup fans will be able to enjoy. Although, I'm not sure all the organizers are going to be happy in the coming years.
TOXIC reply :
Devil is in the details. I have heard that it's an exclusive trail 80 anglers and they will be paid 200k a year, no entry fees. Now.....for my humble opinion. MLF has been a success without any on-site crowd or fan participation. They have relied solely on video broadcast. This new trail will attempt to take it to the next level in that format because the viewership has shown they can "touch" a lot more people and save money doing away with the weigh-ins and crowds. It's pretty costly to have the whole setup in the FLW/BASS/Elites style tournament. You've got a lot of employees needing to run the weigh in, set up for stage and holding tanks. release boat and a million other details that the Video format does not have. For the anglers, would you rather gamble on a pay day or be guaranteed a paycheck? It's been common knowledge that very few of the pros are making any $$ on tour from tournament winnings. There are more gambling with their 75k entry fee and losing than are even breaking even. This I'm not guessing at because I do consider some of the fishermen on the Elite Series friends and I do get to hear their opinions. As for the overall Catch/Weigh/Release/Total Weight style of tournament, there are pluses and minuses. Pluses include better fish care, more action and there's always the video component that let's every viewer be in every boat. My concern is does it really show who is the best angler? In for example, an Elite Series tournament, not only do you have to catch fish, you have to catch big fish not just "score-able" fish and you have to manage your fish for multiple days. IMHO it is much harder to fish that style of TX compared to the MLF format. All that being said, I enjoy watching the MLF format. IT will be interesting to see how the details play out.
Team9nine reply :
Too much flux (and online speculation) to make any definitive statements yet IMO. Once they have their meetings; Once they start getting commitments from anglers; Once BASS has a chance to respond and fire back with their own statement, then I think we'll start getting firm details.
As recent as this weekend I was hearing a scaling back of JM's part on the whole deal because they pushed back on exclusivity he wanted (but supposedly didn't get), entry fees anglers would pay to get in were back on the table (they'd pay ????), angler buyouts were falling through, and practice days would get incorporated in some form or fashion next year. What actually got signed and agreed to, only a limited number of people probably really know at this point.
Glenn reply :
On 9/12/2018 at 1:54 AM, looking45 said:MLF officials will announce the finalized MLF Bass Pro Tour schedule, format and anglers in the coming weeks.
Until then, it's all gossip.
punch reply :
I think prestige and records all will get quickly get kicked to the curb when money gets involved. If the MLF Pro Tour offers anglers a more substantial way to earn a living, with lower overhead... they will flock to it. The financial power of Johnny Morris is real. Bass and FLW have to be very, very concerned. They don't have the coffers that JM does.
Ike on (on his most recent Ike Live show} admitted that out of 100 BASS Elite pro's, 60 will barley break even or lose money fishing the tour. If MLF offers anglers a better opportunity to make a livable income, they are going to jump on it so fast it'll make your head spin.
The fishing industry isn't doing THAT well. MLF could easily blow up the entire landscape of the professional bass fishing sport.
As a fan of the sport I can't wait to see how this whole thing shakes out over the next couple years.
J Francho reply :
Seems like this might also disrupt the current angler-sponsor model. A television product isn't the same as a traditional tournament.
n8cas4 reply :
At the moment, MLF needs B.A.S.S. and FLW (to some extent) to help them determine the top anglers to invite to the new tour. B.A.S.S. and FLW are now the farm systems or proving grounds for an angler to showcase his/her worth.
To that end, what are they giving to B.A.S.S. and FLW these first few years? In my opinion, they'll need to let anglers fish both the new tour and AT LEAST the elites.
MLF talked about eventually starting tour qualifier tournaments for the new BPT, but until then, they need B.A.S.S. and FLW. Otherwise, when it comes time to bring in new talent, they'll be bringing in anglers that don't have what it takes or don't have star power. Without "Stars" I don't think MLF will be able to succeed BEYOND where they are now.
Tim Kelly reply :
So if the new format rises to the top, are we going to see new designs in bass boats, maybe without livewells?
n8cas4 reply :
On 9/13/2018 at 1:08 AM, Tim Kelly said:So if the new format rises to the top, are we going to see new designs in bass boats, maybe without livewells?
I don't know if I trust my fellow grassroots club member, Johnny Boater to accurately record all his catches.
TOXIC reply :
One element that they need to not do away with and keep just like the current MLF format is the lack of pre-fishing or practice. That's the only way you get to listen and watch how they break down their water.
Troy85 reply :
On 9/13/2018 at 2:15 AM, TOXIC said:One element that they need to not do away with and keep just like the current MLF format is the lack of pre-fishing or practice. That's the only way you get to listen and watch how they break down their water.
I agree. This is one of my favorite things about MLF, is you actually get to see and hear how they approach a certain body of water and establish a pattern.
I really enjoy watching the elite series, but you don't get near as much info from the anglers as you do in MLF.
12poundbass reply :
On 9/13/2018 at 2:15 AM, TOXIC said:One element that they need to not do away with and keep just like the current MLF format is the lack of pre-fishing or practice. That's the only way you get to listen and watch how they break down their water.
I too agree with this. I would like to see them fish some 'big bass lake's and not catch 1-2 pounders all the time (even though that's all I catch). I did enjoy when they were in Alpena a couple years ago and A-mart found a school offshore and went on a tear. I'd like to see more offshore structure fishing and how they break it down.
Team9nine reply :
On 9/13/2018 at 2:15 AM, TOXIC said:One element that they need to not do away with and keep just like the current MLF format is the lack of pre-fishing or practice. That's the only way you get to listen and watch how they break down their water.
Will be interesting to hear the final details, because from what I've heard, there will be some type of practice period going forward, just not certain what it will look like.
On 9/13/2018 at 2:37 AM, 12poundbass said:I too agree with this. I would like to see them fish some 'big bass lake's and not catch 1-2 pounders all the time (even though that's all I catch). I did enjoy when they were in Alpena a couple years ago and A-mart found a school offshore and went on a tear. I'd like to see more offshore structure fishing and how they break it down.
This is where some type of practice period would be good, I think. It would definitely put some guys off the bank to begin with if they felt somewhat comfortable with what they found. The gamble for quality might pay off. If so, it also helps eliminate some of the dinkfest complaints so many guys complain about.
12poundbass reply :
On 9/13/2018 at 2:46 AM, Team9nine said:
Will be interesting to hear the final details, because from what I've heard, there will be some type of practice period going forward, just not certain what it will look like.
This is where some type of practice period would be good, I think. It would definitely put some guys off the bank to begin with if they felt somewhat comfortable with what they found. The gamble for quality might pay off. If so, it also helps eliminate some of the dinkfest complaints so many guys complain about.
I don't mind seeing them catch 'dinks' because lets face it That's what the majority of us catch on a regular basis and I soak up every bit of info they feed us on where to find them. I like seeing them catch numbers because that's where I sometime lack, I might catch 3-5 on a 4 hour outing where these guys can catch 4x that in the same amount of time.
Sometimes a 6 plus fish is really nice to see too. With the possibility of a practice period maybe that will change it up. Maybe MLF listens to the masses and are trying to tweak things here and there. That's what every good business does to stay viable and there's great business minds behind MLF.
Team9nine reply :
On 9/13/2018 at 2:57 AM, 12poundbass said:
Sometimes a 6 plus fish is really nice to see too. With the possibility of a practice period maybe that will change it up. Maybe MLF listens to the masses and are trying to tweak things here and there. That's what every good business does to stay viable and there's great business minds behind MLF.
Sounds like it's some of the anglers pushing for it.
TnRiver46 reply :
I've never really watched much MLF, I like the biggest limit format much better. Even I can catch 12" bass. Sometimes.......
Logan S reply :
On 9/13/2018 at 2:15 AM, TOXIC said:One element that they need to not do away with and keep just like the current MLF format is the lack of pre-fishing or practice. That's the only way you get to listen and watch how they break down their water.
Eh, I wouldn't want to watch the NFL as much if the teams couldn't practice...These are the best in the world, I want to see them be prepared. Preparing for a tournament is just as much of a skill as executing in the tournament, at least in my opinion as a tournament angler myself.
I know I'm in the minority here...But I don't find the whole 'no-practice, just fish' thing to be a definitive 'true-test' of how good the anglers are. Further, I don't really think they are breaking down the lake beyond basic levels - They don't have time to! It's a scramble find something as fast as possible, which is why you see them flying down banks, dock lines, and grass lines so often.
It's certainly a good measure of pure fish catching and instincts, but I'd much prefer to watch the pros have an allotted time to prepare and practice and then hit the lake. I've noticed the level of detail I often see the anglers go into on BASS Live far exceeds what I usually see on MLF, for obvious reasons...They have time to dial things in on BASS Live.
I'd also prefer 5-bass limits even with the immediate release format...Although the total-weight format in a multi-day tournament where the anglers get practice time could be something very new and cool to see. On the right lake at the right time, could see astronomical weights and true heavyweight shootouts.
fishwizzard reply :
I find the MLF format way more engaging to watch then the traditional “best five”. I will at times throw a BASS tourny on as background noise, but they are painfuly dull to actualy watch.
But really until I can watch a tourny on one of the big streaming servies, I am never going to see any of them live. Right now I hunt around for them on youtube and watch videos months/years after the events happen. I would watch them (and the million ads) , but my interest isn’t enough to pay for cable or buy a digital tuner.
Tim Kelly reply :
The best five vs the total weight thing is going to be interesting. I enjoy the MLF format and have subscribed since it's beginning, other than when they made it impossible. The downside is that, while it does offer a level playing field and is a test of some skills, it is, or can be, a little dull sometimes seeing everyone bank beating. I expect if they were dropped on an unknown version of Kentucky lake in the summer they would beat the banks and miss the ledge fishing giants completely as it would take too long to find them. I enjoy seeing who can make the best of the lake and catch the quality, but they probably need a little time to get the best from a lake. If pro bass fishing were to be completely dominated by people who were good bank beaters and numbers fishermen it would take away from the knowledge growth that has happened with the best 5 formats on how to get the better fish. There's room for both, but it would be a shame for the whole industry to move away from the 5 biggest as the gold standard.
12poundbass reply :
On 9/13/2018 at 5:08 AM, Tim Kelly said:The best five vs the total weight thing is going to be interesting. I enjoy the MLF format and have subscribed since it's beginning, other than when they made it impossible. The downside is that, while it does offer a level playing field and is a test of some skills, it is, or can be, a little dull sometimes seeing everyone bank beating. I expect if they were dropped on an unknown version of Kentucky lake in the summer they would beat the banks and miss the ledge fishing giants completely as it would take too long to find them. I enjoy seeing who can make the best of the lake and catch the quality, but they probably need a little time to get the best from a lake. If pro bass fishing were to be completely dominated by people who were good bank beaters and numbers fishermen it would take away from the knowledge growth that has happened with the best 5 formats on how to get the better fish. There's room for both, but it would be a shame for the whole industry to move away from the 5 biggest as the gold standard.
I agree with your statement completely. Have you seen the episodes in Alpena Michigan where KVD and Aaron Martens found schools of fish offshore? It was fun to watch. When things get dull is when someone pulls away with the lead and dominates. It's great action when it goes down to the final minutes. I hope they find a happy medium, because I love the back and forth action, I also love seeing actual "giants" being caught! Time will tell and I'm looking forward to seeing what comes of this in the coming weeks.
Logan S reply :
On 9/13/2018 at 3:56 AM, fishwizzard said:I find the MLF format way more engaging to watch then the traditional “best five”. I will at times throw a BASS tourny on as background noise, but they are painfuly dull to actualy watch.
But really until I can watch a tourny on one of the big streaming servies, I am never going to see any of them live. Right now I hunt around for them on youtube and watch videos months/years after the events happen. I would watch them (and the million ads) , but my interest isn’t enough to pay for cable or buy a digital tuner.
Don't take this wrong way or anything...Buttt...Did you know the Elite Series BASS Live is broadcast for free right from their website? 6 hours of live coverage for 3 days of each tournament. FLW has their own version as well, right on their site. What you say you want has existed for a few years now. I'm a cord cutter too BTW, I watch BASS Live via the ESPN Roku app on my TV - Or from my desk at work or sometimes even from my boat while I'm fishing 
.
One other interesting anecdote I've noticed that's not directly related to the new trail...It seems that most people that are tournament anglers themselves prefer the 5-bass limit and most people that aren't tournament anglers like the 'every-fish-counts' format better. This isn't a scientific observation, just a trend I've noticed with people I know personally and what I see online.
I haven't watched a production BASS show in years because I already know what happened and saw it on Live.
fishwizzard reply :
On 9/13/2018 at 7:40 AM, Logan S said:Don't take this wrong way or anything...Buttt...Did you know the Elite Series BASS Live is broadcast for free right from their website? 6 hours of live coverage for 3 days of each tournament. FLW has their own version as well, right on their site. What you say you want has existed for a few years now. I'm a cord cutter too BTW, I watch BASS Live via the ESPN Roku app on my TV - Or from my desk at work or sometimes even from my boat while I'm fishing
.
Fishing is the only sports thing I am into, so I never want to spring for a ESPN subscription. I did pay for the MLF streaming site for a while but couldnt get the stream to work on my TV, same with the BASS site. The Roku YouTube app is great, so I use that. I think my Roku is a few generations old at this point, I should see if the new ones can stream from random websites any better.
I think I do agree with your point about the audience split in taste over best-five vs MLF.
Logan S reply :
On 9/13/2018 at 8:27 AM, fishwizzard said:Fishing is the only sports thing I am into, so I never want to spring for a ESPN subscription. I did pay for the MLF streaming site for a while but couldnt get the stream to work on my TV, same with the BASS site. The Roku YouTube app is great, so I use that. I think my Roku is a few generations old at this point, I should see if the new ones can stream from random websites any better.
I think I do agree with your point about the audience split in taste over best-five vs MLF.
I forgot about the subscription thing...Regardless, you can still get it directly from the BASS and FLW sites live. Check it out, might like it...HDMI to the TV or just go right from the computer or phone 
. BASS AOY tournament will be live next week, 20th thru 23rd.
Team9nine reply :
New story just posted online that answers a few more of the questions being pondered concerning the new tour...
Highlights:
- 80 Invites are out
- Meetings through the weekend
- Expect many anglers to be upset (that they didn't get asked)
- A 2nd set of invites to go out if they don't get full buy-in
- 3 year committment
- No restriction on fishing other circuits, but they expect it to not be feasible from a travel/overlap standpoint
- No sponsorship restrictions
- Feeder circuit will be established by the end of the 3rd year. Bottom 10 fall out.
"I'm sure there will be some (who decline), but I can't imagine an angler who wants a pro career making a choice other than this one, and when they see the details of it, they'll understand why. The payouts, the media platform, the potential for the growth of the sport, the whole package that they get to be a part of ... when they see the horsepower that's strapped to our rocket, they'll have a good idea of what this thing's capable of."
- Also read a different piece that stated meetings will likely require signed NDA to attend, so don't expect a ton of new news or info from the anglers after this week. Also, MLF expected to hire 40-50 new staff to pull this all off.
12poundbass reply :
On 9/13/2018 at 9:49 AM, Team9nine said:New story just posted online that answers a few more of the questions being pondered concerning the new tour...
Link, I'm technology dumb as you know. ????
Team9nine reply :
On 9/13/2018 at 9:55 AM, 12poundbass said:Link, I'm technology dumb as you know. ????
Sorry, site restricted - don't want to infringe on forum policy. Will have to search it out...
Tennessee Boy reply :
They've got to change the scoring for me to really take them seriously. I like not having a limit but you've got to reward catching larger fish. No one thinks five one pound fish are equal to one five pound fish. The scoring should reflect that.
Troy85 reply :
@12poundbass Just do a google search for "MLF new format" and you will find some articles about it.
J Francho reply :
On 9/13/2018 at 9:49 AM, Team9nine said:"I'm sure there will be some (who decline), but I can't imagine an angler who wants a pro career making a choice other than this one, and when they see the details of it, they'll understand why. The payouts, the media platform, the potential for the growth of the sport, the whole package that they get to be a part of ... when they see the horsepower that's strapped to our rocket, they'll have a good idea of what this thing's capable of."
If I was a young, up and coming angler, this would be the thing I'd be shooting for.
12poundbass reply :
On 9/13/2018 at 8:56 PM, J Francho said:If I was a young, up and coming angler, this would be the thing I'd be shooting for.
Are you saying you're retiring?
Seriously though this does sound like a pretty good gig, and I'll bet it gets even sweeter after all the details are revealed. I'm wondering if they'll reveal the payouts which I think MLF typically keeps quiet don't they?
Team9nine reply :
I'm guessing they'll start leaking out at some point after the meetings since all that will be disclosed to the 80 guys selected. I've seen everywhere from 100k to 1 mil thrown out there. Most logical answer I've seen said triple, so if I had to guess, I'd say 250k to win, 50k to play....might be way off - who knows.
n8cas4 reply :
On 9/13/2018 at 8:56 PM, J Francho said:If I was a young, up and coming angler, this would be the thing I'd be shooting for.
You would NOT get the invite unless you showcase your "star power" and talent in B.A.S.S. or FLW events.
This bombshell is good for the chosen 80 anglers, but in terms of growing the sport, it seems to me like the next few years will actually be a step back in growing the sport. Hopefully 1 step back and 2 steps forward over the next 5-10 years. It's a important model in nearly EVERY sport: a strong farm system will make for a strong sport / league. MLF does not / will not have a strong farm system for several years.
J Francho reply :
On 9/14/2018 at 12:55 AM, n8cas4 said:You would NOT get the invite unless you showcase your "star power" and talent in B.A.S.S. or FLW events.
We've seen quite a few young stars rise from seemingly nowhere the past few years.
RichF reply :
I want an invite...who do I have to pay and how many Instagram likes do I need? I'm averaging 25 - 30 per post;) Is that enough?
J Francho reply :
On 9/14/2018 at 1:03 AM, RichF said:Is that enough?
You can get a 10% coupon code and put the logo on your jersey. Check out my content! Crushing it in 2018!
sully420 reply :
I like everything about this. Think of all the different lakes they will be able to fish and the whole country will be fair game even Mexico many. It's about time anglers got a chance to have ownership and input into the tour they fish. The financial incentive will allow everyone to fish to win. Edwin Evers was on BTL and made it sound like 2019 will be his last classic of he makes it. It also sounds like you fish MLF only. Can't wait to see how this plays out.
OCdockskipper reply :
I don't think live coverage will be an issue, I would expect it to be along the lines of a golf tournament. The are tons of cameras at PGA events so nothing is missed, but most of the live shots are of the leaders or those making a run.
I don't see how any pro short of KVD would turn down an invite. The payouts and lack of entry fees make the tour similiar to golf & tennis. The current setup puts fishing in with things like Poker.
I recall the original MLF mission statement talking of how MLF wanted to compliment the BASS & FLW tours, not compete with them. I wonder if that has changed. If this is successful, I think it kills the Elite Series but doesn't hurt the Opens. BASS started out with all tournaments being opens, they may be forced back to it. That might make the Classic similiar to the US open out here in the West, the last remnant of a past tour.
I wouldn't be surprised to see some kind of melding of MLF & BASS down the road, like what happened with the NFL & AFL. BASS brings a large membership & history to the table while MLF will have the star anglers and the money. They are both better together than seperate.
n8cas4 reply :
Edwin Evers talked in an interview on basstalklive today about this 2019 bassmaster Classic being the last classic he fishes.
Crazy.
They talked about FLW surviving this because of their pay to fish instead of qualify to fish...and the structure of their opens and BFLs. BASS clearly the hardest hit.
redux reply :
I missed that last part about FLW not having a qualifying system. Didn't they just announce that they are going to a qualifying system, reducing field size, and dropping co-anglers to move to a more professional model and to address the concerns of the field? Did that change in the past few weeks?
Definitely weird to think about the BASS legacy walking out the door and rebuilding somewhere else.
They ran a sound bite from the Ike Live show three years ago after the EE interview. It was obvious who Ike was complaining about, but does anyone know what large endorsement deal KVD did for "free"?
Team9nine reply :
Under the new format, and with more anglers, I think you'll see a lot less 12 inchers...a lot better mix of offshore vs bank beating.
JCovas reply :
You got to consider the dilemma here. BASS just lost at least 70 or 75 of the top pros in the industry.
According to qualifications for the Elite Series rules must change in order to refill the slots. They can't just say Hey! to the top guys over at FLW, we need you to come down here so we can have a true Elite Trail now that our top guys have left. Basically they're going to have pull from a lot of lower ranked anglers from the Opens that are not proven Elite anglers.
What are the possibilities that you send out 70 invitations to the Opens guys to compete in the Elite Series and every one of these guys can afford to compete at that level?
Obviously there must be some change in the format or cost of entry to fill this void of anglers because most fishing the Opens could probably not pay the entry that the Elites pay. Also there will be less sponsorship funds coming in next year because of the formation of the new League.
Think about this! If you were in FLW top level Pro or let's say mid level pro that was earning your entry fee back on tournament earnings. Just living off sponsorship dollars which means you're probably scraping by.
Wouldn't you want to go over to bass now and Cherry pick the Elite Series? Consider there you probably won't be competing against 175 of the top sticks in the country only a little more than a diluted field of open anglers.
Obviously BASS will have to offer better concessions to top-tier guys wanting to fish their Trail to lure them in. Without top-tier guys it's hard to consider them a true Elite Series.
Logan S reply :
I know there were many BASS anglers unhappy about the way BASS handled many things this year...It wouldn't surprise me if some of the talk about anglers leaving forever and it being impossible to fish both tours turns out to be almost a kind of scare tactic to get BASS to compromise with the anglers in one way or another.
It wouldn't be the first time BASS and the anglers had it out with each other...
JCovas reply :
On 9/16/2018 at 1:39 AM, Logan S said:I know there were many BASS anglers unhappy about the way BASS handled many things this year...It wouldn't surprise me if some of the talk about anglers leaving forever and it being impossible to fish both tours turns out to be almost a kind of scare tactic to get BASS to compromise with the anglers in one way or another.
It wouldn't be the first time BASS and the anglers had it out with each other...
It is no scare tactic. They are GONE!
Logan S reply :
Maybe...But unless you're one of the secret insiders we really don't know anything yet. I just wouldn't be shocked if it turned out to be not quite as earth-shattering as it appears right now. BASS is apparently already cancelling the western swing (though they haven't confirmed it), which is one example of them trying to compromise already.
We'll just have to wait and see...But don't think for a second that this slow-roll info release isn't intentional.
n8cas4 reply :
It will be interesting to see how BASS responds, but it is happening. I couldn’t believe it either, until I heard Edwin Evers say this will be his last bassmaster Classic. He’s not fishing both trails. I don’t think any angler can or will. The Elite series will no longer be elite.
I want to see what happens when a young future star develops from the new Elite series. What could BASS do in the future to not lose that new star angler to the Bass Pro Tour?
12poundbass reply :
On 9/16/2018 at 1:57 AM, Logan S said: BASS is apparently already cancelling the western swing (though they haven't confirmed it), which is one example of them trying to compromise already.
They have confirmed it. @Glenn posted it on here Wednesday I believe. They're replacing them with some TBA events in the Southeast.
Logan S reply :
On 9/16/2018 at 3:08 AM, 12poundbass said:They have confirmed it. @Glenn posted it on here Wednesday I believe. They're replacing them with some TBA events in the Southeast.
I don't doubt it, but BASS themselves haven't said anything about it...At least that I've seen. Nothing on their site about it. Also, lots of the big names are still featured prominently on the BASS site.
I'm not saying anything one way or the other, nothing official regarding who's going and who's staying has come out besides anglers interviews...I've seen all those. All I'm saying is it wouldn't surprise me if much of what's been said/speculated so far was part of some negotiating tactics.
Lets also be real here...This stuff is still mostly rumor-mill at this point (the stuff that hasn't been released yet obviously)...Some of what was said early on as 'fact' turned out not to be entirely accurate (like the top 75 from BASS -AND- FLW leaving).
Team9nine reply :
When the dust settles, and if the full details ever come out, it will make for one heck of an interesting read. Some stuff will be known sooner rather than later, but some stuff may take a few years before people fully understand what's about to go down.
RichF reply :
I say let them leave! More room for dreamers like me;)
OCdockskipper reply :
As I was thinking about which big name pros would jump from the Elite series to MLF, I thought of one that I think won't. Gerald Swindle fished for a year or so on the MLF Selects and then backed off (possibly injury related). He is an extremely loyal person and theoretically would be the Top Dog on the Elite Series if the KVDs and Amarts left.
It would be interesting to hear his rants from the Elite stage if he does indeed stay.
punch reply :
The new BassTalk Live that just got posted has details about the "packet" that BASS gave out with all the new updates. Pretty impressive.
Tim Kelly reply :
Must make them wonder whether they'd be in this mess if they had rolled it out a few years ago.
Logan S reply :
BASS Plan Highlights for those that don't want to listen, it's a strong counter offer...
- Reduced field size to 80
- Classic spots to top 40, so top half qualifies
- BASS contributing more money to pot overall (67% more supposedly)
- Changed payout structure, guaranteed checks for all anglers - last place still pays $2500
- Returning Elite pros get a bonus, which added to guaranteed payouts means they will pay no entry fees for the whole season (they'd actually come out ahead $500)
- New Elites don't get bonus, but with the guaranteed payouts their effective entries fees are cut in half
- Live streaming cameras in ALL boats for all tournaments on final 2 days (BASS says every single angler will be live at least once during season)
Some other stuff I might have missed. Still nothing about cancelling western swing from BASS themselves. BASS supposedly fired some shots in the presentation too, saying something to the effect of "The Elite Series will continue to be the only major tournament series that you actually need to qualify for."
Sounds like a win either way for the anglers, I'd recommend listening to the podcast from yesterday (don't think I can link, but it's a popular one that everyone has been getting info from already) if you're interested in all the drama like I am .
Jrob78 reply :
Sounds like BASS is trying to make it a tough decision. It might be too late for a lot of guys though.
redux reply :
What it tells me is that, despite him being so annoying, Ike has been right for saying BASS is greedy. Being able to toss millions of dollars into the pot to wipe out a large portion (if not all) of entry fees and also increase payouts is very suspicious to me. How long will it last? Did the communication to anglers give any info on that? Would like to have someone post details. I like the BTL guys but would like to read what BASS sent out instead of hearing a summary/interpretation second hand.
This looks likes something they could have done years ago and are only now making concessions to save their BASS.
I hope the anglers can see past the next 12 months and are not blinded by a minor increase in revenue.
punch reply :
If given a choice, I'd still pick the league that's backed by legit billionaires (MLF). Bass could easily go back to their old payout structure after a few years when they run out of money.
Regardless, this is GREAT news for Elite anglers that haven't gotten "the invite" to MLF.
Jrob78 reply :
BASS is having their AOY tournament this week. I bet the angler meeting is going to be tense!
redux reply :
Just saw Bass Pro has extended/expanded their sponsorship of the FLW high school and college tournament series.
punch reply :
http://another site.com/news_article.asp?ID=9370&t=Breaking-Down-The-Dollars-&-Cents#.W6Jmpc5Ki00
redux reply :
From what the source article says, that BASS incentive is not for everyone so that number is not accurate for all 80 elite qualifiers. Someone with maths should redo those numbers and give an accurate account of what BASS is offering.
B.A.S.S. Details
To simplify, entry fees for the 2019 Elite Series will be $43,000 for qualified anglers. If an angler finishes 80th in every tournament next season, he is guaranteed to earn $23,500 ($2,500 per tournament plus a minimum $3,500 at Texas Fest), reducing the entry fee liability to $19,500. In addition, B.A.S.S. will be offering a limited number (possibly 50) of early registration incentives worth $20,000 each, meaning some anglers will have their entry fees covered with a $500 surplus.
punch reply :
Yeah, they are dangling a big $20,000 carrot for current Elite anglers not to jump.
12poundbass reply :
Are these confirmed numbers or hear say at this point?
RichF reply :
I think it might be time for me to start saving for the Opens...
redux reply :
This appears to be coming from public info for BPT and FLW while the BASS info is being leaked from private communications to the elite anglers. And some people are being critical about the BPT selection process. BASS is doing the same thing with keeping things under wraps and offering better deals to the existing elites.
BASS has not publicly canceled the CA events either which is odd.
Troy85 reply :
BASS published this article this morning.
https://www.bassmaster.com/news/bass-redefines-professional-bass-fishing-2019-elite-series
12poundbass reply :
On 9/20/2018 at 1:17 AM, Troy1985s said:BASS published this article this morning.
https://www.bassmaster.com/news/bass-redefines-professional-bass-fishing-2019-elite-series
Sounds like a, 'the ship is sinking grab a bucket' article.
I don't blame BASS one bit. They are in the business to make money. My company was giving me 3-5% raises every year because I was content and didn't say anything. We were in a very bad spot with manpower in late winter just before our busy season, I saw an opportunity and took it....and got myself a 20% raise. I don't expect them to give me that kind of raise every year. On the flip side from the sounds of it the angler had been speaking up for a while and BASS didn't listen. I see both sides of this situation.
Troy85 reply :
On 9/20/2018 at 1:54 AM, 12poundbass said:Sounds like a, 'the ship is sinking grab a bucket' article.
I don't blame BASS one bit. They are in the business to make money. My company was giving me 3-5% raises every year because I was content and didn't say anything. We were in a very bad spot with manpower in late winter just before our busy season, I saw an opportunity and took it....and got myself a 20% raise. I don't expect them to give me that kind of raise every year. On the flip side from the sounds of it the angler had been speaking up for a while and BASS didn't listen. I see both sides of this situation.
I don't think BPT will kill off the elite series though. In the end I think it will just force BASS to be more competitive with how it compensates its anglers, as is already happening.
As with almost any employer, the best to get better compensation is to get a better offer from the competition. A Boss I had several years ago, I asked him for a raise multiple times and he always turned me down. Several months later I found a better job and put in my notice, on my last day he came up to me and offered me a $3 an hour raise, which was more than I had ever asked for in the past. I didn't accept his offer, he was a horrible person to work for.
punch reply :
QuoteWritten by Randy Blaukat
Like many anglers, fans, media and sponsors, it’s my opinion that the recent announcement of the Bass Pro Tour is probably the most historic single event to ever happen to our sport. Although full details are not clear at the moment, the basic framework sets the stage for the ramifications that this power move by Major League Fishing possesses.
First of all, the basic premise of MLF has been around for many years, but never gained real traction until Boyd Duckett and Gary Klein formed the concept. Back in the 1990s, there were a couple of Bassmaster Classics I fished where anglers were trying to organize a boycott of the event in order to raise payouts and have some demands met. It never happened because some of the anglers feared sponsor losses by boycotting.
The Professional Anglers Association (PAA) was the next step, and it enjoyed a semi-successful, short-lived run, but never fell into the mainstream or developed significant momentum.
In both of these attempts, the goal was the same … to have an organization that would let the anglers have the control, make decisions regarding the tournaments, the rules, the payouts and the flow of sponsor dollars.
What the Bass Pro Tour looks like is still foggy, but the long quest professional anglers have been on to controlling their own destinies appears to have finally began to manifest physically in a real, sustainable way.
My phone has been ringing off the hook this past week, with angler friends from both the FLW Tour and the Bassmaster Elite Series voicing their (mostly angry) opinions. And despite the fact the MLF has come out with the stance that “this is a great thing for the growth of our sport," I can tell you from talking to the guys that not all share in that viewpoint or excitement.
For now, I’ll not focus on the potential sponsorship/fan interest losses that other tournament organizations may or may not suffer as a result of so many marquee anglers leaving to fish the Bass Pro Tour, but on the criteria for determining who is given the opportunity to fish it. That is the issue that has the professional angling community in an uproar.
Although not set in stone, the consensus of the rumor mill is that the majority of the anglers who received invites were Elite Series pros, with a few FLW anglers mixed in. Why is that?
And here lies the problem.
This is MLF’s ball, and they have the right to do what they want in terms of selecting anglers for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. But it was my hope that when the day came for an opportunity like this, that the selection process would have been well-defined, clear, transparent and fair … and it has not been.
There were not any qualification criteria to be selected as an MLF angler, or to compete on the Bass Pro Tour. It has never been advertised to the public or the angling community. I see this clandestine approach as unjust and unfair to so many anglers in this sport who helped grow it to where it is today.
For example, nothing personal against any of the Bass Pro Tour competitors, but how can the Bass Pro Tour justify inviting some little-known Elite Series pros and deny invitations to such legendary guns like David Dudley, Andy Morgan and Bryan Thrift? To not give the icons of our sport the opportunity to compete in this new tour in favor of ones who have only been competing at the tour level for a year or two is simply not right.
I realize there are other factors that were probably considered – social media following, demographic appeal, connections, etc. The fail in this approach is the fact that every single angler on tour, regardless of how polished they are, how many Facebook fans they have or who they know, has a personality and abilities uniquely their own. And with that comes a fan base. Regardless of whether that angler wears a flat-brimmed hat or a gray beard.
I knew this day would come, and it was my hope that when it did, each angler on the FLW Tour and the Bassmaster Elites would have had the opportunity to sit down in front of the MLF management, be interviewed to be considered a competitor, and present a performance/promotional application.
Upon completing the selection process, MLF would make it transparent as to why each angler earned a spot, and make that reason public knowledge. This increases legitimacy and angler/fan respect for the Tour.
In my opinion, it should have gone down like this: Bass Pro Tour competitors were selected on a system that factored in all current FLW Tour and Bassmaster Elite anglers who had the most combined FLW Cup/Bassmaster Classic qualifications, wins, top-10s and all-time winnings, plus social media following. Nobody could argue with anyone who was selected under these requirements.
That would form the initial field. The bottom 10 anglers on the Bass Pro Tour each year would lose their spots and be replaced through an MLF qualification system to allow newer anglers to have an opportunity.
Although I don’t see any non-MLF pros or competing tournament organizations directly benefitting from any MLF exposure, I do see this raising awareness for our sport. And in that awareness, it would be my main hope that increased public education of conservation and environmental issues surrounding our sport are brought to light through the proposed epic TV exposure of the Bass Pro Tour.
To those anglers out there who may be bitter and feel like they have been left out in the cold, I say this: The opportunities are there, and our sport is big enough for three tours. The potential for non-endemic sponsorships are endless. Each of you have a personality and promotional ability that no other pro can duplicate. It’s uniquely your own, and you all have a demographic fan base. Use that to your advantage.
True pro anglers compete because it makes them feel alive, and part of you would die if you couldn’t compete. That is why so many pros are bitter about MLF – they want to compete, not spectate from the sidelines.
Best of luck to MLF. I know many of the people behind this organization and can tell you they are good, decent men.
It’s impossible to be all things to all people. Thanks for the change, MLF, because change is good, even if that change is painful for some.
Read more: http://another site.com/opinion_article/1517/bpt-invite-process-flawed-but-change-is-good#.W6KYU85KiHs#ixzz5RZhBZS00
Good article
12poundbass reply :
On 9/20/2018 at 2:12 AM, Troy1985s said:I don't think BPT will kill off the elite series though. In the end I think it will just force BASS to be more competitive with how it compensates its anglers, as is already happening.
As with almost any employer, the best to get better compensation is to get a better offer from the competition. A Boss I had several years ago, I asked him for a raise multiple times and he always turned me down. Several months later I found a better job and put in my notice, on my last day he came up to me and offered me a $3 an hour raise, which was more than I had ever asked for in the past. I didn't accept his offer, he was a horrible person to work for.
I don't think BASS is going anywhere either, they're just trying to prevent a mass exodus. It'll be interesting to see how this whole thing plays out.
On 9/20/2018 at 2:42 AM, punch said:
Good article
Who is the author?
punch reply :
On 9/20/2018 at 2:53 AM, 12poundbass said:I don't think BASS is going anywhere either, they're just trying to prevent a mass exodus. It'll be interesting to see how this whole thing plays out.
Who is the author?
Randy Blaukat
TOXIC reply :
Bottom line, it's an "invitational" tour and they alone decide who gets the invite. We as fishermen and fans have -0- right to question how and who get's the invite. Watch or don't watch that's our option. The world ain't fair and you can't invite everyone or make a process where everyone "interviews" and gets a consideration. They have an avenue to qualify and they didn't have to even do that. MLF didn't.
punch reply :
On 9/20/2018 at 7:02 PM, TOXIC said:Bottom line, it's an "invitational" tour and they alone decide who gets the invite. We as fishermen and fans have -0- right to question how and who get's the invite. Watch or don't watch that's our option. The world ain't fair and you can't invite everyone or make a process where everyone "interviews" and gets a consideration. They have an avenue to qualify and they didn't have to even do that. MLF didn't.
Good point but seems like the majority of the strife about the selection process is coming from the anglers, not the fans.
TOXIC reply :
On 9/20/2018 at 10:28 PM, punch said:Good point but seems like the majority of the strife about the selection process is coming from the anglers, not the fans.
Agreed. But Randy's article was stressing transperancy for fans and a "fair" process for the Pro's. My point is just that it's totally up to the organizers on both counts. We don't know the dynamics between the Pro's and the organizers and it could be petty past disagreements, could be sponsor driven, could be personalities and yes even social media presence. If the new trail is lucrative then EVERY Pro would want an invite or at least the option to choose!! And those that didn't get one would be upset. IMHO every angler in the Elites earned their way there and wouldn't be there if they didn't think they were worthy. Will be interesting to see how this plays out. Sure to cause some bad blood.
12poundbass reply :
BPT is taking a big step and asking these 80 anglers to stick their necks out and make a 3 year commitment (from what we hear). To make this viable and not crash and burn within the first few years you need more than just fish catching. In order to do this with a relatively small field there are going to be some good anglers who are left out. There are going to be some less accomplished anglers invited because of their personalities and followings. Let's face it this is a business and people with big followings bring money.
Look at Gerald Swindle (I don't know if he's been invited) but he has a ton of fans and has made a great living fishing. He's won 2 AOY but has never won an event. He's managed to stay viable because of his personality. Everyone tunes in to see what G-Man is going to say on the stage.
Then there's other guys like Derick Remitz who won a few Elite events and looked to be an up and coming star. He along with others virtually disappeared. He was a quiet guy who didn't have a loud personality like Skeet, Gerald, and Ike. It's a cut throat business where the only way you're going to make a career out of it is sponsors and to get sponsors you have to be seen, if you're not winning on a regular basis.
As far as Scott Martin not getting an invite, that's beyond me. The only thing I can think of is some bad blood, but that's only my assumption.
Just my .02
Tim Kelly reply :
Do you think Cliff Pace got an invite? ????
12poundbass reply :
On 9/20/2018 at 11:55 PM, Tim Kelly said:Do you think Cliff Pace got an invite? ????
Another great example. ????
Logan S reply :
Bad blood or not, it's a little hard to think of it as a performance-based selection with some of the rumors going around about who has and hasn't been invited. Crazy to think that the #1 ranked angler in the world (Thrift, per BF rankings - which is owned by same umbrella that's behind BPT) reportedly isn't getting an invite. Also, not to disparage these guys, but some of the original MLF guys that you know will be involved are ranked 80 or lower in current AOY standings (which also means they'd be at risk for not even qualifying next year).
When we see the the full invite list my guess is that it'll be pretty easy to see what kind of qualifications were considered. Nothing wrong with however they want to fill the field, but it's a fair to be critical of the process if we're looking through the lens of 'top-level professional tour'.
Choporoz reply :
Tough to set an initial field. Nobody is going to be happy.
I'm a little interested in how they do it in successive years. I like the suggestion in the article above that there's a lower end cut at the end of the year....and ten probably isn't enough. You can't make top 70% and you're out next year.....not sure how that would work with three-year commitments, but they have to keep the pool aerated
TOXIC reply :
On 9/21/2018 at 12:13 AM, Logan S said:Bad blood or not, it's a little hard to think of it as a performance-based selection with some of the rumors going around about who has and hasn't been invited.
At this point I don't think it is a performance based selection. If it was they would have requirements and what "Performance" stats they were looking at for consideration. I think that bottom line, no matter where they are ranked. all the anglers that got invited are "Elite" and "Professional" so there's no way to dispute who got invited. IMHO.....
Team9nine reply :
Just about everyone (here and elsewhere) is looking at this with the wrong end goal in mind (through the 'wrong lens' to borrow the phrase above). As such, it (invites) doesn't make a lot of sense or seems unfair. Pick a different outcome to this story and the selection process will become much clearer.
TOXIC reply :
On 9/21/2018 at 12:38 AM, Team9nine said:Just about everyone (here and elsewhere) is looking at this with the wrong end goal in mind (through the 'wrong lens' to borrow the phrase above). As such, it (invites) doesn't make a lot of sense or seems unfair. Pick a different ending to this story and the selection process will become much clearer.
Let me take a stab at it.....The tours revenue is TV/Livestream /Internet driven, the "Pro's" are...............wait for it..............ENTERTAINERS........and that's how they were chosen and that's how they will generate revenue.
Team9nine reply :
On 9/21/2018 at 12:47 AM, TOXIC said:Let me take a stab at it.....The tours revenue is TV/Livestream /Internet driven, the "Pro's" are...............wait for it..............ENTERTAINERS........and that's how they were chosen and that's how they will generate revenue.
Nope...
12poundbass reply :
https://twitter.com/FLWFishing/status/1042826282927632385?s=19
Here's what FLW has posted.
volzfan59 reply :
So, if I read FLW's open letter correctly, their response is....no response. No changes other than those previously announced.
Team9nine reply :
On 9/21/2018 at 9:14 AM, volzfan59 said:So, if I read FLW's open letter correctly, their response is....no response. No changes other than those previously announced.
Correct.
FYI, here's a great interview/podcast with James Watson being about as honest as you'll hear anyone in regards to where the sport is at with everything going on:
James Watson podcast
A-Jay reply :
On 9/21/2018 at 9:33 AM, Team9nine said:Correct.
FYI, here's a great interview/podcast with James Watson being about as honest as you'll hear anyone in regards to where the sport is at with everything going on:
James Watson podcast
Thank you very much for that link ~ JW is all about this.
Good for him.
A-Jay
TOXIC reply :
So, my guess was pretty close. Watson said that it's not enough to be able to go out and catch fish. You have to be a showman and a salesman. Having been a sponsored fisherman for quite a few years, I've always known that my value was NEVER in the fish I caught, it's in the product I sell. Whether that product in this case is a sponsors product or BPL/MLF for viewership, that's a skill that some don't have....or aren't as good at.
Team9nine reply :
Another really good podcast just a couple days ago on the whole matter with Ken Duke.
Ken Duke podcast
...and I'm still going with the selection process having very little to do with what Watson mentioned, and that there's another motive underlying all this.
punch reply :
https://lakerecord.net/2018/09/19/the-structure-of-the-bass-pro-tour-announced/
They revealed the structure for the Bass Pro Tour events
Jrob78 reply :
I'm really curious to see who is going to be fishing where next year. A few guys have made it known but the majority haven't.
12poundbass reply :
On 9/25/2018 at 11:18 PM, Jrob78 said:I'm really curious to see who is going to be fishing where next year. A few guys have made it known but the majority haven't.
Boyd Duckett was on Bass Talk Live today. I didn't listen to it but read on another forum that he said the list of 80 will be released with in the week.
Team9nine reply :
They have until this weekend to commit. Over half had, but nothing official until Monday. Several pros have started announcing their intentions today.
12poundbass reply :
Edwin Evers
Timmy Horton
Zach Berge
Boyd Duckett (of course)
Gary Klein (of course)
Sounds like Alton Jones will tonight
Another interesting thing I read from a post regarding the Duckett interview today, Duckett said 'they' approached BASS and FLW about a merger but were turned down, which is why they formed the PBT.
Team9nine reply :
Skeet posted video - he's going, and D. Lefebre posted on FB...looks like he's in
Team9nine reply :
On 9/26/2018 at 12:55 AM, 12poundbass said:Edwin Evers
Timmy Horton
Zach Berge
Boyd Duckett (of course)
Gary Klein (of course)
Sounds like Alton Jones will tonight
Another interesting thing I read from a post regarding the Duckett interview today, Duckett said 'they' approached BASS and FLW about a merger but were turned down, which is why they formed the PBT.
...Oh, and now you're starting to scratch around what I have reason to believe is the true 'madness' behind the selection of anglers.
J Francho reply :
So, they're actually trying to stick it to BASS?
Team9nine reply :
On 9/26/2018 at 1:35 AM, J Francho said:So, they're actually trying to stick it to BASS?
???? forcing the issue, you might say...
Jrob78 reply :
Marty Robinson and Mike McClelland are in as well. Alton Jones is announcing his choice this evening. I'm sure KVD and Ike are in too.
punch reply :
Be funny if Justin Lucas jumps, after just winning AOY.
James Watson said he's going to the BPT.
Troy85 reply :
If BPT is setting up fantasy fishing, this should be their first event! Who comes and who stays.
BassNJake reply :
On 9/25/2018 at 9:22 PM, punch said:https://lakerecord.net/2018/09/19/the-structure-of-the-bass-pro-tour-announced/
They revealed the structure for the Bass Pro Tour events
6 day tourneys and they are split up?
It will suck to fish days 1 and 3 and then have to sit around until day 4 is over to find out if you will fish day 5.
Jrob78 reply :
JT Kenney
Greg Hackney
Jason Lambert
Chris Lane
Alton Jones Jr
Jeff Kriet
Andy Montgomery
Randall Tharp
Alton Jones
Jared Lintner
BASS has invited back all 2018 Elite Series competitors for 2019.
n8cas4 reply :
ive been out of the loop ... who has committed to staying with BASS besides Matt Herren?
J.Vincent reply :
Everyone continues to be concerned there won’t be any talent remaining in BASS Elites after 30 or 40 anglers jump ship....I’m kind of beginning to wonder if this many do leave the Elites, how would BASS extend invitations to anglers to round out a 100 angler field ? It seems like they would have to change how this works because if the numbers are accurate they might need to find 30 to 40 new anglers who are all capable of paying $75,000 entry fees for a season ? Are there even that many upper tier anglers waiting in the lower ranks who can front this kind of cash ? How else could they round out a Top 100 field ? Also this brings another interesting question to mind....If that many talented anglers leave the Elites, and new less talented anglers enter the Elite Field but payouts remain similar to last year , from a financial point of view, wouldn’t an angler want to remain in a less crowded and less talented field of anglers where their chances of cashing checks improve?
12poundbass reply :
On 9/26/2018 at 12:34 PM, J.Vincent said:Everyone continues to be concerned there won’t be any talent remaining in BASS Elites after 30 or 40 anglers jump ship....I’m kind of beginning to wonder if this many do leave the Elites, how would BASS extend invitations to anglers to round out a 100 angler field ? It seems like they would have to change how this works because if the numbers are accurate they might need to find 30 to 40 new anglers who are all capable of paying $75,000 entry fees for a season ? Are there even that many upper tier anglers waiting in the lower ranks who can front this kind of cash ? How else could they round out a Top 100 field ? Also this brings another interesting question to mind....If that many talented anglers leave the Elites, and new less talented anglers enter the Elite Field but payouts remain similar to last year , from a financial point of view, wouldn’t an angler want to remain in a less crowded and less talented field of anglers where their chances of cashing checks improve?
BPT sent out around 70 or so Elite invites. Obviously some will decline but I imagine BPT vetted most of these guys before they sent out their invite, so I'd guess most will accept.
I'm pretty sure I read BASS is reducing their field to 80 anglers not the 100-106 we're used to.
The $75k entry fee was reduced years ago I believe. It's now like $43k? Along with the reduced entry fee they introduced something new after the whole MLF/PBT to try and make the decision to leave more difficult. I don't remember exactly what it was, but it made the entry fee extremely cheap (relatively speaking).
I think you'll see some guys stick around like you're saying to better their chances at frequent big paydays. The Lee brothers, Gerald Swindle, Brandon Paulnuik are a few I think will stay. Time will tell.
Logan S reply :
It's not 75k in entry fees for any of the tours, don't think it's ever been that high. 75k is often a number thrown around for the total cost of a season - Entries plus travel, gas, lodging, food, etc, etc...Not sure how accurate it is and it's probably highly variable depending how each angler does it. Regardless, it's a ton of money.
MLF/BPT entry fees are actually higher than the Elites for 2019 and with the new BASS changes MLF is significantly higher. Travel, gas, lodging, food, etc, etc, costs are still going to be similar regardless of what trail they fish.
Troy85 reply :
On 9/26/2018 at 4:34 AM, Jrob78 said:JT Kenney
Greg Hackney
Jason Lambert
Chris Lane
Alton Jones Jr
Jeff Kriet
Andy Montgomery
Randall Tharp
Alton Jones
Jared Lintner
BASS has invited back all 2018 Elite Series competitors for 2019.
Roy Hawk
Mike McClelland
Michael Neal
Fletcher Shryock
Dave Lefebre
Andy Montgomery
Gerald Spohrer
Jason Lambert
Kelly Jordon
Edwin Evers
Marty Robinson
Zack Birge
Skeet Reese
Timmy Horton
BassNJake reply :
As a fan, I dont like this at all.
The Elite series was turning the corner becoming the premier league.
Out were the guys that just had the deep pockets to afford to fish the series.
In were the guys that have qualified through the opens. No bias involved except with the legends and I could overlook that for their past accomplishments.
Yes, FLW has some good anglers, a lot have already come over and a lot were still trying to qualify.
The Classic and all the prestige and buzz that surrounds it, the hope for a nation angler to win it all ....
I love the bracket tourneys at the end of the year to determine the last few Classic spots.
Now it will never be the same.
It sucks that there will be this change for me as the fan, but I am very happy for these guys that have put it all on the line to bet on themselves. Now they can fish for these bigger paydays and hopefully get more sponsor dollars.
I like the emphasis on fish care and I like the decision making when deciding to fish for numbers or for bigger weights.
Part of me can also see this going the way of the USFL or the Affliction MMA league.
They threw around too much cash in the beginning to be sustainable in the long run.
I blame BASS for screwing anglers for a long time by being too greedy.
Their instant ability to throw 67% more money into the equation seems to support that.
punch reply :
On 9/26/2018 at 12:34 PM, J.Vincent said:Everyone continues to be concerned there won’t be any talent remaining in BASS Elites after 30 or 40 anglers jump ship....I’m kind of beginning to wonder if this many do leave the Elites, how would BASS extend invitations to anglers to round out a 100 angler field ? It seems like they would have to change how this works because if the numbers are accurate they might need to find 30 to 40 new anglers who are all capable of paying $75,000 entry fees for a season ? Are there even that many upper tier anglers waiting in the lower ranks who can front this kind of cash ? How else could they round out a Top 100 field ? Also this brings another interesting question to mind....If that many talented anglers leave the Elites, and new less talented anglers enter the Elite Field but payouts remain similar to last year , from a financial point of view, wouldn’t an angler want to remain in a less crowded and less talented field of anglers where their chances of cashing checks improve?
I think Bass already announced they're cutting the Elite field down to 80. But yeah, you're right they're going to have a hard time even feeling that with people who can pay the entry fee within the next couple months.
RichF reply :
On 9/26/2018 at 9:50 PM, punch said:I think Bass already announced they're cutting the Elite field down to 80. But yeah, you're right they're going to have a hard time even feeling that with people who can pay the entry fee within the next couple months.
I think they'll be fine. You can just look at the Opens rosters over the past few years and see several of the same names fishing the majority of events. My guess is those guys/girls would have the coin to fish the Elites if they are invited.
TOXIC reply :
What's not in the equation is where the sponsor $$ goes and to what level. I'm sure they will want to be represented in all of the tours but it's a well known fact that sponsor $$ has been getting squeezed pretty thin. There are some (sponsors) who will have to make choices on who and in what tour they sponsor. Could make the difference between some anglers even being able to fish.
Team9nine reply :
On 9/26/2018 at 8:56 PM, Logan S said:
MLF/BPT entry fees are actually higher than the Elites for 2019 and with the new BASS changes MLF is significantly higher. Travel, gas, lodging, food, etc, etc, costs are still going to be similar regardless of what trail they fish.
The key is that as part owners of the venture, once the 80 angler field is set, they will get to vote on what final entry fees and payout structure will be. Entry fees are only in if they want them to be. That level of control in key decisions is a big reason many are jumping.
A-Jay reply :
So when it's all set up and being Broadcast via cable and live on line, who's going to watch what ?
That's the end game here and what may invariably determine the life expectancy & I guess very existence of each format.
I plan on checking it all out and then I'll go from there.
A-Jay
Logan S reply :
On 9/26/2018 at 10:25 PM, Team9nine said:The key is that as part owners of the venture, once the 80 angler field is set, they will get to vote on what final entry fees and payout structure will be. Entry fees are only in if they want them to be. That level of control in key decisions is a big reason many are jumping.
I understand and can appreciate that...However as someone that's been officer/leader of a bass club for a long time I can say that full member votes can often go sideways from the original direction or intention of the group...Not that it's necessarily bad, but sometimes full member votes turn out to be bad things. Not trying to compare a local club to a pro organization or anything like that, but in a general/functional sense there would be some similarities.
Are all 80 considered owners/investors? All of them are going to get a piece of the pie? Or is it the original MLF investors and then the rest are entrants/participants, but all have a vote?
On 9/26/2018 at 10:25 PM, A-Jay said:So when it's all set up and being Broadcast via cable and live on line, who going to watch what ?
That's the end game here and what may invariably determine the life expectancy & I guess very existence of each format.
I plan on checking it all out and then I'll go from there.
A-Jay
I'll be watching everything...BASS, FLW, BPT, whatever...I'd watch a BFL or club tournament if I could stream it live, I'm just a bass fishing junkie . I'm not a BPT 'hater', but BASS Live is going to be hard to compete with regardless of the anglers on camera (BASS is likely to retain some hammers too).
I'm not a fan of the delay for the Cups and Championship events...My interest level goes way down if the event is not fresh. When you can follow the lead up to the tournament and then the post-tournament analysis and techniques it's a lot more interesting. I don't like watching any sport on tape-delay, especially a ~6 month tape-delay.
OCdockskipper reply :
On 9/26/2018 at 12:34 PM, J.Vincent said:Everyone continues to be concerned there won’t be any talent remaining in BASS Elites after 30 or 40 anglers jump ship....I’m kind of beginning to wonder if this many do leave the Elites, how would BASS extend invitations to anglers to round out a 100 angler field ?...
Even if 50 anglers jump, it shouldn't be a problem. Remember with B.A.S.S.'s new format, the Elite field will be 80 anglers, not 100. There has been such interest in fishing the Elites, that the 100 man field has typically been 105 - 110.
With the guys on DL, there were 110 anglers this year. Drop 50 and that puts you at 60. There will be the standard number of new invites, a dozen or so, based on Open's performance. There are a couple dozen ex-Elite anglers who didn't perform well enough and got bumped down to the opens who might want a second chance. Add in a few Legend exemptions and they will once again be turning people down for the Elite series.
Plus, considering the monetary changes and some of the anglers who will be gone, I think some anglers are licking their chops at fishing the Elites, at least for the first few years. Someone like Ish Monroe, a good angler who has been near the Classic bubble in the AOY standings the past few years, could find himself as a top 20 angler once you remove KVD, Amart, Evers, Hackney, etc (Ish is just an example, I think he may jump based on past run ins with B.A.S.S. and his friendship with Ike). With the talent level diminished (for a few years at least), it creates different reasons for different anglers to stay.
B.A.S.S. made an error in not making changes a few years back to head off the MLF train. However, their recent response is solid and for alot of professional anglers, it makes sense to dance with the one that brung them.
Jrob78 reply :
My guess is that BASS has a list of names of guys they would send invites out to should they not be left with 80. There are Opens guys who have already said they would be in and guys fishing FLW that used to fish BASS. I don't think they will have any trouble fielding a full roster.
I don't think I can post a link but *** has a running list of who's in and who's out.
Bass Pro Tour
> Edwin Evers
> Timmy Horton
> Skeet Reese
> Boyd Duckett
> Marty Robinson
> Zack Birge
> JT Kenney
> Greg Hackney
> Jason Lambert
> Chris Lane
> Alton Jones
> Alton Jones Jr.
> Jeff Kriet
> Randall Tharp
> Gerald Spohrer
> Fletcher Shryock
> Dave Lefebre
> Michael Neal
> Andy Montgomery
> Kelly Jordon
> Mike McClelland
> Jared Lintner
> Roy Hawk
> John Murray
> Scott Suggs
> Justin Atkins
> Ott DeFoe
>Cody Meyer
>Brent Chapman
Elite Series
> Chris Zaldain
> Keith Combs
> Micah Frazier
FLW Series
>Bryan Thrift
punch reply :
MLF is stacked and they're not even done yet! I'm super excited to see Cody Meyer on the list.
J.Vincent reply :
I think this could get interesting; but I’m curious to know what would be the PBT farm system (so to say) Where would they continue to get talented and marketable anglers as their format grows ? Right now BASS has a stream of anglers from high school and college and the federation. FLW has a stream of anglers from BFL and I think the Everstart series. One of the things which makes the sport interesting is, how many of these pro anglers have been covered from the early parts of their amateur career and on into their pro career; this has been done through BASS and their efforts to have an infrastructure similar to other sports. So will PBT just continue to pluck interested anglers from the other Trails ? Or do they have any intention of their own to create an amateur division and pro-am division ?
punch reply :
On 9/27/2018 at 9:15 AM, J.Vincent said:I think this could get interesting; but I’m curious to know what would be the PBT farm system (so to say) Where would they continue to get talented and marketable anglers as their format grows ? Right now BASS has a stream of anglers from high school and college and the federation. FLW has a stream of anglers from BFL and I think the Everstart series. One of the things which makes the sport interesting is, how many of these pro anglers have been covered from the early parts of their amateur career and on into their pro career; this has been done through BASS and their efforts to have an infrastructure similar to other sports. So will PBT just continue to pluck interested anglers from the other Trails ? Or do they have any intention of their own to create an amateur division and pro-am division ?
Boyd was on Bass Talk Live and said that they will develop a feeder system within the next 3 years, so on the final year of the "invited 80"s contract they will have something in place to replenish the tour. They will have their own feeder tournaments, but not for a few years.
J.Vincent reply :
Is Bass Talk live a podcast or YouTube channel ? Where can I find this interview ?
punch reply :
On 9/27/2018 at 9:44 AM, J.Vincent said:Is Bass Talk live a podcast or YouTube channel ? Where can I find this interview ?
http://basszone.com/bass-talk-live/replays/m.blog/1745/september-25th-2019-boyd-duckett-and-the-mlf-bass-pro-tour
Jacob Wheeler is going to MLF. WAAAT
Tim Kelly reply :
BASS making their pitch. They have a good pitch, but it's hard to think they haven't blown some of their currency but not treating the anglers better over the last few years.
YoTone reply :
id really love to see S.Martin enter this new league and compete with the ex BASS guys.
12poundbass reply :
On 9/27/2018 at 2:28 PM, Tim Kelly said:BASS making their pitch. They have a good pitch, but it's hard to think they haven't blown some of their currency but not treating the anglers better over the last few years.
Notice how a lot of the big names are missing from this video? Skeet, Swindle, A-mart, Wheeler......KVD was on there in two different clips for a total of about 5 seconds, however his image was very skewed almost to acknowledge him and his accomplishments and to not catch hell by leaving him out, but distance him from BASS because he's leaving.
A-Jay reply :
No doubt this is improving the sport for the viewer and I'm excited to see where it takes us.
But I can't help but think this whole thing feels like
The Civil War of Tournament Bass Fishing ~
A-Jay
12poundbass reply :
On 9/27/2018 at 9:15 PM, A-Jay said:No doubt this is improving the sport for the viewer and I'm excited to see where it takes us.
But I can't help but think this whole thing feels like
The Civil War of Tournament Bass Fishing ~
A-Jay
I agree it is good for us the viewers and hopefully it can get the younger generation into fishing. It appears to be good for the anglers as well if it does indeed put more of the green stuff in their pockets. It's been said many many times by the pros themselves that only a few guys make a living doing this.
What I'd really like to see is end of the year or beginning of the year 'Classic' type of tournament where all three tours put money in and have their top 10-15 guys in points go up against the others have a $1million or more top prize. You've got the rivalry aspect which everyone has wanted to see (more so now I imagine) and you've got the money aspect. One million dollars to win a fishing tournament? Who wouldn't be interested in that?
The bass fishing world championship
Verbal trademark no one else can use it!????
TOXIC reply :
What I only saw mentioned once in all of the articles that I have read is that Duckett and company pitched the idea of this new "combined" TX format and BASS flat refused. So......here we are.
J Francho reply :
QuoteNo religious or political posts, screen names, etc.
Political and religious comments in any form are prohibited. While we support the right of free speech, our forums are not here to support political parties or their initiatives, individual politicians, or any religious affiliation. We reserve the right to remove all posts that violate this policy without notice.
Let's play by the rules here, and leave politics at the door.
12poundbass reply :
On 9/28/2018 at 1:25 AM, J Francho said:
Let's play by the rules here, and leave politics at the door.
Huh? Did I miss something?
J Francho reply :
All political posts have been removed.
Jrob78 reply :
Bass Pro Tour (previous circuit)
1. Edwin Evers (Elite Series)
2. Timmy Horton (Elite Series)
3. Skeet Reese (Elite Series)
4. Boyd Duckett (Elite Series)
5. Marty Robinson (Elite Series)
6. Zack Birge (FLW Tour)
7. JT Kenney (FLW Tour)
8. Greg Hackney (Elite Series)
9. Jason Lambert (FLW Tour)
10. Chris Lane (Elite Series)
11. Alton Jones (Elite Series)
12. Alton Jones Jr. (Elite Series)
13. Jeff Kriet (Elite Series)
14. Randall Tharp (Elite Series)
15. Gerald Spohrer (Elite Series)
16. Fletcher Shryock (Elite Series)
17. Dave Lefebre (Elite Series)
18. Michael Neal (FLW Tour)
19. Andy Montgomery (Elite Series)
20. Kelly Jordon (Elite Series)
21. Mike McClelland (Elite Series)
22. Jared Lintner (Elite Series)
23. Roy Hawk (Elite Series)
24. John Murray (Elite Series)
25. Scott Suggs (FLW Tour)
26. Justin Atkins (FLW Tour)
27. Ott DeFoe (Elite Series)
28. Cody Meyer (FLW Tour)
29. Brent Chapman (Elite Series)
30. Jacob Wheeler (Elite Series)
31. Keith Poche (Elite Series)
32. David Walker (Elite Series)
33. Cliff Crochet (Elite Series)
34. Jacob Powroznik (Elite Series)
35. Russ Lane (Elite Series)
36. Greg Vinson (Elite Series)
37. Brandon Coulter (Elite Series)
Elite Series
> Chris Zaldain (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Keith Combs (non-BPT invitee)
> Micah Frazier (non-BPT invitee)
> Bill Lowen (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Matt Herren (non-BPT invitee)
> Seth Feider (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Brandon Card
FLW Tour
> Bryan Thrift (non-BPT invitee)
Team9nine reply :
Still a few more that will announce, most likely later today (before/after HOF dinner) or tomorrow, but as many as a third may not announce at all. You'll just see their names on a list in a week or two. However, sounds like as many as 75 or more of the 80 invited will end up going when it's all said and done.
12poundbass reply :
On 9/28/2018 at 2:38 AM, Team9nine said:Still a few more that will announce, most likely later tonight after HOF dinner or tomorrow, but as many as a third may not announce at all. You'll just see their names on a list in a week or two. However, sounds like as many as 75 or more of the 80 invited will end up going when it's all said and done.
The Big ones I'm wondering about is
Swindle
Ish
Paulnuik
Ehler
The Lee brothers (I'm guessing they're staying)
Tim Kelly reply :
On 9/28/2018 at 2:47 AM, 12poundbass said:The Big ones I'm wondering about is
Swindle
Ish
Paulnuik
Ehler
The Lee brothers (I'm guessing they're staying)
Swindle's gone, Ehler I think will go. BP, no idea, though probably. Ish, he has been on MLF for a few years, but it doesn't really suit his style. If the new format doesn't suit big fish catching, then he might stay. Lee bros? Might be Jordan goes and Matt stays? It would probably suit both of them to fish different tours and get some separation, so they're not constantly competing with each other.
Other than Swindle, this is all guesswork. I imagine it will be quite hard for anyone invited to the MLF to turn it down.
Team9nine reply :
Pretty much this ^^ though I'd say all (Ehrler?)...
I'm hearing 75 or so of invites go, including all the big names. We'll know by end of day tomorrow...
punch reply :
Seth Feider said he was invited to MLF but is staying in BASS. The Feider/Zona bromance is alive and well
12poundbass reply :
I'm not going to lie, in my dream world I was planning on Zona getting an invite. ????
12poundbass reply :
Here is Feider's announcement. Pretty hilarious! *Caution* there's a naughty word but worth the watch!
https://www.facebook.com/SethFeiderFishing/videos/vb.349372135139714/1211022409053112/?type=2&theater&comment_id=1211030542385632&notif_t=video_comment&notif_id=1538076147217317
Here is Feider's announcement. Pretty hilarious! *Caution* there's a naughty word but worth the watch!
https://www.facebook.com/SethFeiderFishing/videos/vb.349372135139714/1211022409053112/?type=2&theater&comment_id=1211030542385632&notif_t=video_comment&notif_id=1538076147217317
OCdockskipper reply :
Here is a left turn on the topic, but staying within the concept of improving Professional Bass Fishing in relation to how it is viewed in comparison of other sports.
The Professional Bass Fishing League. 16 teams are franchised, with the owners choosing a location as their home body of water. It can be a public body of water or a private one, doesn't matter, it is their "stadium" and the teams take the name of the cities or states they are in or near (ie, the Dallas Hookers could have Lake Fork as their home body of water). The owner pays all of the expenses, provides the boats & tackle and signs anglers to contracts. Teams compete against each other each week (or every other week), 8 matches with the details of match play to be determined (i.e., your team could consist of 5 "starters" and a few alternates). Have a season that is a few months long, winners of divisions or conferences complete in (or for the chance to be in) a "Super Bowl" at a neutral site for the championship.
It would have some interesting changes. Right now, anglers are small business people, in this scenario, they could focus more on the fishing. Choosing your home lake and corresponding anglers would be very strategic. Sponsors would get more quality time because they would be sponsoring teams & not individuals. The owners could be wealthy individuals, but more likely would be major players in the Bass fishing industry (boat manufacturers, lure makers, etc).
BASS, FLW or MLF could all create a league and schedule it around their other tournaments.
J.Vincent reply :
On 9/28/2018 at 6:02 AM, OCdockskipper said:Here is a left turn on the topic, but staying within the concept of improving Professional Bass Fishing in relation to how it is viewed in comparison of other sports.
The Professional Bass Fishing League. 16 teams are franchised, with the owners choosing a location as their home body of water. It can be a public body of water or a private one, doesn't matter, it is their "stadium" and the teams take the name of the cities or states they are in or near (ie, the Dallas Hookers could have Lake Fork as their home body of water). The owner pays all of the expenses, provides the boats & tackle and signs anglers to contracts. Teams compete against each other each week (or every other week), 8 matches with the details of match play to be determined (i.e., your team could consist of 5 "starters" and a few alternates). Have a season that is a few months long, winners of divisions or conferences complete in (or for the chance to be in) a "Super Bowl" at a neutral site for the championship.
It would have some interesting changes. Right now, anglers are small business people, in this scenario, they could focus more on the fishing. Choosing your home lake and corresponding anglers would be very strategic. Sponsors would get more quality time because they would be sponsoring teams & not individuals. The owners could be wealthy individuals, but more likely would be major players in the Bass fishing industry (boat manufacturers, lure makers, etc).
BASS, FLW or MLF could all create a league and schedule it around their other tournaments.
This is exactly what I was just talking to someone else about last night; its almost word for word what I was thinking must happen to the sport to put it on par with other Professional Sports. Although I highly doubt it will happen, I think this would change the game more than anything !
RichF reply :
The more I think about it...is this really "good" for the sport? The way I see it, the richest guys in the game just made their own exclusive club..How is this supposed to grow the sport again?
Glenn reply :
What's frustrating, is that many of the pros that jumped ship, voted out the west coast lakes before bailing from B.A.S.S. Why their vote should matter is perplexing to me.
Kinda like voting for NY taxes when you live in Texas, if you ask me.
OCdockskipper reply :
On 9/28/2018 at 12:19 PM, Glenn said:...Kinda like voting for NY taxes when you live in Texas, if you ask me...
I live in California and I would love to be able to vote to raise taxes in Massachusetts, or at least in the city of Boston. I'd be so enthusiastic, I would probably vote 7 or 8 times... ????
Troy85 reply :
On 9/28/2018 at 12:19 PM, Glenn said:What's frustrating, is that many of the pros that jumped ship, voted out the west coast lakes before bailing from B.A.S.S. Why their vote should matter is perplexing to me.
Kinda like voting for NY taxes when you live in Texas, if you ask me.
I'm assuming bass let them vote, hoping if they got their way that maybe they would stay. They should go back with the new 80 angler lineup and revisit to issue(I doubt that will actually happen though). I was really looking forward to watching those west coast lake events on Bassmaster live.
punch reply :
GMAN jumped!
12poundbass reply :
G-man just announced he's going to the BPT.
punch reply :
Mark Rose jumped!! Hot dang.
12poundbass reply :
I am surprised G-man made the switch.
Team9nine reply :
Yep, along with Mark Rose and Dean Rojas. Still quite a few more left to announce if they choose to do so.
punch reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 2:09 AM, Team9nine said:Yep, along with Mark Rose and Dean Rojas. Still quite a few more left to announce if they choose to do so.
I think they are announcing the full roster this weekend? I believe today is the final day for anglers that were invited to make their decision. Boyd said they gave everyone 14 days to decide to accept the invite or not.
Team9nine reply :
A-Mart and Howell just jumped...
punch reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 2:54 AM, Team9nine said:A-Mart and Howell just jumped...
A-Mart's video he just posted is so awkward. He was so nervous to tell everyone he was leaving bass. It's like a sad breakup message to his girlfriend.
Team9nine reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 2:12 AM, punch said:I think they are announcing the full roster this weekend? I believe today is the final day for anglers that were invited to make their decision. Boyd said they gave everyone 14 days to decide to accept the invite or not.
Full list release probably won't come out until next week. Still have to fill in the gaps left by those who declined. Meetings were held over 3 days, so I believe Saturday is the final day for those in the last meeting. Was told some may not announce at all (as individuals).
Troy85 reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 3:00 AM, Team9nine said:Full list release probably won't come out until next week. Still have to fill in the gaps left by those who declined. Meetings were held over 3 days, so I believe Saturday is the final day for those in the last meeting. Was told some may not announce at all (as individuals).
How are you so privy to all this information? Not asking for names, but are you buddies with pros or bpt execs involved with this whole process?
Team9nine reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 3:11 AM, Troy1985s said:How are you so privy to all this information? Not asking for names, but are you buddies with pros or bpt execs involved with this whole process?
Yes...plus Duckett has done several in-depth interviews the past couple days answering much of the questions floating around out there.
Jrob78 reply :
Bass Pro Tour (previous circuit)
1. Edwin Evers (Elite Series)
2. Timmy Horton (Elite Series)
3. Skeet Reese (Elite Series)
4. Boyd Duckett (Elite Series)
5. Marty Robinson (Elite Series)
6. Zack Birge (FLW Tour)
7. JT Kenney (FLW Tour)
8. Greg Hackney (Elite Series)
9. Jason Lambert (FLW Tour)
10. Chris Lane (Elite Series)
11. Alton Jones (Elite Series)
12. Alton Jones Jr. (Elite Series)
13. Jeff Kriet (Elite Series)
14. Randall Tharp (Elite Series)
15. Gerald Spohrer (Elite Series)
16. Fletcher Shryock (Elite Series)
17. Dave Lefebre (Elite Series)
18. Michael Neal (FLW Tour)
19. Andy Montgomery (Elite Series)
20. Kelly Jordon (Elite Series)
21. Mike McClelland (Elite Series)
22. Jared Lintner (Elite Series)
23. Roy Hawk (Elite Series)
24. John Murray (Elite Series)
25. Scott Suggs (FLW Tour)
26. Justin Atkins (FLW Tour)
27. Ott DeFoe (Elite Series)
28. Cody Meyer (FLW Tour)
29. Brent Chapman (Elite Series)
30. Jacob Wheeler (Elite Series)
31. Keith Poche (Elite Series)
32. David Walker (Elite Series)
33. Cliff Crochet (Elite Series)
34. Jacob Powroznik (Elite Series)
35. Russ Lane (Elite Series)
36. Greg Vinson (Elite Series)
37. Brandon Coulter (Elite Series)
38. Mark Davis (Elite Series)
39. Dean Rojas (Elite Series)
40. Terry Scroggins (Elite Series)
41. Gerald Swindle (Elite Series)
42. Mark Rose (FLW Tour)
43. Aaron Martens (Elite Series)
44. James Elam (Elite Series)
45. Randy Howell (Elite Series)
46. Bobby Lane (Elite Series)
47. Takahiro Omori (Elite Series)
48. Brett Hite (Elite Series)
49. Jonathon Van Dam (Elite Series)
50. Fred Roumbanis (Elite Series)
51. Luke Clausen (Elite Series)
Elite Series
> Chris Zaldain (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Keith Combs (non-BPT invitee)
> Micah Frazier (non-BPT invitee)
> Bill Lowen (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Matt Herren (non-BPT invitee)
> Seth Feider (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Chad Pipkens (non-BPT invitee)
> John Crews (non-BPT invitee)
> Brandon Card (non-BPT invitee)
> Cliff Prince (non-BPT invitee)
FLW Tour
> Bryan Thrift (non-BPT invitee)
punch reply :
Man.. Elam wins the final Bass tournament of the year, quits 2 weeks later. Crazy stuff.
Team9nine reply :
Tak now confirmed also...
Jrob78 reply :
I'm going to keep the list above ^^ updated as names come in or until a final list is published.
12poundbass reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 3:16 AM, Team9nine said:Yes...plus Duckett has done several in-depth interviews the past couple days answering much of the questions floating around out there.
You told him, now you must kill him. ????
Team9nine reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 4:53 AM, Jrob78 said:I'm going to keep the list above ^^ updated as names come in or until a final list is published.
Brett Hite - GONE
Team9nine reply :
JVD - GONE
punch reply :
This is the worst possible situation for Bass, their roster has been totally decimated. This is a dark week for them.
Jrob78 reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 6:16 AM, punch said:This is the worst possible situation for Bass, their roster has been totally decimated. This is a dark week for them.
50 confirmed right now, most of them are from BASS with 30 still to go. It's definitely going to change things drastically.
punch reply :
Fred jumped and there's a rumor going around that Lucas is going also.
Gundog reply :
Still not seeing that one name we are all wondering about. If KVD doesn't jump he'll have a big career in BASS. I can see him winning 5 plus tourneys.
NorcalBassin reply :
Can't imagine KVD not going since he's been with MLF since the beginning and been one of their most successful fishermen with multiple wins. Plus it seems like catching a lot of fish in a hurry suits his style perfectly.
fishwizzard reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 2:58 AM, punch said:A-Mart's video he just posted is so awkward. He was so nervous to tell everyone he was leaving bass. It's like a sad breakup message to his girlfriend.
He is a huge talent for sure, but I have never seen an public figure who more seems like they just hate every second of being on camera.
A-Jay reply :
KVD may be the one angler that could make his own rule.
Sort of like ~
"Ya - I'm fishing both derbies. Anyone got a problem with that ?"
A-Jay
punch reply :
I think it's obvious KVD will be in MLF.
A-Jay reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 2:58 AM, punch said:A-Mart's video he just posted is so awkward. He was so nervous to tell everyone he was leaving bass. It's like a sad breakup message to his girlfriend.
@punch
Where is this video - can't find it.
Could I please get a link (or at least a little hint) ?
A-Jay
punch reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 7:07 AM, A-Jay said:@punch
Where is this video - can't find it.
Could I please get a link (or at least a little hint) ?
A-Jay
https://www.facebook.com/AMartFishing/videos/365087160698844/
It's on his facebook page
Team9nine reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 7:07 AM, A-Jay said:@punch
Where is this video - can't find it.
Could I please get a link (or at least a little hint) ?
A-Jay
Martens video
Beat me to it, punch - LOL
Gundog reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 7:07 AM, A-Jay said:@punch
Where is this video - can't find it.
Could I please get a link (or at least a little hint) ?
A-Jay
Its on his facebook page.
A-Jay reply :
@punch @Team9nine @Gundog
Thank You.
A-Jay
Gundog reply :
All I truly know is its a good time to be a amateur bass angler looking to move to the pros.
A-Jay reply :
A-Mart looked like he was actually in pain in that clip.
Really feel for the guy, had to be an agonizing decision.
Bet each group will feel a whole lot better once this deal is done & over with and they can get back to fishing.
A-Jay
12poundbass reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 6:42 AM, punch said:Fred jumped and there's a rumor going around that Lucas is going also.
If Lucas goes right after winning the AOY, I think that might even make Boyd Duckett and Gary Klein wince a little. ????
On 9/29/2018 at 7:13 AM, Gundog said:All I truly know is its a good time to be a amateur bass angler looking to move to the pros.
Make sure you remember your Bassresource brothers when you're at the top! ????
BrianinMD reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 7:02 AM, A-Jay said:KVD may be the one angler that could make his own rule.
Sort of like ~
"Ya - I'm fishing both derbies. Anyone got a problem with that ?"
A-Jay
MLF said anyone fishing too is free to fish the others. Biggest issue will be scheduling it
Team9nine reply :
Is this a Luke Clausen confirmation -
12poundbass reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 7:55 AM, Team9nine said:Is this a Luke Clausen confirmation -
Interesting
Troy85 reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 7:01 AM, fishwizzard said:He is a huge talent for sure, but I have never seen an public figure who more seems like they just hate every second of being on camera.
Amart always seems to look uncomfortable on camera, unless he is explaining some fishing technique. Seems like the only time he seems to not be nervous on camera....kinda like myself at most social events....you will get mostly 1 sentence answeres from me....but you mention fishing and the floodgates open.
12poundbass reply :
KVD just threw his hat in!
Jrob78 reply :
Bass Pro Tour (previous circuit)
1. Edwin Evers (Elite Series)
2. Timmy Horton (Elite Series)
3. Skeet Reese (Elite Series)
4. Boyd Duckett (Elite Series)
5. Marty Robinson (Elite Series)
6. Zack Birge (FLW Tour)
7. JT Kenney (FLW Tour)
8. Greg Hackney (Elite Series)
9. Jason Lambert (FLW Tour)
10. Chris Lane (Elite Series)
11. Alton Jones (Elite Series)
12. Alton Jones Jr. (Elite Series)
13. Jeff Kriet (Elite Series)
14. Randall Tharp (Elite Series)
15. Gerald Spohrer (Elite Series)
16. Fletcher Shryock (Elite Series)
17. Dave Lefebre (Elite Series)
18. Michael Neal (FLW Tour)
19. Andy Montgomery (Elite Series)
20. Kelly Jordon (Elite Series)
21. Mike McClelland (Elite Series)
22. Jared Lintner (Elite Series)
23. Roy Hawk (Elite Series)
24. John Murray (Elite Series)
25. Scott Suggs (FLW Tour)
26. Justin Atkins (FLW Tour)
27. Ott DeFoe (Elite Series)
28. Cody Meyer (FLW Tour)
29. Brent Chapman (Elite Series)
30. Jacob Wheeler (Elite Series)
31. Keith Poche (Elite Series)
32. David Walker (Elite Series)
33. Cliff Crochet (Elite Series)
34. Jacob Powroznik (Elite Series)
35. Russ Lane (Elite Series)
36. Greg Vinson (Elite Series)
37. Brandon Coulter (Elite Series)
38. Mark Davis (Elite Series)
39. Dean Rojas (Elite Series)
40. Terry Scroggins (Elite Series)
41. Gerald Swindle (Elite Series)
42. Mark Rose (FLW Tour)
43. Aaron Martens (Elite Series)
44. James Elam (Elite Series)
45. Randy Howell (Elite Series)
46. Bobby Lane (Elite Series)
47. Takahiro Omori (Elite Series)
48. Brett Hite (Elite Series)
49. Jonathon Van Dam (Elite Series)
50. Fred Roumbanis (Elite Series)
51. Luke Clausen (Elite Series)
52. Kevin VanDam (Elite Series)
53. Shaw Grigsby (Elite Series)
54. Stephen Browning (Elite Series)
55. Todd Faircloth (Elite Series)
56. Tommy Biffle (Elite Series)
57. Casey Ashley (Elite Series)
58. Adrian Avena (Elite Series)
59. Cliff Pace (Elite Series)
Elite Series
> Chris Zaldain (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Keith Combs (non-BPT invitee)
> Micah Frazier (non-BPT invitee)
> Bill Lowen (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Matt Herren (non-BPT invitee)
> Seth Feider (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Chad Pipkens (non-BPT invitee)
> John Crews (non-BPT invitee)
> Brandon Card (non-BPT invitee)
> Cliff Prince (non-BPT invitee)
> Mark Menendez (non-BPT invitee)
> Drew Benton (confirmed BPT invitee)
FLW Tour
> Bryan Thrift (non-BPT invitee)
YoTone reply :
this growing list is shocking.
Team9nine reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 9:49 AM, YoTone said:this growing list is shocking.
Wait until they add Ehrler, Strader, Ish, J-Lee, MDJ, Lucas and Christie to it... 
Update: Add Shaw Grigsby to the MLF/BPT list...
punch reply :
I'm really curious about Brandon Palaniuk
Team9nine reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 10:58 AM, punch said:I'm really curious about Brandon Palaniuk
BP is still a wildcard. Some say he'll go, others aren't certain whether he will or won't. I would think he might go with Lucas...about the only one remaining that might surprise...
punch reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 11:21 AM, Team9nine said:BP is still a wildcard. Some say he'll go, others aren't certain whether he will or won't. I would think he might go with Lucas...about the only one remaining that might surprise...
It will be catastrophic if PB and Lucas both go. Nail in the coffin. All the work Bass did to promote and build their "next generation" down the toilet.
OCdockskipper reply :
It is getting to the point that many "good" Elite anglers can cash in if they don't jump. Someone like Matt Lee could easily become a more recognized angler if they stay in the Elites. Lucas, Lee & Palaniuk, already stars, could push themselves into rarefied air by being top of the heap with all of those other stars gone.
Also, I wonder how this affects Toyota's sponsorship with BASS? Will Toyota follow their anglers to MLF, creating an opening for Chevy, Ford or Dodge to become affiliated with BASS & their new crop of Elites?
12poundbass reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 9:59 AM, Team9nine said:Wait until they add Ehrler, Strader, Ish, J-Lee, MDJ, Lucas and Christie to it...
Update: Add Shaw Grigsby to the MLF/BPT list...
Is this what you're hearing? I see you didn't mention the Lee's in any of this at all.
My guess is that the Lee's stay and BP as well. I'm guessing BASS already knows who planned to stay and go, based on the promo video.
Team9nine reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 8:39 PM, 12poundbass said:Is this what you're hearing? I see you didn't mention the Lee's in any of this at all.
My guess is that the Lee's stay and BP as well. I'm guessing BASS already knows who planned to stay and go, based on the promo video.
Not certain if Matt's going, but Jordan (J-Lee) is from what I hear, along with all the others I mentioned.
12poundbass reply :
On 9/29/2018 at 10:14 PM, Team9nine said:Not certain if Matt's going, but Jordan (J-Lee) is from what I hear, along with all the others I mentioned.
Wow! So the AOY winner and the two-time defending classic champ is slated to go. Ouch! That's going to leave a mark. The 2019 Bassmaster Classic might be a little awkward.
Oops I'm an idiot. I looked back and I see you indeed did mention Jordan Lee. ????
Team9nine reply :
Nothing is really official until confirmed, so obviously it could end differently. Lucas sounds about 100% certain though. Guessing most of the guys mentioned announce sometime today or tomorrow since they had to either claim BASS exemptions or meet MLF deadlines by yesterday or today depending which route they go.
Jrob78 reply :
The fact that Lucas has liked every MLF post on social media tells me he's probably gone. I'm sure he is trying to be respectful of his AOY win and put a little space between that and his announcement.
Gundog reply :
Its going to be interesting to see the line up for the BASS Classic.
Team9nine reply :
Stephen Browning confirmed...
Jrob78 reply :
On 9/30/2018 at 12:04 AM, Gundog said:Its going to be interesting to see the line up for the BASS Classic.
The 2019 Classic won't be effected. MLF has already said that the schedule will be clear for the Classic and Forrest Wood Cup, although I don't know how any MLF guys would qualify for the Cup next year.
Todd Faircloth makes 55, 25 left to go.
punch reply :
Casey Ashley jumped! That's one I didn't see coming.
So to show how truly bad this is for Bass, out of the last 12 Bassmaster Classic winners.. only 2 have not announced they are flipping to MLF:
Takahiro Omori *flipped
KVD *flipped
Boyd Duckett *flipped and destroyed Bass in the process
Alton Jones *flipped
Skeet Reese *flipped
Chris Lane *flipped
Cliff Pace
Randy Howell *flipped
Casey Ashley *flipped
Edwin Evers *flipped
Jordan Lee
WRB reply :
Looks like B.A.S.S. Elites are few and far between, they will need about 50 new anglers to fish their schedule after the Classic.
Tom
Jrob78 reply :
On 9/30/2018 at 2:45 AM, punch said:Casey Ashley jumped! That's one I didn't see coming.
So to show how truly bad this is for Bass, out of the last 12 Bassmaster Classic winners.. only 2 have not announced they are flipping to MLF:
Takahiro Omori *flipped
KVD *flipped
Boyd Duckett *flipped and destroyed Bass in the process
Alton Jones *flipped
Skeet Reese *flipped
Chris Lane *flipped
Cliff Pace
Randy Howell *flipped
Casey Ashley *flipped
Edwin Evers *flipped
Jordan Lee
Add Cliff Pace to the list.
Gundog reply :
On 9/30/2018 at 12:19 AM, Jrob78 said:The 2019 Classic won't be effected. MLF has already said that the schedule will be clear for the Classic and Forrest Wood Cup, although I don't know how any MLF guys would qualify for the Cup next year.
Todd Faircloth makes 55, 25 left to go.
So the pros that are leaving will be fishing the 2019 Classic or FWC but not the rest of the season? Doesn't sound fair to me. Either they are in or out. I'm not taking a side or saying they are right or wrong for leaving or staying with BASS but to show up for one tournament and then go to another league is just wrong, if indeed this is the case.
Jrob78 reply :
On 9/30/2018 at 6:52 AM, Gundog said:So the pros that are leaving will be fishing the 2019 Classic or FWC but not the rest of the season? Doesn't sound fair to me. Either they are in or out. I'm not taking a side or saying they are right or wrong for leaving or staying with BASS but to show up for one tournament and then go to another league is just wrong, if indeed this is the case.
The 2019 Classic is based on the 2018 season that just finished. For most of these guys it will be their last Classic. The FWC is based on next years season, which is why I say I don't know how any of those guys would qualify for it.
punch reply :
The Classic is going to be must-see television. It's going to be the most awkward thing in the world knowing that these guys are all bailing on Bass. It's going to be very interesting to see how they cover that. It's going to be hilarious when someone wins it that is going over to MLF immediately after. They better start praying that someone who stays around wins the classic so they have somebody to promote.
You know someone in a Bass meeting brought up disqualifying all of the flippers from fishing the classic. I really hope there's a documentary on this in 4-5 years that gives you all the behind-the-scenes stuff.
Jrob78 reply :
I'm also wondering when BASS is going to start dropping people off of their website. Half of the stories on the front page are people who are no longer with the organization.
MLF just posted that the full field is finalized as of yesterday but they won't release the names until the anglers have had a chance to do so first.
Jrob78 reply :
Bass Pro Tour (previous circuit)
1. Edwin Evers (Elite Series)
2. Timmy Horton (Elite Series)
3. Skeet Reese (Elite Series)
4. Boyd Duckett (Elite Series)
5. Marty Robinson (Elite Series)
6. Zack Birge (FLW Tour)
7. JT Kenney (FLW Tour)
8. Greg Hackney (Elite Series)
9. Jason Lambert (FLW Tour)
10. Chris Lane (Elite Series)
11. Alton Jones (Elite Series)
12. Alton Jones Jr. (Elite Series)
13. Jeff Kriet (Elite Series)
14. Randall Tharp (Elite Series)
15. Gerald Spohrer (Elite Series)
16. Fletcher Shryock (Elite Series)
17. Dave Lefebre (Elite Series)
18. Michael Neal (FLW Tour)
19. Andy Montgomery (Elite Series)
20. Kelly Jordon (Elite Series)
21. Mike McClelland (Elite Series)
22. Jared Lintner (Elite Series)
23. Roy Hawk (Elite Series)
24. John Murray (Elite Series)
25. Scott Suggs (FLW Tour)
26. Justin Atkins (FLW Tour)
27. Ott DeFoe (Elite Series)
28. Cody Meyer (FLW Tour)
29. Brent Chapman (Elite Series)
30. Jacob Wheeler (Elite Series)
31. Keith Poche (Elite Series)
32. David Walker (Elite Series)
33. Cliff Crochet (Elite Series)
34. Jacob Powroznik (Elite Series)
35. Russ Lane (Elite Series)
36. Greg Vinson (Elite Series)
37. Brandon Coulter (Elite Series)
38. Mark Davis (Elite Series)
39. Dean Rojas (Elite Series)
40. Terry Scroggins (Elite Series)
41. Gerald Swindle (Elite Series)
42. Mark Rose (FLW Tour)
43. Aaron Martens (Elite Series)
44. James Elam (Elite Series)
45. Randy Howell (Elite Series)
46. Bobby Lane (Elite Series)
47. Takahiro Omori (Elite Series)
48. Brett Hite (Elite Series)
49. Fred Roumbanis (Elite Series)
50. Luke Clausen (Elite Series)
51. Kevin VanDam (Elite Series)
52. Jonathon VanDam (Elite Series)
53. Shaw Grigsby (Elite Series)
54. Todd Faircloth (Elite Series)
55. Stephen Browning (Elite Series)
56. Tommy Biffle (Elite Series)
57. Casey Ashley (Elite Series)
58. Adrian Avena (Elite Series)
59. Cliff Pace (Elite Series)
60. Josh Bertrand (Elite Series)
61. Bradley Roy (Elite Series)
62. Wesley Strader (Elite Series)
63. Gary Clouse
64. James Watson (FLW Tour)
65. Jason Christie (Elite Series)
66. Brent Ehrler (Elite Series)
67. Paul Elias (Elite Series)
68. Shin Fukae (Elite Series)
69. Gary Klein (Elite Series)
Elite Series
> Chris Zaldain (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Keith Combs (non-BPT invitee)
> Micah Frazier (non-BPT invitee)
> Bill Lowen (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Matt Herren (non-BPT invitee)
> Seth Feider (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Chad Pipkens (non-BPT invitee)
> John Crews (non-BPT invitee)
> Brandon Card (non-BPT invitee)
> Cliff Prince (non-BPT invitee)
> Mark Menendez (non-BPT invitee)
> Drew Benton (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Clifford Pirch
> Brandon Lester
FLW Tour
> Bryan Thrift (non-BPT invitee)
YoTone reply :
surprised Combs wasnt invited.
DSTN reply :
I'm also a bit surprised by some of the invites vs non-invites, especially amongst Elites. Guess they only had 80 to give though and many more to choose from.
J.Vincent reply :
Sad day for B.A.S.S. , their ship has officially sunk !
Gundog reply :
On 9/30/2018 at 7:33 AM, Jrob78 said:
MLF just posted that the full field is finalized as of yesterday but they won't release the names until the anglers have had a chance to do so first.
No need when we have the internet.
On 9/30/2018 at 7:46 AM, Jrob78 said:Bass Pro Tour (previous circuit)
1. Edwin Evers (Elite Series)
2. Timmy Horton (Elite Series)
3. Skeet Reese (Elite Series)
4. Boyd Duckett (Elite Series)
5. Marty Robinson (Elite Series)
6. Zack Birge (FLW Tour)
7. JT Kenney (FLW Tour)
8. Greg Hackney (Elite Series)
9. Jason Lambert (FLW Tour)
10. Chris Lane (Elite Series)
11. Alton Jones (Elite Series)
12. Alton Jones Jr. (Elite Series)
13. Jeff Kriet (Elite Series)
14. Randall Tharp (Elite Series)
15. Gerald Spohrer (Elite Series)
16. Fletcher Shryock (Elite Series)
17. Dave Lefebre (Elite Series)
18. Michael Neal (FLW Tour)
19. Andy Montgomery (Elite Series)
20. Kelly Jordon (Elite Series)
21. Mike McClelland (Elite Series)
22. Jared Lintner (Elite Series)
23. Roy Hawk (Elite Series)
24. John Murray (Elite Series)
25. Scott Suggs (FLW Tour)
26. Justin Atkins (FLW Tour)
27. Ott DeFoe (Elite Series)
28. Cody Meyer (FLW Tour)
29. Brent Chapman (Elite Series)
30. Jacob Wheeler (Elite Series)
31. Keith Poche (Elite Series)
32. David Walker (Elite Series)
33. Cliff Crochet (Elite Series)
34. Jacob Powroznik (Elite Series)
35. Russ Lane (Elite Series)
36. Greg Vinson (Elite Series)
37. Brandon Coulter (Elite Series)
38. Mark Davis (Elite Series)
39. Dean Rojas (Elite Series)
40. Terry Scroggins (Elite Series)
41. Gerald Swindle (Elite Series)
42. Mark Rose (FLW Tour)
43. Aaron Martens (Elite Series)
44. James Elam (Elite Series)
45. Randy Howell (Elite Series)
46. Bobby Lane (Elite Series)
47. Takahiro Omori (Elite Series)
48. Brett Hite (Elite Series)
49. Fred Roumbanis (Elite Series)
50. Luke Clausen (Elite Series)
51. Kevin VanDam (Elite Series)
52. Jonathon VanDam (Elite Series)
53. Shaw Grigsby (Elite Series)
54. Todd Faircloth (Elite Series)
55. Stephen Browning (Elite Series)
56. Tommy Biffle (Elite Series)
57. Casey Ashley (Elite Series)
58. Adrian Avena (Elite Series)
59. Cliff Pace (Elite Series)60. Josh Bertrand (Elite Series)
61. Bradley Roy (Elite Series)
62. Wesley Strader (Elite Series)
Elite Series
> Chris Zaldain (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Keith Combs (non-BPT invitee)
> Micah Frazier (non-BPT invitee)
> Bill Lowen (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Matt Herren (non-BPT invitee)
> Seth Feider (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Chad Pipkens (non-BPT invitee)
> John Crews (non-BPT invitee)
> Brandon Card (non-BPT invitee)
> Cliff Prince (non-BPT invitee)
> Mark Menendez (non-BPT invitee)
> Drew Benton (confirmed BPT invitee)> Clifford Pirch
FLW Tour
> Bryan Thrift (non-BPT invitee)
NorcalBassin reply :
Really curious about BP and the Lees. The way things are going it would be salt on the gaping wound of BASS.
OCdockskipper reply :
A couple of more thoughts on this to initiate discussions...
Is it wise to have a tournament organization run by the tournament anglers? That is akin to the inmates running the asylum. When you have an independent organization running the tournaments, they are pulled in one direction by the anglers, another direction by the sponsors and a third direction by the public. Since the organization has no alliance to any of the 3, but has to please all 3, typically they figure out how to balance that or die. I wonder if MLF will be so focused on making the anglers happy (in order to attract them) that they will end up alienating either the sponsors or the public, making for a quick demise.
All of those Elite anglers really became household names while being Elite anglers (or while on the BASS tours prior to 2006). Even guys like Ehrler & Christie, who were known commodities, jumped up in name recognition after participating successfully in BASS. Since BASS does a good job in taking talented individuals and giving them a platform to make a name for themselves, doesn't it seem logical that 3 or 4 years from now, the current crop of Elites will be as well known as the current crop of Elites?
Is the new MLF format better for the average angler? I personally have enjoyed marshaling in the past, as well as attending Classic takeoffs, expos & weigh-ins free of charge. If the MLF format is aimed at creating a TV product like their Cup series, those experiences will be no longer available. It also seems like this may put a bit of distance between fans & anglers, that the access we currently have to these pros will no longer be available.
Will the MLF format create the same problem some team sports have where guys know they are getting paid, so occasionally they will mail it in? I know Ish Monroe (as an example) believes he should be paid for showing up, regardless of how well or poor he performs. Rare is the individual in sports that people are interested in paying to see just to watch them show up.
I know some folks knock BASS's coverage team, but they are heads and tales above the MLF cup announcers. It is as if there is a coach on the other side of the MLF camera telling each announcer "now, move your hands apart...back together...now apart". How many times are they going to do the same interview about "anything is possible" as they ride to the event? Don't get me wrong, I tape & watch all MLF cup events, but if they are trying to be the top dog, this is an area that needs improvement big time.
If these questions & comments seem to be partisan for BASS, they probably are. I first became a BASS member as a teen back in the 1970's and the organization has done alot of good over the years, not just for tournament anglers, but for everyday anglers. BASS let opportunities slip by as MLF grew, but showed they are willing to change how their tournaments run by doing things like absorbing TexasFest into BASSFest. I know folks are shoveling dirt on BASS, but I am old enough to remember organizations like the WFL who grabbed Czonka & Kiick from the Dolphins (as well as other NFL stars), but didn't have the organizational aptitude to survive more than a couple of years. Remember that MLF never has run a live tournament, something all the talented anglers in the world can't help them with.
Gundog reply :
@OCdockskipper all good points and I've wondered about them myself especially about the longevity of MLF. On some points only time will tell. I agree that in a couple of years we will have a new crop of elite anglers in BASS. Its the way things have always been. One thing I will say is that I believe sponsors will be happy if the show does well in the ratings. It like any sporting event. If the ratings are high sponsors will feel they are getting good return for their investment. I too have attended BASS launches and weigh-ins here in the northeast and will probably go to the tourney in Cayuga, NY in 2019 again. In the northeastern part of the US bass fishing events aren't the draw they are in the south. The BASS tourney in Philly was not a success and the upstate NY event wasn't big by any means. The tv-friendly format would be better in those markets. Just my opinions.
Log Catcher reply :
If B.A.S.S. invites Charlie Hartley, Pete Ponds and a few others that used to be in the elite series back they might have a dozen people to fish the classic.
J.Vincent reply :
They will have to invite quite a few formers to round out the field of 80. I’m actually very interested to see what the full field of B.A.S.S. elites will look like now !
Logan S reply :
They won't be inviting anyone...BASS has well defined qualification routes to the Elite series, primarily through the Opens. They will simply work down the list until they fill the field. Many of the anglers fishing the Opens are doing so with the intention/goal/dream of fishing the Elite Series so they probably won't have to go very far down the list.
The Classic qualifications are defined as well. There is no 'inviting' for the BASS Elites or Classic, anglers need to qualify for both.
volzfan59 reply :
On 10/1/2018 at 3:11 AM, J.Vincent said:They will have to invite quite a few formers to round out the field of 80. I’m actually very interested to see what the full field of B.A.S.S. elites will look like now !
For a while, it will probably look like a FLW Tour event. A few guys you've heard of, a couple more that you recognize their name and the majority you've never heard of. B.A.S.S.be will be just fine, FLW probably will be too. I'm like "ocdockskipper", I remember the old WFL too. Big names don't a lasting tournament trail make. The fans have to buy in.
Arlo Smithereen reply :
On 9/30/2018 at 2:16 PM, OCdockskipper said:A couple of more thoughts on this to initiate discussions...
Is it wise to have a tournament organization run by the tournament anglers? That is akin to the inmates running the asylum. When you have an independent organization running the tournaments, they are pulled in one direction by the anglers, another direction by the sponsors and a third direction by the public. Since the organization has no alliance to any of the 3, but has to please all 3, typically they figure out how to balance that or die. I wonder if MLF will be so focused on making the anglers happy (in order to attract them) that they will end up alienating either the sponsors or the public, making for a quick demise.
All of those Elite anglers really became household names while being Elite anglers (or while on the BASS tours prior to 2006). Even guys like Ehrler & Christie, who were known commodities, jumped up in name recognition after participating successfully in BASS. Since BASS does a good job in taking talented individuals and giving them a platform to make a name for themselves, doesn't it seem logical that 3 or 4 years from now, the current crop of Elites will be as well known as the current crop of Elites?
Is the new MLF format better for the average angler? I personally have enjoyed marshaling in the past, as well as attending Classic takeoffs, expos & weigh-ins free of charge. If the MLF format is aimed at creating a TV product like their Cup series, those experiences will be no longer available. It also seems like this may put a bit of distance between fans & anglers, that the access we currently have to these pros will no longer be available.
Will the MLF format create the same problem some team sports have where guys know they are getting paid, so occasionally they will mail it in? I know Ish Monroe (as an example) believes he should be paid for showing up, regardless of how well or poor he performs. Rare is the individual in sports that people are interested in paying to see just to watch them show up.
I know some folks knock BASS's coverage team, but they are heads and tales above the MLF cup announcers. It is as if there is a coach on the other side of the MLF camera telling each announcer "now, move your hands apart...back together...now apart". How many times are they going to do the same interview about "anything is possible" as they ride to the event? Don't get me wrong, I tape & watch all MLF cup events, but if they are trying to be the top dog, this is an area that needs improvement big time.
If these questions & comments seem to be partisan for BASS, they probably are. I first became a BASS member as a teen back in the 1970's and the organization has done alot of good over the years, not just for tournament anglers, but for everyday anglers. BASS let opportunities slip by as MLF grew, but showed they are willing to change how their tournaments run by doing things like absorbing TexasFest into BASSFest. I know folks are shoveling dirt on BASS, but I am old enough to remember organizations like the WFL who grabbed Czonka & Kiick from the Dolphins (as well as other NFL stars), but didn't have the organizational aptitude to survive more than a couple of years. Remember that MLF never has run a live tournament, something all the talented anglers in the world can't help them with.
Sounds like you've got some major bias for BASS, and that's understandable. I'll just be glad I don't have to hear Dave Mercer screaming UNBELIEVABLE over and over.
12poundbass reply :
another site is reporting that today the full BPT roster will be revealed. It's been set for a couple days but are giving the guys time to announce it themselves.
12poundbass reply :
Correction my eyes read one thing and my tiny little brain processed it completely different. LOL
The BPT has the commitment of 80 anglers. They won't reveal the full list today, but will let the anglers make the announcement themselves. Sorry for the mix up.
punch reply :
https://www.instagram.com/p/BoZJcWXA-YO/?utm_source=ig_share_sheet&igshid=amathsufv9bx
Brent Ehrler jumped
YoTone reply :
anyone have any info if Scott Martin was invited?
buzzbaiter83 reply :
I like the idea behind The MLF Bass Tour. Most other sports have a players union and these guys didn’t have the representation they deserved. Most bass clubs are angler driven and it’s nice to see the guys generating money get some say so.
This will give anglers another avenue to make a living fishing. There are 3 major tours now which opens the doors for more guys. If you’re a fan of the sport & not just a fan of a particular angler then you should be happy there will be more opportunities to watch fishing. While I’m a fan of 5 bass weigh in tourneys, I still like the MLF model. But I also enjoy watching guys cast all day on bass live.
Jrob78 reply :
Only 11 guys left to announce.
Team9nine reply :
On 10/1/2018 at 10:06 PM, YoTone said:anyone have any info if Scott Martin was invited?
Scott didn't get an invite - at least not one of the first 80.
On 10/1/2018 at 10:55 PM, Jrob78 said:Only 11 guys left to announce.
MDJ, Ike, Ish, J-Lee and Lucas will probably eat up 5 of those. M-Lee and other Shryock might take a couple more. BP could make 8. Several will probably announce tomorrow on Ike Live. Happy to see Shin get an invite and go.
12poundbass reply :
On 10/1/2018 at 11:14 PM, Team9nine said:Scott didn't get an invite - at least not one of the first 80.
MDJ, Ike, Ish, J-Lee and Lucas will probably eat up 5 of those. M-Lee and other Shryock might take a couple more. BP could make 8. Several will probably announce tomorrow on Ike Live. Happy to see Shin get an invite and go.
Ike Live tomorrow would be a good listen that's for sure.
If your predictions are correct I wonder who that's last to would be?
12poundbass reply :
I just read that if Ike and J.Lee make the jump to MLF that will be every classic champ for the last 15 years now fishing MLF. Pretty shocking.
On 10/1/2018 at 10:00 PM, punch said:https://www.instagram.com/p/BoZJcWXA-YO/?utm_source=ig_share_sheet&igshid=amathsufv9bx
Brent Ehrler jumped
Did you happen to see the one pro angler he tagged and gave a ???? to on the Instagram post you linked? Sounds like he spilled the beans.
BassNJake reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 1:13 AM, 12poundbass said:I just read that if Ike and J.Lee make the jump to MLF that will be every classic champ for the last 15 years now fishing MLF. Pretty shocking.
Did you happen to see the one pro angler he tagged and gave a ???? to on the Instagram post you linked? Sounds like he spilled the beans.
You want to sneak me a hint as to who he tagged?
Unable to access social media at work to take a look
J Francho reply :
Justin Lucas
12poundbass reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 1:25 AM, BassNJake said:You want to sneak me a hint as to who he tagged?
Unable to access social media at work to take a look
@J Francho is correct Justin Lucas
J Francho reply :
To be sure it was in response to Justin's congrats.
12poundbass reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 1:45 AM, J Francho said:To be sure it was in response to Justin's congrats.
Oh it was? I didn't even notice that! You can tell it's Monday! Geez I suck at life today! ???? I'm putting myself in timeout until 5pm. ????
Jrob78 reply :
Bass Pro Tour (previous circuit)
1. Edwin Evers (Elite Series)
2. Timmy Horton (Elite Series)
3. Skeet Reese (Elite Series)
4. Boyd Duckett (Elite Series)
5. Marty Robinson (Elite Series)
6. Zack Birge (FLW Tour)
7. JT Kenney (FLW Tour)
8. Greg Hackney (Elite Series)
9. Jason Lambert (FLW Tour)
10. Chris Lane (Elite Series)
11. Alton Jones (Elite Series)
12. Alton Jones Jr. (Elite Series)
13. Jeff Kriet (Elite Series)
14. Randall Tharp (Elite Series)
15. Gerald Spohrer (Elite Series)
16. Fletcher Shryock (Elite Series)
17. Dave Lefebre (Elite Series)
18. Michael Neal (FLW Tour)
19. Andy Montgomery (Elite Series)
20. Kelly Jordon (Elite Series)
21. Mike McClelland (Elite Series)
22. Jared Lintner (Elite Series)
23. Roy Hawk (Elite Series)
24. John Murray (Elite Series)
25. Scott Suggs (FLW Tour)
26. Justin Atkins (FLW Tour)
27. Ott DeFoe (Elite Series)
28. Cody Meyer (FLW Tour)
29. Brent Chapman (Elite Series)
30. Jacob Wheeler (Elite Series)
31. Keith Poche (Elite Series)
32. David Walker (Elite Series)
33. Cliff Crochet (Elite Series)
34. Jacob Powroznik (Elite Series)
35. Russ Lane (Elite Series)
36. Greg Vinson (Elite Series)
37. Brandon Coulter (Elite Series)
38. Mark Davis (Elite Series)
39. Dean Rojas (Elite Series)
40. Terry Scroggins (Elite Series)
41. Gerald Swindle (Elite Series)
42. Mark Rose (FLW Tour)
43. Aaron Martens (Elite Series)
44. James Elam (Elite Series)
45. Randy Howell (Elite Series)
46. Bobby Lane (Elite Series)
47. Takahiro Omori (Elite Series)
48. Brett Hite (Elite Series)
49. Fred Roumbanis (Elite Series)
50. Luke Clausen (Elite Series)
51. Kevin VanDam (Elite Series)
52. Jonathon VanDam (Elite Series)
53. Shaw Grigsby (Elite Series)
54. Todd Faircloth (Elite Series)
55. Stephen Browning (Elite Series)
56. Tommy Biffle (Elite Series)
57. Casey Ashley (Elite Series)
58. Adrian Avena (Elite Series)
59. Cliff Pace (Elite Series)
60. Bradley Roy (Elite Series)
61. Josh Bertrand (Elite Series)
62. Wesley Strader (Elite Series)
63. Gary Clouse (no tour affiliation)
64. James Watson (FLW Tour)
65. Jason Christie (Elite Series)
66. Gary Klein (Elite Series)
67. Shinichi Fukae (Elite Series)
68. Brent Ehrler (Elite Series)
69. Paul Elias (Elite Series)
70. Britt Myers (FLW Tour)
71. Matt Lee (Elite Series)
72. Justin Lucas (Elite Series)
73. Jordan Lee (Elite Series)
74. Andy Morgan (FLW Tour)
75. Jesse Wiggins (Elite Series)
76. Dustin Connell (Elite Series)
77. Brandon Palaniuk (Elite Series)
Elite Series
> Chris Zaldain (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Keith Combs (non-BPT invitee)
> Micah Frazier (non-BPT invitee)
> Bill Lowen (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Matt Herren (non-BPT invitee)
> Seth Feider (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Chad Pipkens (non-BPT invitee)
> John Crews (non-BPT invitee)
> Brandon Card (non-BPT invitee)
> Cliff Prince (non-BPT invitee)
> Mark Menendez (non-BPT invitee)
> Drew Benton (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Clifford Pirch (non-BPT invitee)
> Hank Cherry (non-BPT invitee)
FLW Tour
> Bryan Thrift (non-BPT invitee)
punch reply :
Matt Lee jumped! This must mean Jordan's gone. Bass must be BEGGING Brandon to stay. He's the only young "star" they will have left?
12poundbass reply :
I read Justin Lucas jumped. It was on his Instagram. I don't do social media besides this so someone else can confirm.
Back in the corner I go. ????
scaleface reply :
Scott Martin wasnt invited ? Someone must seriously dislike him .
Team9nine reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 3:08 AM, scaleface said:Scott Martin wasnt invited ? Someone must seriously dislike him .
The way it's playing out, this seems way bigger than who likes who. It's more like which organization do we want to kill, and which do we want to protect? You protect FLW by leaving most all its stars intact.
punch reply :
Yeah it seems pretty obvious that MLF is trying to devalue and destroy Bass.
I think the end game is for a Johnny Morris to purchase Bass at a discount once it's brand is diminished.
BrianinMD reply :
J. Lee confirmed MLF via Facebook and Instagram
Troy85 reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 3:14 AM, Team9nine said:The way it's playing out, this seems way bigger than who likes who. It's more like which organization do we want to kill, and which do we want to protect? You protect FLW by leaving most all its stars intact.
No doubt.
Its funny, the past couple weeks I've heard it mentioned many times about how its so hard to make a living in this sport, and only a few pros are able to do it in the current system(which MLF claims they are trying to fix). Yet, The only ones invited are the ones who are already making a good living from pro fishing. The lesser named guys who are more likely struggling to make it, who probably need the guaranteed payout of MLF are the ones who didn't get invited.
Not blaming MLF or the pros decisions, in the end its just business.
punch reply :
The thing I find the most interesting is out of 50+ Bass Elite anglers that are jumping ship, EVERYONE is saying how GREAT Bass was to them and are thanking them left and right as they exit their organization. Nobody is keeping it real and explaining why they actually left.
I wish one of them would tell the truth... hopefully Ike on his live show this week?
ratherbfishin1 reply :
This might be a dumb question but, is all this a good thing or bad thing? I’m just lost now
punch reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 4:23 AM, ratherbfishin1 said:This might be a dumb question but, is all this a good thing or bad thing? I’m just lost now
Well, let's break it down..
MLF = GREAT for them because they created a new tour out of thin air and acquired the biggest names in the sport in the first year of it's operation. They didn't have to build up the BPT over time. They basically got all the A list anglers right out of the gate. Best case senario for them. They havn't had a single BPT event yet and have the best roster in fishing locked in for 3 years.
Bass = total disaster for them. They have to reboot their entire Elite division. All the time they have spent building up anglers and creating a prestigious brand has been decimated. To make it worse they have NOTHING to promote this next year. They lost all 12 of their previous Classic winners, and their reigning AOY is gone. Who do they use in their marketing?! They look terrible in all of this for not being able to retain.. anyone. Something stinks there and it's really obvious. Will their big sponsors pull out?
FLW = They got some residual damage when their current AOY champion jumped, but their big stars are still in-tact AND they have the best minor league system in fishing. It seems they are going to not really benefit or be hurt while MLF rips all the meat off Bass's carcass.
ratherbfishin1 reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 4:36 AM, punch said:Well, let's break it down..
MLF = GREAT for them because they created a new tour out of thin air and acquired the biggest names in the sport in the first year of it's operation. They didn't have to build up the BPT over time. They basically got all the A list anglers right out of the gate. Best case senario for them. They havn't had a single BPT event yet and have the best roster in fishing locked in for 3 years.
Bass = total disaster for them. They have to reboot their entire Elite division. All the time they have spent building up anglers and creating a prestigious brand has been decimated. To make it worse they have NOTHING to promote this next year. They lost all 12 of their previous Classic winners, and their reigning AOY is gone. Who do they use in their marketing?! They look terrible in all of this for not being able to retain.. anyone. Something stinks there and it's really obvious. Will their big sponsors pull out?
FLW = They got some residual damage when their current AOY champion jumped, but their big stars are still in-tact AND they have the best minor league system in fishing. It seems they are going to not really benefit or be hurt while MLF rips all the meat off Bass's carcass.
I think I got it now, thanks!
12poundbass reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 3:57 AM, Troy1985s said:No doubt.
Its funny, the past couple weeks I've heard it mentioned many times about how its so hard to make a living in this sport, and only a few pros are able to do it in the current system(which MLF claims they are trying to fix). Yet, The only ones invited are the ones who are already making a good living from pro fishing. The lesser named guys who are more likely struggling to make it, who probably need the guaranteed payout of MLF are the ones who didn't get invited.
Not blaming MLF or the pros decisions, in the end its just business.
Not everyone on that list are making a great living. Yes there are a lot of big names but not all of them are making big money.
scaleface reply :
Reminds me of the Monday Night wrestling wars when WCW took a lot of the talent from WWF . WWF is still here WCW not .
Gundog reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 4:09 AM, punch said:The thing I find the most interesting is out of 50+ Bass Elite anglers that are jumping ship, EVERYONE is saying how GREAT Bass was to them and are thanking them left and right as they exit their organization. Nobody is keeping it real and explaining why they actually left.
I wish one of them would tell the truth... hopefully Ike on his live show this week?
I learned a long time ago not to burn bridges. It only makes it tougher to cross them again. I think most of the BASS anglers are feeling a bit apprehensive about the jump so they are being cautious. Besides, it doesn't make a good impression on the next employer to bash the previous employer. It lets them know what is in store for them if you leave.
Jrob78 reply :
Andy Morgan is in!
Down to 4 spots. I imagine Ike and BP will be 2 of those.
12poundbass reply :
I'm not and FLW so I don't know any of the names except for Scott Martin and a couple others who were on MLF but I guess a couple big FLW names jumped to MLF. Andy Morgan being one.
punch reply :
Andy Morgan is a big shocker.
Another bombshell
smallies24/7 reply :
BMP to MLF
12poundbass reply :
Brandon Paulnuik to BPT!
Apparently my page didn't refresh so I see I'm about 50 minutes late to the party. I'm throwing in the towel and going to bed! ????
12poundbass reply :
So that makes 77 right now. Who are the last three? Ish, Ike, and MDJ? Hunter Shryock is left out, which is understandable.
A-Jay reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 8:10 AM, 12poundbass said:Brandon Paulnuik to BPT!
Apparently my page didn't refresh so I see I'm about 50 minutes late to the party. I'm throwing in the towel and going to bed! ????
A-Jay
Jrob78 reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 8:27 AM, 12poundbass said:So that makes 77 right now. Who are the last three? Ish, Ike, and MDJ? Hunter Shryock is left out, which is understandable.
Those 3 guys were exactly who I am thinking too. Ish, Ike and MJD.
ohboyitsrobby reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 6:36 AM, scaleface said:Reminds me of the Monday Night wrestling wars when WCW took a lot of the talent from WWF . WWF is still here WCW not .
That's an absolutely awesome comparison. A lot of them are not burning the bridge because a permanent spot on the bpt not guaranteed so some may have to go back. A lot of all this revolves around bass not taking care of their anglers. As entry fees and expenses have gone up the prize money has not although it's been promised. And I imagine Scott Martin didn't get invited because the only ppl that like him are his family and fans. I hate to bash a man I don't know but the cups been here twice and word spreads.
ubfishy reply :
Ish Monroe just announced on IG. Another MLFer
volzfan59 reply :
I'm sorry, but Gary Clouse? Really?
Jrob78 reply :
Bass Pro Tour (previous circuit)
1. Edwin Evers (Elite Series)
2. Timmy Horton (Elite Series)
3. Skeet Reese (Elite Series)
4. Boyd Duckett (Elite Series)
5. Marty Robinson (Elite Series)
6. Zack Birge (FLW Tour)
7. JT Kenney (FLW Tour)
8. Greg Hackney (Elite Series)
9. Jason Lambert (FLW Tour)
10. Chris Lane (Elite Series)
11. Alton Jones (Elite Series)
12. Alton Jones Jr. (Elite Series)
13. Jeff Kriet (Elite Series)
14. Randall Tharp (Elite Series)
15. Gerald Spohrer (Elite Series)
16. Fletcher Shryock (Elite Series)
17. Dave Lefebre (Elite Series)
18. Michael Neal (FLW Tour)
19. Andy Montgomery (Elite Series)
20. Kelly Jordon (Elite Series)
21. Mike McClelland (Elite Series)
22. Jared Lintner (Elite Series)
23. Roy Hawk (Elite Series)
24. John Murray (Elite Series)
25. Scott Suggs (FLW Tour)
26. Justin Atkins (FLW Tour)
27. Ott DeFoe (Elite Series)
28. Cody Meyer (FLW Tour)
29. Brent Chapman (Elite Series)
30. Jacob Wheeler (Elite Series)
31. Keith Poche (Elite Series)
32. David Walker (Elite Series)
33. Cliff Crochet (Elite Series)
34. Jacob Powroznik (Elite Series)
35. Russ Lane (Elite Series)
36. Greg Vinson (Elite Series)
37. Brandon Coulter (Elite Series)
38. Mark Davis (Elite Series)
39. Dean Rojas (Elite Series)
40. Terry Scroggins (Elite Series)
41. Gerald Swindle (Elite Series)
42. Mark Rose (FLW Tour)
43. Aaron Martens (Elite Series)
44. James Elam (Elite Series)
45. Randy Howell (Elite Series)
46. Bobby Lane (Elite Series)
47. Takahiro Omori (Elite Series)
48. Brett Hite (Elite Series)
49. Fred Roumbanis (Elite Series)
50. Luke Clausen (Elite Series)
51. Kevin VanDam (Elite Series)
52. Jonathon VanDam (Elite Series)
53. Shaw Grigsby (Elite Series)
54. Todd Faircloth (Elite Series)
55. Stephen Browning (Elite Series)
56. Tommy Biffle (Elite Series)
57. Casey Ashley (Elite Series)
58. Adrian Avena (Elite Series)
59. Cliff Pace (Elite Series)
60. Bradley Roy (Elite Series)
61. Josh Bertrand (Elite Series)
62. Wesley Strader (Elite Series)
63. Gary Clouse (no tour affiliation)
64. James Watson (FLW Tour)
65. Jason Christie (Elite Series)
66. Gary Klein (Elite Series)
67. Shinichi Fukae (Elite Series)
68. Brent Ehrler (Elite Series)
69. Paul Elias (Elite Series)
70. Britt Myers (FLW Tour)
71. Matt Lee (Elite Series)
72. Justin Lucas (Elite Series)
73. Jordan Lee (Elite Series)
74. Andy Morgan (FLW Tour)
75. Jesse Wiggins (Elite Series)
76. Dustin Connell (Elite Series)
77. Brandon Palaniuk (Elite Series)
78. Ish Monroe (Elite Series)
79. Mark Daniels Jr. (Elite Series)
Elite Series
> Chris Zaldain (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Keith Combs (non-BPT invitee)
> Micah Frazier (non-BPT invitee)
> Bill Lowen (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Matt Herren (non-BPT invitee)
> Seth Feider (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Chad Pipkens (non-BPT invitee)
> John Crews (non-BPT invitee)
> Brandon Card (non-BPT invitee)
> Cliff Prince (non-BPT invitee)
> Mark Menendez (non-BPT invitee)
> Drew Benton (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Clifford Pirch (non-BPT invitee)
> Hank Cherry (non-BPT invitee)
FLW Tour
> Bryan Thrift (non-BPT invitee)
Jason Penn reply :
just got home from work, and watched brandon p's vid on youtube. while listening to him talk about growing the sport (just like all the other announcement vids i've watched) i realized "hey they just opened up 80 slots on the other tours for new anglers!" so they ain't just runnin off at the head...they are truly growing the sport
punch reply :
What big names are left? Ike.. MDJ..
Almost the entire d**n field of the 2018 AOY tournament jumped
https://www.bassmaster.com/results/tournaments/2018-toyota-bassmaster-angler-year-championship/1
OCdockskipper reply :
Reading between the lines of the anglers announcements and the MLF press releases, I am getting the feeling that a good percentage of the anglers jumped as a way to give the middle finger to BASS as well as to make more money. I think one of their selling points to the anglers, that they have a seat at the table in deciding how the organization operates, may well be their downfall.
For example, in one of the MLF press releases, the following is written as a positive for the new circuit:
"Although the full schedule has not yet been announced, anglers and fans alike will be pleased to see a schedule that does not require anglers to travel or fish on major holidays such as Mother’s Day and Memorial Day, a welcome change to the schedule anglers have become accustomed to in fishing other leagues."
As a fan, what do I care if a pro angler has to travel or work on holidays? If I am paying money to watch them (or spending money with the sponsors), I want to watch them when it it is convenient for me, not them. Professional golfers play on Mothers Day. Professional Tennis players play on Memorial Day. Professional Football players play on Thanksgiving. Professional Basketball players play on Christmas. Part of what you give up for being a big money professional in all sports is working on a few holidays. I sense the attitude from MLF is that since they as anglers now have control of the schedule, they will work when they want to, not when most people are available to watch (live).
If I am reading this correctly, it makes me wonder what other changes will be done because the anglers want them? Anglers have always complained about spectator boats, will there be official MLF staff boats to keep the public away from the anglers while they are on the water? If the organization is run by the participants, their number one concern will always be for the participants. Having that tunnel vision perspective is really dangerous, especially when some of the loudest voices (Ike, Ish) appear to always have a chip on their shoulder.
Don't get me wrong, if I was a pro angler, it would be very tempting to jump to an organization like this. It is akin to offering a kid cake & ice cream for dinner. I just have a sneaking suspicion that this organization is set up incorrectly, that the emphasis will be to please the anglers and the sponsors and that no one is looking out for the fans.
OCdockskipper reply :
By my count, there will be 43 Elites left if Ike & MDJ leave, so they will need to fill 37 spots from the Opens. I wonder if they will temporarily offer a few more "Legend exemptions" to try to tempt the Roland Martins of the world to fish for a couple of years until they recover from the losses.
Strategy wise, I wonder if MLF may have made a mistake by not leaving 2 or 3 top anglers at BASS. It seems like fan following drops if the same couple of guys are always winning. If MLF had not invited say Aaron Martens and Edwin Evers (just examples, not realistic), they might have goofy the growth of BASS. By taking all of the biggest names, MLF leaves a pretty even field behind, which can lead to some competitive tournaments in the future for BASS. Good competition leads to stronger fields and higher viewing levels, IMO.
You also have to wonder if there were cliques involved and who Keith Combs, Steve Kennedy & Cliff Pirch ticked off to not be invited. It may be a blessing in disguise for guys like that because they don't have to make the decision and can appear loyal to BASS without really having a choice. Plus all 3 are probably odds on favorite now for the 2019 AOY.
12poundbass reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 10:21 AM, volzfan59 said:I'm sorry, but Gary Clouse? Really?
I was scratching my head at that one too.
Jeff Staffer reply :
I wont watch mlf because i find it boring. THeir selling this as something that your wives are going to watch as well which wont happen.
Are any of these guys really superstars or just familiar faces.
Bobby lane out john cox in
matt lee out carl jocumsen in
Bass will make stars i just hope if any of the guys who left want to come back they have to re qualify and lose all exemptions.
I also hope bass doesnt try to fill the whole roster out from the opens. Their are big names and future stars to go after at flw
moguy1973 reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 8:12 PM, Jeff Staffer said:THeir selling this as something that your wives are going to watch as well which wont happen.
My wife hates watching fishing on TV. But she loves watching the MLF format on TV and that's saying a lot.
J Francho reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 12:34 PM, OCdockskipper said:If I am paying money to watch them (or spending money with the sponsors), I want to watch them when it it is convenient for me, not them.
Is it really more convenient to watch bass fishing on Mothers' Day? LOL.
Jeff Staffer reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 8:28 PM, moguy1973 said:My wife hates watching fishing on TV. But she loves watching the MLF format on TV and that's saying a lot.
yeah but if you werent there watching it would she watch 20 other things that are on at the time.
IndianaFinesse reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 9:01 PM, J Francho said:Is it really more convenient to watch bass fishing on Mothers' Day? LOL.
I'd say it's possibly more dangerous????
12poundbass reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 8:12 PM, Jeff Staffer said:I wont watch mlf because i find it boring. THeir selling this as something that your wives are going to watch as well which wont happen.
Are any of these guys really superstars or just familiar faces.
Bobby lane out john cox in
matt lee out carl jocumsen in
Bass will make stars i just hope if any of the guys who left want to come back they have to re qualify and lose all exemptions.
I also hope bass doesnt try to fill the whole roster out from the opens. Their are big names and future stars to go after at flw
My wife and my dad will watch MLF from time to time, but would rather claw their eye's out watching any other fishing. Everyone behind MLF/BPT are smart, they realize things will have to be tweaked here and there in order for this to be viable say 5-10 plus years down the road.
As far as the guys making the just are they superstars? For a portion of us on this site absolutely a majority are and almost all are recognizable. Outside of here not so much. My wife can name about 4, my neighbor knows who KVD is and that's about it.
It's looking like BPT it here to stay.
J Francho reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 9:18 PM, Jeff Staffer said:yeah but if you werent there watching it would she watch 20 other things that are on at the time.
I have no idea what the point is here. I don't watch much of it, especially not on Mothers' Day and Memorial Day. Professional bass fishing has very little to offer the average angler. It isn't relatable to me. To me, MLF is a television product, set to make some money, and all to the benefit of the on screen talent.
1simplemann reply :
K- Pink doesn't have a lot of love for BASS and it's payouts. He has said MLF is the future of tournament bass fishing. He could be one of the last slots. He's been on the show before.
Troy85 reply :
MDJ just announced that he's going MLF. Whats that 79?
Team9nine reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 9:57 PM, Troy1985s said:MDJ just announced that he's going MLF. Whats that 79?
Yep - makes Ike the last man standing ????
A-Jay reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 10:09 PM, Team9nine said:Yep - makes Ike the last man standing ????
Figures.
What are the chances that Ike just decides to quite the sport and take up competitive Dog Grooming ?
A-Jay
12poundbass reply :
He'll announce tonight on Ike Live. A part of me wonders if he might retire? He has his new show coming out in 2 weeks, that obviously wouldn't make him rich by any means but he also has Fishing University and his podcast. He has talked about retiring in the past year or two. I really don't see it happening but maybe.
A-Jay reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 10:40 PM, 12poundbass said:He'll announce tonight on Ike Live. A part of me wonders if he might retire? He has his new show coming out in 2 weeks, that obviously wouldn't make him rich by any means but he also has Fishing University and his podcast. He has talked about retiring in the past year or two. I really don't see it happening but maybe.
That actually makes sense -
Still think he's making a mistake passing on the dog grooming opportunity.
"Mike Clipper Hands"
A-Jay
punch reply :
With MDJ jumping now all my personal favorite Bass anglers are on MLF... I guess I know what I'm watching next year.
Did Feider and Zaldane make a mistake by turning down the invite?
A-Jay reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 10:54 PM, punch said:With MDJ jumping now all my personal favorite Bass anglers are on MLF... I guess I know what I'm watching next year.
Did Feider and Zaldane make a mistake by turning down the invite?
Guess time will tell -
Think the Big Fish in a little pond deal applies ?
A-Jay
12poundbass reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 10:54 PM, punch said:With MDJ jumping now all my personal favorite Bass anglers are on MLF... I guess I know what I'm watching next year.
Did Feider and Zaldane make a mistake by turning down the invite?
Feider could very well cash multiple checks a year. He's a self proclaimed "smallmouth head" but he's been up there on some large mouth events too. Steve Kennedy is another who could benefit from everyone leaving.
GReb reply :
Not having to deal with a livewell, culling, and the constant fear of a fish dying would be enough for me to move to MLF.
But seriously its all about tv. With Bass Pro’s connections and marketing they will will have a lot more opportunities to land long term contracts and sponsorships. Bass Pro’s name brings stability.
fishwizzard reply :
A common complaint about MLF is that it’s a “dink fest”, but has anyone ever done the math to see if the average tourny win generaly comes from catching piles of smaller bass? I tried to google around for data like this but the curret drama is all thats showing up.
curtis9 reply :
On 10/3/2018 at 12:34 AM, fishwizzard said:A common complaint about MLF is that it’s a “dink fest”, but has anyone ever done the math to see if the average tourny win generaly comes from catching piles of smaller bass? I tried to google around for data like this but the curret drama is all thats showing up.
The elite series has their share of dink fest as well, it's just 5 small fish. Look at the weights from Sabine and the AOY championship this year.
I think the MLF format rewards guys that can find big fish, and many events come down to quantity vs. quality. I'm curious how the lakes can hold up to 2 days of practice and then 6 tournament days with this format. In 5 fish tournaments guys will leave and to save the spot for the next day, this may not be an option in this format.
J Francho reply :
On 10/3/2018 at 12:51 AM, curtis9 said:In 5 fish tournaments guys will leave and to save the spot for the next day, this may not be an option in this format.
Good point! I wondered about this as well.
TOXIC reply :
I still fall back on my stance that as soon as they give them a location and practice days, the interesting thing of watching how they break down water is lost. I hope they keep that aspect in MLF. Plus there's a big difference between finding fish and finding what used to be called "tournament" fish.
A-Jay reply :
On 10/3/2018 at 12:51 AM, curtis9 said:
The elite series has their share of dink fest as well, it's just 5 small fish. Look at the weights from Sabine and the AOY championship this year.
I think the MLF format rewards guys that can find big fish, and many events come down to quantity vs. quality. I'm curious how the lakes can hold up to 2 days of practice and then 6 tournament days with this format. In 5 fish tournaments guys will leave and to save the spot for the next day, this may not be an option in this format.
Solid point.
Be interested myself. The strategy of 'saving fish' in a derby where 'every scorable bass' counts may take on a different shape.
A-Jay
fishwizzard reply :
On 10/3/2018 at 12:55 AM, TOXIC said:I still fall back on my stance that as soon as they give them a location and practice days, the interesting thing of watching how they break down water is lost.
Agreed. That part of MLF is the only “useful” part for me, the rest is just entertainment.
The main thing that I want to see in an expanded MFL is a renewd commitment to fish-care. All their handling rules and penalties set a great example, especially for people
who don’t obsessively read fourms and don’t really get that info anyother way.
GReb reply :
Have they announced an official tournament format?
Team9nine reply :
General format information is out there, but hard to track down with all the chatter. Basically the 8 regular events will feed the 4 Cup events which will determine the Championship participants. More details forthcoming.
Specifically on practice, I think the details will make all the difference since they haven't defined what a practice day looks like. It could be traditional two days of practice, but others were pushing for practice to be ride-arounds only, no rods or fishing allowed.
A third interesting option could be they give you the names of all the lakes in an area where a tourney will be held, and two days to practice, but nothing else. Under the old format, you don't know the lake you'll fish that day until they tell you in the morning. Even on big lakes they may restrict you to just competing in a smaller section of the lake. I think you could make an entire episode following guys around for two days while they try and decide where to practice and how much time on each body of water. The available options,gambles and decisions would make for great TV IMO.
TnRiver46 reply :
I just hope the biggest 5 fish limit doesn't go away. I don't care what they call the tour or who is on each tour, I just don't like watching the major league fishing competition because of the format. It Seems more like a tournament you would see on YouTube between the googans than an official championship competition
12poundbass reply :
On 10/3/2018 at 2:41 AM, TnRiver46 said:I just hope the biggest 5 fish limit doesn't go away. I don't care what they call the tour or who is on each tour, I just don't like watching the major league fishing competition because of the format. It Seems more like a tournament you would see on YouTube between the googans than an official championship competition
The 5 fish limit isn't going away there is still the Elite series and FLW.
On 10/3/2018 at 2:09 AM, Team9nine said:I think you could make an entire episode following guys around for two days while they try and decide where to practice and how much time on each body of water. The available options,gambles and decisions would make for great TV IMO.
I agree 100%. I don't watch too many YouTube videos that some of the pros have so to see an episode of several breaking down a lake and getting inside the minds of some of these guys would be priceless in my mind. Great idea!
punch reply :
Ike says he's having the MLF, FLW & Bass brass on Ike Live tonight.. wow that's going to be weird.
Jeff Staffer reply :
I wish bass would go live with their college series that would be awesome,
J.Vincent reply :
Sounds like some of these anglers are already hinting at the development of a National Angler Ranking System ; ) so does anyone know when IKE Live starts ?
GReb reply :
On 10/3/2018 at 3:13 AM, J.Vincent said:Sounds like some of these anglers are already hinting at the development of a National Angler Ranking System ; ) so does anyone know when IKE Live starts ?
7 eastern on ikelive.com
nosdog2 reply :
I got in late, did he make an announcement?
fishwizzard reply :
On 10/3/2018 at 8:02 AM, nosdog2 said:I got in late, did he make an announcement?
Turned it on for a second but all I could do was stare transfixed at Ike's mustache.
nosdog2 reply :
YEah, he hasn't said anything yet. I imagine he is going to drag it out the entire show to keep the listeners on. Not hating on the technique, but I am going to bed.
Jeff Staffer reply :
only 1000 watching . He doesnt have the reach or clout i thought he did. 16 year olds fishing ponds get more views on youtube
J.Vincent reply :
Would have been 1001 if I had left the river earlier; is there a re-broadcast or recording we can check out ?
GReb reply :
On 10/3/2018 at 9:27 AM, J.Vincent said:Would have been 1001 if I had left the river earlier; is there a re-broadcast or recording we can check out ?
I’m sure it will be a podcast. I plan on listening tomorrow at work
YoTone reply :
any one catch on Ikes cast when Hank Cherry got upset about not being asked and asking if it was personal because he's not swinging a crappy white rod?
LMAO!
punch reply :
Ike didn't "reveal" which tour he's fishing.. he cut the feed as he pretended to make the announcement. Ultimate troll. I love it.
J.Vincent reply :
So I actually caught the last 60 minutes of the IKE Live broadcast, and man I'm happy I didn't watch the entire 5 hour broadcast : )
Arlo Smithereen reply :
On 10/2/2018 at 8:12 PM, Jeff Staffer said:I wont watch mlf because i find it boring. THeir selling this as something that your wives are going to watch as well which wont happen.
Are any of these guys really superstars or just familiar faces.
Bobby lane out john cox in
matt lee out carl jocumsen in
Bass will make stars i just hope if any of the guys who left want to come back they have to re qualify and lose all exemptions.
I also hope bass doesnt try to fill the whole roster out from the opens. Their are big names and future stars to go after at flw
You're wrong. I've had housewives who couldn't care less about fishing telling me they watched MLF and liked it.
Team9nine reply :
On 10/3/2018 at 12:26 PM, J.Vincent said:So I actually caught the last 60 minutes of the IKE Live broadcast, and man I'm happy I didn't watch the entire 5 hour broadcast : )
Not a fan of the show, either...
YoTone reply :
not surprising that Ikes in.
whos the biggest star now in B.A.S.S now that its been gutted?
1simplemann reply :
I wonder what Dave Mercer is going to say next year at the weigh in's? "Here's Joe Blo, he caught a 5lb'r last year". He's going to have study and learn 50 new guys!
12poundbass reply :
Pretty funny that Ike runs his show 5 hours last night and at the very end acts as if he's making his announcement and then cuts out (so I've been told) then announces it on FB just a little bit ago. Ole Ike putting his marketing degree to work.
Love him or hate him he can flat out fish, has credentials that no other angler has, is good for fishing and the fans, and is a great marketing mind. ????
scaleface reply :
So let me get this straight . I have never watched MLF . They dont have a creel limit ? You catch 50 one lb bass you have 50 lbs ?
J Francho reply :
On 10/3/2018 at 10:03 PM, scaleface said:So let me get this straight . I have never watched MLF . They dont have a creel limit ? You catch 50 one lb bass you have 50 lbs ?
If those 50 one pounders are legal size, then yes.
scaleface reply :
On 10/3/2018 at 10:06 PM, J Francho said:If those 50 one pounders are legal size, then yes.
Beetle spin ought to become a major sponsor . My Uncle Steve could compete in one of these events .
12poundbass reply :
On 10/3/2018 at 10:06 PM, J Francho said:If those 50 one pounders are legal size, then yes.
They switched it to one pound and bigger. There's no minimum size limit anymore.
DHP reply :
I would hope they’d go to a best weight of 5 fish.
12poundbass reply :
On 10/3/2018 at 10:53 PM, DHP said:I would hope they’d go to a best weight of 5 fish.
They already said it's still going to be every scorable fish.
bowhunter63 reply :
Ike live was a joke last night,Boyd avoided the questions like a congressman.Then it cuts out in the middle of the interview.Wonder if it goes down hill will BASS or FLW take these guys back.Gonna be interesting,But you can win a ton of money catching dinks all day.
J.Vincent reply :
On 10/3/2018 at 8:10 PM, Team9nine said:Not a fan of the show, either...
I'm a big fan of Iaconelli , and his Classic victory in New Orleans still gives me goose bumps whenever I watch the footage....As for the show, I wish Mike would stick to specific broadcast lengths and not stretch 1 hour into a 5 hour marathon. And the audio quality of the broadcast needs work, It sounds like the shows callers are on a CB radio
Jrob78 reply :
I watched some of it last night. Ike and Pete are ok but those other 2 guys made it unwatchable.
I did find it interesting that BASS offered guys a $50,000 bonus to stay and only a few took it. BASS brought this on themselves by not listening to the anglers, resentment has been brewing for years.
OCdockskipper reply :
On 10/3/2018 at 9:44 PM, 1simplemann said:I wonder what Dave Mercer is going to say next year at the weigh in's? "Here's Joe Blo, he caught a 5lb'r last year". He's going to have study and learn 50 new guys!
I believe there will be about 40 new Elites, but if some of them are guys like Carl Jocumson or other past Elites, there will be some familiar faces.
I also have a sneaking feeling that Roland Martin may make a 1 year commitment via the Legends exemption. You know he would love a shot at a Classic title & 2020 might be a great opportunity against a less experienced field (2019 Classic will still be loaded).
volzfan59 reply :
On 10/4/2018 at 12:00 AM, J.Vincent said:I'm a big fan of Iaconelli , and his Classic victory in New Orleans still gives me goose bumps whenever I watch the footage....As for the show, I wish Mike would stick to specific broadcast lengths and not stretch 1 hour into a 5 hour marathon. And the audio quality of the broadcast needs work, It sounds like the shows callers are on a CB radio
J.Vincent, If you haven't, read Joe's book. You will love his Classic victory even more! In a nut shell, he was down and out, physically, mentally and emotionally. Looking at a divorce, he said that the Classic was going to be his last tournament. Then he wins the dang thing! If I remember correctly, all of that is where his phrase "Never give up" came from.
I've had the good fortune to meet him twice. Super nice guy. I can't begin to tell you how nice he was to my youngest son.
Logan S reply :
On 10/4/2018 at 12:42 AM, Jrob78 said:I did find it interesting that BASS offered guys a $50,000 bonus to stay and only a few took it. BASS brought this on themselves by not listening to the anglers, resentment has been brewing for years.
It was $20k bonus toward entry fees, not $50k cash. I think the reason so many didn't bite is becasue their sponsors were covering some/all of their entries either way...And those sponsors wanted the anglers in MLF.
There's got to be more to the financial story on MLF/BPT, because if you look at the numbers about entries/payouts/etc objectively, the new BASS deal is better than BPT for current Elite anglers. No way that many guys bail on the better plan just out of spite or resentment toward BASS....There's more to those numbers that MLF/BPT isn't releasing yet (if ever).
Jeff Staffer reply :
Rolland wont be there hes another guy owned by johnny morris.
Bass should abandon their qualifing rules for this year and invite a bunch.
redux reply :
I'm glad we are starting to hear from some BPT invitees who turned it down. Feider and Benton both make some good points in the Bass Zone article and I appreciate how self aware they are.
12poundbass reply :
On 10/4/2018 at 1:52 AM, Jeff Staffer said:Rolland wont be there hes another guy owned by johnny morris.
Bass should abandon their qualifing rules for this year and invite a bunch.
That makes no sense. You do realize Johnny Morris sponsors all 3 tours right?
Who is 2 of Mark Zona's biggest sponsors?
On 10/4/2018 at 1:45 AM, volzfan59 said:J.Vincent, If you haven't, read Joe's book. You will love his Classic victory even more! In a nut shell, he was down and out, physically, mentally and emotionally. Looking at a divorce, he said that the Classic was going to be his last tournament. Then he wins the dang thing! If I remember correctly, all of that is where his phrase "Never give up" came from.
I've had the good fortune to meet him twice. Super nice guy. I can't begin to tell you how nice he was to my youngest son.
I have his book and read it 3 times. It's a pretty good book that gives fishing tips, his journey from his first bass he caught, how sponsorships work, to some of the sides of professional bass fishing most of us don't see.
punch reply :
On 10/4/2018 at 1:52 AM, Logan S said:It was $20k bonus toward entry fees, not $50k cash. I think the reason so many didn't bite is becasue their sponsors were covering some/all of their entries either way...And those sponsors wanted the anglers in MLF.
There's got to be more to the financial story on MLF/BPT, because if you look at the numbers about entries/payouts/etc objectively, the new BASS deal is better than BPT for current Elite anglers. No way that many guys bail on the better plan just out of spite or resentment toward BASS....There's more to those numbers that MLF/BPT isn't releasing yet (if ever).
I think there's a few factors there. Based on what Boyd has said publicly, and what the anglers have said between the lines, it seems to me that the TV package that MLF will have will be pretty substantial since they are partners with KSE (Outdoor channel, Sportsmen Channel, World Fishing Network). They all seem to feel the online & TV exposure that MLF will have will dwarf Bass & FLW. How extensive the media platform MFL has is still under wraps, but it obviously must be pretty amazing for everyone to rush to it. The other thing that the anglers seem to be excited about is having a say in how the tour functions. They keep mentioning that anglers will be involved in tour decisions & all members will have a voice. Boyd even said that the tournament structure and payouts can likely change before the tour starts based on the anglers decisions. It's not set in stone.
Ike was pretty clear last night that they all feel fed up by Bass and their stagnet payout structure and overall lack of progressing the sport forward. Bass is stale and resting on it's name alone and not "advancing the sport".
Jrob78 reply :
On 10/4/2018 at 1:52 AM, Logan S said:It was $20k bonus toward entry fees, not $50k cash. I think the reason so many didn't bite is becasue their sponsors were covering some/all of their entries either way...And those sponsors wanted the anglers in MLF.
There's got to be more to the financial story on MLF/BPT, because if you look at the numbers about entries/payouts/etc objectively, the new BASS deal is better than BPT for current Elite anglers. No way that many guys bail on the better plan just out of spite or resentment toward BASS....There's more to those numbers that MLF/BPT isn't releasing yet (if ever).
I know about the 20k toward entry fees for guys who registered early but I'm pretty sure Ike's wife brought up the 50k bonus to Dave Precht when they were talking to him. She asked him about guys turning down 50k to stay and paying 50k to MLF. I could have misheard though, the audio was pretty bad.
Team9nine reply :
On 10/4/2018 at 2:14 AM, Jrob78 said:I know about the 20k toward entry fees for guys who registered early but I'm pretty sure Ike's wife brought up the 50k bonus to Dave Precht when they were talking to him. She asked him about guys turning down 50k to stay and paying 50k to MLF. I could have misheard though, the audio was pretty bad.
Didn't watch Ike Live, but BASS threw out that money option (50k) to at least a few of the Elite anglers trying to get them to stay on ????
J Francho reply :
On 10/4/2018 at 3:03 AM, Team9nine said:Didn't watch Ike Live, but BASS threw out that money option (50k) to at least a few of the Elite anglers trying to get them to stay on ????
I'll take a stab.... KVD, Ike, Swindle, Reese....
BassNJake reply :
On 10/4/2018 at 2:09 AM, punch said:I think there's a few factors there. Based on what Boyd has said publicly, and what the anglers have said between the lines, it seems to me that the TV package that MLF will have will be pretty substantial since they are partners with KSE (Outdoor channel, Sportsmen Channel, World Fishing Network). They all seem to feel the online & TV exposure that MLF will have will dwarf Bass & FLW. How extensive the media platform MFL has is still under wraps, but it obviously must be pretty amazing for everyone to rush to it. The other thing that the anglers seem to be excited about is having a say in how the tour functions. They keep mentioning that anglers will be involved in tour decisions & all members will have a voice. Boyd even said that the tournament structure and payouts can likely change before the tour starts based on the anglers decisions. It's not set in stone.
Ike was pretty clear last night that they all feel fed up by Bass and their stagnet payout structure and overall lack of progressing the sport forward. Bass is stale and resting on it's name alone and not "advancing the sport".
MLF's online exposure is nothing like BASS.
You have to pay to see anything online and there is not any live coverage due to their TV deals.
This may change but I doubt it.
I'd venture to guess there will be a lot more ways to pay for content thru various packages.
The same stuff we have been watching for years for free.
Advancing the sport is getting Colleges, High Schools and the youth involved.
BASS has been doing this, MLF has not.
I guess we'll have to wait and see how this shakes out and see how committed to advancing the sport MLF is.
GReb reply :
It’s a shame we can’t have both formats. Both are compelling and fun to watch. I think most of the fans who’ve been around the sport for years will always gravitate to the 5 fish limit though. I know bass and flw aren’t going anywhere but the first few years will be rough
It’d be nice if they used different formats within a tournament. Best 5 one day, all scorable the next. Restrict different areas each day. Something to keep it interesting and award the best well rounded anglers that week.
Jeff Staffer reply :
On 10/4/2018 at 2:09 AM, punch said:I think there's a few factors there. Based on what Boyd has said publicly, and what the anglers have said between the lines, it seems to me that the TV package that MLF will have will be pretty substantial since they are partners with KSE (Outdoor channel, Sportsmen Channel, World Fishing Network). They all seem to feel the online & TV exposure that MLF will have will dwarf Bass & FLW. How extensive the media platform MFL has is still under wraps, but it obviously must be pretty amazing for everyone to rush to it. The other thing that the anglers seem to be excited about is having a say in how the tour functions. They keep mentioning that anglers will be involved in tour decisions & all members will have a voice. Boyd even said that the tournament structure and payouts can likely change before the tour starts based on the anglers decisions. It's not set in stone.
Ike was pretty clear last night that they all feel fed up by Bass and their stagnet payout structure and overall lack of progressing the sport forward. Bass is stale and resting on it's name alone and not "advancing the sport".
Can anyone else see a problem with 80 anglers each thinking they will be in on making decisions for the league. These guys may be killing eachother by next fall.
buzzbaiter83 reply :
On 10/3/2018 at 12:34 AM, fishwizzard said:A common complaint about MLF is that it’s a “dink fest”, but has anyone ever done the math to see if the average tourny win generaly comes from catching piles of smaller bass? I tried to google around for data like this but the curret drama is all thats showing up.
If you’ve ever watched BASS Live on some of the northern lakes or southern spotted bass lakes it can be a total dink fest too. I watched most of the tournaments when I wasn’t fishing myself and it’s just like any other trip. Lot of casting and not a lot of catching. Guys may catch a couple fish per hour or go hours without a bite. Depending on the lakes they fish we’ll see different strategies come in to play and could be good drama seeing which will play out. MLF was running a lot of smaller lakes and I’m betting they change with angler input. Imagine the weights at Chik on schooling 5-8lb bass in early spring.
1simplemann reply :
I just read on BF about the anglers decisions to change formats. Interesting stuff. The anglers will have a say. Some just wanted a change. Others liked Faster boats. No livewells + fish care + no balance beams etc. 40 boats fields, less anglers. new venues. More TV exposure, better chance to get non endemic sponsors. Lot's of reason's why they switched. I like the fact that they will be going to different places. BASS was getting boring in that regard.
volzfan59 reply :
Several have mentioned "faster boats". What have I missed?
1simplemann reply :
On 10/5/2018 at 9:43 AM, volzfan59 said:Several have mentioned "faster boats". What have I missed?
No livewells full of water.. 80 gal x 8lbs = 640 lbs. Less weight=more speed
volzfan59 reply :
"1simplemann", thanks buddy.
fishwizzard reply :
On 10/5/2018 at 10:10 AM, 1simplemann said:No livewells full of water.. 80 gal x 8lbs = 640 lbs. Less weight=more speed
Man, you could fit a lot of beer and ice in an 80g tank.
J Francho reply :
80 gallon livewells? Try 30.
WRB reply :
The 80 member MLF team is announced, impressive list.
Tom
12poundbass reply :
^^^^^^????
detroit1 reply :
As fans of bass fishing, we all win. If I were b.a.s.s., I would be devastated. If I were f.l.w., not so much. Although I like the mlf format and love to watch, I think over-all it is inferior to the biggest 5 format. It is a lot harder to catch 5 bigguns than 15 dinks. I almost feel like I could compete in mlf, but not bass or flw….
OCdockskipper reply :
One thing I noticed is how different the two tours have tried to market their anglers (at least in the past). BASS uses the the pros as an interviewee, some one who is answering specific questions about bass fishing. This is done in their "Day on the Lake" series as well as other how-to articles. There is a little background and personal information, but it is basically surface stuff and not always 100% relevant (i.e., calling Litner the "MilkMan" because he used to do that).
MLF is trying to make them entertainers, not just pro anglers. They are trying to have these guys hold an audience without being interviewed, at least in the promo videos and how-to segments on their website. A few (Swindle, Ike, KVD) can do that, but most can't and look like they have been coached as to how to wave their hands around while speaking. It reminds me of the change the the TV show "The Bass Pros" made when they stopped having anglers host the segments (giving that job to Zona) and just had them teach while angling.
scaleface reply :
On 10/6/2018 at 10:49 PM, detroit1 said:I almost feel like I could compete in mlf, but not bass or flw….
Thats the way I feel too .
GReb reply :
Starting to see the best part about having a big 3 instead of big 2 as anglers who’ve been running around the country fishing open tournaments for years announce their Elite membership
TOXIC reply :
I got an email from my friend Yusuke Miyazaki over the weekend that he is back into the Elites. He said that this was due to his finishes in the Opens. He failed to re-qualify in his last year in the Elites.
YoTone reply :
On 10/4/2018 at 1:52 AM, Logan S said:It was $20k bonus toward entry fees, not $50k cash. I think the reason so many didn't bite is becasue their sponsors were covering some/all of their entries either way...And those sponsors wanted the anglers in MLF.
On 10/4/2018 at 3:03 AM, Team9nine said:Didn't watch Ike Live, but BASS threw out that money option (50k) to at least a few of the Elite anglers trying to get them to stay on ????
On 10/4/2018 at 3:05 AM, J Francho said:I'll take a stab.... KVD, Ike, Swindle, Reese....
I spoke to Adrian Avena and he said he was offered $50K that would be wired directly to his bank account if he agreed to stay with B.A.S.S for 3 years. So if he was offered that im sure all the Elites were offered that, not only the top guns.
Everyone except Duckett im guessing lmao.
Team9nine reply :
On 10/9/2018 at 10:45 PM, YoTone said:
I spoke to Adrian Avena and he said he was offered $50K that would be wired directly to his bank account if he agreed to stay with B.A.S.S for 3 years. So if he was offered that im sure all the Elites were offered that, not only the top guns.
Everyone except Duckett im guessing lmao.
Yep - it was equivalent (in my mind) to a 50k signing bonus, above and beyond the publicized perks that were part of the BASS payout makeover. Not certain how many were offered, but certainly more than just Adrian. I think they went after a lot of the younger guys with that offer, hoping the money would sway their decision.
Logan S reply :
Would be hard to know these things if you weren't "in the know"....I stand corrected.
Another reason to think that there's a lot more to the MLF/BPT deal than what has been published so far. It's hard for me to believe that so many anglers would leave BASS as a no-entry fee platform with a $50k signing bonus purely for spite.
12poundbass reply :
There must be some pretty big projected profit sharing with the BPT. That would be hard to turn down.
scaleface reply :
Scott Martin said he turned down MLF to stay with FLW .
Scott F reply :
On 10/10/2018 at 12:54 AM, scaleface said:Scott Martin said he turned down MLF to stay with FLW .
He also said he wasn’t invited. Can you turn down an invitation you were never given?
scaleface reply :
On 10/10/2018 at 1:55 AM, Scott F said:He also said he wasn’t invited. Can you turn down an invitation you were never given?
Yep , youre right .
Gundog reply :
On 10/10/2018 at 1:55 AM, Scott F said:Can you turn down an invitation you were never given?
Sure you can. I do it all the time. I once turned down Heather Locklear's invitation to go to the prom. She never asked but I was busy that day and couldn't go. ????
RichF reply :
On 10/10/2018 at 1:57 AM, scaleface said:
Yep , youre right .
Smart, diplomatic response from Scotty. He and Thrift are gonna rule the FLW Tour.
BoatSquirrel reply :
I love the no weigh in, no live well approach of MLF but for the 8 tournament tour, those boys are going to beat the crap out of the fish in the lakes they go to. Every fish counts so no managing the schools for tomorrow!
burrows reply :
On 10/10/2018 at 1:55 AM, Scott F said:He also said he wasn’t invited. Can you turn down an invitation you were never given?
But it made for a darn good click baity video and that’s what really matters nowadays to Scott it seems????
DINK WHISPERER reply :
On 10/11/2018 at 9:07 AM, Burrows said:But it made for a darn good click baity video and that’s what really matters nowadays to Scott it seems????
I've noticed that too about him. That's all that matters to everyone now though! Glad tactical bassin is still true to the game.
1simplemann reply :
Gary Clouse it out. He's going to the Elites. BPT needs 1 more angler. Who will it be?
12poundbass reply :
On 10/14/2018 at 10:43 PM, 1simplemann said:Gary Clouse it out. He's going to the Elites. BPT needs 1 more angler. Who will it be?
I looked in my mailbox, no invite......just bills.
1simplemann reply :
Same here. Whose it gonna be? Zona?? LOL He'd never leave BASS but I sure would like see how he would do against these guys.
12poundbass reply :
On 10/14/2018 at 11:25 PM, 1simplemann said:Same here. Whose it gonna be? Zona?? LOL He'd never leave BASS but I sure would like see how he would do against these guys.
I was hoping Zona would get and invite and go. I too would love to see him fish the BPT.
punch reply :
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/10/18/business/professional-bass-fishing-bass-pro-tour.html
NY Times actually did a story on the industry shakeup.
Tennessee Boy reply :
On 10/20/2018 at 12:47 AM, punch said:https://www.nytimes.com/2018/10/18/business/professional-bass-fishing-bass-pro-tour.html
NY Times actually did a story on the industry shakeup.
Thanks. Very interesting read. I never knew Smallmouth had razor sharp fins. ????
J Francho reply :
On 10/20/2018 at 12:47 AM, punch said:https://www.nytimes.com/2018/10/18/business/professional-bass-fishing-bass-pro-tour.html
NY Times actually did a story on the industry shakeup.
Some of the troll comments are gold!
Tennessee Boy reply :
On 10/20/2018 at 12:47 AM, punch said:https://www.nytimes.com/2018/10/18/business/professional-bass-fishing-bass-pro-tour.html
NY Times actually did a story on the industry shakeup.
New York Times Fishing Dictionary
livewell (noun) - A compartment behind the boat’s seats that acts as an aerated swimming pool for captured fish.
12poundbass reply :
On 10/20/2018 at 2:45 AM, J Francho said:Some of the troll comments are gold!
I wonder if they were trolls or clueless people? The one where the fish are murdered after they're caught was quite sad but hilarious at the same time.
Gundog reply :
On 10/20/2018 at 2:45 AM, J Francho said:Some of the troll comments are gold!
On 10/20/2018 at 8:54 PM, 12poundbass said:I wonder if they were trolls or clueless people? The one where the fish are murdered after they're caught was quite sad but hilarious at the same time.
The trolls are probably people who live in cities in the Northeast or in California and think the tree growing outside their apartment building is nature.
Russ E reply :
On 10/20/2018 at 8:54 PM, 12poundbass said:I wonder if they were trolls or clueless people?
If they are making ridiculous comments online is there really a difference.
It is sad, but hilarious, what some people believe.
reminds me of the people that say cow Pharts are ruining the ozone.
In 40 years of bass fishing, I don't ever recall hearing a banana is a fish repelllant. Learn something new everyday.
TnRiver46 reply :
On 10/20/2018 at 11:49 PM, Russ E said:If they are making ridiculous comments online is there really a difference.
It is sad, but hilarious, what some people believe.
reminds me of the people that say cow Pharts are ruining the ozone.
In 40 years of bass fishing, I don't ever recall hearing a banana is a fish repelllant. Learn something new everyday.
The banana this is a widely held superstition, mostly among saltwater captains but lots of freshwater guides have adopted it as well. I thought I heard it originated from a ship full of bananas sinking but I’m not sure
Team9nine reply :
Snopes on the superstition
And a great satirical video on the subject...notice they never even mention or appear to acknowledge the bananas on the boat
OCdockskipper reply :
One thing I thought of today as far as the differences in the tournaments is the impact on the local economies of those towns where tournaments are held out of. If I remember correctly, when the Elite series goes to most towns in the South & NorthEast, there is a positive impact for the local merchants. I don't think it is tourism dollars as much as the everyday money spent on food and gas by those who come to view or are associated with the tournament. Tourism dollars most likely come later after the event is shown on TV and folks elsewhere decide to come visit.
If this is correct, the MLF tournaments won't have any immediate impact on these communities. Not that MLF or the pro anglers owe anything to these small towns, just a note of the difference the effect of these two tours will be.
For example, my sister lives about 25 miles southeast of Bainbridge, Georgia, where most of the BASS tournaments on Lake Seminole are held out of. She had some damage from Hurricane Michael, but those towns closer to Lake Seminole took a beating. If BASS were to schedule a tournament on Seminole, either the season ending AOY for 2019 or one of the opening events for 2020, it would make a positive difference for the towns in that area. MLF really can't do that, they just aren't designed to bring people to an specific area.
WRB reply :
Where do you think the contestants and camera/production crews sleeps and eats while filming the event? B.A.S.S. and FLW difinately draw more folks to the event weigh in and local anglers following the contestants around the lakes, that is missing in MLF events.
Time will tell how's all this works itself out.
Tom
OCdockskipper reply :
On 10/21/2018 at 4:51 AM, WRB said:Where do you think the contestants and camera/production crews sleeps and eats while filming the event?
Tom
I don't believe the contestants spend as much as spectators because for them it is a business expense as opposed to a couple days of vacation.
Pros group up for sleeping arrangements or crash at an aquantainces house. They will be spending, but they will be more frugal.
Scott F reply :
MLF might not be a boon to local merchants during the event, but months later, after the public sees the event on TV, tourists will show up. I’m going to plan a vacation to the Alpena Michigan area after seeing the great smallmouth fishing during 2 different MLF events.
1simplemann reply :
On 10/14/2018 at 10:43 PM, 1simplemann said:Gary Clouse it out. He's going to the Elites. BPT needs 1 more angler. Who will it be?
Gags from FLW took an open slot on the BPT. As well as Jeff Sprague. Where did the extra slot come from? Both announced on 10/20. according to another site.
Rick Howard reply :
I fail to see how the MLF is growing the sport.
moguy1973 reply :
On 10/21/2018 at 10:17 PM, Rick Howard said:I fail to see how the MLF is growing the sport.
Before this happened how often did you see professional fishing on tv? I don’t recall seeing FLW on tv at all and every now and then a BASS event may have been on ESPN or something. MLF is going to air a lot more giving more exposure to fishing, and a new type of fishing at that. More competition always makes things better rather than the same ole same.
livin2fish reply :
Plus MLF is the only fishing show that has the interest value to keep me awake.
J.Vincent reply :
The whole industry needs an enama, and that includes the fans and spectators. At the very least, the new BPT is a shot in the arm to the industry ; a welcomed change for many and a total disruption for others. What I like, is there is now a tournament trail for Pros who care about entertaining the fans and there is a Tournament Trail for Pros who care more about the Traditional Tournament competition.
Rick Howard reply :
I don't think TV coverage matters if your audience doesn't have cable. TV is there to advertise to those who already watch. If TV is their only plan than it's not a good plan.
Let me frame my comment different. I read, BPT/MLF is going to grow the sport. I've read nothing on how they intend to do so.
Currently we have a blanket statement on growing the sport. I would like them to acknowledge and address the other issues that lead them in this direction.
Having another tour may be a a really good start. First it creates competition between tours to draw the best anglers to each. Second it has created more spots for more anglers. This is my speculation; Not MLF statement. Now that The Who is who isn't has concluded. I'd like to hear what the plan is for growth of the game. If they can't back up those statements it will appear as a cash grab by selected anglers desguised as something else.
Food for thought... Maybe pro anglers are asking for more than the sport can provide. We all love this sport. Maybe our passion blinds us to the fact, Bass fishing is not that popular. In your day to day life how many of your friends and colleagues fish? How many for bass? How many exclusive to bass? Im not saying that you have to be exclusive but it's more likely that person is your audience.
fishwizzard reply :
On 10/22/2018 at 12:17 AM, Rick Howard said:Maybe our passion blinds us to the fact, Bass fishing is not that popular. In your day to day life how many of your friends and colleagues fish? How many for bass? How many exclusive to bass? Im not saying that you have to be exclusive but it's more likely that person is your audience.
"According to the most recent National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Associated Recreation, produced by various federal agencies, bass are the most popular fishing target in America. Nearly 36 million people older than 16 went fishing in 2016, and they spent some $43 billion on equipment and travel. By rough comparison, about 24 million Americans played golf in 2016, according to the National Golf Foundation, and they spent about $32 billion on the same categories."
From the NYTimes article posted on the last page. I guess I would have though "fishing" as a whole would be more popular then golf, but not by nearly that much.
In terms of "friends and colleagues", I think it depends on where you live and what you do. I live by the Chesapeake Bay and work in the event/entertainment industry, so I run into very few bass fisherman but a decent number of saltwater guys.
Gundog reply :
Just my opinion but I think ESPN, who owned BASS for a time, dropped BASS once they saw it wasn't as profitable as they thought it would be and then just used the BASS tournaments as nothing more than a slot filler for their schedule. They didn't seem interested in advertising or consistently placing the tourneys in the same time slot or even the same channel. Now, at times, BASS tourneys might be on at 7, 8 or 9 am, Saturday or Sunday and on ESPN 1, 2 or 3. With changes like that its no wonder tv viewership is terrible. The Outdoor Channel seems to be willing to play MLF on a more routine schedule. Again, just my opinion.
Swbass15 reply :
I believe they also have a contract with cbs?? I think the idea of an all fish count tourney appeals to a lot of folks. I work with at least five other guys who bass fish. None of them like the idea of a five fish tourney. They all do enjoy MLF formats and will watch it.
I think MLF will need to developed a strategy on how to involve youth anglers as BASS and FLW have. With a format that draws more attention, one that will be viewed better in the eyes of non-fisherman (catch-weigh-immediate release), and the possible interest from non fishing sponsors I don’t see how they don’t have the potential to grow the sport.
J.Vincent reply :
The strategy or the potential strategy and infrastructure is possible with the score tracker software the MLF and BPT are using to log catches. The software tutorials are in their main webpage and can be adopted by fish clubs or sanctioned Trails. When the public gets on board , then there will be a universal way to track catches at non BPT events. This is all down the road and in the pipeline from what I understand and will or could lead to a new standard
Rick Howard reply :
On 10/22/2018 at 1:29 AM, fishwizzard said:"According to the most recent National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Associated Recreation, produced by various federal agencies, bass are the most popular fishing target in America. Nearly 36 million people older than 16 went fishing in 2016, and they spent some $43 billion on equipment and travel. By rough comparison, about 24 million Americans played golf in 2016, according to the National Golf Foundation, and they spent about $32 billion on the same categories."
From the NYTimes article posted on the last page. I guess I would have though "fishing" as a whole would be more popular then golf, but not by nearly that much.
In terms of "friends and colleagues", I think it depends on where you live and what you do. I live by the Chesapeake Bay and work in the event/entertainment industry, so I run into very few bass fisherman but a decent number of saltwater guys.
Interesting numbers. I would be one arm short (probably the left arm) if I had made a bet on more golfers vs. anglers. I don't think those numbers give us the whole picture though. For one the number of people who went fishing is segmented. Golf is golf (they are not counting mini golf). I think a much higher percentage of people who play golf also watch it.
Tim Kelly reply :
On 10/22/2018 at 5:32 AM, Rick Howard said:I think a much higher percentage of people who play golf also watch it.
Maybe that's because it's televised? I expect that's what they're hoping the MLF tour is going to do for fishing?
BTW. It's interesting that a lot of the matchplay and Ryder cup type events are much more exciting to watch on telly, but the traditional classics are still the mainstay of the interest. I do wonder whether bass anglers are going to tired of the tiddler snatching format and request a traditional big five style tournament. Don't see why it can't be done MLF style still with anglers knowing what the other guys best five weigh and how much they need to cull to beat them. I don't see how that would be any less exciting.
Brad Reid reply :
I'd only add that multiple leagues rarely last. Only one is likely to succeed; or, the others will be absorbed.
I am just going by history. NFL and AFL in football, National and American leagues in baseball, NBA and ABA in basketball. What generally happens is one organization is deemed to have better talent and once it "tips" even a bit in one direction, that one gets 90% of the viewership/sponsorships/better athletes.
And, multiple leagues can lead to disastrous results. Look at boxing. Everyone, EVERYONE, sports fan or not, knew who the heavyweight boxing champ was through at least the Ali era. Today? Few could even name him. The beginning of the end happened in boxing when there were multiple people claiming championships. Confusing and a turn off. Don King effect.
Other sports have been totally ruined by letting athletes have too much control over the rules. It happens. It often isn't pretty.
I like the MLF format for viewing personally. Good point, for sure, about catching 50 one pounders . . . but such a simple "cure" exists. MLF can always designate a higher minimum weight.
I know some things BASS could and should do to stay relevant. It certainly isn't a good time to vapor lock or get defensive or mad. Time to get competitive!
Brad
Scott F reply :
On 10/22/2018 at 5:55 AM, Tim Kelly said:Maybe that's because it's televised? I expect that's what they're hoping the MLF tour is going to do for fishing?
BTW. It's interesting that a lot of the matchplay and Ryder cup type events are much more exciting to watch on telly, but the traditional classics are still the mainstay of the interest. I do wonder whether bass anglers are going to tired of the tiddler snatching format and request a traditional big five style tournament. Don't see why it can't be done MLF style still with anglers knowing what the other guys best five weigh and how much they need to cull to beat them. I don't see how that would be any less exciting.
Isn’t tiddler snatching the way match fishing tournaments in Europe are done? Why hasn’t that gone to a biggest five competition.
If the traditional big five style is so great, how did MLF come in with their non traditional style and take over? The new format has garnered the highest ratings of any show on the Outdoor Channel and all the big name pros ran from the traditional format to compete in it. If the biggest name pros didn’t like the new format, they’d have stayed where they were.
moguy1973 reply :
On 10/22/2018 at 4:51 AM, Swbass15 said:I believe they also have a contract with cbs?? I think the idea of an all fish count tourney appeals to a lot of folks. I work with at least five other guys who bass fish. None of them like the idea of a five fish tourney. They all do enjoy MLF formats and will watch it.
I think MLF will need to developed a strategy on how to involve youth anglers as BASS and FLW have. With a format that draws more attention, one that will be viewed better in the eyes of non-fisherman (catch-weigh-immediate release), and the possible interest from non fishing sponsors I don’t see how they don’t have the potential to grow the sport.
MLF actually has a contract with CBS and Discovery now. Being on Discovery is big as a lot of people don't have Outdoor TV.
Tim Kelly reply :
On 10/22/2018 at 6:33 AM, Scott F said:Isn’t tiddler snatching the way match fishing tournaments in Europe are done? Why hasn’t that gone to a biggest five competition.
If the traditional big five style is so great, how did MLF come in with their non traditional style and take over? The new format has garnered the highest ratings of any show on the Outdoor Channel and all the big name pros ran from the traditional format to compete in it. If the biggest name pros didn’t like the new format, they’d have stayed where they were.
You're right tiddler snatching is big in european match fishing. The reason is that they are fishing for multiple species and the aim is to get the biggest total weight, so often you can catch a bigger weight of tiddlers than you can of the less numerous larger species. Euro match fishing makes terrible television!
The great key to the MLF style is that it creates tension between the competitors as they know what everyone has. I don't think it would matter whether they knew what the other angler's best five were, the tension would remain.
12poundbass reply :
On 10/22/2018 at 1:58 PM, Tim Kelly said:The great key to the MLF style is that it creates tension between the competitors as they know what everyone has. I don't think it would matter whether they knew what the other angler's best five were, the tension would remain.
This right here! I believe this is why it's taken off and why it's so highly rated on the Outdoor Chanel and why you've seen it on Discovery and CBS. My dad has watched it and he doesn't even fish!
I've caught myself a couple times becoming anxious towards the end when a guy I was rooting for needed a weighable fish to make the cut.
I think three tours will make it for a few years, then maybe the FLW becomes the feeder system for the BPT.
pigeonlake reply :
On 10/22/2018 at 12:17 AM, Rick Howard said:I don't think TV coverage matters if your audience doesn't have cable. TV is there to advertise to those who already watch. If TV is their only plan than it's not a good plan.
Let me frame my comment different. I read, BPT/MLF is going to grow the sport. I've read nothing on how they intend to do so.
Currently we have a blanket statement on growing the sport. I would like them to acknowledge and address the other issues that lead them in this direction.
Having another tour may be a a really good start. First it creates competition between tours to draw the best anglers to each. Second it has created more spots for more anglers. This is my speculation; Not MLF statement. Now that The Who is who isn't has concluded. I'd like to hear what the plan is for growth of the game. If they can't back up those statements it will appear as a cash grab by selected anglers desguised as something else.
Food for thought... Maybe pro anglers are asking for more than the sport can provide. We all love this sport. Maybe our passion blinds us to the fact, Bass fishing is not that popular. In your day to day life how many of your friends and colleagues fish? How many for bass? How many exclusive to bass? Im not saying that you have to be exclusive but it's more likely that person is your audience.
Totally agree with this all of it especially the last part. Mercer said it best years ago regarding sponsors. Always under promise and overdeliver not the other way around
Rick Howard reply :
Good thought on the Ryder Cup. That might be an interesting concept in fishing. Maybe it's between states though? I'd watch that. Every two years, new lake each time, 50 2person teams, match play, Winner takes home a trophy that passes to the next winners. What state are you folks betting on?
A good point to an early comparison of golf and fishing. Golf reaches every continent, except Antarctica, in a very large way. Uhhhh humans have even brought the game to the moon! Kinda lol.
redux reply :
Arey has jumped to BASS and said there's another FLW angler who is coming with. No word on who that is.
JT Kenny is no longer fishing the BPT and instead is doing commentary for BPT and maybe fishing the Gator BFLs. He said he's done fishing Pro tours. Makes sense since he has been doing terrible since he cut his hair. Funny enough he's growing it back out and things are starting to work for him again. Keep it growing JT.
Gagliardi is moving to the BPT following Kenney's shuffle.
Seems like there is a lot left to shake out for the BPT and it is not anywhere near as cut and dry as the initial press release made us all think.
Tim Kelly reply :
Gussy, the Canadian LOTW guy with the Lund said he was going to BASS on facebook.
Rpratt reply :
I really believe that the MLF has done one thing that BASS as a televised format did not really do. And that is promote the anglers. The MLF made it a point and maybe it was just by default by the format itself, to get you the viewer to get to know the anglers. My wife loved the show even though she doesn't fish much just for this reason alone. She was able to sit there and say this one was her favorite, or didn't really like this guy because of his personality. Shaw Grigsby is her favorite if you were wondering. It created a I care about this angler because with the format they were featured or SEEN more. My wife (and myself) when the show started were wondering ok who is on this week, and who are they fishing against. As mentioned the show in it's initial startup already had some sort of initial tension buildup. And they keep it going the whole show.
BASS as a televised format, well they normally only focus on who is ahead, and really not much I guess you would call any kind of affinity towards the angler.
Last small point is although when both are televised, the tournaments are already played out. The difference is we know the BASS results are already well known, however you have no clue as to the MLF. Again, can't build up tension or much real drama or an audience except for the hard core who want to see the replay of a fish caught a month or so earlier.
J Francho reply :
BASS has live coverage, too. MLF does not.
Rpratt reply :
That is true, but as I said, it normally only concentrates on the leaders. I guess what I am trying to say is thru MLF, a casual fan can get to know the whole field. The example I use, my wife, can now recognize and tell you about everyone on the show. You can't do that with the format BASS has used. They wanted to, ESPN even described turning BASS into the new NASCAR, hence the leap into sponsor logos everywhere etc etc. It just did not work on the same level as the MLF format.
12poundbass reply :
On 10/25/2018 at 10:38 PM, J Francho said:MLF does not
Yet
On 10/25/2018 at 11:47 PM, Rpratt said:That is true, but as I said, it normally only concentrates on the leaders. I guess what I am trying to say is thru MLF, a casual fan can get to know the whole field. The example I use, my wife, can now recognize and tell you about everyone on the show. You can't do that with the format BASS has used. They wanted to, ESPN even described turning BASS into the new NASCAR, hence the leap into sponsor logos everywhere etc etc. It just did not work on the same level as the MLF format.
I agree with you. I ocassionaly watch BASS Live from time to time and enjoy it. But watching MLF you do get to know the anglers better. Keith Poche and Andy Montgomery are two that come to mind. Poche all I really new about him was his 'interaction' with Ish. After watching him on MLF he seems like a cool guy. He explains things well and I've learned a thing or two from him.
Andy Montgomery I've learned from too. He's another that seems pretty cool and he's pretty darn funny. Another thing I've learned from him was he is one hell of a dock skipper! I watched one episode last year where he skipped it between an outboard and a toon on a pontoon! Blew me away.
The more a person gets to know an angler the more apt they are to buy a product that angler is using, this potentially increasing that anglers value. I personally don't buy products because a particular angler is using it or pushing it, but a lot do especially the average Joe angler.
BassNJake reply :
On 10/25/2018 at 11:51 PM, 12poundbass said:Yet
I agree with you. I ocassionaly watch BASS Live from time to time and enjoy it. But watching MLF you do get to know the anglers better. Keith Poche and Andy Montgomery are two that come to mind. Poche all I really new about him was his 'interaction' with Ish. After watching him on MLF he seems like a cool guy. He explains things well and I've learned a thing or two from him.
Andy Montgomery I've learned from too. He's another that seems pretty cool and he's pretty darn funny. Another thing I've learned from him was he is one hell of a dock skipper! I watched one episode last year where he skipped it between an outboard and a toon on a pontoon! Blew me away.
The more a person gets to know an angler the more apt they are to buy a product that angler is using, this potentially increasing that anglers value. I personally don't buy products because a particular angler is using it or pushing it, but a lot do especially the average Joe angler.
It's a lot easier to provide more coverage on 8 guys than it is 110.
This will change with the new format MLF is running.
Now that they have 80 guys, the coverage will be a lot less.
Then it will become the guys that are doing the best get the most camera time...
And now guys like Marty Robinson and Fletcher Shryock will be back to not winning events and not getting camera time.
So I really hope for their sake that the sponsor dollars have changed drastically for them based on tv viewership
MLF will come up with live coverage but it wont be free IMO.
Just like you can get access to old MLF events but at a cost.
Jrob78 reply :
There are quite a few notable FLW guys fishing the Elites next season.
Elite Series
> Chris Zaldain (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Keith Combs (non-BPT invitee)
> Micah Frazier (non-BPT invitee)
> Bill Lowen (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Matt Herren (non-BPT invitee)
> Seth Feider (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Chad Pipkens (non-BPT invitee)
> John Crews (non-BPT invitee)
> Brandon Card (non-BPT invitee)
> Cliff Prince (non-BPT invitee)
> Mark Menendez (non-BPT invitee)
> Drew Benton (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Clifford Pirch (non-BPT invitee)
> Hank Cherry (non-BPT invitee)
> Jamie Hartman (non-BPT invitee)
> Stetson Blaylock (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Jason Williamson (non-BPT invitee)
> Brandon Lester (non-BPT invitee)
> Steve Kennedy (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Brandon Lester (non-BPT invitee)
> Clark Wendlandt (formerly FLW Tour)
> Gary Clouse (confirmed BPT invitee)
> Jeff Gustafson (non-BPT invitee)
> Matt Arey (non-BPT invitee)
> Chad Morgenthaler (non-BPT invitee)
> Chris Johnston (non-BPT invitee)
> Cory Johnston (non-BPT invitee)
> Brandon Cobb (non-BPT invitee)
> Patrick Walters (Opens qualifier)
> Scott Canterbury (non-BPT invitee)
Tim Kelly reply :
Look out for Chris and Cory Johnson on the St Lawrence next season!
Arlo Smithereen reply :
On 10/26/2018 at 4:45 AM, BassNJake said:It's a lot easier to provide more coverage on 8 guys than it is 110.
This will change with the new format MLF is running.
Now that they have 80 guys, the coverage will be a lot less.
Then it will become the guys that are doing the best get the most camera time...
And now guys like Marty Robinson and Fletcher Shryock will be back to not winning events and not getting camera time.
So I really hope for their sake that the sponsor dollars have changed drastically for them based on tv viewership
MLF will come up with live coverage but it wont be free IMO.
Just like you can get access to old MLF events but at a cost.
Only 40 fish at a time, not 80. Party Marty and Fletcher are gonna be just fine, buddy.
OCdockskipper reply :
On 10/26/2018 at 7:08 PM, Arlo Smithereen said:Only 40 fish at a time, not 80. Party Marty and Fletcher are gonna be just fine, buddy.
I believe the point he was making is now that their are 80 anglers per tournament instead of 24 or 30, the coverage of each angler will be less. Even if they break the tournament up to an episode per day, there will be 40 anglers in each of the first 4 episodes as opposed to 6 - 10 that were in the previous MLF events. Most likely they will focus on those who are in the hunt, but even if they didn't, each anglers TV time is cut by 300%. If they had 10 minutes of camera time before, they will now get between 2 - 3 minutes.
So his point, that those who didn't get much camera time with BASS still won't get much camera time in the new MLF series unless they win (in which case, they would have gotten camera time with BASS as well), is correct. Robinson & Fletcher got more exposure because of the small fields of the previous MLF events.
BassNJake reply :
On 10/26/2018 at 7:08 PM, Arlo Smithereen said:Only 40 fish at a time, not 80. Party Marty and Fletcher are gonna be just fine, buddy.
So Day 1 and 3 you compete with 40 other anglers to get TV exposure and days 2 and 4 you get zero tv coverage.
Big names/co-owners will also get a large chunk of exposure regardless of how they are doing.(IMO)
Some of these guys did better when they were fishing MLF than they did BASS and I think that is due to the field being so much smaller.
I just think there will be guys that find the grass was not greener on the other side.
Arlo Smithereen reply :
On 10/26/2018 at 11:44 PM, BassNJake said:
I just think there will be guys that find the grass was not greener on the other side.
You might be right. Only time will tell. I just find it hard to believe that the best of the best when it comes to professional bass anglers made a hasty decision when they made the jump. This isn't like deciding between working at McDonalds or Burger King. They talked it over with their sponsors and families.
scaleface reply :
I dislike the MLF format of counting every fish though some folks will love it . I like the strategy that goes into trying to catch the biggest five .
WRB reply :
B.A.S.S. always struggled to bring tournament coverage to TV audiences. A few clips on the water action with a big weigh in production. Black eye in the ESPN era trying boat racing to bring some excitement to TV, followed by big bass die off at lake Falcon and cartel gang conflicts on lake Amistad border with Mexico didn't help secure TV advertisements.
Along comes MLF with on the water C&R with TV appeal creating excitement watching anglers trying to stay alive to fish another day. What was the B.A.S.S. response? tried 1 on the water C & R with a modified weigh in, eliminating marshals and adding cameraman hoping to get some bass catching action....zero excitement to hold a TV audience.
B.A.S.S. goes back to it's roots hoping the Classic and AOY will keep thier tournament format relavent and only time will tell. BPS is all in with MLF along with non bass fishing sponsorship with TV audience coverage.
Tom
BassNJake reply :
BASS has a crappy TV deal.
With them having BASS LIVE, I don't know a single person that watches the ESPN2 show that airs weeks to months after the event.
When they bought BASS back from ESPN, I was really hoping for a new TV deal.
But no, same crappy deal they had before they have again.
Jrob78 reply :
No entree fees for the BPT in 2019.
QuoteThe 80 anglers who comprise the new Bass Pro Tour will not pay entry fees for the 2019 season, Major League Fishing announced in a press release today.
The anglers reportedly voted to avoid contributing the proposed entry fee of $48,375, giving the BPT the distinction of being the first national tournament circuit to operate without entry fees.
The results of the voting were not disclosed in the release, but another site has learned the decision was approved by an “overwhelming majority” of the field.
Without the $3.87 million in anticipated entry fee revenue, the payouts for each BPT tournament will be less than initially announced, but no further details were made available. It’s believed the group is considering alternate payout models that could be put to another vote.
Gary Klein, a co-founder of MLF and a BPT competitor, lauded the decision.
"What brought this great group of anglers together in the first place was the allure of being able to ultimately control our own destiny because collectively we now make the rules," Klein said in the release. "It's all about the big picture of what we want this sport to be and getting it there. We call this 'Major League' Fishing for a reason and no entry fees is a monumental move in our achieving that distinction."
OCdockskipper reply :
On 10/31/2018 at 8:06 AM, Jrob78 said:No entree fees for the BPT in 2019.
You mean an organization run by the anglers chose to not have the anglers pay entry fees? Shocking I tell you, truly shocking... ????
Where it will truly get interesting is when some angler gets in a disagreement with an on-board referee and does something dumb like curse at him. Will the other anglers vote to punish the offender or will they be lenient thinking it could be them next time? Further, what if a clique of 3 or 4 anglers is on the outs with the rest of the anglers, will you suddenly start seeing rule changes aimed at that group?
I'm telling you, with the inmates running the asylum, it is going to get ugly.
Also, I saw an ad for on board referees on the MLF site. They want local (to Oklahoma) folks, able to travel at the drop of a hat, all with no pay (although travel & lodging is covered). If they truly want a pro league, wouldn't you have paid officials? With the added power the refs have, trying to have a crop of unpaid volunteers travel with you is asking for problems (corruption, favoritism, etc). I believe an organization run by non-anglers would secured paid officials, this group is only looking out for the anglers.
Arlo Smithereen reply :
On 10/31/2018 at 9:49 AM, OCdockskipper said:You mean an organization run by the anglers chose to not have the anglers pay entry fees? Shocking I tell you, truly shocking... ????
Where it will truly get interesting is when some angler gets in a disagreement with an on-board referee and does something dumb like curse at him. Will the other anglers vote to punish the offender or will they be lenient thinking it could be them next time? Further, what if a clique of 3 or 4 anglers is on the outs with the rest of the anglers, will you suddenly start seeing rule changes aimed at that group?
I'm telling you, with the inmates running the asylum, it is going to get ugly.
Also, I saw an ad for on board referees on the MLF site. They want local (to Oklahoma) folks, able to travel at the drop of a hat, all with no pay (although travel & lodging is covered). If they truly want a pro league, wouldn't you have paid officials? With the added power the refs have, trying to have a crop of unpaid volunteers travel with you is asking for problems (corruption, favoritism, etc). I believe an organization run by non-anglers would secured paid officials, this group is only looking out for the anglers.
do you also believe the earth is flat?
12poundbass reply :
On 10/31/2018 at 9:49 AM, OCdockskipper said:You mean an organization run by the anglers chose to not have the anglers pay entry fees? Shocking I tell you, truly shocking... ????
Where it will truly get interesting is when some angler gets in a disagreement with an on-board referee and does something dumb like curse at him. Will the other anglers vote to punish the offender or will they be lenient thinking it could be them next time? Further, what if a clique of 3 or 4 anglers is on the outs with the rest of the anglers, will you suddenly start seeing rule changes aimed at that group?
I'm telling you, with the inmates running the asylum, it is going to get ugly.
Also, I saw an ad for on board referees on the MLF site. They want local (to Oklahoma) folks, able to travel at the drop of a hat, all with no pay (although travel & lodging is covered). If they truly want a pro league, wouldn't you have paid officials? With the added power the refs have, trying to have a crop of unpaid volunteers travel with you is asking for problems (corruption, favoritism, etc). I believe an organization run by non-anglers would secured paid officials, this group is only looking out for the anglers.
At BASS the Marshals pay $150 to get up at 3 or 4 am pay for their own hotel, gas to and from event, and miss work to sit on a boat for at least 8 hours a day in any kinds of weather. Most events there's a waiting list! So the $150 is probably closer to $1000 if you figure everything else into it, and all you get is a couple hats, maybe a shirt, some food, exhaustion, and if you're really lucky an angler that's going to make the cut so they're somewhat social. FLW is doing this same thing this year with the added incentive you get your name in a hat for a boat at the end of the year.
So after looking at all that the MLF official gig doesn't sound too bad for someone who's retired. For the record I would do the BASS Elite Marshal experience.
These anglers in the BPT aren't idiots or children so I don't see favorites or a "they're being mean to me" scenario happening. Most of these guys are businessmen and quite a few have some sort of marketing or business degree so they know what they're doing and what they're getting themselves into. I hear people say frequently how it won't last three years or once Johnny Morris's money runs out it'll be over and on and on. My take on this whole thing is we don't know squat about the details. There's something there that has made almost every big name in professional bass fishing jump ship and in wasn't all because of BASS some probably. Like I said these guys know what they're doing and if they have enough faith in what they see then BPT has something potentially big here. Then again they may all fall flat on their faces in a few years, I doubt it though.
J.Vincent reply :
All of this is an interesting development....what I'm curious about is....what happens if one or a few anglers get their feelings hurt about their opinions not being heard, and they don't like accepted rule changes.....are they allowed to dissent and go on strike or just up and leave to go back to either BASS or FLW, or does their 3 year contract agreement with BPT keep them locked in to that trail for the duration ?
12poundbass reply :
On 10/31/2018 at 11:12 PM, J.Vincent said:All of this is an interesting development....what I'm curious about is....what happens if one or a few anglers get their feelings hurt about their opinions not being heard, and they don't like accepted rule changes.....are they allowed to dissent and go on strike or just up and leave to go back to either BASS or FLW, or does their 3 year contract agreement with BPT keep them locked in to that trail for the duration ?
I would hope they are all mature enough that a situation like that would never happen. In the event that someone throws themselves on the floor and has a tantrum I'd be the first to volunteer to drive their rig back to wherever their perfect world is.
Choporoz reply :
I thought Ish and Ike both went over
OCdockskipper reply :
On 10/31/2018 at 7:20 PM, Arlo Smithereen said:do you also believe the earth is flat?
No, but I will admit I have no friggin' idea what you are getting at with that comment.
WRB reply :
Entry fee's are the pro bass anglers biggest expense so why wouldn't they vote 80 to 0 for eliminating them? It will reduce prize money but it's guaranteed TV and advertisement money that pays them at the end of the day. Bold move that solidifies the BPT and MLF. 3 year contract also makes sense, after that time the anglers can determine if it's working for them.
Sit back and enjoy bass fishing.
Tom
OCdockskipper reply :
On 10/31/2018 at 8:44 PM, 12poundbass said:At BASS the Marshals pay $150 to get up at 3 or 4 am pay for their own hotel, gas to and from event, and miss work to sit on a boat for at least 8 hours a day in any kinds of weather....
...For the record I would do the BASS Elite Marshal experience...
The difference is that (in my opinion), being a marshal is the same as getting a front row seat at any professional sporting event. You get to carry on a conversation with the pro and you don't have a group of people cutting into your access to him. While you are observing and sending in BASSTRAK updates, you have no real responsibilities, heck you can take a nap if the action is slow and the pro is tightlipped.
The MLF format is similar to the Texas Fest, where BASS doesn't charge anything to be in the boat. However, there you are an official, you have tools that you are using that will help determine the outcome of the event & you have to be alert the entire time. You really can't root for the angler you are with, that could be misconstrued as playing favorites.
I have done both events and they are very different. For me, the marshaling was more fun because I could be a fan.
As for the anglers being mature, I was surprised of the pettiness of many of the pros. It seems like they all have someone with whom there is an outstanding vendetta against. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed being in their boats & will marshal again, but there is something about being involved in competition that alters the way many folks look at others. That could easily carry over into the running of the organization.
WRB reply :
B.A.S.S./FLW needs 80 new pro anglers for all you dreamers wanting to be a bass pro, go for it.
Tom
OCdockskipper reply :
On 11/1/2018 at 1:03 AM, WRB said:...Sit back and enjoy bass fishing.
Tom
I do enjoy watching MLF and I hope these guys succeed. I just believe they are ignoring human nature in the way they structured their organization and that will eventually be their downfall. Then again, I could be completely wrong.
Not rooting for them to fail, just looking down the road and based on my life's experiences, expecting it.
It will be interesting to revisit this thread in 2024...
12poundbass reply :
On 11/1/2018 at 1:03 AM, WRB said:Entry fee's are the pro bass anglers biggest expense so why wouldn't they vote 80 to 0 for eliminating them? It will reduce prize money but it's guaranteed TV and advertisement money that pays them at the end of the day. Bold move that solidifies the BPT and MLF. 3 year contract also makes sense, after that time the anglers can determine if it's working for them.
Sit back and enjoy bass fishing.
Tom
They just basically gave themselves a $48,000 raise which should more than cover their expenses for the year, So they basically put more odds in their favor to make money this year. Add in the money sponsors shell out to them and if I'm looking at this right a lot of these anglers have already made money before they ever wet a line this year, which is more than some have made in a couple years.
On 11/1/2018 at 12:21 AM, Choporoz said:I thought Ish and Ike both went over
Yes they both did go to MLF/BPT.
WRB reply :
On 11/1/2018 at 1:10 AM, OCdockskipper said:I do enjoy watching MLF and I hope these guys succeed. I just believe they are ignoring human nature in the way they structured their organization and that will eventually be their downfall. Then again, I could be completely wrong.
Not rooting for them to fail, just looking down the road and based on my life's experiences, expecting it.
It will be interesting to revisit this thread in 2024...
Back in '68 I considered tournament bass fishing when B.A.S.S. sent out invitations to the All American event. Joined the Picese bass club in San Diego to compete with some top bass anglers and held my own. Being an aerospace engineer I had to consider a good salary and career agianst a passion for fishing, my career won because no desire to relocate east and fight the good ole boy politics of bass fishing during the time period.
MLF format supports today's catch and release mind set and the BPT is a timely change that eliminates all the old baggage of B.A.S.S. tournaments and should give young anglers a new choice to decide if the want a different type of pro bass fishing career.
I think it will work.
Tom
Troy85 reply :
I'm in the same boat as @OCdockskipper. I like MLF and don't want it to fail, but I could see the direct democracy that they setup within the organization as causing some problems in the future. Mainly because most people will always tend to vote in their best interests, rather than the interests of the organization as a whole. Maybe they have some rules in place in place that cannot be changed, that we don't know about. I hope it succeeds though, its pretty much the only reason I pay for my slingtv subscription.
12poundbass reply :
On 11/1/2018 at 1:34 AM, Troy1985s said:Maybe they have some rules in place in place that cannot be changed, that we don't know about.
That's it right there. There's been a ton of spectulaion and it's human nature, but that's all it is, is speculation. I'd almost bet a paycheck there is so much that we don't know. Hell this thing just got on it's feet two months ago? There's a ton here that these anglers know that we don't otherwise they wouldn't have left.
J Francho reply :
Sounds like many commented have never been in club before. Change doesn't happen as quickly as you think, even when motions are voted on.
Arlo Smithereen reply :
On 11/1/2018 at 12:48 AM, OCdockskipper said:No, but I will admit I have no friggin' idea what you are getting at with that comment.
You said it's going to 'get ugly with the inmates running the asylum', so I was just curious how many other crazy theories you subscribe to.
SDoolittle reply :
On 10/31/2018 at 8:44 PM, 12poundbass said:At BASS the Marshals pay $150 to get up at 3 or 4 am pay for their own hotel, gas to and from event, and miss work to sit on a boat for at least 8 hours a day in any kinds of weather. Most events there's a waiting list! So the $150 is probably closer to $1000 if you figure everything else into it, and all you get is a couple hats, maybe a shirt, some food, exhaustion, and if you're really lucky an angler that's going to make the cut so they're somewhat social. FLW is doing this same thing this year with the added incentive you get your name in a hat for a boat at the end of the year.
So after looking at all that the MLF official gig doesn't sound too bad for someone who's retired. For the record I would do the BASS Elite Marshal experience.
I think the main obstacle MLF may face is that they have a much smaller pool of potential officials than B.A.S.S. and FLW. While B.A.S.S. and FLW marshals can come from anywhere in the country and may only attend one event, MLF officials must live in the Tulsa area, and they are expected to attend a minimum of six events.
Scott F reply :
On 11/1/2018 at 10:11 PM, SDoolittle said:I think the main obstacle MLF may face is that they have a much smaller pool of potential officials than B.A.S.S. and FLW. While B.A.S.S. and FLW marshals can come from anywhere in the country and may only attend one event, MLF officials must live in the Tulsa area, and they are expected to attend a minimum of six events.
I wish I lived near Tulsa. I’m retired and could easily fit being an official into my schedule.
The whole financial model of BASS where the participants foot the bill for half of the prize money insures that too many of the guys who fish make no money or lose money. I’m surprised that it took this long for someone to find a way for professional fishermen to actually get paid for their work like all the other pro sports.
12poundbass reply :
On 11/2/2018 at 12:02 AM, Scott F said:I wish I lived near Tulsa. I’m retired and could easily fit being an official into my schedule.
The whole financial model of BASS where the participants foot the bill for half of the prize money insures that too many of the guys who fish make no money or lose money. I’m surprised that it took this long for someone to find a way for professional fishermen to actually get paid for their work like all the other pro sports.
Brent Chapman said in a another site article the other day the he's qualified for 16 or so Classics won the AOY and all it would take him is one bad year and he'd be broke! Granted he doesn't have the presence like others that draws the big sponsorship money, but still Brent Chapman is a great bass angler.
OCdockskipper reply :
On 11/1/2018 at 8:11 PM, Arlo Smithereen said:You said it's going to 'get ugly with the inmates running the asylum', so I was just curious how many other crazy theories you subscribe to.
Ok, now your comment makes more sense. However, since it isn't the topic of this thread, I am going to show restraint and not get into a discussion about that.
However, I would suggest that calling other peoples opinions or perspective "crazy" just because it differs from yours is small minded. Go ahead & disagree and list your reasons for disagreement, but to summarily dismiss others without any rationale backing it is pretty weak.
OCdockskipper reply :
On 11/2/2018 at 12:41 AM, 12poundbass said:Brent Chapman said in a another site article the other day the he's qualified for 16 or so Classics won the AOY and all it would take him is one bad year and he'd be broke!
That indeed is the reason why change was coming and was needed. In the same way that I believe the MLF organizational structure is set up for failure because it will place the angler ahead of the customer, BASS did a similar thing in that it placed the sponsors ahead of the anglers.
If BASS had more foresight, they could have cut this off at the pass by being better balanced. Yes, they are a fishing organization that holds tournaments, but when the tournament anglers become a major part of driving your business, it is worth considering changing how those anglers are treated. BASS could have incorporated some of the payout and tournament changes to create a better balanced organization, but they didn't. They left a void, MLF stepped in and (in my opinion) have swung the pendulum too far the other direction.
If Duckett & Klein had started the organization and separated themselves as owners from the other anglers (& not fished themselves), I believe their organization would be better balanced.
Arlo Smithereen reply :
On 11/2/2018 at 12:47 AM, OCdockskipper said:Ok, now your comment makes more sense. However, since it isn't the topic of this thread, I am going to show restraint and not get into a discussion about that.
However, I would suggest that calling other peoples opinions or perspective "crazy" just because it differs from yours is small minded. Go ahead & disagree and list your reasons for disagreement, but to summarily dismiss others without any rationale backing it is pretty weak.
I think to basically say the anglers on the new tour are going to ruin it is small minded. We get it, you have something against MLF. What you don't seem to understand is MLF/BPT isn't concerned with yours or my opinion. They're going after viewers who aren't avid anglers and don't pay attention to the other tours. I've talked to co-workers and friends who don't care at all about fishing, but they've tuned in to watch MLF and think it's exciting. Those are the people they're aiming at, and it's working. Do you really think anglers the ilk of KVD decided to make the switch if they thought there was a good chance it would implode on itself? That seems like the ultimate small-mindedness. So I would ask you, do you have some kind of inside information that the rest of us don't that leads you to proclaim it's doomed before it even begins? I would bet not, but I'm interested what you've got.
BassNJake reply :
On 11/2/2018 at 12:58 AM, OCdockskipper said:That indeed is the reason why change was coming and was needed. In the same way that I believe the MLF organizational structure is set up for failure because it will place the angler ahead of the customer, BASS did a similar thing in that it placed the sponsors ahead of the anglers.
If BASS had more foresight, they could have cut this off at the pass by being better balanced. Yes, they are a fishing organization that holds tournaments, but when the tournament anglers become a major part of driving your business, it is worth considering changing how those anglers are treated. BASS could have incorporated some of the payout and tournament changes to create a better balanced organization, but they didn't. They left a void, MLF stepped in and (in my opinion) have swung the pendulum too far the other direction.
If Duckett & Klein had started the organization and separated themselves as owners from the other anglers (& not fished themselves), I believe their organization would be better balanced.
BASS has had the issue of trying to grow the sport for the last 50 years.
How much money have they spent with BASS Nation, The Junior Bassmasters, high school and college fishing to grow the sport?
What has MLF done for the future of bass fishing?
What have they returned back to the sport other than the tournament payouts?
MLF is a money grab for the guys at the top of the food chain.
The payouts are marginally better so I hope for their sake they are getting a bunch of money from sponsors.
A few years from now we'll see how beneficial it has been for the sport.
We'll also see how many of the fringe guys were able to make more money fishing the BPT.
OCdockskipper reply :
On 11/2/2018 at 1:28 AM, Arlo Smithereen said:...We get it, you have something against MLF. What you don't seem to understand is MLF/BPT isn't concerned with yours or my opinion...
No, you are incorrect. I have posted before I enjoy MLF, I watch their shows & I wish them success. I have just had experiences in business & in life that have taught me that the organizational structure they have will implode if it is not changed. What you don't seem to understand is that the success that KVD & the others have had in pro bass fishing will not carry over in MLF if the organization they are joining has inherent flaws.
I do agree that MLF is not concerned with your or my opinion, and that is part of their problem. You & I are the customer, their goal is to give us a product or service that we will buy. Unfortunately for them, they have taken a good idea (the Cup series) and are trying to expand it using an organization that places the financial gains of the competitors above the wants of the customers.
On 11/1/2018 at 2:54 AM, J Francho said:Sounds like many commented have never been in club before. Change doesn't happen as quickly as you think, even when motions are voted on.
A club that holds tournaments for its members and a sports business are apples & oranges. Clubs are not trying to attract an audience to watch their tournaments & buy their sponsors products.
They do both have some commonalities, but the the reason for their existence differs. The club exists strictly for its members enjoyment while a business exists to make money.
Glenn reply :
Hey guys, just a gut-check here, but let's not get riled up over this. It's not worth it - especially since EVERYTHING is pure speculation at this point; so there is no "right" or "wrong".
Ergo, there's no need to seek validation of opinions at this point.
Remember - fishing is supposed to be fun!
J.Vincent reply :
I think no matter the differences of opinion (and everyone is entitled to an opinion, especially on a topic we are passionate about) , the one thing hopefully we can all agree on is; it's never been a better time to be a tournament bass angler or a spectator of the sport. There are now more pro trail options and that means increased exposure for the sport ! I'm actually looking forward to 2019 and hope all of these trails can peacefully and supportively coexist alongside one another !
Gundog reply :
I was checking out the article on BASS's website about the 2018 National Championship participants and I'm amazed at some of the countries these fishermen are from. Namibia, France, and Italy. I know Australia and Zimbabwe have had anglers in BASS before but the other countries I didn't think about. Also, I know we have members from Portugal and Spain. I wonder if they know of any French bass waters or do the French bass fishermen travel to other countries?
Troy85 reply :
BassNJake reply :
Redcrest is the first name I would have come up with for a Championship event.
Is it going to take place in Redcrest CA?
Or is it sponsored by that chicken shack in Philly?
all kidding aside, It's gonna be a long winter waiting to see their first event
Troy85 reply :
I’m curious how they will televise the BPT events. Personally, I hope they air BPT live and keep the cup events as they are.
BassNJake reply :
On 11/7/2018 at 2:44 AM, Troy1985s said:I’m curious how they will televise the BPT events. Personally, I hope they air BPT live and keep the cup events as they are.
Supposedly that is how they are going to do it.
They just have not announced how much it will cost to watch it on their website or if it will be available for free(which I would not expect with no entry fees and the focus on the anglers making more money)
Currently, their model is that you pay for content but cant watch it for 48 hours until the event airs on the Outdoor channel.
12poundbass reply :
On 11/8/2018 at 2:56 AM, BassNJake said:Supposedly that is how they are going to do it.
They just have not announced how much it will cost to watch it on their website or if it will be available for free(which I would not expect with no entry fees and the focus on the anglers making more money)
Currently, their model is that you pay for content but cant watch it for 48 hours until the event airs on the Outdoor channel.
I thought I read it would be Live free on line. I might be wrong but maybe that what Boyd Duckett said the other day on BTL? I didn't listen so I could be wrong.
BassNJake reply :
On 11/8/2018 at 3:54 AM, 12poundbass said:I thought I read it would be Live free on line. I might be wrong but maybe that what Boyd Duckett said the other day on BTL? I didn't listen so I could be wrong.
I hope it is available for free as I cannot currently watch it and refuse to pay for it.
I was making assumptions based off of the current model they have.
They must be getting a ton of sponsorship money to pull this all off.
BASS needs to get out of that ESPN contract and move to a channel where they will get more exposure.
Most times when they do show the BASS events they are during prime fishing time so i'm on the water
also knowing the results from 2 weeks before and watching it on BASS live leaves little reason to watch it smashed in between all the commercials.
Also I can't watch BTL, that one guy is way too annoying for me to stand for more than a minute
Troy85 reply :
On 11/8/2018 at 4:03 AM, BassNJake said:I hope it is available for free as I cannot currently watch it and refuse to pay for it.
I was making assumptions based off of the current model they have.
They must be getting a ton of sponsorship money to pull this all off.
BASS needs to get out of that ESPN contract and move to a channel where they will get more exposure.
Most times when they do show the BASS events they are during prime fishing time so i'm on the water
also knowing the results from 2 weeks before and watching it on BASS live leaves little reason to watch it smashed in between all the commercials.
Also I can't watch BTL, that one guy is way too annoying for me to stand for more than a minute
I watch MLF thru my slingtv subscription, but I wouldn't pay a separate fee just to watch BPT/MLF.
When it comes to the elites show, I've never understood that either, why does ESPN air a fishing show during a time when most of their fan base are probably fishing. MLF airing on Monday night makes much more sense, although to be honest, I wish it aired on Friday night. After watching it I always want to go fishing, but still have to wait 4 days.
Gundog reply :
On 11/8/2018 at 4:03 AM, BassNJake said:
BASS needs to get out of that ESPN contract and move to a channel where they will get more exposure.
Most times when they do show the BASS events they are during prime fishing time so i'm on the water
also knowing the results from 2 weeks before and watching it on BASS live leaves little reason to watch it smashed in between all the commercials.
Agreed about the ESPN contract. It really has hurt BASS more than helped. They use to air BASS tourneys during the winter. This was before everyone had the internet and could find out who won.
Troy85 reply :
On 11/8/2018 at 7:06 AM, Gundog said:They use to air BASS tourneys during the winter. This was before everyone had the internet and could find out who won.
That’s why I really enjoy bass live.
Even with MLF, I found out on instagram who won the championship. I still watch the show, but it does take away some of the suspense. If you don’t want spoilers for the season, don’t follow MLF on social media. ????
BassNJake reply :
On 11/8/2018 at 8:57 AM, Troy1985s said:That’s why I really enjoy bass live.
Even with MLF, I found out on instagram who won the championship. I still watch the show, but it does take away some of the suspense. If you don’t want spoilers for the season, don’t follow MLF on social media. ????
I would guess they will have new social media rules so the cup events dont get "spoiled"
On 11/8/2018 at 4:19 AM, Troy1985s said:I watch MLF thru my slingtv subscription, but I wouldn't pay a separate fee just to watch BPT/MLF.
When it comes to the elites show, I've never understood that either, why does ESPN air a fishing show during a time when most of their fan base are probably fishing. MLF airing on Monday night makes much more sense, although to be honest, I wish it aired on Friday night. After watching it I always want to go fishing, but still have to wait 4 days.
Figures, as I've got hulu, netflix and a firestick.(wife and kids have all these things, I get stuck watching what they are watching)
I bet if I looked at all the different options, I could watch MLF on the firestick
OCdockskipper reply :
On 11/8/2018 at 4:03 AM, BassNJake said:I hope it is available for free as I cannot currently watch it and refuse to pay for it...
In looking at the MLF site, it appears the results for the BPT will be available as they happen via their website. I didn't see anywhere listing whether the streaming will be free or if it will be by subscription. The Cups (4) & Championships (2) will all be in the former Cup format, shot "in the dark" & shown the following year. So the Cups & Championships that are created in the first year of BPT won't be aired until 2020, during the 2nd year of BPT.
That could create an issue for some up & coming anglers. For example, lets say Hunter Shryrock has a great year, wins 2 of the Cups and 1 of the Championships. Rather than being able to cash in on that right away by signing sponsorship deals as he is "hot", he is going to have to wait a year until his wins are revealed and he gains the status that he could cash in on. If he happens to be having a poor run on the 2nd year of the BPT while his Cup & Championship runs are being shown, sponsors may shy away, concerned that fans may consider him a flash in the pan.
Ironically, if Boyd Duckett had had to wait a year for his Classic win to be shown, it probably would have cost him a lot. He had an incredible 2007 and was sought after by many sponsors as the next big thing. Since then, he has been consistently mediocre, never living up to the promise of that great 2007 year. Had Duckett been forced to hold off showing his 2007 results while he was in the midst of a below average 2008 year, he might never had gained a foothold in Pro Fishing to the point where he created MLF...
flyfisher reply :
On 10/6/2018 at 10:49 PM, detroit1 said:As fans of bass fishing, we all win. If I were b.a.s.s., I would be devastated. If I were f.l.w., not so much. Although I like the mlf format and love to watch, I think over-all it is inferior to the biggest 5 format. It is a lot harder to catch 5 bigguns than 15 dinks. I almost feel like I could compete in mlf, but not bass or flw….
This is exactly why it will do well. People can relate to this style of fishing and could see themselves out there doing the same thing.
Troy85 reply :
http://www.majorleaguefishing.com/article/fans-will-get-in-on-the-action-at-mlfs-bass-pro-tour-events/21153
Arlo Smithereen reply :
On 11/8/2018 at 4:19 AM, Troy1985s said:I watch MLF thru my slingtv subscription
what channel is it on through sling? I watch it through the MyOutdoorTV subscription, but might be interested in switching to sling
Troy85 reply :
On 11/14/2018 at 11:26 PM, Arlo Smithereen said:what channel is it on through sling? I watch it through the MyOutdoorTV subscription, but might be interested in switching to sling
Outdoor Channel or World Fishing network. Depending on if its a new episode or a rerun. I have the sling orange subscription, with the added package "heartland extra" which gives me an additonal 7 "outdoor activity" themed channels, which includes the 2 mentioned above. I think total I pay $30 a month for Sling.
1simplemann reply :
I have a question about MLF's website. I was looking at a section that was about asking the anglers where they want to fish. When I click on it, it just says "buffing". This has happened in the past, I wait and wait and nothing happens. How do I watch it. It would be nice to know where they want to fish.
BassNJake reply :
On 11/15/2018 at 9:52 PM, 1simplemann said:I have a question about MLF's website. I was looking at a section that was about asking the anglers where they want to fish. When I click on it, it just says "buffing". This has happened in the past, I wait and wait and nothing happens. How do I watch it. It would be nice to know where they want to fish.
If you are using the Chrome browser, you will see a shield with a little red X on the far right hand side of the address bar.
It states something about the site running unsafe scripts.
You can click it and there will be an option to run unsafe scripts on this webpage.
This will then allow the video to be played.
I think the site is a secure site(https) but when linking back to the video it is not a secure site.(http)
However, I'm no computer genius.
The address appears as https
This icon is on the top right
clicking it returns an option to load the unsafe scripts
After loading the unsafe scripts the address is no longer secure
However, the video does load
haydenf96 reply :
Are they using the old MLF boats or do they provide their own?
DSTN reply :
I believe they use their own boats during the 8 tournaments but use the MLF boats in the Cup events.
1simplemann reply :
BassnJake, Thank you. Hopefully MLF listens and keeps it diverse. So MLF if your reading this, don't go where BASS has already been. For that matter, don't go where MLF has already been!
WRB reply :
Anyone have a 2019 TV schedule of the events?
Tom
Arlo Smithereen reply :
On 12/9/2018 at 12:47 PM, WRB said:Anyone have a 2019 TV schedule of the events?
Tom
http://www.majorleaguefishing.com/article/where-can-i-watch-mlf-in-2019/21234
that's the latest I've seen
WRB reply :
On 12/9/2018 at 12:49 PM, Arlo Smithereen said:http://www.majorleaguefishing.com/article/where-can-i-watch-mlf-in-2019/21234
that's the latest I've seen
Thank you!
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