BASS vs FEDERATIONS

[Topwater2004]

There is definetely a shift to marketing since ESPN took over BASS.

They feature almost exclusively the younger, more personable anglers on the tour. Mike Iaconelli, Skeet Reese, Jerald Swindle are on almost every week on BassCenter or Loud Mouth Bass. Even Kevin VanDam is short on getting playing time, because he keeps to himself pretty much.

The good anglers that don't get any time usually are Greg Hackney, Edwin Evers, Zell Rowland, Terry Scroggins, Brent Chapman to name a few. You might see them on the shows occasionally, but not every single week like the Iaconnelli and Swindle. Gerald Swindle has never won a tournament on B.A.S.S. major tour, yet he is on multiple broadcasts every weekend.

Jay Kumar, the co-host on Loud Mouth Bass is the co-owner of BassFan.com. You will notice he is always touting his computerized angler ranking system.

I still watch the shows, when the weather is bad.

[idbefishing]

what is/are the issue?????/

[Topwater2004]

I believe the biggest issue are the higher entry fees and lower guaranteed payback. Look at the payout at the BassMaster Classic last summer, past the top 5 guys, the payout is pathetic.

I may be wrong, but I think entry fees are going up to $7500 per event. Beyond the top 50 anglers, the rest of the guys will be broke. Counting gas, food, lodging, etc... An event will be nearly $10,000 out of pocket.

BASS even acknowledges by the end of the season they will have events that will start on day 1 with less than 100 boats.

[HoosierDon]

Bass has terminated all the Federation Dist. Reps. and mandated that all Federation dues will go up $5 per member and will be payable to BASS by Dec 31, 05. The Dist.Reps maintain that they are appointed by the State Federation Presidents and that BASS has no power over them. They also want a complete accounting of the dues monies. ESPN, BASS and Mr. Rucks are demanding complete control over everything when it comes to money.......seems to me.

You can read the whole thing at Bassfan.com. I suggest that you do so if you are a Federation member. This will effect you....