Yeah, it's always been like that. Now if you fish the BASS Weekend Series it's a little different this year. They are guaranteeing $5,000 for first---of course the rest of the payout is based on number of boats. At least it feels like it may be a bit better.
Then there is always the Plapps trail that pays back 100% or at least is supposed too. I am pretty sure they do.
There might be some other trailes that do that too.
Guess, there is always options for you. I fish them even though I can't take off the whole week. It's till fun.