Bassmaster Elite Angler DISQUALIFIED for St Lawrence River Event

[@MSL-dv6nx]

If you're going to the extent to actually purchase waypoints then you are knowingly cheating and should be suspended for an entire season.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I'm with you, I don't think the penalty is enough. Why? Because they are going back to St Lawrence River again next year, or the year after for sure. He's got spots for years now. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@ashleyoconnor5783]

Now do Livescope which is a much much bigger advantage than any waypoints or ‘information’ a local pro could provide. Not saying he shouldn’t be punished but use of Livescope isn’t real fishing. None of the rookies would be ‘great’ without their umbilical cord glued to their electronics!

[@jimk4267]

LIFE!!!!!!

[@TheFishdoctor1952]

@@ashleyoconnor5783 OK, T Randy, we hear you

[@JohnYobst]

Agreed

[@JAK-qk3dd]

This is a very serious infraction. If he actually paid for way points trying to win a tournament or ROY I would boot him out. It’s cheating no matter how you look at it. I actually thought highly of him as an angler as he has had a great year and now I question the whole season. As always Steve, you get us all the information available ahead of everyone else. Thank you 🙏

[@GetUrFishOn]

Thank you. I don't think the penalty is just. If done here, why not everywhere? Cheers and tight lines!!

[@1MoreFish]

Yep. Agree 100%

[@andybales7318]

@@JAK-qk3dd what's the difference in paying for waypoints vs buying $50k on scoping technology? Both are cheating in my opinion... BASS may as well just let guys do whatever they choose...the whole sport is illegitimate in today's tournaments

[@JAK-qk3dd]

@@andybales7318there’s a big difference when FFS is within the rules and everyone has it. Buying way points is against the rules and while I’m sure it’s happened more times than we know there are anglers doing things the right way and following the rules to the letter. Hopefully we will see limits next year on the amount of electronics including FFS screens and transducers an angler can have on their boat. I will agree the sport has changed for the worse in a number of ways and hopefully the leagues will make the necessary changes to preserve a sport that I love as much as any other.

[@AidanSmitfishing]

@@andybales7318ffs let’s you scan miles of water with no fish, waypoints land you right on spots fish were sitting on. Same idea as you need to know where fish are and how to catch them even if you can see them

[@bigdawg580]

First infraction, disqualified for this rule is proper. Second infraction for the same rule violation is grounds for expulsion from the circuit. These are supposed to be the Elite fishermen. Both in skill and in moral values.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Thanks for the info. Morals are way off and it says a lot about a person. Thanks again. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@brandonhavis8526]

I hate to hear this. I’m not sure I have ever seen a rookie class with so many rule issues and violations. It already costs too much to fish professionally, if it’s just about buying waypoints these days, we’re gonna end up with sponsors giving the waypoint money to the anglers so their guy can place well in the tournament. These young guys that only care about winning are ruining it for everyone.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I agree completely. This rookie class has had some issues. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jimk4267]

Need to poly him for ALL previous BASS events

[@GetUrFishOn]

I agree with that. I think MORE polys need to happen. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@marvingattis9783]

He prob cheated in the other ones to . His dad and his brothers are crooks

[@jonmartinez1855]

Wouldn't a MLF/BASS official be getting some smoke from this? (Fired) These young guys really need to read, understand the rules, and follow the rules. Rookies are way more prepared than ever before. They understand and use technology better. The information and techniques that took older Anglers a decade to learn are available on social media to consume every day. Know the rules 💯

[@GetUrFishOn]

EXACTLY!!! I'm not sure that the official isn't a one and done these days. I do think it's kinda easy to figure out. Look at where the anglers are fishing. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Venandii77]

Why would the official have any guilt? Im sure he didn’t solicit… Bassmasters has become the 🤡league circus. The rookies arent all that “skiled” as you claim. Rookies probably couldn’t read a topo paper map! Lol

[@andybales7318]

@@Venandii77 most of today's rookies aren't skilled at all in ACTUAL bass fishing...playing video games, obviously they are the favorites

[@Venandii77]

@@andybales7318 1000% correct! Its not anything new…. Well known fact that BASS has been financially unstable. Got keep those wealthy kids in at all costs.

[@RustyFontane]

I’m curious as to how guys who have never been to a place, or maybe only been there once or twice, know exactly where the hotspots are so consistently?

[@GetUrFishOn]

EXACTLY!!! I'm gonna be honest here...... I have a place I pay 100 bucks a year to fish. It's a small 3/4 acre pond. I went for days without catching a fish, learning and other stuff. I am not as good as the pros also, but I am not a beginner. But it took days to catch one and figure out things. I don't know how rookies do it, especially this year. The rookie class is on fire this season. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@devinwillis7787]

Well the st lawrence has years and years of videos of guys in the same spots they are fishing now. Its not like most of these places are a secret

[@dylanbue2913]

Yea im honestly not surprised I've heard a few interviews where these rookies are ending up on same spots as local pros with thousands of hours on said lakes , I think alot of em are just hawking and watching then scanning said areas . Like one example heard a kid never even been to the O but starting morning was right over scott Martin's shoulder and on grand found same starting point as Christie like gtfho , I'm sure it's possible but I don't believe it

[@basscat2107]

It's a known fact that JT has been tournament fishing across the country for 4 years. No Job a open credit card limit to only fish BASS goes to the same lakes over and over and over. They might skip yeasr but they are the same lakes as the opens. There was never a prefish rule for opens. He goes to lakes for months at a time. Everyday all year one place to the next. I'm not even referring to cheating that's whatever it is if it's true he should be gone. I personally know he is very entitled acting and ungrateful to people he don't closely know.

[@dwighthaberly1199]

I know of a few that use guides or locals that win a lot of tournaments to learn about a body of water in a short time. As long as it is done during off water time it's not against any rules.

[@RedXCross1]

I agree with all above, BASS needed to make an example to really knock this rule down so ALL know the seriousness and issues moving forward

[@GetUrFishOn]

I don't think the punishment was enough, but lets hope things change. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@joebob4609]

Imagine being the angler on the MLF, that his boat official was selling his spots.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Im imaging a bunch of things, and I don't know if we will ever know the truth. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jimk4267]

Great point!!!! Somehow this will be Boyd's fault

[@GetUrFishOn]

@@jimk4267 So i've gotta be honest, DUDE THIS MADE ME LAUGH SO HARD!! THANK YOU!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Venandii77]

Nailed it! Could you just imagine the social media outcry? Holy crap !!! For weeks every pod caster would be absolutely demonizing MLF and the BASS fans would be having a blood bath with it! And yet where are the BASS social media hounds now? Crickets!

[@richardc8695]

Thank you, enjoy your content and the way you deliver it! Keep me informed!

[@GetUrFishOn]

Thank you!!! Much appreciated!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Theburningseason]

If you fail one I think you should get a poly for all the tourneys for that yr

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think I agree with you on this. That makes sense. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@DennisMoyer-he6yw]

Bared for 3 years might make some anglers think twice before trying to gain an edge on the honest participants.

[@GetUrFishOn]

RESPECT!! Things like this need to stop. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@cross_fire_]

I’m obsessed with fishing and would love to create a KZbin channel to cover topics but there is no way I could be as straight as you. I appreciate your coverage. Others cover the subject and they take up for these rookies. Others are too harsh. You play the middle very well and you ask great questions. It’s always great to hear your perspective since you are able to graciously tell the story in a way that doesn’t make me as upset.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Thank you. I try however it is tough. I filmed this three time because I thought that I was to harsh. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jonn6427]

People cheat and steal all the time . Just today when we were camping, my grandson and myself had our fishing pools stolen from our camp site. Theaven bastards.

[@GetUrFishOn]

That stinks!! Sorry to hear that. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@RustyWells2]

It's not only the rookies my friend go ask some of the veterans who have been in the sport for 30 40 years and talk to them off the record and your mind will be blown!

[@GetUrFishOn]

Its something that happens more than we know. It's very competitive. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Fishingin290]

Crazy, watch the Bassmaster Elite for couple minutes and all they're doing is staring at screens zig zagging around just depending on FFS, that's the unfair advantage. Fishing is crazy time right now..

[@GetUrFishOn]

That’s the way of fishing now unfortunately. Weird world. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Fishingin290]

@@GetUrFishOn yep, that’s if we allow it though, if enough don’t support it and stop watching, it’ll change to what fishing was intended to be.

[@surgprep1]

Pretty sad that just in the last few years after the bent neckers were allowed to use this gaming technology to their advantage to creep their way into the Elites thus forcing Real Elite Pros to have to waste their time and skills to adapt and use this gaming technology even though they didn't need to or want to, but had to in order to try and cash an earned check for their actual experience, skills and hard work. Bass, MLF and the all the Electronics Companies are All Responsible and to Blame for fkn up Professional Bass Angling for the all mighty dollar, (Ray Scott would of said No Fn Way will this be allowed) and it's only going to get worse with all the drama, controversy and it's ability to turn anglers against anglers, those for it and those against it. Just look at all the hate it has caused in only the last couple of years to a once great sport that's been around for decades...this sport is now on the level of politics which sucks cause both cause division of Americans against Americans, how stupid is that ? I use it and it was great fun to use it (initially and sometimes) and man..we did and do we smash'em with it which at times can be fun (but not so much for the fish cause they can swim away but they can't hide from 1 to 6 ffs transducers finding them or following them around, it's like chasing bed fish) and for us, it soon became like crappie fishing catching 50-60 bass per trip, boring and we were always leaving fish to find / scope bigger bass. And for the whiners that say just because the under water game camera aka FFS finds them for you while you just stare at the screen burn gas idiling around doesn't make them bite is B.S. we've all seen Ben 402 and other rookies snag the one's that were either hearing the ping and were to smart to bite or just weren't feeding, but then being snagged in the head, side or even tail, on Live then hiding the fish from their Marshalls to unsnag them if they even have a Marshall? or Cameras which they turn their backs to the camera so you hopefully won't see them unsnag their fish...we've all seen it on Live. Just let everyone that needs it, or loves it use it to help them out...but it has no business being used as a tool to let Non-Pro Level run of the mill good anglers sneak their way into the Elites. Legalized the A-rig and Ban FFS only at the Elite Pro Level to remove the negative impact it continues to have on actual Real Elite Professional Tournaments (and the fish) and let everyone else have fun with it if they want.

[@edwhite3767]

Yeah it's disappointing to see anglers watching a screen!! They couldn't do as well if BASS didn't allow Forward Facing Sonar!!

[@Fishingin290]

@@surgprep1 💯

[@bgood419]

I know as anglers learn faster and start younger they are more likely to do well early on in their careers, but doing well and winning are totally different things. Some how, not only these young guys, but some of the other anglers magically happen to be on small little areas on these big lakes and rivers that have the biggest fish in the system. Is it being very good and also lucky or are a lot of these guys getting waypoints? I've fished tournaments since 2004 and we rarely ever see one or even a couple anglers that are consistent because things change so much week to week month to month and year to year. These guys show up to these massive bodies of water and just so happen to be on the giants so often that it has always made me wonder how it's possible. Success in tournaments in 2024 has required so much more than previous years it seems. You can catch giant bags and not even be close to doing well lol It definitely feels like something is off

[@GetUrFishOn]

I hear ya and agree. Some of these rookies are so good, they make locals look bad. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@GarryMurray-i1y]

Truth is that without FFS. Most of these rookies wouldn’t even qualify to be there in the first place. Black mark on what’s called a professional sport.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I respect your comment, but this isn't about FFS. THanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Glock-1]

They are supposedly getting waypoints from each other and talking about places and lures in the houses they stay, I understand why the guys that don’t cheat are so mad.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Yeah, roommates share a lot of info. It's a sore spot for a lot of anglers. Got a click, well those clicks seem to be doing good. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@stevefisher2121]

I would guess that 75% or more of the anglers do the same thing. Do they all have to take a polygraph for every tournament? Great video and I agree with you 100% - real punishment not just a slap on the wrist.

[@GetUrFishOn]

They all talk to each other so they share information. Only a 'random' few take a polygraph. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jmccOutdoors]

There’s plenty of qualified people in the Opens to replace anyone giving BASS ( or any league) a bad rep. I think they should enforce with a “heavy hand” for a few seasons to get this back on track.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I agree. Lots of issues this season. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@keithpowell2786]

I honestly believe for buying spots, you should be kicked off the trail because that is so delivered and the official should be fired and fine significantly also

[@GetUrFishOn]

Lets see what happens, because there's more to this story. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@fisherman7275]

This was the 1st rookie class that had to qualify by fishing ALL of the opens. Not just finishing in the top of a division. Now young anglers, lets face it we all don't read things completely. We are human, they made mistakes and as long as they own up and make no excuses and take responsibility for their actions.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Awesome comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@1829Lola]

Been following Pro bass fishing for 25 years. There has never been this much drama. Is it Social Media, young guns trying for an advantage, old timers feeling the pressure. Would imagine this stuff has been going on for years we just didn't know about it. You are getting quite a following now. Keep up the good work.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Thanks. I think there's a lot out there now, and anglers and fans are not happy. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@toptoad7149]

The only way to make it so they can't get information not announce the tournament until a week beforehand or less. Just enough time to get there and no prefishing or just get rid of rule.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Not a bad idea, but they need some time to find lodgings and other things. One week might not be enough, but I hear ya and understand. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@spothunter1376]

Penalty should be stiff. The other thing to look into is he and Trey McKinney are roommates and fishing next to each other on day 1. Did they share the way point and should they both be under investigation.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I agree completely. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@carynp26]

There has been alot of BS going on in bassmaster with all these rule violations! Its time to send a message to the young bass anglers, JT should be banned from bassmaster for life! Ray Scott has to be rolling over in his grave, be the way these people run his organization!

[@GetUrFishOn]

This has happened a lot this season. It's been kinda crazy. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@husskid]

I'm wondering if JT. Tompkins named the official? Bassmaster should be contacting MLF, so they can talk to the official and see if they have done this before. I'm assuming they signed a no information typ contract. So not only could they be fired, there could be legal action against them. Remember if they did it one time there no saying how many time it happened. Tight lines. Regards, Steven.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I'd like to know who it was on MLF. They shouldn't be an official, they know all the rules. It's a crazy story, but I don't think he named anyone. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jimk4267]

@@GetUrFishOn The majority of BPT officials this year are locals...NOT full time. But we'll have to hope it comes out

[@sfmedicsmith777]

What was the penalty for the Official who sold the info and who was the official? The penalty should be NO FFS for the next 5 events.

[@GetUrFishOn]

We don't know who that person might be. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@JIGSQUAD]

This is just the tip of the iceberg. Wait until the person from MLF gets named. It will be interesting how many people get exposed in this, or if some of this gets buried. We might not ever hear the truth, but it reminds me of how our own representatives of the sport are the very thing holding us back from legitimacy. Lying, cheating...no words we want associated with us, but yet this is our industry. Sad, but obviously true.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I agree. I think, 'if' its someone with MLF, that's complete crap. Makes me think their might have been alternate angle.... but who knows. Hope your doing well. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@leblueoutdoors5945]

You will never convince me that any angler on the Elites or MLF would not know that buying waypoints or any information is illegal in those organizations. This is purposely seeking information to gain an advantage over the other anglers. As for the MLF official, I think the act of obtaining and then selling the waypoints, while is not illegal, is very unprofessional and an unethical practice, and he should be dealt with accordingly by MLF.

[@GetUrFishOn]

A lot of anglers have done it. This isn't the first time something like this has happened, nor the last. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@k.cosgrove5128]

Waypoints, FFS, both give you a supposed advantage, however the logic for FFS is that you still have to "catch them". Why is this logic not the same when given or sold waypoints.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I can see this point, but this is a rule to make things as much equal as possible. Waypoints bought allow a regular angler an advantage over an angler who those who put in the time. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@andybales7318]

Today's "pros" are so accustomed to legally cheating in every tourney with FFS, he probably figured what's the difference? There's no level playing field in today's fishing....teenagers who played video games daily can't be compared to anglers who spent years developing skills/techniques...buying waypoints/FFS...i see no difference, as both can be used by anybody off the street to catch fish...as long as u can cast, have eyes, and can read computer screens...u can catch fish...i see no reason not allowing these guys to buy way points...the whole sport of professional bass fishing has turned into an illegitimate competition, where skills/talent in actual bass fishing is no longer required..Reading computer screens isn't a fishing skill/talent

[@GetUrFishOn]

I can respect your view and see it, but this has nothing to do with FFS and tech. He was wrong and the poly says he was, that is all. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@camojoe83]

FFS is useless unless you already know where to point it.

[@GARYDefilipps]

Serve notice Banned for life

[@GetUrFishOn]

LOL thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@DLPfishing]

It doesn’t matter if he received one waypoint or a thousand, cheating is cheating he should be disqualified and fined as well only way to clean this mess up. Tight line buddy

[@GetUrFishOn]

Agreed and he did not pass the test. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@EricBynog-zd4rd]

A bass employee sold waypoints he should be fired and banned from bass and JT should be punished but I am sure it happens more then you think

[@GetUrFishOn]

AGREED!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Theburningseason]

I bet if you gave his roomie trey one he fails it

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think he probably got one also.......maybe Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jamierice3189]

What i want to know is who is saying an MLF official sold them to him.. it amazes me every time someone fails a polygraph all these conspiracy theories surface like it was common knowledge before they failed the polygraph..

[@GetUrFishOn]

Yes they do, and JT is saying that he did nothing wrong. I think there is more to the story. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@stanwilliamso3094]

Polygraphs are not legal! He’ll see them in court.

[@GetUrFishOn]

He is already saying he did nothing wrong. An update is probably in the works. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Tedthib]

I would have to be 100% sure that JT did that. Did he admit to it?... If so- this is a career ending offense, a Lifetime ban.

[@GetUrFishOn]

He is saying that he is innocent, but the BASS press release says different. I think we will see more about this. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@gmanadventurer8892]

Looking at final aoy standings. 3 rookies in top 10, 7 in top 20 and 9 in top 30. Either the Elites are not that good, the rookies are one of the best classes ever or it shows getting way points and FFS can be a big advantage.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Best rookie class. But FFS is why in most cases. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@bobbydrinnon1765]

I'd say DQ for the tournament and removed from the Elites! And allowed to fish the Opens next year to try to requalify, but he'd have to do it without FFS! And take a mandatory very rigorous polygraph every tournament! And not the same polgrapher every time!

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think there's more to this story. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@ChrisHenderson-by8lj]

I would like to know when the rumor of paid for way points was known. If it was reported to BASS, then most likely polygraph was not random. Either a bad rumor is being circulated with no evidence, or it was known and BASS failed to act prior to.

[@GetUrFishOn]

There's a bunch of things floating about how this was handled. While I don't know if the rumors are true, they seem to be right. Someone told the anglers, who told BASS, and then a possible 'I'm not taking a polygraph' which probably didn't help his case. I don't know whats true and false. Don't know if this helps. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Nate_Higgins]

I'd say this brings up some serious issues for MLF. Is this official going to get in trouble for selling spots of a BPT angler? Wonder if Boyd will do anything about this?

[@GetUrFishOn]

I don't think that part is going to be true. I think another angler protested him and said this and they polygraphed him. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jacobcollins5827]

Im curious as to how anyone found out about the exchange of waypoints? Did the MLF official spill the beans or did JT talk after he purchased them?

[@GetUrFishOn]

That rumor was told to bass and he was looked into. An angler protested him. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jacobcollins5827]

@@GetUrFishOn thanks

[@ChrisHenderson-by8lj]

This is flat out cheating. There have been upcoming anglers from BASS opens fail polygraph that got banned from BASS forever.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Your right. Seems like we are seeing and hearing more and more about things like this. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@andybales7318]

@@ChrisHenderson-by8ljusing FFS is flat out cheating too, BUT it's a huge money maker so that's ok...🤣 the whole sport of pro bass fishing us illegitimate today

[@ChrisHenderson-by8lj]

Yes, Hummingbird, Lowrance, and Garmin are top sponsor dollars, go ahead, bite the hand that feeds ya. As for cheating using FFS, you are privy to your opinion. Until the rules say its cheating, your just calling people names.

[@andybales7318]

@@ChrisHenderson-by8lj nahh, just calling out the obvious...Anyone with functioning brain cells knows the ONLY reason FFS is "legal"...Buying waypoints isn't a money maker...There's the ONLY difference

[@RCSTILE]

It's called winning at any cost.

[@GetUrFishOn]

It's pay to play also. Morals too. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@shimanoshane4020]

At least Bernie Schultz beat someone this time 🤷🏿‍♂️

[@GetUrFishOn]

LOL I think Bernie is done, which stinks. He's a really good person. Hilarious comment though. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@BC_Fishing]

We are in the age of where information is at the click of a button (purchasing waypoints). Now combine that with an angler that has the monetary means (comes from wealth), has all the time in the world (no familial responsibilities), and you have the greatest leap to the top of the ladder. I know we can’t blame someone for being born under theses amazing circumstances that most of us wish we had, but when you fully know your life advantages and still decide to bend the rules, that’s when the problems start. The reality is it takes time on a certain body of water to learn where the fish go at any given time of the year. Now you expect people to believe a 18-21 year old has all that info from every elite series lake from time on the water? Just do the math. This polygraph is only the tip of the iceberg.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I agree completely. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@robinallen8773]

I think this is the main reason I’m against electronics in tournaments for this reason! Everyone would be on an even kneel! It would be on your knowledge alone to fish! Of course it wouldn’t happen because of the electronics companies money!

[@GetUrFishOn]

This has been crazy. Tech is a problem what probably won't ever be resolved. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jimbaumgardner1436]

Biggest thing I want to know is how many other times has he cheated? How can he ever be trusted again?

[@GetUrFishOn]

Lots of anglers have done the same thing, but these rookies are really under the microscope. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@alanrasmussen4097]

Non enforceable rules policed by unreliable science is a winning combination for any successful pro sports league, right?

[@GetUrFishOn]

It's a tricky thing for sure. THere's more to this story. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@bassnakshi]

Prior to the rule change that made getting outside information illegal, almost every top-end bass angler had at least a half dozen local tournament anglers or guides they'd call to get updated fishing reports from. I know a local stick that used to get calls from elite series anglers before tournaments came into town. I have no doubt things like this still happen...just done a lot quieter these days. As far as the guy who sold the waypoints, I'm sure MLF will implement some new rules for boat officials as a result of this incident. In reference to the punishment fitting the crime, it's in B.A.S.S.'s interest to only disqualify JT for only one event (they still need his entry fees).

[@GetUrFishOn]

Yeah this happens more than we know, and JT knows the rules and should have known better. Crazy thing that amazes me honestly. Thanks for the insight. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@brianlee9074]

The penalty here is warranted. But what about future violations? Suspension, and a fine for a second violation? Thanks Steve. ✌️😎🎣

[@GetUrFishOn]

I don't know future stuff. Hopefully we are able to learn the truth. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Daniel-pz4wm]

Staying on top of the latest News when it comes to Bass fishing!!! 🤓Get Ur Fish on will get the whole story when it comes to fishing!!! 😎😎😎

[@dustinwalker8152]

Steve has become the ultimate source for bass fishing news. Not throwing any shade at Jay, he's an invaluable resource, but it's quicker than waiting on the next bassblaster to get sent out.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Thanks, I had help from ya'll on this one. And this took me longer than most to do. I filmed it three times but became more and more worried about being completely negative. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@stevecornell9742]

I agree, he should be disqualified.

[@GetUrFishOn]

He was but he is saying that he is innocent. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@slayerstacker2074]

This is where BASS and MLF need to stop working against each other. If they work together, MLF could fire or disqualify the official on their side of this as well.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Love this idea. The official should NEVER be allowed as a marshall. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@williamdeel377]

Who cares how much and how many spots it don't matter if it's half a spot 2 is as bad as 10 cheating is cheating

[@GetUrFishOn]

AGREED!!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@phildegraves9024]

guess trait was right 🤷‍♂️

[@GetUrFishOn]

She's right a bunch of the time..... but we need to know the fact before blasting him. But again shes right in this case for sure. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Patriot-dt3wk]

Wouldn’t be a tournament without drama. This is another reason people are losing interest in these big circuits.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I agree completely. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@camojoe83]

I feel far more strongly about banning gps and automatic navigation of any sort from inland fishing tournaments than i do about having FFS removed.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Love this. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@rickvann3489]

Why not just get the card, and 3 months from now and give the guy a donation. But here is where I stand. Cheaters will always be cheaters. This is not mistakes blantant cheating and the majority of them network.

[@GetUrFishOn]

They all talk to each other and that is allowed. It's the outside stuff BASS attempts to control. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@ronaldbryant8457]

JT is done......

[@GetUrFishOn]

I hope not, but there's more to this story. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@user-nf7zf1os6h]

Without FFS most if not all of these rookies would not be fishing in the elite series. It’s up to Bass to do the right thing.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I respect your comment and hear ya, but in this case it's not about FFS. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@ScottCooperOutdoors]

He was literally fishing next to the rookie of the year all tournament. So how many are cheating?

[@GetUrFishOn]

Not all of them, but you must admit, this year has been filled with issues with rookies. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@williamdeel377]

Makes perfect sense the guy told to try to hurt bass

[@GetUrFishOn]

Let hope not, but this does hurt him and the organization, but they did the right thing with the penalty. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@basscat2107]

That's a dumb theory

[@ChrisHenderson-by8lj]

Gee left honey hole, went and got Trey in 9th I think, told him , Cory has 27 I have 24, here's some baits crushing them, they both pinched him. Trey jumped to 4th I think. No code for this. This was Bass live footage.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Yes, I am trying to find the footage. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@ChrisHenderson-by8lj]

@GetUrFishOn did you see Dave Mercers day 4 morning podcast with Cory? Cory referred to Robert Gee as a little chirping ewoke about Chris joining Gee in the hole the Johnstons made famous. He was fired up. Mercer just dared him to hit his smelling salt, ammonia tabs. He did.

[@GetUrFishOn]

@@ChrisHenderson-by8lj I did see that. I am not sure it was the right thing to do with the name calling or saying he might take care of it before the start, but it's another thing with a weekend FILLED WITH DRAMA!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@af4od02]

Would an MLF “official” be a MLF boat marshal? For example, as the MLF tournament is underway, the marshal is monitoring and weighing and recording the weights of the MLF angler. Then the marshal simply records on his Garmin wrist watch each place a fish is caught. These GPS waypoints then become a map of where good fish have been caught and could become an extra income source for the MLF Marshal. I really don’t see how lots of information is not being swapped and transferred amongst the anglers. The way all these anglers share housing and meals at events. If your my tournament buddy sharing a house at a tournament, and I see you fishing the north bank of “Old Cedar Creek” and at weigh in, you bring a 25 pound bag, I can start figuring things out. At the house while food is being prepared, I stop by your boat and you’re preparing your rods and reels and tackle for the next day. I see nothing but white spinnerbaits, green pumpkin tubes and 1/2 oz pitching jigs being prepared on rods for the next day. How dang hard is it to pull all the pieces of the puzzle together? What if you need your electronics serviced before an event. Later you arrive at the tournament lake and “way points” are all over your mapping pages? Who is to say a “Paid service technician “ (whose company probably sponsors you) placed the waypoints in the fish finder? The tournament angler didn’t ask for the waypoints. The waypoints just appeared magically. What if my best friend is an Elite angler. “I” go out and obtain valuable waypoints for a lake in an upcoming tournament. Then, I stop by your boat, insert an SD memory card and bingo your loaded with data you “never” asked for.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I don't think an MLF Official would be a marshall. The sharing of information is the toughest thing to enforce, and really doesn't get enforced. And it happens ALL THE TIME. Making me think on your questions so they are really good. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@duanemansel5704]

Pro fishing has turned into a circular masterbation party.😂

[@GetUrFishOn]

LMAO!!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@ChrisHenderson-by8lj]

How does one give you a subject to research

[@GetUrFishOn]

@@ChrisHenderson-by8lj shoot? If it’s gee and Chris, I’m writing notes already.

[@ryanscustombaits7045]

Peetty sure his rooming buddy who he share info with is the Rookie of the Year....who was also nailed of rule infractions 2 times this year

[@GetUrFishOn]

They share info, so do a lot of anglers, that is allowed. Outside stuff is not. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@guitarhiker4449]

Wow thats not cool. I also think a major reason these rookie anglers are doing so well is the technology their allowed to use. Especially Foward Facing Sonar! Its not fishing anymore its catching, its video game fishing. Not a ton of skill needed when u have this level of tech. Some folks might hate me for saying that but its 100% true! I would like to see it either gone during the days of the tournament or maybe see a new league pop up that doesn't allow it. I remember when aqua view was used on lake champlain for a win. Same idea. But yea buying waypoints huh?...

[@GetUrFishOn]

This video is not about FFS but I hear ya. This is about a rule that was broken first. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@derrickgreen2628]

Not be able to fish the classic and a half season suspension IMO.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@brettaylor9098]

My question is, "Who was the MLF official?" I think we need to know who that person was before any of the questions you ask can be answered.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I'm right there. I do think, with a little or a lot of research you might be able to find out who it is. It's a Saturday, so I am not going to be texting friends. But I am sure someone will text me. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@booster4470]

I think it is the "Win at all Costs" coaching that has been instilled in the past few generations. I first saw it in the late 80s and early 90's as I went to watch some of my friends sons play football. Then again the same thing seemed even worse in the 2000s. I can see it preached in the movies of those eras and not just in sports. I think coaches and parents modeled that behavior to get the "ride" because competition is so tough. Sportmanship was lost to 'You got to get ahead at all costs', and the morality of those times said, "it's no that wrong if I use it for my good". I'm sure you've seen it in Thomas' companions and competitors via his swimming development. Just look at the social media clickbait titles pages that outright lie or stretch the truth to get the view. Influencers making up junk on green screen rather that actually going to a place or resturaunt to get the click.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Yeah it's a weird win at all cost world. As a parent we attempt to do things right but watching is tough. For the bubba it's about competing against himself and that's all you should worry about. Amazing comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Phoenix-nl2ut]

People still complaining about livescope blows my mind. That’s not the issue here. He bought waypoints and got help during a tournament that’s the rule he broke.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Yeah, it seems to always be about livescope but not in this case. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@andybales7318]

@@Phoenix-nl2ut thx for confirming u are a scoper, with low fishing skills 👍

[@Phoenix-nl2ut]

@@andybales7318 you’re welcome. Doesn’t matter if I’m one. What matters is it isn’t going anywhere

[@Phoenix-nl2ut]

@@andybales7318 go tell all the guys in the elites they have no skill too.

[@andybales7318]

​@@Phoenix-nl2utI'd gladly tell all the elite series scopers they have low fishing skills..BUT, u really think I'd go to a scoping event & watch guys stand on their boat playing video games? 😂

[@Glock-1]

Also the MLF official should be outed also and should never be allowed to be an official again!

[@GetUrFishOn]

I agree COMPLETELY!!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@b.s.fishing5902]

unfortunately this will never stop. Stuff like this has always been a part of the sport but it gets far more press now because of social media and shows like this (which I greatly appreciate!) but here's the thing, when it comes to punishments they have already set the precedent for the penalty. Should it be more, I'm not really sure. Would a harsher penalty make it stop? NO. Look at the penalties for the Olympic events like Track and Field that get handed down from WADA. They have lightened up a bit but it used to be an automatic 4 YEAR BAN for any kind of banned substance!!!! Didn't stop anyone, it still happens today but they have gotten a bit more lenient with the length of their punishments (1-2 years is far more common).

[@GetUrFishOn]

This is happening much more than we know. There's a lot of anglers skirting the line. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@kathyg4906]

Dang, it’s so disappointing. I liked him. What’s a fair penalty? That will be discussed at Bass. Coming from Eustis area what good ramp would you recommend on Apopka?

[@GetUrFishOn]

I'd go to Magnolia Park and then go fish on the left side when looking at the lake. There is a nice dock.....WINK WINK..... lilypads around there are good fishing. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@milleda121]

​@@GetUrFishOn😂😂😂

[@jeffwhitehead8410]

I think he should be unable to fish the classic because did he get more info on other lakes

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think we are going to see and hear more because he has said he is innocent. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@rayminthecat]

pretty soon all those electronics will be on a headset and those guys will look really stupid

[@GetUrFishOn]

Your probably right. The tech is only going to get better. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@timgallagher6529]

So, I thought the officials couldn't save way points or anything like that?

[@GetUrFishOn]

I don't think that they can but I don't know. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@bluefox7862]

Is mlf gonna step up and say hey we all in this together and discipline the official?

[@GetUrFishOn]

I don't know but don't think so. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@timvanschubert3177]

A cheater intentionally doing something like that… banned for life on the first offence. And all the tours come together and agree in a case like this that they collectively ban this pro from ever fishing any of their tournaments.

[@GetUrFishOn]

This is cheating for sure and he knows the rules!! Pretty sure they talked about this exact thing last week in their meeting. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@RustyWells2]

That's were you're wrong if you read the rulebook there's gray everywhere hell the entire world is a gray area!

[@GetUrFishOn]

I can understand that, but in this case I think it's black and white. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@hptubez21]

Am I dumb or are polygraphs useless at this day and age?

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think they are. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@hptubez21]

@@GetUrFishOnthat’s right

[@guadalupe_rodriguez]

My question is, how long this way point sharing/buying has been going on between anglers? How many more are there that are doing this? This issue doesn't help the FFS cause...lol. The angler took the bait (no pun intended) and fell for it and got caught. Law enforcement uses this technique all the time. Also, are sponsors encouraging this practice?

[@GetUrFishOn]

I don't think sponsor encourage this, but this is competition. This has been happening for YEARS but rarely caught. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jeffwerth2707]

2024 - the year of rules violations?

[@GetUrFishOn]

NO KIDDING!!! Have you heard of more? I don't remember this many in 20 plus years. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jeffwerth2707]

Scott Martin fishing in an off limits area - Trey not reducing speed in a no-wake area - guys fishing "over" another competitor (not a rule but more of an unwritten rule). Pressure to perform vs. ethics?

[@GetUrFishOn]

@@jeffwerth2707 Probably a little of both. Pay to play is part of it. Being competitive. Lots and lots of things. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Venandii77]

Especially BASS… every tournament this 2024 has had a incident or violation. 🤡 league 2024 😂😂😂

[@billljones979]

I personally think they know exactly what they doing, getting info, way points, etc, also that makes me question his room mate that was fishing near each other, imo if it's cheating ,( which I believe is different then rule violation) cheating needs a no tolerance, send him back to opens bye bye elite series, and if they really that good of an angler then they'll be back

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think the 'extra' sharing of info is another issue altogether. I think he was fishing within casting distance of someone yesterday or Thursday. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@billljones979]

@GetUrFishOn , lol casting distance, him and someone were boats were so close you could jump from one to another, just saying, bassmaster needs to figure out a way to end these violations, more fines, bigger consequences

[@garysanderford1572]

He not the only one he just failed the test the other didn't.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I haven't heard about the others. Who was it? Cheers and tight lines!!

[@OptimisticFloppyDisc-bz6qi]

Bass publicized the dq but I think if someone is dq they should tell the entire story like what exactly did he do and the exact question asked and his response

[@GetUrFishOn]

I agree completely. Lets see the info. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@dankardash324]

This will curb cheating $10,000 fine and one suspension.

[@andybales7318]

@@dankardash324 they have $100k boats & $50k in cheating technology...doubt they are concerned about a fine..it's worth taking the risk, for illegitimate anglers

[@GetUrFishOn]

Love it and thank you!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@dankardash324]

And one year suspension

[@bobmiller6787]

Is the weigh in at Portsmouth harbour

[@GetUrFishOn]

TO be honest I don't know. Check bassmaster.com Cheers and tight lines!!

[@vandos11]

with live scope allowed does it really matter

[@GetUrFishOn]

In this case, FFS does not have anything to do with it, but I understand. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@dirtshallowoutdoors6009]

Tournament Bass fishing is the worst it’s ever been. lol literally no one is talking positively about the sport anymore.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I talked about one with Foutz, but I understand. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@dirtshallowoutdoors6009]

@@GetUrFishOn my bad I should have clarified none of the anglers are speaking positively about being a professional angler. They just keep taking shots at one another and throw shade at the others. It honestly like a bunch of high school girls at this point.

[@BPTerry]

Waypoints were sold to see if JT would buy and then lie. Bassmaster set the trap and the rat took the cheese. DQ for 5 years minimum.

[@GetUrFishOn]

He is saying he didn't do anything wrong, but BASS puts a lot into those polygraphs. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@troyeller734]

What's worse is what Chris did this morning don't tell me it's his spot he pulled up 20 yards from him!

[@basscat2107]

That's ridiculous. You're crazy Chris stared in that area every day as well and is fishing for angler of the year and not even a rule. 😂😂😂😂

[@GetUrFishOn]

This is another story I am trying to get more information on. I 'think' he wasn't fishing there the first couple days. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@leonbrowning3695]

FFS opened the door for the cheaters to get into the tournaments

[@GetUrFishOn]

I respect your take, but I don't think this one is about FFS. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@FishOutLoud]

Who does JT room with at the Elites?

[@GetUrFishOn]

Trey McKinney I believe. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@FishOutLoud]

@@GetUrFishOn - what I thought! 🤔

[@seanw6426]

They should at least be suspended for the next tournament.

[@GetUrFishOn]

AGREED or something. This is the last tournament. Cheers and tight lines!!