Fact or Fiction: Milliken Released Expired Bass During Tournament

[@txhuntsman]

I don’t fly under false colors so I will say up front I can’t stand carpetbagger Miliken. I don’t like how he speaks to people, I don’t like the way he fishes (FFS is what I mean here), I don’t like his arrogance, I don’t like how he pretends to be a Texas expert or a Texan after all he did was bad mouth Texas fisheries & Texas fisherman before he moved, and I don’t like how he attacks people or other companies for clicks, he speaks and behaves like a petulant child, and I would not put much past Ben in the integrity dept. BUT, I can’t say from that video it’s a dead fish. I also can’t say for sure he cheated so I won’t say or assume he did. Let BASS investigate it and hope that they are honest enough to report those findings positive or negative. As much as I would love to see him brought down a few notches he deserves to be assumed innocent until proven otherwise. Thats only fair.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I agree completely, but I don't think BASS will and I understand that. This is something that has went a little crazy online, so I did a video. Not happy about making the video, but I tried to stay even. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@txhuntsman]

@@GetUrFishOn . You were 100% fair in this video. You presented a story that is buzzing in fishing circles. As I told another poster who was mad at your post you reported a story you did not hold an inquisition or say he was guilty. BTW I don’t think BASS has the cojones to honestly report their findings on a popular angler in their ranks. Just my opinion.

[@GetUrFishOn]

They definately won't, bass doesn't like bad news EVER. Thanks for having my back it is already appreciated. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@TODDWOODS]

Wow! I love your honesty!

[@jaym8257]

Do away with catch and hold. Go to the MLF model. For BASS it's all about the weigh in. Always has been. Bring a bag of bass to the stage weigh them and pick a couple up and show them. I suspect they fear they would slide into insignificance if they didn't have that type of weigh in. And even the weigh ins are completely staged.

[@shaneburns4181]

If you’re a Tournament angler you know the deal. If the fish moves at all, it’s alive. You’ll get credit at the bump board. It’s a low threshold. That’s not to say the fish is dying or will be dead soon but the question is was it alive dying alive or two different things rule say alive, not dying

[@GetUrFishOn]

Yeah, I am not sure the fish was dead and I do get your point. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@markthomlison7256]

I’m my opinion you don’t delete/erase something, unless you’re trying to hide something. Steve this was very informative, and it definitely raises suspicions of something not being right. #GetUrFishOn2024

[@GetUrFishOn]

I agree..... but he might just be covering the basis..... I have thought about doing it with this video already...LOL Cheers and tight lines!!

[@ScottCooperOutdoors]

That fish was way too flexible to be completely dead.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Ben said on a podcast that the fish was alive and the tags were a mistake. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@FishingVet8004]

I think controversy will continually follow Miliken around. He made a habit a long time ago of attacking a lot of people in his videos and thumbnails in what looked like attempt to drive up views and comments with drama and controversy clicks. Now it's just coming full circle in his pro career and putting him in the spotlight and on the receiving end of what he's used so often to help build his social media following.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I am not really aware of his past to be honest. I have read the comments about this and thought it was something people might not know about and would like. I could be wrong. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@BassSlayer2448]

Absolutely! He’s the king of clickbait titles and thumbnails

[@GetUrFishOn]

@@BassSlayer2448 He gets me all the time. And I hate it, insert evil laugh here. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@txhuntsman]

@@FishingVet8004 Bingo!

[@mikecollins2476]

Great comment he's the king of clickbait. He's also a very arrogant douche. Anyone who talks shit to an old man who's just trying to be friendly is a piece of shit especially considering he's like 35 years old. And yes this really happened I watched the video

[@jeffchauvet3725]

There is no way to tell if that fish is dead. The body is flexible as it is in the air. I have seen fish upside down in the live well, that revived . Some haters need to get a life. Having said that. I am in favor of weighing the fish as they are caught, and never putting fish in the live well. When the weather is hot , it stresses the fish , and many are killed. It is a problem for all tournament anglers who put fish in the live well.

[@GetUrFishOn]

@@jeffchauvet3725 the fish was alive Ben said so we have to believe him. He’s a polarizing KZbinr but he’s one of the best. Cheers!!

[@davewickham6821]

If you look at the fish being released in normal motion, you see the flexibility in the tail and back half of the fish. If it was dead it would be arched and no movement in the tail or back half of the fish. Even in slow mode you see the flexibility in the fish if you look close.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I can see the same thing. Its a weird situation and hopefully a nothing burger. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@johnm2617]

The clips are on it for one reason ! To sink it ! He knows their on it ! Probably hitting him in the hand when he liped it

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think, and I only know this because Ben has come out and said, he was rushing and didn't realize the clips were on the fish. Mistake made. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@milanradojkovic3818]

This is not too important. The biggest problem is in the minds of professional anglers. They do not treat fish as something they love, it is just a simple object for them. They wave, they throw that fish like it's not alive, they have absolutely no respect for them. When Lane won Bassmaster, he waved and shook those basses like a flag, it was disgusting to watch. Many other anglers too...

[@GetUrFishOn]

Love the comment and thanks. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@nathansutphin6543]

Here is the thing folks seem to forget. Its very easy for people online to say something and next you know the world is debating it. The fact is that every angler has dropped a still fish in the water from the live well and watched them swim away. Might be an adjustment period. Unless you have actual proof that fish is dead then guess what folks. The fish isnt dead. Period, end o story. You cant not give Ben the business on something that is impossible to prove.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Ben has said that the fish was alive so that's all the matters. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@AustinBonjourFishing]

The fish is obviously dead and if you don’t understand that, your not obviously not a avid fisherman

[@GetUrFishOn]

Appreciate the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jonmartinez1855]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@raymondstorm2710]

Why does it matter. The rules are the rules and if he didn’t get hit with a penalty then it’s dead. All the hate towards Ben is like a bunch of kids hating on the popular kid. Stop and let the man live out his dream. Applaud any man that’s has a dream and go guys for it. Second have of these fishery’s do catch and release which stumps the growth of the bass some have to die so that the fish get bigger. If you’re a soft hearted animal lover stop eating meat and drinking milk and buy veggies. The fact is you guys that hate him for one reason or another is personal. Stop watching him stop crying and stop hating. Like him or not he is a man that’s just doing his best to be happy. I don’t agree with everything he says or does but I think his content is needed and he does a great job. Scott Martin is amazing to me and he has been penalized this year are you crawling out of your high grass to go after him? Stupid thoughts create stupid words just enjoy what you like and be happy in your life

[@GetUrFishOn]

Let me start off by saying, love the passion and admiration you have for Ben, and he does deserve it. I do not hate Ben, and I attempted to give both sides of the story. He has come out and done a podcast saying the fish was alive and I have posted comments saying that he must believe him and give him the benefit of a doubt. I attempt to cover the news in the industry, some is gonna be good, some is bad. Respect the comment and best wishes. Tight lines and Cheers!!

[@raymondstorm2710]

@@GetUrFishOn thank you bro but the comments were for some of the responses to your channel. I admire you and what you do. Please accept my apology if I offended you. It’s just I have watched the Googin squad dump on him and so many others. He isn’t for everyone and I get that but he is a good guy. I am going to start a channel soon and I want to do kayak tournaments. I know when you are living ur dream so many people want to kick you. It sucks. I am a published author and an avid fisherman who grew up with a pole in his hand. I am an ex gang member who did 22 years in Texas prisons and I have learned in this life, it’s short and nothing is promised. I would love to share my experience with you if you ever have the time but I say that to say we love the sport and we are a breed that needs to love life and this freedom on the lake that GOD has given us. Let the silly sh$t go. Enjoy what’s out there. As for you I think you are a great man that has honesty and values that show in your reporting. Love you bro. Just know that.

[@GetUrFishOn]

@@raymondstorm2710 thanks bro and I didn’t take it personal. Love the comment and feedback and say strong. Love ya!!

[@darrenmiller6278]

So he brings 3 dead fish to scales dead and takes penalty? Now they are saying he's throwing back dead fish? I'm going to have call BS on that. Way to much drama happening in EVERY tournament now on EVERY circuit. I just hate it for the sport. Lot more jealousy and envy than one would hope for.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Lots of jealousy for sure, he's incredibly successful on and off the water. Very little proof, but deleting video and other things are weird. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@CODMSMOKEYBEAR]

I mean honestly putting the fish back into the water they came from in the best thing nothings gets lost something will always eat those fish also we're talking like 2-3 pounders from what I saw people just have nothing better to do

[@gbass321]

Doesn't look good either way being the tags were left on it.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Yeah I agree. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jonbullard7074]

Looks dead to me. Another reason to not have livewell tournaments.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I can understand your opinion. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@deline8ed619]

Sorry guys, definitely jumping to conclusions.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Ban came out and said the fish was alive but rushing to release it and forgot the clips. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@giand5719]

the edges of the tail and fins being white is a good indication that the fish is dead.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Many people have said the same thing. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@centrebassoutdoors4791]

If that fish was dead it would be stiff as a board and would not move at all when being handled. The dorsal fins would also not be up. As far as the white eye, that fish could easily be blind in that eye as I have caught fish that the eye was glazed over and white obviously indicating it was blind.

[@jmccOutdoors]

@@centrebassoutdoors4791depends on how long it’s been dead

[@TODDWOODS]

@@centrebassoutdoors4791 obviously you know nothing about rigor mortis.

[@giand5719]

@centrebassoutdoors4791 As a multi species fisherman, I've kept many salmon and trout that die and are still floppy, but their fin and tail tips are first to go white. But sure thing, pal.

[@randymiller5008]

Guilty and should have his license suspended in that state permanently ❌

[@GetUrFishOn]

Might be a little much since we don't know if it's true or false. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@CODMSMOKEYBEAR]

So when. Fish dies it's fins come out in defense ? No they don't buddy so if you watch the video and use glasses this time you see the fish reacts to being picked up the same thing they do when they get eaten they flare everything as a last ditch effort so this fish it's completely alive and yall are jumping to conclusions even the guy who made this video knows the fish were alive either way I think acting like we haven't all dealt with dead fish is insane and weird behavior from fishermen these things happen livewells get hot but in this case his fish were alive and he was just culling out smaller bass

[@GetUrFishOn]

@@CODMSMOKEYBEAR we have all dealt with dead fish, but different in tournaments. Having said that Ben has said the fish was alive so im gonna believe him. Cheers!!

[@TODDWOODS]

Rigor mortis is a period of stiffness that fish experience after death. Its caused by muscle contraction due to a lack of adenosine triphosphate. Rigor mortis usually begins at the tail and progresses to the head. Eventually making the entire fish stiff. The length of time can vary from a few hours to several days. In other words, if the fish just died it takes some time for the stiffness to set.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Ben said that the fish was alive in a podcast so I think we have to believe him. Thanks for the comment and insight! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@TODDWOODS]

@@GetUrFishOn I'm Good with that. I'm a tournament angler and I have brought a fish to weigh in with the clip still attached.

[@edwardcowan7012]

I’m not a fan of Ben. That being said the threshold of what’s considered alive is pretty low in these tournaments. The fish wasn’t stiff and appeared to be alive to me. I fished pro in the days of the draw tournament and we never had issues like this.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Completely correct. Ben has come said the fish was alive, so I think we have to take his word. Thanks for the comment. Tight lines and Cheers!!

[@mrcollier1641]

The bad thing's about tournament fishing,They all do it. They catch alot of fish that die after they catch and release them.

[@GetUrFishOn]

So true. Wish it didn't happen but it does. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@cuivre2004]

Let's take the issue of if it is dead or alive at the time it was released out of it- the bigger issue to me is it was let go WITH THE WEIGHTS STILL ATTACHED! Even if it was alive when he released it, he effectively killed it 'in absentia' -he gave it a death sentence with the weights attached to it. I have no doubt the weights were kept on it to ensure it sank out of sight- the guy may be shady and a non-sportsmanlike slob, but he isn't that stupid. Anytime someone thinks they are untouchable (due to not needing sponsors, like he constantly claims and having his fanboi army), they think they are bigger than the sport. This is how that shows itself.

[@GetUrFishOn]

He mentioned in a podcast that the fish was alive and that in his rush to continue to fish, he didn't see or feel the tags and it was his mistake. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@cuivre2004]

@@GetUrFishOn Yes- his mistake that should have got him disqualified. "Mistakes" should have consequences-especially when they result in the death of the fish doe to carelessness.

[@cross_fire_]

I need more evidence, it seems like it’s fine…..I don’t think a fish that small would move that easily, they would be more like a board. Joey Cifuentes released a fish with a floating tag and chased it down using ffs. It took a while and he finally caught it but he caught it illegally according to Bass.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Ben was on a podcast and mentioned the fish was alive, so I think we should believe him. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@cross_fire_]

@@GetUrFishOn did you hear the story Joey shared with Dave Mercer? That was a wild story and with your platform I think you could make a great video out of it.

[@RealMitchRapp]

Not Guilty. Not our business either BUT…. Any fish exhibiting ANY signs of life whatsoever, may be released back into the body of water WHERE IN FACT they stand a much better chance at rehab and survival. He admitted openly to slipping up with the fin clips. WHO WOULD’NT in 100° blazing heat?

[@GetUrFishOn]

He admitted the fish was alive also recently and took down the video so he wouldn't catch more grief which I understand. I think we have to take his word and believe him. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@RealMitchRapp]

@@GetUrFishOn watch him on “The Juice”. He’s far from sneaky as haters like to say. But on a personal level I can tell you, he’s as straight and as caring as they come.

[@user-ie5hw3ft5g]

No respect for the fish, just want the fame and money. Even local events are like that. Not a fan.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I can understand your point. He did say the fish was alive, but thank you for the comment. Tight lines and Cheers!!

[@TreybleRockLake]

My question would be, if BASS asked him for his on boat footage would it have “accidentally been deleted”. Doesn’t look great for him for sure.

[@GetUrFishOn]

They could ask for the footage at the time of the tournament. Now, after.....won't happen. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@timb8970]

If it wasn’t dead when he released it, it’s dead now with that tag attached to it.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Didn't even think about that, but you are correct. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@coygreathouse1211]

I’ve caught bass with fin clips. It’s not a death sentence

[@GetUrFishOn]

@@coygreathouse1211 I didn't know that, but that's good to know. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@andrewthomas5313]

This doesn't surprise me. I followed Ben for awhile but stopped. He seems to be all about Ben and would do anything to look good. If 3 fish were dead in the livewell that he weighed in...chances are that fish was dead too!

[@GetUrFishOn]

He said the fish thrown back was alive, so we have to take his word on it. Respect and understand your view and take. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@daleshirley6170]

He peered over His shoulder before raising the fish. He pulled it quickly to arch the fish ,then stopped suddenly for it to recoil then a quick drop. He knows what He did. Watch the quick wrist rotation to simulate the movement.

[@GetUrFishOn]

He did a podcast and said the fish was alive. I think we have to give him the benefit of believing him. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@789Derek]

It is legal to cull a fish that will certainly expire but if you catch what is happening before the bass takes its last breath, then it is a legal cull. I could see the cull tags being accidental for sure.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I can see the tags as accidental. I don't know about the culling rule, but I thought it was illegal. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@789Derek]

@@GetUrFishOn It is illegal to cull a dead fish; however, it is legal to cull a “dying” fish….so it can be somewhat subjective but if the fish is still breathing it can be culled even though it might float after being culled because it doesn’t have much life left but it won’t float with the bottom fins clipped as such in the video

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think if the fish is dead, you can't cull it, you must pay the price of it's weight and the penalty. However I don't know the official rules on that one. Just what I have thought for numerous years. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@cuivre2004]

They weren't "cull tags" and accident or not- that should be grounds for a full blown DQ. That is most likely a death sentence for the future survival of that bass-especially if released above water with a thermocline.

[@Dillo72]

So if he threw it out because it was dead, i would of done the same thing, why turn in a dead fish and take penalty points for a dead fish. Throwing it back is a smart move. Seagulls, crows, otters, beaver etc, get a free meal. So what would of done with it? Bring it in, take the hit on a dead fish? Throw it in the garbage? Have it cremated? LOL

[@GetUrFishOn]

He said that the fish was alive, so we have to believe him. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@derekclark7667]

Cant really tell. But the fact of the matter is Ben is always surrounded by drama. Another live scoper for sure. If the fish was dead i wouldn't be suprised. Seems shady to me but that always seems to be Ben.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I didn't want to bring up anything from his past, just what I am reading and people are talking about. I don't know if it's true or false, but hoping false. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@StikmanModesto]

This is like a rant trying to take down the mfers. I am still a big fan of catching weighing the fish and releasing them I don't care if there's judges or not kayak series have seemed to figure out how to make it work fair for everybody. I think it's fair to say that some of the fish that are alive at weigh-in die before their released

[@GetUrFishOn]

Yes fish do die, and this is hard to prove here in many cases. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@dualthreatoutdoors]

Serious comment: I’m not sure either. I will say, to avoid this, BASS needs to avoid some the largemouth fisheries when water and air temps are super warm, and there will be less dead fish in the first place

[@GetUrFishOn]

They need to make a few changes. This was a place where everyone caught smaller fish, and the weather is WARM!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jonmartinez1855]

We will never know, nothing can be proven, and it is really a big deal about nothing. There are a lot of haters out there.

[@GetUrFishOn]

We know that the fish was alive, Ben said it in a podcast. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@lloyds_fishingjournal]

That fish is dead but if it wasnt then eventually its going to die sinking to the bottom with the clips on it.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think your correct. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jpfishing95]

Fish is too limber to be dead. I fish 60 tournaments a year, and as soon as his eyes turn, he's stiff. Fish isn't dead. It's always people that can't catch or compete that are the ones talking. On here adding validity to something you dont know to be true, to help the spiteful masses ruin someone's career. Too many Randy's and Traits, with no talent and has been careers trying to put out someone's fire.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think I covered both sides very well and gave information on both sides without issue, but I respect your opinion and thanks for the comment. Should mention Ben did a podcast and said the fish was alive and the tags were something he did on accident, which I believe. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@eddiejones974]

Ben spot light Milliken throwing back dead fish sounds about right the guy is no good

[@GetUrFishOn]

The fish was alive he says, so we have to take his word for it. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@foreverfishingillinois815]

I just don't understand why you would throw it back with a cull tag on it do cull tags actually weigh the fish down?

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think that was a simple mistake, but who knows. Whole thing is weird to me. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@secretbassrigs]

@@GetUrFishOn should there be a penalty for releasing fish with a cull tag on it? it's basically a death sentence for the fish.

[@jimmylester4539]

Was it a cull tag or was it the weights they clip to the fish’s bottom fins to keep it upright in the live well. I believe it was the latter. I’m of the opinion that Ben gets the benefit of the doubt on this one unless more proof comes out. Either was, that fish was probably doomed because of the weighted clips.

[@secretbassrigs]

@@GetUrFishOn mistakes like that can be convenient if trying to keep a dead fish from floating. If the camera can easily show it from a distance, why couldn't he see it?

[@GetUrFishOn]

@@secretbassrigs I think, and I could be wrong, but when your trying to do things quickly, you forget. I have brain farts all the time, but I do understand what your saying and appreciate it. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@rickhensley2251]

Hard to tell if the fish is dead or not with 5 second video clip, but there was definitely a cull tag on the fish. I would let Bass make the call, I'm sure they have watched the video more than once.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Hopefully they have but I don’t think they will or have and won’t do anything. It’s tough to see. Thanks for the comment. Cheers!!

[@djHELIARC]

Right out the box the fish curls it tail up. Laws of physics says if fish was already dead it would have just dropped down with gravity. Think about it a minute 🤔

[@GetUrFishOn]

Thanks for the comment. Ben has been on a podcast saying the fish was alive. Gotta believe him and give him the benefit. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@brandonhavis8526]

Ehhh, I don't have any fin clipsnin my boat right now because I turned a fish loose and forgot to take them off. The fish doesn't show any signs that make me think it's dead. I fished a tournament a month ago where I had a bass that was less than a pound that was definitely dying. It was breathing on its own when I let it go and that left me with 3 fish. Ended up weighing in 4 but didn't want to chance going to the scales with that 0.88lb fish and a 0.5 lb penalty. Especially if I caught a bigger fish and couldn't cull. The fish wasn't moving but it was definitely breathing. Breathing is alive.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think it was just a weird mistake, but who knows. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@brandonhavis8526]

And when I say it wasn't moving but it was definitely alive, I'm talking about my fish not Milliken's. But his didn't make me feel like it was dead but who knows.

[@CreedGarner]

It's really hard to tell because of that lighting, but it does look like it's kicking when he released it. At the same time, why would he still have the tags in it and delete the video? I still don't know what I believe, but I always enjoy watching!

[@GetUrFishOn]

It's a weird situation, but lets hope its a nothing burger. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@mikeharris130]

The fish is dead, but I'm not a fan of him, so that may sway my opinion.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I can understand that. Its a bad thing either way. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@joesmith6420]

Fished a Pro-Am tournament back in 1990 I had two fish in the live well, when I caught my third fish I went to place it in the live well only to find both fish were dead ! My Pro apologized say he forgot to turn the aerator back on , he told me if I caught a limit to cull out the dead ones ! He had already foul hook 2 large Mouths on a crankbaits, I guess is was his way of making sure I keep my mouth shut .

[@GetUrFishOn]

It happens probably more than we know, but that stinks. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@ccavanna1]

It's not you know it's what you can prove. Can't prove it so it didn't happen...

[@GetUrFishOn]

Your right, Ben has said that the fish was alive. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@freeagentangler5159]

I don't like Ben as a person. He's guilty.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I can respect your opinion. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@FunkE.Fisherman]

Gonna be hard to prove based on that video if it was a dead fish or not.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I agree, especially without the original video online now and others. It's a topic I've watched for a few days, then asked some other anglers about. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@AlabamaBassin]

That fish was kicking it's tail from the well to the water. Cull tag or not it was alive when he released it. You physically cannot tell from the eyes in this clip due to distance from camera to fish.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Agree with you. There are many pros and cons to both sides. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@AustinBonjourFishing]

The fish is dead and as he’s moving the fish from well to water he’s making the fish move. A 200lb human man handling a 2lb spot will make the tail move

[@AlabamaBassin]

@@AustinBonjourFishing if it was dead dead that fish would've been stiff from the cooler water in the well. You guys are modern Helen Keller 😂 deaf dumb and blind 💯

[@TheRecon1a]

People want to complain about FFS but not about the fact that hundreds of pounds if solid bass that could be recaught and spawn to have even more bass in the future are dying because of being in livewells all day. Elites needs to got to Catch and release like MLF. This will cut down on the amount of dead fish. If Kayak can do it Elites sure can.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I agree. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@1829Lola]

Was at the MLF Pro Circuit weigh in Friday at the Detroit River. Saw lots of dead smallmouth being pulled out of livewells. All had the eyes like that fish. The ones I saw were Real Dead. Maybe his was Mostly Dead which is still alive.

[@GetUrFishOn]

That just STINKS!!! I hate to hear this. Especially at my OLD HOME!! Lived in Howell Michigan until 12-13. This makes me mad. Thanks for the info.... Cheers and tight lines!!

[@secretbassrigs]

or maybe just dead. if a violation can't be proven, no rules were broken. that's basically what Ben said on BTL the last time he was on.

[@brent3323]

If anyone can see that fish's eyes from that vid, they have better eyes than I ever had. Second, what factor what looked at was the 1st dorsal fin. That dorsal absolutely not lift if the fish is dead. Won't happen. Dorsal looks raised to me. IE, it's not dead. That being said, every tournament anger that's fished them for any length of time, has thrown back a marginal fish that they knew from their experience was GOING to die. Because, it was still alive at tome of release, and thereby avoiding a DF penalty. I've done it multiple times, and have actually seen Pros do it....with that explanation on TV. By rules, nothing wrong. But I will say this. The entire world has become too damn judgemental. And thar there are way way too many people casting stones from glass houses... that have zero skin or experience in the game. MIND YA BUSINESS

[@GetUrFishOn]

I can respect your opinion. I think it's big news and I attempted to cover it both ways. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@brent3323]

@GetUrFishOn mind ya business wasn't directed at you. I'm talking about all the judgemental keyboard internet fisherman that have never paid an entry fee, and therefore never been faced with making a decision on the water concerning a DF penalty.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Appreciate the follow up. I can understand some people's comments, but some, not you, get to involved and look at both sides, which I also understand. This is a weird one, I am not sure the fish is dead, but nothing will happen with this. And other pro anglers are talking about it now that were not. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Nonamejustcommonsense]

Way too weak of evidence to even think about accusing a fisherman of such a bad behavior.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Agree, hence why I had so many arguments on both sides, I think. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@AnthonySmith-oi3fl]

@@Nonamejustcommonsense I’m not accusing him of doing it on purpose but fish either been around those walleye cheaters or had fin clips when released. I like Ben like his channel. I think he just was n a hurry and tossed the fish back n.

[@Nonamejustcommonsense]

The fish looked alive to me. As alive as many of the fish I saw get counted as alive when they weighed. Could’ve been on its way to death much like several of the fish they release after the tournament. I am not a fan of Ben but I just see too much drama these days.

[@MJ_Bass]

Personally I think if someone is fully convinced the fish is either dead or alive, they are showing bias. From that short clip we don't know. I hope BASS investigates, only way we would know for sure.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I don't think they will look into it, truthfully there is little evidence with the video deleted, and even then it's so far away. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@garysanderford1572]

People love to hate on people that are winning and 402 is winning and people are hating Let's go MFers

[@GetUrFishOn]

When your on top, the haters come out for sure. I did not want this video to be in that category. I tried to see both sides and give opinions for both. Having said that, Ben did a podcast last night and said the fish was alive. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@RandyBanscope]

Get UR Fish On Aka Randy Blaukat 2.0 searching for views these days I see. Why dont you man up and reach out to Ben beforehand to get the real story!

[@GetUrFishOn]

Okay thanks for the comment. I covered both sides of the story, but Blaukat I am not or else I would have bashed Ben in all parts of the video. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@billljones979]

I haven't a clue if that fish is dead or not, could be lighten, might not be, tag yes, but what i wanna see is more Marshall's, and answer from bass, But hey Steve keep us informed, cuz no one else will

[@GetUrFishOn]

Ben went on a podcast and said that the fish was alive, or barely alive. He said he forgot the tags because he was in a hurry. I can understand that and give him the benefit of the doubt. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@gmanadventurer8892]

Honestly, still way more questions than answers at this point. One video, from a distance isn't going to provide enough proof that this fish was alive or dead. Honestly, if it was dead and Ben failed to report it and a BASS investigation confirms it, then his image is going to go down hill quick since he's already rubs some people the wrong way. I think Swindell has developed a relationship with him, hopefully he's providing a little mentorship that could provide an answer.

[@GetUrFishOn]

BASS probably won't investigate this, but it's so far away, it's to hard to tell. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Jake-ch6kw]

I think it’s really hard to tell from that video clip. Fish definitely did not seem stiff. I couldn’t get a good look at eye color or fin color. I don’t think that Ben would have intentionally culled a dead fish.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I don’t think so either but some weird things happened once it was noticed, but let’s hope it’s just the bass fishing rumor mill. Cheers!!

[@Jake-ch6kw]

@@GetUrFishOn I agree it was definitely odd how he took down the video. That makes it suspicious for sure.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Yeah that's just one part of it too. Weird. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@keithoehmigen1057]

If that fish was dead, it would have been stiff and would not have moved the way it did when he threw it back.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I can respect that, but might slightly disagree with a just expired bass. But I could be wrong, and understand. I think it's a little weird but again I could be wrong, and if I am, it won't be the last. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@AustinBonjourFishing]

Not when freshly dead bud

[@andybales7318]

@@keithoehmigen1057 a dead fish wouldn't be stiff that quickly..

[@andybales7318]

@@keithoehmigen1057 a dead fish wouldn't be stiff that quickly..

[@lorithane2006]

That isn’t provable so get over it

[@GetUrFishOn]

100 percent correct, and Ben did a podcast and said that the fish was alive so I think we should believe him. Tight lines and Cheers!!

[@itstrizzo]

I subscribed to this site hoping for another source of bass fishing content, but it's looking like basically another gossip site. So much drama in this sport, but that's what sells.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Sorry that you think this way. I try to give honest unbiased perspetive of topics in the industry. Last several videos had nothing to do with gossip. But I understand and appreciate the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@michaelsheppard4227]

Normally if it walks like a duck, quacks like a duck and swims like a duck its a duck. No way to know for sure though. One thing ive learned in life though. Anytime money and egos are on the line you'll usually find a cheater or 3. Did Ben cheat, we will probably never know. He knows and he has to answer to himself and God for it. Keep your hooks sharp and your rainsuit in the boat. 😎

[@GetUrFishOn]

Awesome comment. Ben did a podcast and said the fish was alive, so I think we must give him the benefit of a doubt, but respect your view. Thanks for the comment. Tight lines and Cheers!!

[@keepinitreel4506]

We don't want another Mike Long, Buck Buchanon, John Kerr, and others scenario like what occurred in San Diego. Remember, in that case that Mike's team partners accused him of cheating him while fishing with them but cashed their portion of the checks. Hmmm???

[@GetUrFishOn]

@@keepinitreel4506 I have a custom mike long lure that I am ashamed to have. Ben said the fish was alive so no worries. Cheers and thanks for the comment.

[@alanrasmussen4097]

Bottom line is there is no definitive proof either way from that clip That being said I believe Occam's Razor should be applied here.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Very little, lots of speculation. Both sides have a lot to say. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@thebasstrap4091]

Its the tags that bothers me 🤔

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think that's the thing that bothers me the most also. Having said that, I can understand if when rushing forgetting em. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@cuivre2004]

The weren't tags- they were WEIGHTS!

[@jimschreiner6482]

It didn't look dead to me in that very short video. It didn't have rigor mortis and the dorsal fin with standing up. All the dead or dying bass I have seen had their dorsal fin lying down not standing up. I like Been and have followed him before his tournament career. I would hope he wouldn't do something Shady like that.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I hope so too. It's a weird situation that people are talking about. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@JohnC34344]

I just seen a random video about a month ago of a guy catching a fish with a tag on it already. So I would say it can happen a tournament angler accidentally throwing a fish back with a tag on it still.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Cull tags and weigh tags are different, but I think this has happened to others in the past. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@brendanbutkus2392]

Ben honestly is one of my favorite dudes on youtube, hes not like the gay guys in the "googan squad"

[@GetUrFishOn]

@@brendanbutkus2392 oh I agree completely. He mentioned the fish was alive and he made a mistake with the weight tags. I think we have to believe him and move forward. Cheers!!

[@brendanbutkus2392]

@@GetUrFishOn all you can do is take someone at their word until they prove us otherwise

[@GetUrFishOn]

@@brendanbutkus2392 I agree. I think Ben has been forthcoming and appreciate him. Thanks for the comment and response. Cheers!!

[@guadalupe_rodriguez]

What if the sun is reflecting on the fish and making the eye look white? The eye looks like it's bulging. This also may be caused by reflection and the angle of the fish where you pause the video. Ive never seen a dead fish with bulging eyes. Never out in the wild or at fish markets have i seen one.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Agree completely. I think theres pros and cons but lets hope it's just the internet doing the internet stuff. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jasonconrad215]

So did Ben remove a video or did this Michael Postlwai delete his tic toc⬆️

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think, and I could be wrong, but Ben deleted it because he saw he was catching grief. He did a podcast and said the fish was alive. Tight lines and Cheers!!

[@husskid]

With all the focus on this, Bassmaster will probably, if not already, do a lie detector test on him just to clear things up. Even if they do not tell us up front.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I don't think they can at this point, and I don't think that they want too. And I understand that. We will not hear anything else about it and it might be nothing. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@husskid]

@GetUrFishOn interesting, you may be right. It is not a good look to turn a blind eye on such things. I know it may be a small issue, but Bassmaster has a reputation for conservation, and it may be throne back at them in the future.

[@marcuscarmouche9023]

As far as I’m concerned this is the only thing the mlf does right catch weigh release however when their anglers hold the fish up by the mouth (which I don’t think harms the fish I do it also) and run back and forth from motor to the 6 graphs on the bow 3 laps or so. Let’s not forget a full blown photo shoot and hoop more times than everyone at a rodeo because they finally caught one that wasn’t a dink. All that bs kinda defeats the purpose of catch weigh release but I would expect anything less 😂😂

[@GetUrFishOn]

That way of holding fish is how everyone does it but I hear ya. We used to do that with redfish, and then had to change the way anglers held em. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@marcuscarmouche9023]

@@GetUrFishOn I doubt it hurts the fish my point was simply catch weigh release is supposed to cause as little footprint as possible but then they do all this other garbage after the catch and it negates the minimizing our footprint. Either way same to you bud

[@JHang697]

Human beings don't care for human beings . Yet everyone's crying over a fish 😂😂😂😂

[@GetUrFishOn]

@@JHang697 lol I can understand your view, and we are probably making a bigger deal than is needed. Cheers!!

[@leeyarbrough9636]

He’s good at what he does however I do not think he appreciates where he is in BASS an mocks it’s an seems not to care , an who gives a crap about content creator , he has an ego however I still like him an he’s a good fisherman.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I can respect your view. Thank you for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@tylerisbell6916]

The dorsal fin is standing up lol

[@GetUrFishOn]

Ok. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@KanokieCatfish]

And retracted right before it hit the water. Haters always gonna hate. Nothing but jealousy and stupidity here. Dudes just thirsty for controversial clicks.

[@GetUrFishOn]

@@KanokieCatfish DId you wach the video? Seriously? I took both sides of this and mentioned things that no one else is talking about. Also posted on comments to beneift Ben. Controversy clicks is a joke. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@KanokieCatfish]

@@GetUrFishOn Dude we clearly watched the video and pointed out what you refused to point out. Or just maybe you need to go see an optometrists. Your just some dude trying to divide the fishing community with your big o stick stirring a pot of sh#t. Try and pull the wool over someone else's eyes my guy. All of us fisherman make mistakes and it seems that only us honest, genuine guys own up to are mistakes. Just do better and be way more thorough if your going to do videos like this. Your in the wrong place if you don't understand constructive criticism and you're sub count reflects that.

[@RustyWells2]

Ben knows exactly what he's doing he didn't get the half a millions subscribers he has by being a dummy!

[@GetUrFishOn]

He is NOT a dummy!!! I hope that didn't come across in the video, cuz I do not believe that at all. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@dualthreatoutdoors]

Funny Comment: Don’t let Randy Blaukat see this😆

[@GetUrFishOn]

LOL what is Randy saying about MLF signing that multi-year deal with Lowrance? Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@beloskhanania5645]

There is no way to use the fishes eyes to determine if it was alive or dead. There is strong lighting in the frame. Look at how blown out the light on his arm is. The fish had flexibility so at the moment of release it was still alive.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Your probably correct, and Ben has come out and said he thought the fish was alive, but was really close. It's a weird situation but I appreciate the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@rob0420100]

Not saying your wrong but rigor mortise (stiffness) can take up to hours to set in at times.

[@reggiesmith8550]

I thought they all have marshalls in the boat with them. They would have final say wouldn't they.

[@GetUrFishOn]

There isn't a marshall in some boats, this was one time when there was not someone else in Bens boat. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@danramzinski2957]

His sunglasses are also white in the picture. We know those are not white. I believe it is the sun glare. Why does so many people want to always assume cheating. That’s the Randy crowd!

[@GetUrFishOn]

I am not assuming anything but trying to give both sides of the story that people are talking about. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@krisr2181]

The dorsal fin on that fish was upright, the fish would have to be alive for that.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Ben has come out and said the fish was alive. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@eugenefoster9120]

Ben Milliken is a smart mouth and has no respect for himself or other people.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I have heard that and respect your comment. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@lainthdavidmartinez3974]

Im not trying to be a jerk but who cares? What else are you suppose to do with a dead fish? Take it to the good will? Ive heard you say that people throw shit on the wall to see if it sticks. This seems like one of those examples. 🤷🏻

[@GetUrFishOn]

@@lainthdavidmartinez3974 during a fishing tournament? Come on!! Respect your comment but ….. cheers

[@st.claireric4587]

Not really sure why you pointing out that Ben is a really Good Salesman has to do with Anything..Can't prove or disprove with that video..

[@GetUrFishOn]

I can go on things that I know. That swim bait sold 40k units in 48 hours. And I disliked the bait, but he does have a following that purchases his stuff. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@st.claireric4587]

Just Because he's a "Good Salesman " doesn't mean he broke a rule or didn't break a rule.all I'm saying enjoying the vids on your cashing a check vid there was a year everyone cashed a check in every event, Pretty sure your aware of that.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I did not know that. But I could see that will someone consistent. I interviewed Palaniuk several times, and I remember him saying he wanted to win every event during one season...... I remember laughing but was impressed by his honesty. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@st.claireric4587]

Actually it was 2 years 2019,2020 everyone who fished the Bassmaster Elites received a check in every Event..FyI.

[@GetUrFishOn]

That is correct. They had to do that, and I think they need to figure it out again. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@FishingwithFro]

I think its too hard to tell and nobody knows for sure. Id give him the benefit of the doubt unless someone has concrete evidence.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I do agree with you. Lots of info saying it's just people wanting to hurt him. I do not want to do that, but want to cover the stuff anglers are talking about. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@FishingwithFro]

@@GetUrFishOn hey I think it's a good topic for sure! Tight Lines bro!

[@StephenByrd-tg7dm]

Doesn’t bass eyes bulge when pulled from deep water?

[@GetUrFishOn]

They might, but we know now because Ben did a podcast saying the fish was alive, so we have to take his word. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@paulmctaggart5049]

He weighed dead fish the first day. Why would he try and hide it the 2nd day?

[@GetUrFishOn]

Ben has stated the fish was alive. Also, sometimes the fish die on the way to the boat dock during weigh in. This was during day one not day two, but it was a mistake that doesn't matter anyways. Thanks for the comment. Tight lines and Cheers!!

[@leblueoutdoors5945]

I don't know. It looks like that is weights to upright the fish. If so that fish was in trouble at some point for him to put the weights on. Can't really tell from the video if it is dead. It doesn't really look stiff but the eyes do look glassed over. I'm not a big Milliken fan but if I was the one looking over this I would have to give him the benefit of the doubt because it is not a certainty that fish is dead.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I tried to stay equal but it's a weird situation. I do like some of his stuff, but understand if others don't. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@secretbassrigs]

the tournament admin being so mum is not a good sign. I'm getting more and more turned off to the tournament scene. because it's just about celebrity and less about fishing.

[@BellaMarie01]

So when all the elite anglers come in they have to sign a paper asking of they did anything illegal or seen anyone do anything. Not to mention they do polygraph test. I have caught plenty of bass that was blind in one eye and it was white. So you can't necessarily say the fish was dead because fish had 1 white eye. I've thrown many fish in with fin clips on begin in a rush to hurry and cull so can get back out cause fish wad schooling and biting good.

[@GetUrFishOn]

@@BellaMarie01 they do random polys. Like three. People don’t always tell the truth, and I’m not saying that happened here, but why delete the video? Cheers!!

[@cuivre2004]

The "lots of people release fish with fin clips" excuse is lame as eff. That is a slob fisherman move.

[@AnthonySmith-oi3fl]

Bad look either way. It’s weighted for sure. Bad enough. Dead now or dead then it’s dead. Sucks. Mistakes happen. Hate to c it though.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Agreed!! It was probably a simple mistake and judgement. He probably wanted to get back to fishing quickly and did not realize the stuff.....or so I hope. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@dlcook1971]

Not sure it's a dead fish. I have caught fish with Cull tags on it. Things happen. To many people want to make drama about fishing these days. Bass should be the one to make a decision not us..

[@GetUrFishOn]

I respect your comment and understand. It's something that is out there. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@kelleybailey1546]

Fish looks alive 2 me

[@GetUrFishOn]

Ben said last night that the fish was alive, but it was a mistake for keeping the tags on the fish. He was rushing to keep fishing and didn't notice em, but I think I said that in the video also. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@NoRedemptionOutdoors]

Hitting it out of the park, buddy!

[@GetUrFishOn]

Thank you bro. So glad your doing good!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@andybales7318]

Considering he's a 100% scoper, wouldn't surprise me if it was dead....if catching fish illegitimately doesn't bother him, then throwing back dead fish wouldn't either

[@GetUrFishOn]

He came out and said on a podcast that the fish was not dead and that he made a mistake with the tags. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@CODMSMOKEYBEAR]

A few dead fish don't hurt a lake better to put a dead fish back in that lake it will decompose and many other animals will eat it bunch of babies he just culled some bass leaves other fish more food now not like it was anything above 3 pounds woukd you rather they take those dead fish and put them in the trash atleast this way they go back to the lake one way or another and it's due to heat that the fish were dying doesn't take a rocket scientist just needs a way to keep these fish cool in florida and other places freezing lake water works

[@jonmartinez1855]

😅😅😅😅 I hope you don't use any technology

[@andybales7318]

@@jonmartinez1855 FFS so far, is the only technology that catches fish...all the angler needs is eyes, a brief period of time to learn what they are seeing on a screen, and either drop a bait vertically or cast to an area...Watch their bait & watch the fish react....you, trying to justify FFS as any other technology is quite comical....won't be long & 16 year olds will be winning pro bass tournaments...This proves alot

[@johnjohnson5933]

Thier eyes dont turn white that fast

[@GetUrFishOn]

Ok, thanks for the comment and respect it. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@surferx66]

Fish eyes are clear in grocery stores.

[@Old-School-Bassin]

Remaining neutral, Just to determine motive, from what I found B.A.S.S sanctions a 4 oz penalty for each dead bass. Not sure the motivation for throwing an alleged dead bass back to lose out on the rest of the weight. AFA the video, pulling it offline doesn’t necessarily mean deleted Memory/SIM card content. If content posted caused an enormous amount of churn over an action maybe that’s why it was pulled to stop the speculation as the alternative seems a stretch (Would Ben, video savvy, post himself tossing a dead bass on his channel from competition footage?) Not saying impossible but improbable. ----Just Sayin---

[@GetUrFishOn]

Ben has said the fish was alive on a podcast after I posted my video and that the tags were his mistake. I have to believe him and take his word. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jack03111969]

At this point does it really matter we have to have faith he has integrity like any other pro 👍

[@GetUrFishOn]

I agree. And that fish could be fine and dandy. We won’t ever know: cheers!!

[@willtraveltofish]

Stopped following anything Ben when I saw him keep a DD which expired in his livewell just for content. He’s good but he’s also a goof imo.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I didn't know that. I think he does well with his content, but everyone has an opinion. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@captainron3494]

lets look at facts he weighed in 3 dead fish on day one but he tossed back one dead fish makes no sense to me but could have right but why not toss back all dead fish right seems to me looking at it from slow motion was a tag on that fish but in the heat of a tourament I can see tossing back and not checking everything so to me he just tossed back a bass and forgot about the tag

[@GetUrFishOn]

So I hear ya..... but the fish could have died on the trip into the ramp. I don't know if this happened, but it has in the past to others. I don't think there is enough evidence to say anything really, but this is something being talked about. Who's knows, and lets keep it real, nothing will happen, and that stinks. Awesome comment!! Cheers and tight lines!!