Rumor Mill: Is Forward Facing Sonar DONE

[@gmanadventurer8892]

You know what was really fun to watch, is the old MLF style, where they went out without knowing what lake they were on and had to fish based on instinct and had to figure things out on the fly. I personally think that some of the most successful FFS anglers are getting way points from locals that turn out to be honey holes, don't have any proof, but the consistency of blowing the competition away out of the blocks just doesn't seem natural.

[@GetUrFishOn]

The Selects or something close that MLF did were awesome. You could be right about the honey holes. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@michaelriggio7680]

​@@GetUrFishOn😂🎉

[@markthomlison7256]

I would definitely watch a ton more if they got rid of FFS, bring back old school fishing before technology came along, base it on a skill set, instead of electronics. Yes there will be a financial impact in several directions, and as always, they will figure out how to get through it. #GetUrFishOn2024

[@GetUrFishOn]

Thank you brother. Sending love. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@davidgosper3842]

Steve, Nascar limits horsepower, golf balls and clubs, baseball aluminum bats. Bass has banned A rigs, horse power 150 hp, size of boat, rod length, live bait, at different times. It didn't hurt viewership. Have watched Bass from 1989, and MLF since it's started. You saw the pro's, and couldn't wait to purchase a new lure. The fisherman is supposed to outsmart the bass, with their experience. How many times, have we, including a pro gone out and caught nothing. A compromise, use FFS on practice days, but not on the tournament days. I would like to know what's the cost to run the tour. Payout for 7 tournaments approximate is 4.76 million, anglers fee 1.96 million, what share are sponsors, tv, location payments, cost of operation etc. This would be a good video, not to the penny. You may have more knowledge.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Great idea on practice day. The organizations are making money, maybe not tons, but they are. I love the good ole days of fishing.....can't imagine saying that now. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@AzAngler77]

Didn't hurt viewership? Using your example, Nascar has the lowest numbers of viewers that its ever had. Plus we saw the loss of Home depot, budweiser, lowes and many more, who were big time money suppliers for the series. Who btw, also brought in non-endemic sponsorships that also brought in loads of cash for Nascar. As for the fishing industry examples you listed, you are absolutely right. No viewers were lost. However, your examples dont include ffs. And the viewership numbers collected since 2023 ( when we saw the big turn to using ffs ), have been on the decline with very little growth as of to date. As for the pros, again you are right...most anglers couldn't wait to get to their local store to buy what their favorite angler was using. By contrast, since the evolution of ffs, the smaller ffs baits being manufactured have hurt the industry overall. Sales numbers for typical baits are dramatically down i.e spinner baits cranks jigs and the like . We see nearly daily something being mentioned to that regard. As for production costs, each league is making money. Not a lot but enough to maintain the league. But permit costs have gone up, production costs as well, not to mention the costs that the State charges just to have a tournament there has nearly doubled. I have been unable to find an actual breakdown since thats private ownership information. But I imagine the profit margins are reasonable but not exceptional. I will say this, with MLF reducing its field from 80 down to 65 in 2025 and down to 50 2026, I imagine there will be savings since they no longer have to pay noncompetitive bottom feeders like James Watson and the like anymore.

[@bobbarnhill8557]

@@AzAngler77 You forgot social media. Sponsors are paying KZbin channels a bunch of money to push product as social media influencers have more viewership. Big companies are getting more bang for the buck on KZbin. Watching bass fishing on TV is like watching paint dry unfortunately.

[@Nonamejustcommonsense]

Golf drivers are hotter than ever, baseball bats are made of carbon alloy with a trampoline effect, tennis racquets have bigger sweet spot with more power

[@AzAngler77]

@@bobbarnhill8557 yes sir… i kinda just lumped it altogether without specifying. But you are correct. Money pushed via youtube is also endemic sponsorship. And whom ever the angler is, is just more viewership for that “specific” league said angler represents.

[@lesterhoward6561]

Ban ffs. Fishing is about the anticipation of catching fish. Showing skills and not just looking at the fish they find. I wanna watch them locate by knowledge not an image.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Couldn't agree more. I also wanna know why and how they figured that out too. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@shanebridges4388]

Very well put , goes back to the old saying ! It’s called fishing not catching and ffs makes it where you don’t have to be well schooled in seasonal patterns

[@jonbullard7074]

I would start watching again with no FFS.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think many people feel the same way. Cheers!!

[@PeterWFishing]

i’d be stoked if they banned forward facing sonar. the skill set required to be successful is so different now, that it’s not the game i used to love

[@GetUrFishOn]

Yeah, the game is slightly easier with FFS. Love the comment and appreciate you!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Tdcfish]

Dont think it's a ffs problem think alot of watching is to much live time old days was 4 day squeezed into hour or 2 hour show on Sunday morning that made it action packed

[@GetUrFishOn]

Yeah, compacting the day would make for more interest I think. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@lancepoore3045]

This is what I’ve been saying. It’s hard for someone who loves fishing to admit that it’s boring to watch live fishing. 🫣

[@TNBassmanJim]

I could not agree more!! Ban it! I have completely quit watching FFS tournaments! They are like watching grass grow!

[@GetUrFishOn]

I don't like watching it also. I don't know if they will ban it, but fingers crossed. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@winstonrocco1981]

+1

[@frankgilroy3189]

-1

[@shawnburton6329]

I have FFS and I still want it banned at the pro level. It is so much more fun watching a top water blow up or hearing the braid against the guides on a big fish when punching mats. I haven't watched any live this season at all.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Thanks for the comment. I think as a weekend warrior FFS would be awesome to have and target better fish. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@ZZ430T56]

Thanks for seeing both sides. I have FFS and love it. I fun fish and all catch and release. But for professional tournaments (and the lower ranking ones run by the same governing bodies) I feel it should be totally banned. Less screen size or less transducers will not make a significant difference. Even as a fan of FFS, I have no interest in watching Pro fishing as I used to. And the Primadonna actions of Pro anglers and their behavior lately has been disgusting and embarrassing.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Agreed. I think as a fun angler, its fine because your not beating up the fish as much. From the fans view, FFS takes away from us learning what those anglers are doing. It shrinks the lake for the anglers, no wasted casts and less interaction with the camera. Awesome comment and respect!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@TangierFly]

All I can say is the last three BPT tournaments (Kissimmee, Chowan and James were much more exciting to watch from my perspective than the earlier tournaments as there seemed to be a diminishing return on FFS with each event. I really enjoyed the frog fishing at Heavy Hitters, the cypress tree knocking on the Chowan and creek fishing on the James. I know FFS was used to some extent in each with brush piles, docks and stumps, but it’s not like they were fishing one school of fish in deep water. Many different lure types were brought into play. And some of the better scopers were brought back to the field. As for banning it completely? I don’t have an answer. Do you ban 360? Sidescan? Where do you draw the line? And there is sure to be new technology right around the bend.

[@guyfoscone3193]

I don't have a problem with any sonar that doesn't show fish in real time. I think seeing the fish react to your lure is just not sporting. It'd be like using a drone to hunt. And there is a new thing called Reefscope. It's for saltwater fishing but will be adapted for bass fishing I'm betting. How great was it watching Skeet win flinging a square bill around. ✌

[@GetUrFishOn]

I agree, Heavy Hitters was amazing. Tech is only going to get better. Great comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@dirtshallowoutdoors6009]

Banning it is the only way to go IMO. These next 2 B.A.S.S. tournaments could be the nail in the coffin because there may not be a cast made not livescoping

[@GetUrFishOn]

It's all scoping the next two for sure. Awesome comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@JohnFlora1]

Simple question: what was wrong with bass fishing before FFS?

[@GetUrFishOn]

Well that could be another video, but I hear ya and understand. Probably lots of things, but this has made things even more tense. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@aboveaverageengineer3001]

I mean, this is a pretty good move imo. Some people say that they wont do it because they are heavily influenced by the electronic companies. However, you are making anglers rely on their side view and down view more, so electronic companies will still be happy. You might also see some new stuff with sideview too. Also, you might see a drop in price of graphs and tranducers which is a plus for everybody.

[@GetUrFishOn]

For everyday anglers, having the technology can and will help anglers catch better and more fish. I think, and I could be wrong, but some of the anglers want to see some sort of change. And can the org's actually survive without that money. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@floydmayes4924]

I think it's too bad that they ever came up with forward facing sonar!

[@GetUrFishOn]

I can understand your view and opinion. Thank you!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@stevemetz115]

Honestly Steve, they need to look at what their highest ratings were before livescope and try to model that to us. I know they are pushing the tournaments live to us now, but I was more of a fan the way they used to do it before the bass track was ever put out

[@GetUrFishOn]

The 'real' numbers I would be skeptical about, unfortunately. Many of the organizations embellish the numbers.... Cheers and tight lines!!

[@husskid]

What if the highest numbers come from the ffs year. There is no way there going back in time.

[@AzAngler77]

@@husskid The thing about numbers, if they come from the " source". I would be very skeptical. Nielson, the organization that tracks, and maintains the data from streaming broadcasts has the more current information. According to their data, Bass's claims of record level viewers is a big stretch. The numbers that BASS and MLF against Nielson have no comparison. We are talking night and day differences. But at least MLF numbers are not so dramatically inflated. Per data, MLF saw a 11% drop in 2023 with viewers. With BASS losing 17% in 2023. 2024, MLF increase by 7% with Bass seeing a 4% increase thus far. Considering the out cry of fans against the watching of ffs, if its removed and banned its almost a certainty that MLF viewership will go through the roof. Especially since the fans quite simply don't wanna watch screen watchers.

[@dualthreatoutdoors]

I’m skeptical, will believe it when I see it, but this would be a great thing. I think the technology limit should be down and side imaging and gps

[@GetUrFishOn]

Yeah I agree. Let’s hope they do something. Cheers!!

[@stevefisher2121]

Ban it period - I say that an online petition should be made and send in the results to bass and mlf. See if that changes anything?

[@GetUrFishOn]

I understand. They notice what's happening with viewership, so that should be enough. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@desertdog1125]

Steve I agree that I just about quit watching Mlf/Bass. Although I believe I heard One of the Tours saw viewership broke record numbers this Year which I find hard to believe

[@AzAngler77]

@@desertdog1125 yeah Bass tried to claim new viewership record. Only problem, Nielson.. the organization that tracks and retains the data for ALL streaming would disagree with BASS’s claims.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I don't generally believe the organizations on their numbers. When I look things up, they are always WAY behind. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@GetUrFishOn]

YES!!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@dlcook1971]

I could care less about electronics. You nailed it on the head. The anglers need to learn to talk/teach as they fish. There are very few anglers who talk to the cameras.

[@GetUrFishOn]

They need some lessons or something. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@TheSleepyApe]

There's so much to say in such little space. Professional bass fishing is an elitist sport. Tackle sales will drive their decision. Recreational fishermen won't buy forward facing sonar. Our wives won't let us. I used to watch fishing to see all the different techniques they use. Why would I watch fishing if they don't use the same things I use.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Exactly. I agree completely. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@KurtisMays]

The younger audience... you hit the nail on the head with that.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Thank you!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Michagan_outdoorsman_James]

I have no issue with FFS, I would also love to see a poll as to the ages and ban on FFS from the “fans” of the sport.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Great idea. I might do another video with more questions for all. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@bassdojo]

Is spotlighting deer legal? Curious.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think so, but I also think you shoot deer and we attempt to release the fish back without killing em, but I see what your saying. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Steve13lb12oz]

Sight fishing bass on the beds in shallow water is so legal that the tournaments are usually scheduled so that they hit the middle of the spawn

[@af4od02]

I am a fan. I used to like participating in club, federation and BASS opens as a Co-angler. I ended my BASS membership two years ago. I no longer participate in Open tournaments since Boaters have started using FFS. BASS no longer provides me with any fishing value. I do not watch any of the live feeds. I still love bass fishing and will fish until I cant get in a boat. I still shop weekly for new lures at all of our local bait shops. I own a fairly new bass boat. The tournament fishing platform with FFS that BASS is providing is for 100 Elite anglers. Reducing transducers and units, and screen sizes will not affect the fishing game. If you eliminate FFS, the electronics companies will make improve side imaging so that it will locate fish even better. One twist in FFS, if it allowed in the future is to but a cap on the number of casts and drops per day by the angler. For example, if you choose to have FFS on your boat, you are only allowed 100 casts per day. This will be counted by the marshal. After 100 casts, your day is over and you head back to the take off dock.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Love the comment. I agree with you. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@brianlee9074]

I don't watch, but I don't have cable either. I respect your opinion Steve. Thanks man. ✌️

[@GetUrFishOn]

Thank you for the comment. Appreciated. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jimk4267]

I like ffs. No difference watching a guy's back throwing a jig at a log or a fish on a screen. I had hoped they could include the screen more

[@GetUrFishOn]

I do agree with that. I'd like to see what the angler is seeing. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@tbnationoutdoors-nateeckhold]

Steve. Love the growth for you. Not for or against. But hate (cancel culture) a few start to complain, there followers jump on board. It slowly evolves from there. Maybe we do away with 8 hours of live. Remove bass track. Go back to a 1-2 hr show. Probably more cost effective for them too. You have said it b4. Put more bodies of water on the schedule at the right times to equal it out. Also they could highlight some of the fishermen doing it (oldshool) throughout the day. Lots of ways to improve the whole system without removing it. I believe you take it away you will equally piss off just as many from the other side. With the internet and a portion of people who have to be negative on a daily basis you will never fix the situation. Some just like to hear themselves talk.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Love the comment. There are two sides to this whole situation with technology. They have some tough situations to deal with, and either way they go will be a headache. I can see something happening, then years from now something happening again. Money makes this whole thing work, or not work. Thanks for the awesome comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@lillieursua4614]

If they ban it for half the events I will 100% watch more of the banned events, 100% will! Heavy Hitters was awesome because it wasn't FFS dominated. When its a FFS dominated event I turn it off, not watching that crap!

[@zeppelin1n4]

Same

[@GetUrFishOn]

Heavy Hitters was awesome. Your probably right, 50/50. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@randyhoobler9654]

I have QUIT watching any Pro fishing due to FFS! And, I don’t play video fishing!

[@GetUrFishOn]

I can understand that. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@kcbroncohater]

I think they should get to use it one hour per day. And they can use that "FFS hour" any time they want. I don't mind watching them catch fish on back to backs casts but I also like watching them flip stuff and crankbait. But ... top water is, and will always be, the #1 fan favorite.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Great idea and awesome comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@oldfishermanandhisdog]

I quit watching because of FFS and all the drama that has been associated with Tournament Anglers. If they do completely ban it, I will give it another look, but if the Anglers do not show respect for their fellow competitors and weekend fisherman on the water during tournaments then I'm completely done with them!

[@GetUrFishOn]

This is something that needs to happen more. JT Kinney had a great video on respect from anglers. He knows a lot. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@oldfishermanandhisdog]

@@GetUrFishOn I saw JT's video, it's funny everyone sees the problem except the Anglers and organizations or if they do they stick their heads in the sand.

[@GetUrFishOn]

@@oldfishermanandhisdog Nothing more true has ever been said. I think the anglers are talking about it amoungst themselves, but it's spilling out slowly. Cheers!!

[@ralphgarbiras5450]

They will never ban it, to much $$$ with sponsors. I say one 10 inch unit up front and Dash with one transducer will help.. also start scheduling lakes that aren’t conducive to FFS .. the tours can do more of this to help the viewer experience.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Great idea. Couldn't agree more about doing more for the viewers. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@herbsteiner1013]

Good/bad, bad/good, marketing is about creating more "users" for the product, correct? Yesterday I saw that Lowrance is now featuring a FFS unit with the MSRP of $999 (not incl. user supplied monitor), which puts it in the target price of a much larger group of potential users/customers. With curiosity, I watched a 20 minute on-the-water video of FFS in action. I'm 76 years old and have never been a gamer, and I realized afterwards that FFS is not my idea of what I want my personal fishing experience to be. However, I've been on guided trips where FFS was used and the technique is a boon to the professional guide business. More fish for clients means more clients, so FFS has a greater constituency than just tournament guys. Taking the boring viewer aspect out of the equation, fishing is still an individual sport for the solo angler, and the thrill of the catch is still fun on the individual's level. Now the entry level cost is within reach for more potentials. So... I just don't freakin' know what the future will bring. Long post, but nothing substantial said, my apologies. Been enjoying your channel for years, Steve, back to the days of the radio show. Keep on keepin on, bruthah!

[@GetUrFishOn]

Thanks brother. I don't wanna jump the gun, but the fishing show might come back as a podcast..... we are talking about it tuesday. For guides, finding fish for their clients is important and I don't think it's a bad thing for them. Hope your well. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@gerrygervais3778]

I really don’t care about forward facing sonar let alone watching bass fishing I watch videos to learn more about fishing. I’m 78 years old and the youngish other fishing person is 50 years old Very few young people care about the sport in my area. We had 3 bait shops within my area now we have 1 and he just making a living.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Learning and becoming a better angler is incredible. Our youth has learned the wrong way of doing that. This coming from a 52 year old (me) that deals and sees my kid and others doing things completely wrong. Stay young!!! Keep fishing!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@frankgilroy3189]

I'm ok as is, however it would be fun to see FFS on like a split season. That would be fun. You can see if the FFS complainers can catch more fish in the non FFS tourneys. Then can see who catches more during FFS tourneys and see who can do both. It would be fun to try. I watch either way.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think a split season might be the amswer, but I don't know. Awesome comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jwblount7802]

Alot people think and have said that fishing is a lazy sport and then go home and watch someone else fish is even worse. I stopped watching fishing tournaments shows long before FFS came out. Now I watch certain show's but mostly teaching videos but no more tournament shows. Saw no point it I just went fishing instead. You'll be surprised how many people are the same way and taking away this or that aint gonna change much on viewership

[@GetUrFishOn]

I agree completely. I watch to keep up with info, but I have watched more informative stuff than anything. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@timb8970]

Simple solution. Allow FFS in just some events or have a FFS round during a tournament. For example, let anglers use FFS from 8-11am each day of the tournament.

[@bassdojo]

Let them use it only to practice.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Great idea, but how do you regulate it? I could see someone not paying attention and going over and not policing themselves. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@fishingusa2051]

As an Angler I can say that fish behavior and patterns have changed over the years. If the the pros go back to flipping and throwing spinner baits it’s going to be extremely boring to watch. BASS will be about the same with 5 fish but MLF will be terrible with every fish counts. The Anglers will be expected to be reimbursed for thousands in electronics they can’t use and thousands in tackle that can’t be used. Sales would go down. Tackle warehouse would probably be able to follow up a lawsuit due to decrease in sales Small business installers of electronics that get business from the public from rigging the pros boats would suffer. Professional fishing controls the industry from rods reels line lures clothing even shaving cream and beef jerky. Ban FFS and the lawsuits would be endless.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I hear ya. And you could be right in the society of everyone sueing anyone. I don't know if the sales would really go down. I think the weekend angler might still get it trying to get trophies or learn faster, but I don't know. Still expensive. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@fishingusa2051]

@@GetUrFishOn either way I’m still going to fish and watch fishing with or without it. I have the same respect for Jacob Wheeler as I do for John Cox. John Cox would be the only one not affected by some sort of ban or restrictions. Right now with the way things are there is no difference from most pot and club tournament boats than the pros boats. Lanier is my home lake and 4 units is pretty much the standard. 2 for mapping 1 for side and down images and 1 for ffs. So now the public expects KZbin videos on how to use ffs from the pros if they they are made to take it off where does that leave the public that have it and spent thousands of dollars on something the pros can’t make content of how they won with it anymore. If they were going to do a complete ban and say no more FFS they should have done it years ago. It’s going to be very interesting to see what happens. I think MLF will not change anything because Boyd enjoys using it himself. But ether way use it or not we all are fellow anglers

[@GBass011]

Ban all electronics no scan at all. A good angler finds the fish with homework, knowledge and luck.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Love the comment and thank you!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@ryanbeshears]

I dont mind ffs. My problem with it is once it gets into smaller tournament trails its hard to compete with it if you dont have the money. As far as with the pros i would rather watch them fishing and teaching many different techniques. Now a days they are all catching them on the same thing.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Very true. It's one kind of lure and that's it. Weird situation. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@ksdesjardins7194]

FFS is painful af to watch. Alright you got me i’m a subscribe and i like the ig update vids as well. When veteran pros speak about the heyday of their sport that doesn’t usually speak well about the sports trajectory. Payouts speak volumes at the highest levels.…

[@GetUrFishOn]

Thank you. They must increase payouts immediately. MLF is paying $150k to winner next year which is a huge thing. I think other orgs will have to step up there game. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@benjaminlatta5784]

I occasionally watched tournaments, but since FFS I don't watch any. And I no longer care what a pro says about fishing anymore as FFS has little in common with what I think fishing should be. Or how I fish. Just my 2 cents.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I can understand and respect your opinion. Thank you!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jeremybecker2887]

I just recently (2yrs) started watching bass master again because of forward facing . I’m in my 40’s and was curious , and I enjoy it. Milliken talks you through it all the time, so it’s enjoyable

[@GetUrFishOn]

Yes, some anglers can do it, but a lot can not. Ben is in a league of his own because he understands and realizes the importance and does it for a living before becoming a pro. Good luck !! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@tylerduncan2842]

I doubt that they full on ban it. We already know the BPT has ongoing financial problems, they wont risk losing sponsor dollars unless there is a hardbait company like Strike King, Rapala, etc, willing to pick up the tab due to the league giving their baits a better platform. I know that this video is about MLF, but if there is truly no interest in watching FFS tournaments, BASS wouldn't be setting new viewership records multiple times this year. The vast majority of people used to consume a fishing event in a couple hour edited video, not 32hrs+ of live streaming.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Tyler, awesome comment and thank you!! I think banning it will cost to much money. On the second part, I am not sure they are getting the results they claim. I think TV viewership is probably overall down, and website views could be also. Having said that, I don't really look into them like I used too. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Theburningseason]

Get ur fish on fam Lets go 1 mil subs

[@GetUrFishOn]

LETS GO!!! Probably won't happen, but I am trying. I hit some duds with videos. I want to think everyone will watch em, but they don't which is okay. Thanks for everything. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@chaddrumm6809]

It’s unwatchable and more importantly unprofessional!

[@GetUrFishOn]

Love and respect your comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@claudewilliams8000]

All of the lure companies are losing a lot of Revenue not all the companies make a jig and minnow and I think lure companies are going to have a big say in it, if you paid attention at icast that right there showed you what is going on

[@GetUrFishOn]

The industry is having some issues. Inflation, costs and getting tackle in is some of the issues. iCast was horrible this year IMO. I have not seen anything that makes me wanna run out and buy it. And that's not good. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jeffwerth2707]

Have to also blame both organizations and the producers. Go to lakes or big rivers that have "stuff" - wood, docks, weeds so FFS is not the best approach. Blame the producers if they cut to a guy just looking at his monitor. I'm ok with quad picture - make a guy at full screen if he hooks up. Where maybe guys like DC's edited channel work - Reader's Digest version - 8h day down to 30m or so

[@GetUrFishOn]

Yeah, this year I think the scopers have been on top of the leaderboard so they get the cameraman, but I hear ya. Great comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jimk4267]

sure... no one uses ffs in those instances

[@binkwood]

I think what we're seeing in national tournaments is financial strangulation which is making anglers more and more desperate to the point of slitting their own throats. FFS is just adding to the costs of gambling for a living because it's something you have to have but a good percentage of them are having to buy their own units because they are using several brands to have the best technology available. In doing that they forfeit having electronic sponsors because sponsors want their endorsers to use their products and their products only! That adds another $30K to $50K to their expenses of competing. This causes a snowball effect because the main reason fans like myself (used to) watch tournament coverage is to learn how to fish better, but because anglers are so desperate to make money they do everything they can do to hide their techniques from their competitors...problem is the fans aren't learning and they in turn don't watch and have switched to KZbin videos instead. That in turn makes sponsors go more in the direction of KZbin fishermen and away from tournament anglers and that's only going to get worse. I know people want to blame MLF for starting the BPT for the state of the industry, but those anglers left for money, they wanted to fish more tournaments and BASS was doing everything they could to limit them to only fishing their circuit so they bailed. I loved the original MLF product, even though I didn't view as a true tournament competition (zeroing weights and catching schoolers favors luck over consistency). The main thing great fishermen do better than average fishermen is make good adjustments. The edited MLF shows illustrated those guys making adjustments based on information they were getting from score tracker, something you can't do well in a live situation. But as far as BPT, I have zero interest in watching people reel fish in, zero weights, and count every fish. That's not what I need to learn how to do. They shot themselves in the foot. And I get they wanted to appeal to "non- tournament" anglers, but they ran off people like myself and the casual watchers aren't going to watch all the content MLF produces. There's no doubt in my mind that MLF will go belly up in the next five years...taking the Tackle Warehouse circuit with it. If I were fishing BPT or the Elites I would be looking for a new gig now!

[@GetUrFishOn]

Awesome comment and respect your opinion. Thank you!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@chrischrist7982]

I hope so

[@GetUrFishOn]

Something must change I think. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Theburningseason]

For me i could careless if they talk Being a tourney angler, ijust know what they are doing isnt hard especially with their set ups

[@GetUrFishOn]

I love learning what they are seeing and doing, but I see your side also. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@shannonkirby9295]

Hope so. Hey, brother Steve

[@GetUrFishOn]

Hey brother!! Thank you!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@kathyg4906]

Watching FFS tournaments just seeing anglers back is boring. Seeing the FFS screen is better but seeing screen and hearing the angler is the best version of watch FFS pro fishing. I like watching shallow waters fishing. I think a blend of some tournaments you can use it but not all might make it interesting. I got a PB smallie today!!

[@GetUrFishOn]

CONGRATS ON THE PB!!! That's the best thing I've seen on this messages, so thank you!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@gabrielmartinez9314]

Local bass tournaments need to come up with a better way to catch n release right were the fish are cought by taking them put in small live well with more bass not much room then take to weigh in many Miles away then let go Not just 1 or 2 weigh in stations Either catch n release right were bass were cought or more spread out weighing stations through out the lake or river

[@GetUrFishOn]

Yes, I agree. They need to figure things out. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@MassReelFishing]

Wouldn’t surprise me if they over respond and ban FFS. Just like when they went from every fish counts, to five fish, to every fish. It seems pro fisherman generally aren’t good businessmen.

[@GetUrFishOn]

They probably will and have to back track. MLF is very back and forth at times. Most of these guys are not good businessman. But the world of pro fishing is tough. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@DshaunBirch]

i don’t think randy would claim sole ownership of the result

[@GetUrFishOn]

Maybe not sole but he will. He has been one of if not the biggest influencer who dislike FFS. Cheers!!

[@brettaylor9098]

If they ban it, it will help the Roomies (Edwin, Andy and Ott) excel. If they do, I'm picking Ott to be AOY.

[@GetUrFishOn]

LOVE OTT!!!! Those guys are the best. I think Andy is hilarious!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Fishingin290]

I want the best of the best, not someone that only focuses on one tool. How many rookies got century mark. Bring back skilled fisherman and ban FFS. I will not watch pro fishing until it’s gone.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I can respect your view and I hear ya. Thank you!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@kellywarner-vb5hn]

I don't agree with using FFS in tournaments. The only skill is to figure out what bait to put in front of the fish on the screen. That's not real fishing.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Agreed!! I think one organization MIGHT BAN it for 2025. And it would be shocking. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@crazyhenry6287]

Ban all. Use what you want during practice but when it’s go time no boats in the tournament should have any help outside of your knowledge and tackle with a fishing rod.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Love this and this might be something that happens. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@spothunter1376]

Viewership is the least of our worries. The impact of fishing pressure and the fish not having a place to escape the pressure will eventually hurt our fisheries.

[@Daniel_Callie]

@@spothunter1376 that truly is the greater issue!

[@GetUrFishOn]

Fishing pressure is hurting many spots. Harris Chain is one place that is hurting. To many tournaments. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@lastboomer.]

If they lower the number of screens, inches of screens, number of transducers, etc., then I believe the viewing experience will be even worse because the pros will still use that limited FFS capability rather than really fishing. They won't be able to catch as many fish, however, so, yeah, even worse. FFS needs to be completely banned.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I can see your point. Either way, things need to change. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@lightningmusky5286]

I honestly don’t care for it. It’s boring to watch. I think it’s influnecing fish populations of more limited gamefish like Muskie and Sturgeon. I will also say many anglers are fishing deeper and taking fish out of deeper water is not always a good thing as many studies have proven a higher mortality on the fish. Some have even pushed for people using it to not qualify for world records because it wasn’t a sporting way to take a fish. Is it hurting the fishing industry? Definitely lures and possibly some tournaments.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think the average angler having it is great cuz you shrink the lake, but for pros I wanna see them figure and pattern the fish. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@husskid]

Hey Steve. Nice video, BTW. I do not believe that they will ban FFS in the pro league's. They will probably restrict the electronics on their boats. As for the price, the pros pay for their electronics on their boat. If you noticed in the Chris Zaldain video, most guys he asked had no idea how much the setups cost. Because they are supplied by their sponsors. Also, banning FFS will mean the average angler will be able to find and catch more fish than a pro, making them absolute the longer it goes on, killing the sport. As for calling it an elitist sport, GOOD.. we want the best of the best, not a good old boys club. Most pro sports Skew younger and for a good reason they are at there peck mentally and physically. If the ever watch pro golf, most are young with a sprinkle of veteran mixed in. As for as the argument of them not using things like a better golf ball, it's because the fairway are a set length with set strokes, and they would have to change the hole course. If you think nothing has changed in golf, look at a #1 wood from the 70's and one that they have now. You wouldn't even recognize the new one. All I want to see is them catching fish. I don't care how they do it. As for watching the backs, that's all you ever see anyway. Could they talk more sure but it not really their job to teach us how the fish. I think, like you said, Steve, the viewership numbers will be the tell. Last year, the numbers for both organizations dropped. So if there is up this year, it's status quo with some tweeks. Maybe (not sure how busy you are) you could look up some viewership numbers from this year. Something the pros or organizations seam to talk about. Thigh lines. Cheers, Steven.

[@GetUrFishOn]

GREAT COMMENT!!! You always seem to bring the heat! From what I can see, viewership will go down again, but I am not covering it as I used too. I don't believe all the numbers people put out, no offense. I go by what I can see personally. Couldn't agree more with all your comments. Love it and thank you!!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@brettaylor9098]

Dustin Connell is the best at talking you through what he's doing while using FFS.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Some are good, others and most are horrible. I think it's funny about Dustin's videos, he is always asking for comments on weird stuff like...... did you poop today and look at it, comment below..... that's a joke. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Theburningseason]

You mean Mathew maccanaughy?

[@steveporteroutdoorsohio4739]

Tackle companies are hurting with other baits , they can make up the loss of the electronics companies if they ban ffs , it will b good for the sport to ban ffs , other sports turn down technology every year , not bass fishing

[@GetUrFishOn]

Technology helps in all sports. Golf has so many it's insane. Drivers are stupid good these days. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@booster4470]

HAHA Love the hat change in the video. Probably only workable for BPT only. Force the anglers to talk back to the camera in the onboard interviews as they fish. No hiding of lures or techniques. They need to spill the beans of what they are doing. For BASS get rid of the goobers on the More LIVE feed that takes over during the lunch break of the main live feed. They are just awful talking over the anglers that do talk and then these "hosts" convos are about what they had for breakfast at Conroe or things like that. The reality is if I watch the live stream (Which I prefer) I will not watch the rebroadcast TV show, Also I have found that because MLF no longs broadcast days 1&2 of current format, I lose interest and froget about the Tx until championship day. And then only if it contains anglers that I like to follow. Limiting the amount of FFS equip will make no difference.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Great comment and couldn't agree more. Did you get my texts? Cheers and tight lines!!

[@BucketDAD]

I watch to see what they catch no what they say. With all the boat wreaks this year let’s ban the speed of the boats? That would make the lake safer.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Not a bad idea at all. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@tonyvieson9194]

Like a lot of things when a big change happens. Everybody wants to go to extremes. There is a good balance from what is new and what is old. The focus needs to be on reducing cost and educating. FFS reduces scouting time a lot and as such. Practice days should be reduced or eliminated completely. These guys are pros and shouldn't need 5 days of fishing. Another alternative is electronics on practice days and no electronics on competitions days or limited use. Such as, you can mark spots where you found fish, but that's all you get tournament day. Again your a pro. Changing baits to figure out how the bite has changed should be part of the skill. Again your pros. So here is how you put the whole thing together and keep it fun and enjoyable for fans. You record both the practice and the competition. Practice days is all about education and Pros should be talking up a storm on breaking down water and locating fish. Describe how there using there electronics and what's it revealing for competition days. On competition days, they go to there spots and without electronics, talk about confirming what they learned or didn't learn on there practice days. No seeing the fish and how there staged and reacting on electronics. Simply taking the scouting you did on practice and using skill and technique to catch those fish.

[@GetUrFishOn]

INSANE COMMENT!!!! DUDE!!! Well said!! I don't give a lot of hearts, but your getting one. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@ernestcoleman4672]

It's bad. BAN IT. Its just a matter of time before some dummy comes out with an FFS boat like they did the bait, and the sad part is some dummy will buy that boat.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Respect your opinion. Thanks. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@castmastersoutdoors7762]

If they ban it i will be a fan automatically and fish their league

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think a lot of people feel the same way. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@dougfudge-ko4qk]

It will be limited but never gone in my opinion

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think that's probably what will happen. Money talks! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@billljones979]

Imo, i don't think they'll ever ban ffs fully, i think the money from sponsorship is to much to just completely drop it out, i know you prob have done inside info, but i think it's just rumor mil

[@GetUrFishOn]

I can see your side completely. Money talks!! Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Ace228]

It will never be completely banned 😂

[@GetUrFishOn]

You are probably correct. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@matthewczerepak]

I would definitely watch more if they ban

[@GetUrFishOn]

Love that and thanks!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Daniel_Callie]

Ban it for same reasons we regulation caliber for hunting or carburetors for racing or bats for baseball!

[@GetUrFishOn]

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

[@roadrashr6]

I have used to love watching final day on Sundays on TNN. Now we get live. But I cant get into watching it and watching an angler stare at the screen.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I agree. The world has changed, and I know it's tough to deal with. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@joebob4609]

To start with, the people that say it’s boring is completely BS. Makes no difference if they’re looking down at ffs or starring in the middle of the lake. Conservation is the biggest problem that might become of this. 2nd is different skills at different lakes to see who is a well rounded angler. I would like to see ever other tournament with and without.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think half the season with other half without is not a bad choice. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@winstonrocco1981]

I don’t like ffs and won’t tune in until it’s gone

[@GetUrFishOn]

I understand. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Justin_Simpson_Picking]

It’s killing the sport of bass fishing form a fans perspective. I absolutely hate it. I wish it was outlawed by game and fish departments.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I think it's hurting pro bass fishing also. I've only used it when fishing a media event for crappie and I was more mesmerized than anything. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@BobbyMoore-p3c]

I agree ban ffs

[@GetUrFishOn]

Your in the majority!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@claudewilliams8000]

If they do ban it people will be buying traditional tackle again

[@GetUrFishOn]

Yeah I hope so. I think weekend anglers will still use it. Anglers that have it LOVE IT, but the org's are looking at it differently. We will see what happens. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@bobbarnhill8557]

Ffs is not going away ever! Garmin, Bird and Lowrance have way to much money invested. Viewer ship for bass fishing tournaments is dismal at best no matter the technology. If it’s banned in certain tournaments the hard core anglers are still going to use it. FFS is a tool just like mapping, 2D, side imagining, etc. Remember when we used a flasher? It’s new tech and it’s here to stay. Someone mentioned golf. The clubs and the balls used are waaay different than just 10 yrs ago. Everyone can hit the ball further and straighter than ever before. Everything evolves and changes.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Love and respect the comment. I don't like see people use the golf as an example. These days, the main companies can use tech to make you slice or fade the ball or hit it exactly straight. It's ridiculous the tech for golf. Awesome knowledge. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@jimbaumgardner1436]

I don’t think it will happen. Too much 💰 involved.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I agree with you, money talks, but if they are seeing drastic decline in viewership, it could be something that they have to do. Which will make things worse and better. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@AddyandChas]

Half the season on FFS other half no FFS

[@GetUrFishOn]

Not a bad idea. I do like this, but policing it might be the issue. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@Daniel-pz4wm]

Get ur Fish on🤓 now it's "Get Ur Fishing Information"🤪😜

[@GetUrFishOn]

I’m trying. It seems to be working better. Cheers!

[@gregc7314]

Ban it!

[@GetUrFishOn]

I hear ya!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@chrismalas8747]

Getting rid of it it’s stupid I watch all B.A.S.S. live I love it I don’t think they are reducing it for fans I think it’s for other reasons I’ll watch it weather they have it or not but to have pros without the best stuff is kinda dumb sounding to me

[@GetUrFishOn]

It could be for other reasons, but I think it's about viewership. Having it is crazy important at this point in time. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@danramzinski2957]

Honestly, Randy seems to be on the wrong side of about every issue. That’s just my opinion, which means nothing. FFS doesn’t bother me at all.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Randy has a great following, but he has put his eggs in this bag NON STOP. Almost to much. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@LV_FISHIN]

LOL.. they will never ban it

[@GetUrFishOn]

I agree because of money, but that rumor is growing by the minute. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@fishybassvon5752]

In the highest level of the competitive fishing, why do anglers need FFS to see how fish react to their baits real time? Are they not good enough? But it is the highest level of competitive fishing, or is it?

[@fishybassvon5752]

And removing FFS from the tourneys will make me watching them again. Reasons are: it’s unpredictable again what technique is going to win, what bait pattern is going to prevail, the winning way will be more diversified and the anglers more creative. I personally don’t own or use FFS, the techniques they share which require FFS do not speak to me or make me want to buy any baits even rods they represent; once FFS is removed, I will be listening to the pro advice again like the pre-FFS days.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Awesome comment and thank you!! Do they need it? I don't think so but the tech helps. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@troutheadadventures6521]

I refuse to watch the back of someone's head. Period. The big sponsors should be putting up the prize money like golf, etc. Why is the purse based on the amount of entry fees? In most tournaments, we're competing for our own money.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I agree. They need to make some serious changes. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@gcharter97]

I love every part of FFS amazing learning tool.

[@GetUrFishOn]

I respect that. I think as a fan it's an amazing tool. Thanks for the comment. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@squarebill]

The number one most important thing in any sport be it NFL MLB NBA Motorsports Soccer and Tournament Fishing the list goes on is???? Without them there wouldn't be any given sport period. I believe MLF and B.A.S.S. have been waiting to see what the other is going to do and when one makes a move the other will fall suit bout like NHRA staging at the tree which one is going to make the move. Both organizations know exactly what's going on what's being said and they're intelligent people and they eventually will have to make a decision based on what's best for their organization. Not sure which way that will go but that day continues to draw closer elephant in the room type deal . Either way it's got to be addressed and would possibly benefit either organization if it were publicly done say via press conference to where it's out there no rumors.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Awesome comment. I think they will make the best decision for themselves and we will have to live with it, which isn't the worst thing in the world. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@ronfussell8244]

Well, I got to experience ffs in my last tournament, I wanted to have one last event,I've done both, boater and co,in my decades of bass fishing I've never had an experience like that day,no conversation all day,I don't think he remembered I was in the boat,it changes the experience of fishing, I actually put my rod down and watched him hold a spinning rod,no casting until he had a target, he did ask me to get the net,it's not an equal playing field any longer, the contractor fishing as a boater versus a foreign video angler with 30+k in electronics, I just don't watch,not a hater,but fishing was a skill sport,

[@GetUrFishOn]

Love this!! Sorry to read your experience. More and more people have the same result. I heard someone say to the angler, your not gonna catch anything today, and that stinks. I have never went out as a co-angler, but it's something that I have thought about doing to check out. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@ronfussell8244]

@GetUrFishOn well a hundred Co's adds about 50k to prize money,it would be a loss to the sport, I think it's a good experience,all Co's should learn all the unwritten rules of being in the back,first tell the pro you have dyslexia and can't back up boats,

[@rickvann3489]

I say do not ban FFS here is the deal hold these tournaments on lakes during their off peak times and use FFS. Not impressed going to a lake prime time and catching fish big deal.

[@GetUrFishOn]

Great idea. That would work also. Great comment!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@AzAngler77]

As Ive said before. Whatever league decides to ban ffs will have just solidified the leagues longevity for the future. I for one am ok with complete banning of the systems. As for sponsorships funds to a league.. there won’t be much revenue lost over the long run.

[@GetUrFishOn]

They will have other sponsors step up I think, but it's something that really needs to be looked at. Cheers and tight lines!!

[@AzAngler77]

@@GetUrFishOn In the long run of things, any Market value lost from banning ffs will be made up on the tail end. The increased revenue from the higher volume of broadcast viewership along with other marketable items will negate any ffs sponsorship losses. Plus with the current 50 top named sponsors including Pure fishing, who seemed to have righted the ship from a financial stand point, most likely will gain more outside sponsorship through endemic means. Either way, whether its a full ban or partial, fans of fishing who quit watching because of ffs, most likely will return to watch when the official news comes out. * side note: if this does happen, think of all the top names from the elite series who are not happy with ffs and most likely will make the switch. Ike, Herren. Wendlandt, Hunter Shryock has made innuendoes, Zaldain and many more. Could get interesting before 2025!

[@leblueoutdoors5945]

I heard that BPT is playing with idea of doing half the season with FFS and half without. IF they do that I think it is a way to determine which gets more viewership and then they make determination from there. I am not against FFS but I don't believe it belongs in pro fishing, at least not on competition days. I don't know that banning it will stir up more bans. They have already banned the A-rig and they did it because they said it wasn't fair chase. Kind of hard to stick to that conviction and allow FFS. The tackle industry is taking a hit because of FFS and if I had to guess they are making a stink a bout it . Yes they are all making baits geared toward FFS but the rest of their line of baits are suffering and lets be honest I seriously doubt that they are making as much money with a minnow style bait as they are with something like a crank bait. The market follows the pros and for those that don't think so you only need to go back to 1997 to understand. Before BASS removed the 150hp restriction nobody or very little people owned a 21 foot bass boat. Fast forward to after 1997 and the 16, 17 and 18 foot bass boats almost disappeared. Im not sure what year pros started getting stupid and putting 4 and 5 graphs on their boats but before that happen nobody had 4 or more graphs on their boats. Look at shallow water anchors. I remember the 1st time seeing that and saying"what the hell is that" and now everyone has them. Im saying all this because the industry is seeing a decline in sales and there may be a reset in all this coming and the only way to right this ship is going to be organizations starting to restrict a lot of this stuff. The ship may right itself on its own but if doesn't do it soon I think you are going to see some big changes in these leagues and it will be driven by the industry.

[@GetUrFishOn]

The leagues are in the worst place since the split, maybe even worse. The fans are unhappy, and anglers are really unhappy, and we see more and more crybabies. (not you or me) Things are so disjointed right now it's weird. Love the comment and thank you!! Cheers and tight lines!!

[@casiokids91]

Screen size is irrelevant

[@GetUrFishOn]

Yeah, it won't matter. Agree. Cheers and tight lines!!