My Viewers Have Spoken…I’m Not Cut Out For Every Fish Counts Format

[@JAK-qk3dd]

Matt, you are as genuine as guy as they come. I truly appreciate your honesty and humility as well as your intellect. Between the change in format and the higher level of competition I think you are doing great.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks for the support!

[@cerebraltackle]

In all seriousness, you've got this. I have no doubt that you'll adapt. I believe that you are the most intelligent, well rounded angler out there right now.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks!

[@larrystolzman9337]

Hi Matt: Thank you for addressing what is a very personal question. Life and business are full of many decisions. Sometimes people don’t realize all that goes into building a life, brand and career. Most of us, including me, think being a Pro Fisherman would be a dream come true, but in reality we would most likely fail under the pressure. The pressure of catching fish on a never ending consistent basis. The pressure of building a brand by convincing sponsors to come on board and pay you to do so. The pressure of no guaranteed payday. The pressure of………………… I’m glad the comment was addressed, but am walking away from this thinking none of us have walked in your shoes or had to address what you’ve addressed. The good thing is that your fans want the best for you and in our minds that means 1st place in every event. All of us appreciate your skills and your desire to make us better fishermen. Stay true to yourself. Don’t worry about the rest of us. We have no skin in the game. Stay safe. God Bless!

[@Carolinafishingtales]

Very well spoken, and I agree, Matt.

[@TheDQ13]

Well put Larry

[@RickyCarter-ro8fr]

Again well said good luck with whatever you continue to do !!!!!!

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks so much for the positive words!

[@johndynneson662]

Yeah !!!! You put yourself out there. Going too have some critics. But you don’t see them ding it. Like you say. Iff you can stay in the money. An points (( kinda like being in a basketball game stay within 10 points. )). Gotta a chance too make a big run. Be right back at the top. Season just started. Right 🤔🤔

[@ryanvarner6520]

I believe you'll find the groove this season to be successful. Keep doing what you enjoy!! Your fans will watch and listen to you no matter which tour you choose! Thanks for sharing every day!!!!!!

[@MattStefanFishing]

I appreciate that!

[@undergroundbee]

Matt, you're such a legend and a stand up person for addressing my message. I want to apologize because some of my original comments sounded mean in my opinion and I didn't intend on it sounding that way. Tbh I didn't think you'd even read the message so to have you address the message just says a lot about you as a person and I'm even more impressed than I already was. Thank you for addressing it and now I understand way better.. I have to admit, I didn't know you were near top 15...that kinda changes my statements so I apologize there too. When you explain it, it makes way more sense. And one thing is, I realize you don't owe us the viewers anything so thank you for still taking time out of your day to address a random message. It is true, I meant nothing but positivity even though it didn't quite reflect that. I'm rooting for ya big time. I moved to Minnesota 3 years ago from California. I found you on YT around that time and I'm glad I did. I really appreciate your videos and learn a ton too. Thank you for doing what you do and for being a stand up dude . 🙏 I salute you and were rooting for you to crush the hopes and dreams of Jacob Wheeler and DC 😂 kinda kidding kinda not! Go get em!!!!

[@MattStefanFishing]

I appreciate your support and comments and know you got my back. I get a lot of similar questions from others and used your comments to create the conversation. Thank you!

[@undergroundbee]

@MattStefanFishing I wanted to say a couple more things...I'm embarrassed to have said that this format doesn't fit you and you should be doing something else. That's a pretty crazy statement by myself and especially not knowing everything in the background. I think you're an incredible fisherman so I'd imagine you are correct you'll do just fine probably do really good eventually and I would hope be on top in no time. So take those original statements and throw down the drain. The only thing I meant by saying that was I do believe that the 5 fish format really truly fits your style and I'm positive if you ever choose to do that circuit you'll crush em. And on a different note, I really respect 🙏 you as a father. And in my book, that's the most important thing going in a man's life and I commend you for putting in the time with your kids that are essential at this young age. I've known fisherman and other athletes(including my idol Kelly Slater-surfer) who have sacrificed time with their children to get better at their craft or to try and make more money for their money(which I understand)...but you make sacrifices for the betterment of your family and I can see that from the outside looking in. That's probably the thing I respect the most about you. That you prioritize your family the way a man/father should. Not everyone does that especially in the fishing world. So cheers to a happy and healthy family, a few more top 10 finishes and a win this year. That's what I'm hoping for ya. Keep swinging for the fences we are all rooting 💪 for ya

[@alanrasmussen4097]

I think a video on the creation of Core Tackle would be cool. Some info on developing your own baits and the process of getting them to market would be interesting. You have touched a bit on it from time to time, but some more in depth info would be great.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Cool idea!

[@davidhidalgo5662]

This is one of the many reasons that I have been following you for a long time. You put yourself out there and answer honestly about anything that fans ask. Your honesty is so refreshing. Thank you and hopes and prays for you going forward.

[@MattStefanFishing]

I appreciate that

[@rickrobinson7032]

You are a top-level angler! I love your videos and your attitude. We, the fans, will support you and your family wherever you fish.

[@MattStefanFishing]

I appreciate that!

[@jimholliman2822]

Your attitude is going to carry you through these tough tournaments. It's great! I'm rooting for you 100%.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks for the support!

[@rvfishingyet]

Kudos to you and the member for the question and answer. It appears to me, that you are growing in your career and financially still competing. Overall your KZbin brand is growing because of videos like this. Thank you for the openness and transparency. Keep on rolling Matt!

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thank you so much!

[@GaryLyson]

You are one of the most down to earth pro angler i listen to. I don' t miss a podcast. I have learned a lot from you.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks!

[@harryaterui2474]

It seems like you are holding your own well at the top level. Thanks for the videos!

[@MattStefanFishing]

I’m not failing IMO

[@marionmoreland9086]

Hello Matt! You're a proven angler who can catch fish with anyone on any level. The wins will come in time. Keep grinding and doling what is best for you and your family. I will be praying for you, your family and brand. Keep doing what you're doing!

[@MattStefanFishing]

I appreciate that!

[@bobschlotterfishing2678]

You do You. And people like me will follow wherever you go.. Love the content

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks for the support!

[@tomperry7345]

Matt, I follow your Utube channel everyday, I have learned so much from you. I believe you belong in the BPT, it may be a learning curve for you the way BPT tournaments are handled however I have the upmost faith in your talent and experience. Keep the faith!!

[@MattStefanFishing]

I appreciate that!

[@nathanvincent4122]

Matt I love all the knowledge you throw our way. And no doubt 2 of 3 you cashed checks that is 100% competing while doing better then some others. Every pro that does KZbin only post videos of fishing in the south. I’d really like to see a video of you fishing in wisco, a northern woods lake break down

[@MattStefanFishing]

I’ve done a bunch in the past. Check out my Wednesday night tourney playlist

[@MrJohnB-qs6dp]

Great explanation on how you look at things. You know what you can and not do and always think things through. You showed this before accepting to go into the BPT in a video and explained the ins & outs. It's a different format and just like anything else you have to adjust which I know you can!! Keep up the good work(fishing)!!!👊💪 Stay Safe & God Bless!!! 🤠👍

[@MattStefanFishing]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@zacharyhubbard9200]

I appreciate your honesty. It's got to be hard going from 5 to a total weight. You will be fine once you find a good middle ground with the format. I'm rooting for you. #FBD

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks for the support!

[@mookie84]

I think you're doing great Matt. There's a learning curve. Love your breakdowns of the processes.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks!

[@dasimcoes]

Thanks for sharing Matt. As with any sport there’s a lot to consider than just your performance.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Absolutely!

[@zacksalas6253]

Well said! respectful, insightful and interactive.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks

[@rickaurand5384]

Matt, thank you. This is the best analysis of what a professional angle does to build a career.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks

[@robertfreeman1588]

Hey Matt I was at the hollow it was nice to see you guys with out big lines. Like anything you will get better at fishing this league. Was there all week and a lot of good pros finished behind you. Just keep up the work and videos you will do fine. P.A. OLD GUY

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks for the support

[@keyzang54]

Love the videos Matt! You’re a great angler! Consistency is always key into becoming a Champion too! Keep it up! Team Matt Stefan 🔥

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks! Will do!

[@michaellaturno2723]

Great thoughts. You have done videos in the past analyzing your tournament strategies. You have always thought out all of your options to make the best decision for yourself. You are where you want to be at this point in your career. It seems early in the tournament schedule to be questioning it (I know you are not, but for fans to be). Lots of tournaments left. Keep doing what you have been doing, fishing the best that you can. Good things will happen.

[@MattStefanFishing]

I’m not questioning my skills at all

[@johnhall8448]

There is a learning curve with everything. Being able to cash a check in 2 out of 3 of your first tournaments in the BPT is solid, and you'll continue to figure it out this season.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks!

[@phil2470]

Matt, you have done a lot of good things to get to the level you are at. Just keep making adjustments and do what you know to do. You will be fine. Good luck.

[@MattStefanFishing]

I appreciate that!

[@dannybarnhill5704]

Hey Matt. As a tournament fisherman, kayak, I know that you can not go into a new format and expect to win everything from the get go. It takes time to get acclimated to new things. I for one, believe you are doing well and will a force to be reckoned with in the next year or so. Keep up the great work and tight lines!

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks! Will do

[@frankfarris6485]

Matt thank you ! It is easy to have a knee jerk reaction seating on a couch. One event does not brake a year . Thank you again!

[@MattStefanFishing]

You bet!

[@robertcook8187]

I personally think you are doing good and things will come into place for you Just go with your heart and good fishing to you

[@MattStefanFishing]

I appreciate that

[@joewinkler2168]

From what I'm seeing in your videos and the checks, your cashing leads me to believe you're doing very well in the tournaments after stepping up. Also, it looks to me you are very happy where you're at in this stage of your fishing. You make secure changes in the tournaments when needed. Maybe a little to quick to change from new school back to old school ways? But the learning curve is a very deap one. I say , you do you. We love every minute you share with us!

[@MattStefanFishing]

I’m doing just fine

[@NeilGraham.I.M.F]

You make a valid point. About the other guys fishing that format for multiple years. And your level of competition went up to fishing against the best. And to still cash a check in three out of four. And only missing a check in the fourth one. Which two things the one you broke off would have helped you and made you cash a check. And if I remember correctly the fish that was hooked outside of the mouth would have been big enough to cash that check as well. So as you said slight errors that I don't know if you can say are 100% your fault are the only things that kept you from batting a thousand. Plus who wouldn't want to compete at the highest level. Can't wait for the next tournament and again I will be rooting for you 100%

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks for the support

[@craigstevens9734]

Man you are very good. Read most of the comments and i agree with those guys .Gonna take a little adjusting. You tough .keep on keeping on.

[@MattStefanFishing]

I appreciate that!

[@bill7949]

Matt I’m behind you all the way.Best of Luck,GOD BLESS

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@adamsprunger286]

I am a fan and believe you can eventually win an event. Keep learning and growing Matt.

[@MattStefanFishing]

I will!

[@williamfaragher3671]

I think one of the main reasons you have so many loyal subscribers is because you appear to be very level headed, sincere and honest. Your career plans and path, along with your tips, could be taken to the bank... Or maybe you should abandon your family, get a divorce and chase the dream of fishing and winning a Classic... Save that option until BPT gets a series on Netflix ! A heads up for your subscribers, tonight s Bass After Dark is going to be a real doozy ! You Dudes trying to survive in the fishing industry, really are and should be on the same team... Ken Duke is the real deal ! And a funny bugger to boot ! 8 PM CST

[@MattStefanFishing]

I’ll check it out

[@garyhanna2388]

Don’t give up man. Want to watch you fish !!!!

[@MattStefanFishing]

No giving up here!

[@nelsonchiro]

You are definitely headed up. You are such a smart angler. You will figure it out and be a top ten angler for sure!

[@MattStefanFishing]

That's the plan!

[@fishingslcm]

Thank you for this video Matt!

[@MattStefanFishing]

You bet

[@blackhillsbassing6167]

Your a great Pro, and a smart business man... Keep swinging bud.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks, will do!

[@richardkelley2016]

Only keep up with you and Jim Moynagh in tournaments. Never cared much about it until watching both channels and respect everything you guys do and carry yourself. Stick with your goals you have set for yourself for the season and game plans and you will be fine. I've learned not to second guess yourself based on thoughts and go with gut instinct and everything will come around

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks for the support

[@NeilGraham.I.M.F]

This is the problem with commenting before the video is over then you have to comment again. I won't remember what I wanted to say. If I wait till the end. Anyway it's great that you're that open and honest with everybody. And you don't take offense to everything somebody says. Which unfortunately isn't the way everybody is

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks for watching until the end!

[@johnnyweaver1300]

As to decisions about what league to fish in, your in the best, there's tournaments coming that I know you will make the championship in, so we all have bad days no matter what we do for a living, yours pays the best though! 👍🎣

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@bassmedic]

i saw that the core tackle brand was in the sunset marina shop when i was down there last weekend. seems like its getting around because real deal tackle in dayton tn has them as well. just keep fishing your game and things will work out.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Yep we are growing

[@timmcc1044]

Hey Matt, just wanted to let you know I caught PB on Lake Boone TN, 5.9 pound large mouth, with your new Core Tackle wacky rig (lighter wgt). Proceeded to catch another 7 smaller ones too. Great lure! Your products fill gaps out there and between you and Johnny lots more coming for sure. Thanks

[@MattStefanFishing]

That’s awesome!

[@ellieswofford7285]

Mike Swofford Great video I will not comment on how anyone fishing, or which events , I have faith that your are doing what best for you and family , Good luck

[@MattStefanFishing]

I appreciate that

[@ellieswofford7285]

@@MattStefanFishing Thank for the Reply

[@jerrymaas]

Bless you Matt!

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks

[@calvinjohnson9117]

I love the every fish counts format. Don’t care one way or another about ffs but it is exiting to see someone catching over a 100 pounds. Good luck on the next one.

[@MattStefanFishing]

That’s a good day of fishing

[@rickchapman4132]

The bottom line is you do what makes you happy. I will never have that chance to become a pro angler, too old, and my skill set is not near what it used to be. So…. I live my dream career through you. This is why pro athletes are looked at in awe, you get to do what many only dream of doing. I find we give advice or our opinion all in good manner, it is us figuring out how we can make Matt Stefan better ,because we are happy when you do well. Remember you are representing our dreams…😊

[@MattStefanFishing]

I don’t overlook that! Thanks for sharing

[@RickyCarter-ro8fr]

Good Luck with whatever you you continue to do !!!!!

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks!

[@douglasspickler4925]

I have never been a fan of the every fish counts format. Harold Sharp of BASS had this idea many years ago. However, you have to fish what you enjoy and what is best for you and your family. I will say I do like the immediate release that mlf has. Fish on.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Me too

[@KeithDrish]

Keep honing in and cashing checks ! I think it’s pretty cool what you’re doing with Core also .

[@MattStefanFishing]

That's the plan!

[@mkutil]

Matt, thanks for the videos. I watched all of them and glad we are both from Wisconsin. I don't know if there are other Wisconsin videos out there but I appreciate all the good info because I do all of my fishing in the summer up north in Harrison Hills area. There are some things about fish catches in videos I am wondering about: almost all fish are hand landed into the boat, is there something bad about using a net for this? Also, many anglers pull the catch back and forth in the water alongside the boat before landing, is this intended to tire out the fish? Just wondering...

[@MattStefanFishing]

Nets get in the way so when I’m fun fishing i don’t use them and guys move the fish back and forth to tire them out

[@dawg0059]

Hey Matt.. Really great post!! I'm not sure many people realize your previous occupation and history. I'm of the belief that you strongly evaluate your career path based on sound business decisions. Lately it seems that professional fishing at the highest level is quite dynamic and only a handful of people might know what it's going to look like by the end of the season. I'm sure once you have a better idea of what the future looks like you will be able to evaluate what works best for you and your family. Until then, keep your head down, do your best, and the rest will take care of itself...Best of luck!!!

[@MattStefanFishing]

So many things to consider when fishing for a living

[@jonbullard7074]

Do your thing man. Love your channel and I loved the Uncle Randy reference in the beginning 😂😂

[@MattStefanFishing]

I appreciate it!

[@jimmcculloch5825]

In my view, the Elite tour is for live viewers, and BPT is for TV viewers, and there are a lot more TV viewers for one event then livers for a whole season. I follow the BPT and "know" most of the competitors there.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Sounds good

[@joshbirtchetfishing5196]

I'm a fan and I believe you are a good man compared to most other anglers as far as sharing content and trying to help others. When I watch your stuff it seems more sincere. That said I still believe u should have your own fishing show and in that show every once in awhile do a pro versus Joe. Money to be made in it and you would have a good following. Thanks for what u do sir.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Good idea!

[@joshbirtchetfishing5196]

@@MattStefanFishing just make sure I can be one of the Joe's lol

[@rodlinvon-hugenstine5142]

You’re good dude … keep drop’n knowledge… from a guy who loves to fish, Far from pro level, and knows some stuff… I still learn from your videos. Get this KZbin madness to pop-off, no tournament is ever gonna matter Keep the tip come’n

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks, will do!

[@g_d_p9669]

Your tackle room tells me everything I need to know. Got get them tiger

[@MattStefanFishing]

Haha

[@robertgallacher7214]

I think you are doing great given the huge change in format from last year. Once you find your feet you will be right up there, Rome wasn't built in a day and you are just getting established in the BPT.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks!

[@ClintLongFishing]

Great perspectives!

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks!

[@doster59]

Thanks for explaining the tough choices a professional angler has to make each season. That was fascinating.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@bradsmith873]

Well spoken man!

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks

[@jamesclifton474]

How much if any does the wife and family influence your decision where to fish?? Love your videos together.

[@MattStefanFishing]

We have discussions regarding it

[@joeyhelton7114]

Very cool video Matt. Hope we get to meet at the Chowan or James River if I can make one of them.

[@MattStefanFishing]

I’ll be there

[@deancurlee9373]

Dude your doing better than half the field, it’s gonna take some adjustment but you got what it takes

[@MattStefanFishing]

I’m not questioning myself that’s for sure

[@Glock-1]

I like everything about the channel and look forward to the videos

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks

[@kevindunn3883]

Everyone has an opinion and you don't need the naysayers--especially after three events. The only thing that matters is what you think and believe. I'll be a fan regardless of what you decide to do. Keep up the great work and do what's best for Matt, Sara, Hank and Duke!

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks for the support!

[@johnrayner5599]

Wow!!! I dont think I could disagree more with the person who sent this comment, Matt your record speaks for itself and I know that you can catch fish out of a puddle if you needed to. I do agree that I think your better at a five fish limit but you only have a few tournaments doing this. Please dont let comments like this get in your head, you are doing just fine and I truely expect you to qualify for next year, would I personally like to see you at BASS, yes I think you would kill it there but thats not to say you wont kill it where your at. Your a genuine personality and a guy I would love to sit and have a beer with and talk fishing, best of luck throughout this year and many more to come!!!

[@MattStefanFishing]

These comments just motivate me more

[@mikeeller557]

Thanks Matt You can, and you WILL, Again Thank You.

[@MattStefanFishing]

You bet!

[@stevoky]

Placing where you have on the lakes you have is impressive from a northern fisherman. If these lakes were northern lakes, you would have had the advantage. Heck, you've fished Dustin's home lake, Jacobs 2nd home lake. Take them to your home lake and see what happens.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks!

[@mikelembke5121]

I hear you, but a question,on putting a o ring between the weight and hook on a swivel head the weight is vertical no horizontal,is there a fix ?

[@MattStefanFishing]

I don’t understand the question

[@mikelembke5121]

@@MattStefanFishing on a swivel head you mentioned a while ago to put a O ring between the hook and the weight for better action the hook and O ring are good but the weight is vertical instead of horizontal

[@jamesrose7657]

Matt, enjoy all your content and you’re fishing against some real hammers. You’re cashing checks and you’re where you should be. Keep fishing hard!!!

[@MattStefanFishing]

I appreciate that!

[@TheSleepyApe]

I watch the videos and always have you on my fantasy team. I have confidence in you!! Why can't you fish a Bassmaster Open here and there? Martin jumped into an Open on Okeechobee and killed it, and got into the Classic. Why not cherry-pick a few opens?

[@MattStefanFishing]

I am

[@StephenByrd-tg7dm]

Good video Matt!

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks!

[@GopherHayes]

Last year bass pro tour was 5 fish. They changed to every fish counts in the fall. Give Matt a minute to adjust different league different format. Good luck Matt.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks!

[@thebear74]

Matt you got this, fast growth lead to ego slow growth build characters

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks!

[@spintowinstradic6067]

You’re only 4 tournaments into the every fish counts format. Not only is it too early to make such a conclusion, but you cashed checks in 3 out of 4 tournaments. That’s pretty dang good! You’re a super-talented angler and deserve a spot at the top level of either format. The question re the future of BPT is a whole different conversation - who knows how it’ll play out? And the idea of switching over to the Opens as a path to the Elites is an option, but it carries significant overhead. Not an easy decision either way.

[@MattStefanFishing]

I can only control my fishing…MLF has to figure out theirs

[@itllkeal]

Matt. It took me 3years of your content to hear a bad word. I respect and thank you for doing what you do

[@MattStefanFishing]

You bet!

[@richardhenry6794]

Great video matt

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks!

[@lightningmusky5286]

I personally thought the every fish counts would be a good format for you. You’re consistent , fish differently, not afraid to try new things , seem to have the ability to catch fish of all sizes. The Midwest lakes you fished early in life can be tough , which can only be a good thing. I think it’s just not a perfect start but you’re also competing with some of the best in the world. I wish you best of luck in whatever road it takes you down.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks for the support!

[@backcountrybrian3746]

Although I feel BASS is a better organization overall, you must make hay where you are and stay there as long as possible or as long as that organization is still around. Personally, I think the Duckett BPT brand is on life support, but that's another topic altogether. Keep up the fight, cash some checks and let's get a top 10 at Eufaula.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Heck yes!

[@jamesmayfield1248]

Matt which ever Tour and format you fish you have to have confidence in your ability I think you stated this very well in this video. I would like to see you in the Elites but you have to do what you have to do to take care of your family. I’m going to support you where ever you fish the season is young so you have plenty of time to make the Top 15. I believe most viewers don’t like the FFS fishing but the guys that are real good with it are going to sack up in most tournaments. Just go do your thing you will be OK.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks!

[@jimmyjackson2361]

Matt, like you I think he meant well, and just thinking the best for you. However, only you and the wife know what’s best. Professional fishing is no different than any other career, unless you are in it you really don’t know all the ins and outs. I agree, I think you can fish any circuit and be successful. Sorry, about Dale Hollow, I thought it was going to be a good one for you. Be blessed and keep fishing!

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks for the support!

[@samuelschult985]

Way to stand in your shoes and it was done with class 👍

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks!

[@avalanchefishing5725]

I don’t envy you at all, I’d starve to death as would many that had to fish for a living, most people fish for enjoyment but like anything when it becomes making a living off of it it’s a whole different game, just focus and a big win will come soon.

[@MattStefanFishing]

I love fishing for a living

[@ri-jm5tn]

If you can have some fun and still pay for the bread, it’s all gravy👍

[@MattStefanFishing]

Yep!

[@johndaniels2922]

Hey Matt great video I’ve been watching constantly for about 2 years but I kinda dis agree with you on a comment I think if they took FFS some of those guys would be lost

[@MattStefanFishing]

Could be

[@geraldkoth654]

Catch weigh and release got me watching bass fishing., Five fish being kept and weighed is fish murder. And all that screaming by whatever that Ass Hat is at the weigh in is impossible to watch for more than 20 seconds. Every fish counts is really fun to watch. How many times have I watched a buzzer beater win. The score tracker really puts the pressure on the fishermen. Five fish is BORING even on BPT. I like your tips on tackle and technique. I have only been fishing for 79 years so I have a lot yet to learn.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@georgeshreadiii8537]

I only wish like the elites you were guaranteed 2 seasons to get used to the new format. The pressure you are under has got to be intense. Good luck as always.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Agreed

[@tranzformedyouthtn]

Best bait shop at dale hollow?

[@MattStefanFishing]

I didn’t find a good one unfortunately

[@richardblake4777]

It's your life and your money, you know your capabilities and limitations and I believe you make the best decisions for yourself and family. I've got 50+ years experience with 35 tournament years logged. I don't think I have any advice for you to go one direction or the other without walking in your shoes. I enjoy your videos and think you are one of the good guys that will be successful whichever way you decide to go. Thank you for entertaining us wannabes.

[@MattStefanFishing]

You bet

[@DanGreife]

How about a video on how to fish a bog.

[@MattStefanFishing]

I like it!

[@chriscurtis8577]

That was me that said that question I just wanted to know if that is what you were going to do or not

[@MattStefanFishing]

I’ve gotten a lot of the Same questions from viewers

[@astrophysicistguy]

You can't compete scared ... you do what you believe is correct and let the future take care of itself ...

[@MattStefanFishing]

I’m not fishing scared that’s for sure

[@joeyhoward8517]

Bassmaster may be the better format for fans in attendance , but MLF is a much better TV product in my opinion. Plus nobody can argue its better to weigh the fish at the catch and releasing them on the spot , than putting them in a live welll for 6 hours then turning them loose 30 miles from where they were caught

[@MattStefanFishing]

thanks for sharing!

[@rpredl]

You are the Pro we are not. Do what works for you. Go fish!

[@MattStefanFishing]

Will do!

[@haywardsautomotive6156]

Stick with the BPT & you'll get used to the format. Different strategy all together than a 5 fish limit. That's where FFS will come in to be competitive with the others that have it dialed in. BPT has some heavy hitters so overall you are doing fine in the first few tournaments. Fished a lot of tournaments and IMO a 5 fish tournament is a lot easier than a having to compete where every fish counts over a certain weight especially when it's a 2 lb limit or 3 lb in certain formats. Preparation is key and practice so hoping you have a great practice next tournament & find the motherload for tournament day.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@beef1541]

You'll adapt and MLF will change again. I'll watch your channel either way. But I probably won't watch Elite, tried once, just couldn't.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks

[@williamgould2470]

You should always stick with what decisions you made. One question I would have is what was the average weight of the top 10 fisherman meaning total weight divided by number of fish they caught. An observation is that when the original ML F tournament started a lot of the guys had to change the way they fished because they were fishing for 5 pounders when they would have been much better off trying to catch bigger numbers of 2 pounders. Not sure how that applies to how you are fishing now. Dale hollow was tough because many of the contestants have fished it often.

[@MattStefanFishing]

I’d like to see those statistics