MLF Banning FFS in BFL BASS tournaments?

On this video I discuss the recent email from Major League Fishing asking anglers to participate in a survey to potentially ban forward facing sonar, reduce the amount of screens and limit transducers.
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tags from research: hummingbird, bass fishing tournaments, bass fishing, bassmaster, Garmin, Livescope, Panoptics, Forward Facing Sonar, Power Pole, bass fishing youtubers

[@edwardmarshall8795]

Forward facing sonar is a lot different than 360

[@BigJimFishing]

Agreed, but if you listened to me, where do we draw the line, history?

[@BrianHopkins-xm2ez]

Live scope is BS...if that is your crutch..then just go fishing on your own and stay out of the competitions. It takes zero skill to scope..I mean you have 18 year olds competing with dudes that have been fishing for 40 years. It's called a cheat box for a reason.

[@BigJimFishing]

😂

[@jameslovelace8958]

Jim I’m a 64 year old man, a 100% totally disabled Vet. I saved for months to get my FFS. I installed it last March. I’m still learning to use it. I did so, so I could compete in my local club. But if we ban it today I would remove it. I too believe it’s hurting our fish population. We are now catching the fish that replenish the fish we use to catch before we even knew this were there. When we see 150# catches in 3-4 days that’s unbelievable.

[@BigJimFishing]

@@jameslovelace8958 thanks for the comment and your service

[@BradSaurage-je1yw]

I AM GOING TO START HUNTING BIG GAME ANIMALS WITH A DRONE AND NIGHT VISION . OK 😂😂😂

[@inaslump]

ZERO studies to back up that OPINION..I've been using it for years & the fish are learning to adapt to it & getting harder to catch...We see this on champlain 100% this year..

[@inaslump]

​@@BradSaurage-je1ywBird hunters use Ducks, are you saying to ban dogs also?

[@BradSaurage-je1yw]

@inaslump YOU can see fish in real time and keep your bait in front of it's face and aggravate it. It's bed fishing on steroids. No skill in it what so ever roam around and video game fish . Also I have been hunting ducks since I was 8 years old also guided for ten years . If dogs could fly and catch the ducks it would be the same as F.F.S. YOU SAVY

[@chuckmoorehead875]

I am against FFS period. It is bad for the fish population. In the lake that I have fished for nearly 70 years the fish population has gone down in the last three years because of FFS. You could catch your limit of crappie every time you went fishing. Now you are lucky to catch 5 keepers. The conservation guys are looking to band all electronics on the lake!

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@Steelin2011]

FFS should be banned if there is a co-angler. No one wants to sit in the back of the boat and throw at nothing and watch someone watch a screen all day! Solo anglers or teams....it should be allowed.

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@inaslump]

Learn to adapt,that's what a good Co does....Fish are swimming EVERYWHERE...

[@Steelin2011]

@inaslump spoken like a front ender smh

[@craigkitchen1604]

Banning all the images besides ffs is over the top man You know it as well as everyone else the FFS not good for the sport

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@jameslovelace8958]

How do fans feel watching the back of heads all day. It has to change one way or another. Some of the young guys never say a word to the fans. Then there is you, Scott Martin, Andrew Nordby who all relate to the fans while fishing.

[@BigJimFishing]

Lol, no tv cameras in BFL’s. 😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@inaslump]

Well gee.We've been staring at the back of heads forever,did you just start watching or something?

[@MarkFields-by8qy]

FFS should be banned in tournaments period. Theee is no tradition and integrity in this sport anymore. Tournament fishing as a whole is in a terrible spot.

[@BigJimFishing]

@@MarkFields-by8qy I think Rick Clunn said it best in his post that "we are learning more about fish behavior than ever before and we now realize we were wrong about so many things we thought we knew about fish behavior for decades." And it's all because of this new technology.

[@dalewood4458]

@@BigJimFishing I agree with Mark above. I would say that to use FFS on your own personal time where you’re gonna release the fish right away, I am fine with. And in this way the fishing community can still learn from the technology without potentially losing some of these big breeders by keeping them in the live wells all day. However for tournaments I feel that a more level playing field is better. I may be in the minority, but I know I feel better when I win a competition when I know I am the better competitor. I honestly would not like it that I won because I just happen to have more money than someone else who could not afford the same equipment that I have. I want to know that I beat you because I’m better than you, not because I bought my way to the top. Respectfully submitted.

[@philames5733]

@@dalewood4458 Dale, you act as if just putting a ffs on your boat makes you a better fisherman. You still have to understand the species of fish you are pursuing, so you know where to look. Then figure out a presentation. Make that presentation. Get a fish to bite, and land that fish. Not as easy as you are trying to make it seem.

[@inaslump]

It's NOT FFS fault bub..The problems in pro fishing has been going on well before FFS ever came around..Did you just start this rodeo or just a short term memory??

[@inaslump]

​@@dalewood4458There is ZERO Scientific studies to back uo you're OPINION. There are more studies that state the complete opposite..

[@jerryking9215]

Why would anyone co-angle behind a scoper??? Not me!

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@Bassfinatic-hb4dp]

IMO It's pretty clear the line in the sand should be Live sonar. Not to say it should be banned for rec use but at the top level it's not what is best for the growth of the sport. I have a great example of another perspective these Orgs are completely missing if they truly want to capture new viewers. My neighbor saw me in the boat garage and asked me what my live sonar transducer was on the troliing motor. I told him it was a live sonar transducer that allowed me to scan and see fish in real time. He immediately said "wow that's cheating isn't it?" His other comment was "that kinda takes the sport outta fishing doesn't it?" Not saying it should be banned for rec use, but if any of the Orgs truly want to get pro bass fishing more mainstream then they have to remove these perceptions!

[@BigJimFishing]

@@Bassfinatic-hb4dp this video was not about the pro tour though.

[@patrickgazzara3992]

I agree with you on eliminating boat on boat draw. Before last year ABA did the computer draw and once all co-anglers were matched up with a boater all remaining boaters fished solo. It's not a perfect system but it worked. Luck of the draw. We need a cash for clunkers deal if all leagues vote out FFS.

[@BigJimFishing]

@@patrickgazzara3992 thanks for watching!

[@dannyheatherly]

I like FFS, I don't think it needs to be banned. I am a boater on the MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League. You can ask any co-angler that has ever been in the boat with me, I leave the rear graph on so the co knows the depth of the water. If I'm using the FFS, I'll even put it up on the rear graph so my co can see what I'm throwing at. I will even put the boat in a position so that they can target the same fish I'm fishing. I don't believe in hindering a co-angler from also catching fish. Leave the rules alone and if people don't like fishing with a fisherman using FFS, then they have options, buy a boat an rig it like you want. A boater that has paid hard earned money for their equipment shouldn't be punished for having it on their boats. Just my thoughts on the subject. Thanks Big Jim.

[@BigJimFishing]

@@dannyheatherly thank you!

[@jamesrwheatley5545]

As a guy that fishes as a co and boater. There has to be a change. I like scope myself but the thing is back boating is a serious problem. I’ve been paired with all day scopers and as long as they talk to me and explain what’s going on and what they’re seeing I’m good. But I’ve literally stood on a back deck and the only words I heard all day were “net” and “lets move” then guy expects gas money

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@inaslump]

Co anglers have been back boated since co anglers started bub...learn to adapt..

[@jamesrwheatley5545]

@@inaslump I feel like I have adapted. I’ve fished 30 BFLs I have 2 top 5s and only two zeroes. I know how to catch em behind a scoper but the issue is all the older guys who are co anglers and are lost or the older boaters who don’t know how to use it putting cos in a bad position because they just aren’t around bass.

[@davidmouser417]

Hi Jim, enjoyed my time fishing with you this spring. I am 64 now and have been involved with a lot of changes over the years. FFS has absolutely hurt fishing.

[@BigJimFishing]

I enjoyed it as well. Thanks for watching!

[@peterbates5883]

Need to stop all this because of it like playing video game on the water and is that fishing

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@inaslump]

Wrong crybaby..

[@robdy7244]

I will tell you this when you post your videos on FFS I will not watch them. I am tired of the whole conversation and defiantly don't want to watch videos about it, if you post fishing videos I will watch them but no FFS videos. For the co anglers point of view they might as well stay home and not even fish with a boater that has FFS.

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@danielnies7144]

I agree with you.Big Jim forward facing solar.Should stay in fishing forever even if we get something better.That should be there too.God bless you tight lines

[@BigJimFishing]

Well said!

[@JeffreyDavisFishing]

This is the best video you’ve ever made. I appreciate you speaking for the silent majority on this topic. Don’t worry about any negative comments you’ll get back from people regarding this video. You’re speaking the truth and it needs to be said. Hope to see you on the water next season. 👍🏻

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks so much for the kind words. Appreciate it 👍🏻

[@DougHarkins-w8n]

Ffs is for guys with no understanding of what they are doing, I can take a paper lake map of any lake and find fish ! And yes it did take me lot time on the water fish long day of fishing, but I wouldn’t change that for anything. It gave me confidence in myself, not in my electronics. Hackney, VamDam, Ott,

[@BigJimFishing]

Not true. I'm 54 years old and love the tool. That's how I treat it. Just like a pitching wedge in my golf bag.

[@JohnFriar-bn8jd]

Big Jim, Love your honesty on FFS, I’m not against FFS I’ve used it, it’s great. But I’m not sure how I feel about the middle school and High Schools that use it. Let me explain there are parents who can only afford a boat and can’t afford to put FFS on there boat. I think FFS is robbing our under kids in understanding how to fish, college is a different story. That where I’m at

[@BigJimFishing]

Dude, this whole video is about BFL only. Don’t know why viewers are confused

[@justbfrank1]

I’m an amateur and I have FFS. Not the best angler and not the worst. I don’t get to fish every day, week, or month so when I go it needs to count. With that, I would like to see guys that call themselves “professionals” not use it in tournaments just because they are …well…professionals. Otherwise I’m for it. Maybe the pros can do a split. Half of the events use FFS.

[@BigJimFishing]

This whole video is about amateurs….BFLs. But, thanks for watching!

[@kurtvogel9431]

I think one FFS screen and one transducer per boat is fair. This is not new technology anymore. This would kill an industry IMO. The latest tech is what sells for manufacturers and support companies.

[@BigJimFishing]

@@kurtvogel9431 thanks for watching!

[@inaslump]

Nobody complained about.... The flasher started it all.. DI was ok Si was ok 360 was ok Panoptics was ok. Lvs 32 was ok Now Every major brand makes live sonar and all of a sudden everyone's PANTIES are in a bunch... It seams like it's something else? Rookies are kicking they're "man crush anglers" butt's maybe?

[@BigJimFishing]

The ones that complain do not have it. It’s that simple.

[@Jbj1234n]

Really... blaming co anglers for you not cashing a check last year... maybe you just cant fish..my first time on your channel/and last

[@BigJimFishing]

Obviously you did not watch the whole video 😂😂😂, thanks for the click though. All comments help, even ones that are not nice.

[@daviddawson5136]

FFS isn’t the same as 360 or the others. It’s live and not historical. You can also put it on their nose and keep it there. It definitely needs limited for competition.

[@BigJimFishing]

I never said it was the exact same. I used it as a reference for where to draw the line.

[@erichovatt]

I bought an LVS32 last year to keep up in local leagues. Installed it in my boat and decided I don’t want to compete if I have to use it. I just won’t do it. It really bothered me having it on my boat and I felt like I was disrespecting the sport I love.

[@BigJimFishing]

This is the point of view of many anglers. To be good at it, you have to commit to it. It’s the reason a lot of older guys don’t like it.

[@davidsnow1178]

What you are not saying… AT ALL… is why is FFS GOOD… for the sport… for bass populations… for anything… What you are saying is… I WANTthis… therefore listen to me rant about a bunch of misdirection so that I don’t have to admit FFS is BAD for fishing and I can get what I WANT!

[@BigJimFishing]

@@davidsnow1178 😂

[@JustinBrown-mb7jt]

I personally feel that ffs and other types of fish finders have taken the true challenge out of the sport .. I think anglers who are considered professionals should be able to go on a lake and catch good fish without the helping hand of electronics

[@BigJimFishing]

Good comment, but this video is about the BFL (working man tournament trail, 1 day)

[@greggwallacefi9422]

First off I enjoy your videos if I didn’t I wouldnt watch. To a large degree your attitude, personality is why I watch. You present yourself, sponsors etc., etc. in a positive light don’t change that. Your video of the spotlighting controversy is excellent. The lists of pros and cons make all the sense. I’ve been retired from tournaments this month 25 years haven’t stopped watching the shows, still go n the tackle stores etc. I still look up guys we all traveled together, shared rooms, spots, yada yada still miss the life to a degree.

[@BigJimFishing]

@@greggwallacefi9422 thank you!

[@jodyvess8509]

Needs To Be Banned

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@CKing-388]

They just need to make separate classes for tournaments. One group for ffs and one that is no ffs.

[@BigJimFishing]

I don’t think they could manage that in a single event.

[@toddhoppes1123]

They’re already dropping and losing a lot of people because of the technology. I’m for 2D and GPS for safety. That’s it. Learn to fish.

[@BigJimFishing]

😂thanks for watching!

[@lancelamoon6743]

Its fun to use yes but I still think it shouldn’t be used the way it is. Change its use is all they need to do. Now events with CO’s I do think it should be banned its not far to the guy in the back having to deal with it all day.

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@lancelamoon6743]

@@BigJimFishing not to mention it is boring as hell to watch on tv. I don’t even watch fishing on tv anymore cause of it.

[@edwardmarshall8795]

A bad day fishing is better than any day at work

[@BigJimFishing]

yes sir, always. thanks for watching!

[@chaddrumm6809]

It’s all about revenue! What co-angler would want to fish with a boater scopadoping?! IMO allow it in practice for tourneys to help find offshore structure, then tourney time actually fish the structure and not live video game the damn fish! Nothing professional about chasing blips presenting your lure in front of the fish multiple times finally getting it to react or actually accidentally snagging it. I get tired of scoping being compared to 360 for example. It’s obviously apples to oranges!

[@BigJimFishing]

Yeah, I did not compare 360 to FFS, I just stated where do we draw the line or rather where do tourney organizations draw the line.

[@brewcrewfishing]

Couple things, and I appreciate your videos. Im a boater... Did you fish the BFLs before FFS? If so, why not fish it if they decide ban it. I think the only thing is that many non-FFS fishermen were not sent a questionaire due to they may have already left. They should ask how do they get those anglers back? Personally, I'd be interested to fish them again if it was banned. FFS adds way too much skill to an angler that may not be that skilled in bass fishing. It would also make boat ownership a lot more affordable. Cheers!!

[@BigJimFishing]

@@brewcrewfishing I did fish before, but after spending thousands of dollars on ffs, learning it, and fishing 3 years of BFLs with it, it’s not right to take that tool out of my tool box. It’s like telling a golfer you cannot have a 60 degree wedge. Not everyone knows how to use it, everyone can get it and we’ve been using it for a while.

[@brewcrewfishing]

I've spent more money learning to fish 40yrs before FFS. I cherish that knowledge, and wish tournaments competed on the mind of an angler vs a box that does it for them. Maybe there should be FFS only tournaments and then Non FFS tournaments. In the end I feel the OG way of fishing w/o FFS will prevail. Personally I've lost interest in competing against technology and not people... My club is discussing this very topic for our coming season.

[@jonn6427]

I think all electronics should be band. Use your talents to find fish. Maybe the fish will have a chance.

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@inaslump]

Lmao dude it takes more than you think than just turning on the screen..you clowns are unreal..maybe we should stop using hooks also cause we're hurting the fish..lol snh..

[@jonn6427]

@@inaslump you are adicted to electronics.

[@Table-rock]

Jim I’m not going to say anything about the video . buddy fish the events anyway . I still think hanging with your friends and the fellowship with people is very important. . Good fishing .

[@BigJimFishing]

I would, but I would have to take my Garmin off, pull out my black box, take off my transducer, just to fish the tournament. Then put it back on and repeat for next tournament. That is my whole point.

[@Table-rock]

@@BigJimFishing yeah that’s true you ever come to Branson mo look me up I’m very close to table rock lake

[@creigkimbro6806]

I have had FFS on my rig for nearly 2 yrs. now. I will happily take it off if it gets banned. I dont need it to be successful. I understand some of your points. It is not fair to co anglers no matter how many scenarios you throw out because not everyone is like you sir. I plan to continue fishing as a boater next year. I voted no on the other questions.

[@BigJimFishing]

@@creigkimbro6806 thanks for your comment and watching Sir.

[@brettaylor9098]

I'm just a fan, so I really have no authority to weigh in. Take my comment merely as a fan, nothing more than that. Sounds to me like MLF should set up two trails at the BFL level - 1 with limits on technology (or maybe no electronics at all) and 1 will technology allowed.

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@leecanady6749]

I Agree Big Jim. I'm A Boater As Of Now I Don't Have FFS. I Do Intend On Getting That Along With Double Units On My Deck And Console!

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching Lee!

[@guitarhiker4449]

I think its a good idea they atleast get the opinions of everyone involved before making a decision. Their are times i have questioned the use of FFS. Is it sporting to watch the fish on a screen come up to your bait, bite and the you set the hook..? When the fish doesn't like that bait you just switch to another and keep trying. I don't think any other bits of technology are in question here except for FFS. Mapping should always be allowed aswell as side imaging imo. But many top 10's as of late have been won because of FFS. Maybe they should level the playing field and ban it? Or maybe it should only be banned during the tournament of champions, redcrest or bassmaster classic events? Only time will tell but when they get opinions for guys like hank parker on FFS i'm sure gonna listen! This industry does have to think about the viewers to a certain degree. Fish on!!

[@BigJimFishing]

@@guitarhiker4449 thanks for watching!

[@BassKat169]

I’ll fish either way because I love competition.. but there has to be regulations on amount of head units and transducers. That argument is ridiculous to not limit these … I’ll start fishing the BFL if they regulate the number of head units and transducers..

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@ChuckJohnsonFishing]

I am 100% against banning FFS. I listen to some of these guys, like RB, say it takes all of skill or sport out of bass fishing. I call BS on that. An angler still has to understand bass behavior to be able to know where to drop that FFS transducer and find fish. A lot of the anti FFS guys make it sound like all you have to do is drop it in the middle of the lake and start hauling in tournament winning bags and as you know, that’s far from the truth. I caught more fish 20 years ago without it than I do now with it but it has helped me learn so much more about bass behavior and it definitely shows me all of the fish I’m not catching. 😂

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for the positive comment 👍🏻

[@1970pdavis]

I think if a boater is using FFS, then let the Co angler fish from the front of the boat along side of the boater to make it fair

[@BigJimFishing]

I wish the BFL would allow it

[@1970pdavis]

@BigJimFishing and they should to give the co angler a chance to catch fish...ijs

[@rgiles29]

I'm for it. I would like to see the boaters share the spot more. If that happens I will be happy.FFS should definitely be used.

[@BigJimFishing]

I wish coanglers could go up on the front deck and use it with me.

[@brent3323]

Boater.....Gator Div....don't care either way. Honestly Co's aren't my problem. Choice they made. I was a co for a short while. BFL pros aren't guides. JMO. Also fushed Redmans from both sides, and dealt with boat on boat draws. Is what it is. That being said, I would prefer to fish by myself

[@BigJimFishing]

@@brent3323 thanks for watching!

[@craigkitchen1604]

Banning all the images besides ffs is over the top man You know it as well as everyone else the FFS not good for the sport You can’t tell me that your fish catches didn’t increase with ffs I know and see fisherman who could win a tournament without it and now wins everything

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@garyheath9531]

The question is ffs not mapping,side scan,downscan. You hav sponsorship get it free I understand and that's fine

[@BigJimFishing]

@@garyheath9531 I paid for my electronics my friend

[@ivymoore2368]

Okay I'm going to give you my point of view. Do I think ffS should be banned. Yes and no. Championship matches I think it should be. The regular bfl's know. If you ask me straight up should it be taken out. No it's a tool you can use it or you can lose it. I am a co-angler. Some boaters s are mean ungrateessl and thoughtful and situations when it comes to fishing ensure and out shore. But there are some boaters that do give co-anglers like me a chance to learn ffs. And that is wonderful because when I do secure a bass boat I will have the knowledge of ffs. really who likes sitting in the middle of a lake and launching bombs out in the water and no results. If I can say yo big Jim give me a Target let me hit it. 30 yards to your left 5 3:00. I'm going to go to that spot thank you big jim. That's how I feel.

[@BigJimFishing]

I wish the BFLs would allow co-anglers on the front deck to fish WITH the boater. They could learn FFS. Even during the spawn, I can show a CO better right beside me.

[@pignjig17]

bottom line is bfl co angler money contribution is down so far that it has come to this. I would not be a co angler either if i was stuck on the back of a boat while you scope and chase fish out in the middle of the lake. i am a boater who doesnt have ffs by the way

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for comment. Why is it that all the non ffs supporters are over 40?

[@joshshort6122]

Boater.. 100% against banning any kind of electronics in bass fishing.. I took a loan out to get my first live scope 7 years ago I guess. Whenever it first came out.. as you said, the squeaky wheel is getting the grease cause we’ve not been standing up for not having stuff banned! Now it’s time for us to speak out!

[@BigJimFishing]

Exactly!

[@billycobb4124]

For it, Big Jim you have explained it well and asked all the correct questions 🎣

[@BigJimFishing]

@@billycobb4124 thanks for watching!

[@paulgalloway5553]

I think bed or site fishing should be illegal.

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@toddhoppes1123]

There is no fair chasing using this technology.

[@BigJimFishing]

But a 360 is ok?

[@inaslump]

Clearly you never used it...

[@johnhelems721]

If I was the anglers using livescope I would sue the organizers for the cost I’m out . They shouldn’t have waited till every angler on the trail spent money on it then ban it.

[@BigJimFishing]

Right! Thanks for watching!

[@lgarcia831]

I vote no restrictions (except maybe on future AI assisted depth finders. Debatable.), no boat on boat draw, and coangler 3 fish limit to reduce pressure and increase odds of winning. Slightly decreasing entry fees and getting rid of the regional entry fee will also increase participation.

[@BigJimFishing]

Great comments

[@edwardmarshall8795]

I say that’s good there will be less boats out and forward facing doesn’t teach you anything about fishing getting out on the water and putting your time in will make you a better fisherman practice makes perfect

[@BigJimFishing]

thanks for watching!

[@Daniel-pz4wm]

Big Jim!!!🤓 Thanks for putting out the view points!!!😎 I'm beating this to death 😜🤪FFS is here!!! I get it!!!🤗 And i keep asking 🤔 Why can't you divide the tournament❓ In the same day❓ same lake ❓FFS sign up sheet and Non FFS sign up sheet🤔 to me no different then Boater and no boater, No different then Men's and Women's division, Adult and youth division. Base the payout on the sign up sheet🤔. Fish the same day, same Lake 🤓, now you just have a choice to fish🤔 at the same tournament . I'm just saying why can't it be done ❓🤕😷 Thanks Big Jim👍👍👍 Loving the video🤗

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@Steelin2011]

@Daniel-pz4wm or like in NASCAR... you have the short tracks and the super speedways, you have the FFS lakes and the non FFS lakes all for the same competition schedule.

[@rolltidech]

Watched your video and tried to bite my tongue, but how do you think you just made ALL your co-anglers feel saying that THEY were the reason YOU didn't cash a check ALL last year. (Timestamp around 16:26) when you said you were going down the bank so your co angler could beat the bank, what kept you from catching any fish doing that? Wow, UNREAL!

[@BigJimFishing]

@@rolltidech LOL! you missed the point. I got along with all my co’s. They know I’m no hammer, but thanks for watching!

[@BigJimFishing]

I went back to hear what I said and maybe it did not come out right. What I meant to say was I would always give my coanglers time to fish the bank, thus I did not give FFS the whole day so I could find how they were reacting to the bait and bite it. I sucked last year because I did not fully commit to doing it all day. That is what I meant.

[@Steelin2011]

@rolltidech Wow! I don't know Big Jim and just recently found his channel, but he seems like a nice guy and someone who wants to be helpful. Your comment, I believe, takes him completely out of context! From what I got from his statements is, he was trying to be helpful to his co-angler, whether he cashed a check or not. I think very few would be that considerate. Way to go Big Jim!

[@Digglerdirk79-l4y]

​@@Steelin2011no one really gaf what you thought bud

[@Steelin2011]

@R.S.G879 you must have! you felt the need to comment dumb***! Have a great!

[@garyheath9531]

I voted to ban it make fishing fishing again

[@BigJimFishing]

@@garyheath9531 thanks for watching!

[@williamtennill6744]

My thoughts are identical to yours . Also with the boat on boat draw. Shouldn’t be banned. Co anglers going behind good shallow water guys flipping 2/3 feet water have the same issue behind them. Fishing livescope still take skill..also the electronics help but don’t make a fisherman. Agree with ya Jim

[@BigJimFishing]

Thank you and thanks for watching!

[@chipangelicamartelle802]

Another great video Shipmate. Thanks for sharing.

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@CBGRTR]

Its not going anywhere all the older angkers are cryikg cause thy dont wanna have to adjust to it so we should cater to your wants remember pro bass fishing AINT about how your wann fish its about doing whatever it takes to catch them period !!

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@B_ROB_82]

Well on the co side its definitely going to make the frequency of being stuck out there more often, on the being sporty I am one of those people. I think it defeats the purpose of the sport and no live electronics should be used at all. Map all you want in the drivers seat but when you stand to fish it goes off. Other options could be to offer 2 leagues one with, one without but sadly the only reason the sport is popular still is the younger kids and FFS...so they cant fill out teo leagues. It's always going to come down to money though, if bass or mlf lose money because if it then the ban hammer comes down, otherwise they are going to make more in sponsorship money and not care

[@BigJimFishing]

@@B_ROB_82 great comment and thanks for watching!

[@DGPBASS3]

Big Jim, I have FFS, Don't fish BFL"S or any other big trail. I look at it this way,, Why would MLF or BASS for that matter say NO to a Big Time Electronics ( Bird/ Lowrance/Garmin) manufacture and turn away that Sponsorship Money. If those organizations didn't have that corporate support do you think that trail would survive? FFS is here to stay,, yes its expensive and some cant afford it. But you don't have to have 5 units on a boat to be ccompetive I wouldn't mind having a 22 inch screen due to my eye sight but doesn't look like I will be able to afford one at this time, maybe in the future, maybe not. maybe I'll come across a used or refurb unit that I can afford. Just because you have the latest and greatest, by far doesn't mean you will win every event. Just because you see that fish out in front doesn't mean you will catch it. It STILL has to bite. FFS and the next big thing to come along is here to stay and I seriously doubt the major trails will either limit or ban its use. If they do I imagine it would be like signing their own death certificate. As far as drop in participation imho its the economy. Went though the same situation back in 2010/2011 with our club, guys got out because keeping their house and putting food on the table was more important than fishing a tournament for maybe $100. Enjoy the vids and Podcast, but you need to get a makeup person for Chris LOL!!!

[@BigJimFishing]

😂thanks for comment and watching!

[@OutkastFishing423]

Yes banne it from all tournaments

[@BigJimFishing]

@@OutkastFishing423 thanks for watching!

[@BrianHopkins-xm2ez]

With the current drone tech...we should just have remote controlled boats..and a robot casting...and you can sit at home and have the machine fish for you...and then you can use all the tech..... Also, why not use giant casting nets. That tech would definitely change the sport .. just drag line the lake and win. Gill net the bass. There is tech that you agree should not be used. Like bass boats replaced with trawlers.

[@BigJimFishing]

😂 thanks for watching!

[@RickBaker0529]

FFS for finding fish and for fun fishing, fine. FFS should never be allowed in professional tournaments!!!! My opinion.

[@BigJimFishing]

BFL is not professional FYI

[@RickBaker0529]

Understand, I was talking professional, I don't agree with technology that shows real time fish reaction to be allowed in professional tournaments, and I would include the BFL's.

[@RickBaker0529]

And local tournaments too

[@RickBaker0529]

Fun fishing is fine.

[@inaslump]

Then tgey should have stopped at the flasher... DI was ok Si was ok 360 was ok Panoptics was ok. Lvs 32 was ok Now Every major brand makes live sonar and all of a sudden everyone's PANTIES are in a bunch... It seams like it's something else? Rookies are kicking they're "man crush anglers" butt's maybe?

[@Bassdude1971]

I fished the bfl for over 20 years and made it to the pinnacle of the tournament trail the all American without livescope and yes I got my head beat in and instead of crying like a Randy supporter I bought and I am trying to learn the new technology like everyone else and every new technology that comes out and now people are crying about it now I worked and spent the money and can’t use it I loved about 99% of my co anglers and several of them cashed checks and won but I can can say on the other hand several never game me a dime so it boils down to people crying and people fishing out of the back of my boat I can’t use after I pay a higher tournament fee spend 3 to 5 days practicing now I’ve spent 4000 grand for nothing no thank you mlf and bfl you can keep your tournament trail

[@BigJimFishing]

As of now, it’s allowed in 2025! Thanks for watching!

[@randyhoobler9654]

I have listened to both sides🤷🏻‍♂️ why can’t we all be happy and get along! Just make 2 divisions 1 with and 1 without?

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@maycontainoutdoors]

They’ll be another boater take your plscr if you leave. If you don’t need it then why do you need it. It’s like moneyball if he’s a good hitter why doesn’t he hit good? It’s essentially making sub par anglers better. Why is there so many dominant rookies that don’t have the years of experience like the veterans?

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@WeekEnd_Bassn]

New Subscriber here, Great Discussion! Support Our Veterans!

[@BigJimFishing]

@@WeekEnd_Bassn thanks for watching!

[@paulgalloway5553]

BYE BYE FFS

[@paulgalloway5553]

I LIKE THEM BUT I DONT NEED ONE. I WON 3 IN A ROW BASS TOURNAMENTS WITHOUT ONE. 20 BOATS I BEAT HAVE THEM.

[@paulgalloway5553]

On 3 different lakes. Santee, Wateree and Murray

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@BigJimFishing]

Wow

[@jonkringer8972]

Im for ffs , and i agree 100% get rid of the boat on boat draw .

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for comment and watching!

[@backdraftlurecompany]

I'll still participate either way, depending on the schedule. I'm out there to have fun and promote my products, so it's really of no consequence to me. I'm really only vaguely competitive at certain lakes, so no one has to worry about getting beat by me no matter what tech I have on the boat, haha!

[@BigJimFishing]

@@backdraftlurecompany but will you remove it just for a BFL derby? Then have to put it back on….pain in the neck

[@backdraftlurecompany]

@@BigJimFishing I don't even have it! I'm poor, haha!

[@BigJimFishing]

@@backdraftlurecompany your not! Lol. Take care my friend

[@philames5733]

I am for ffs. It is a shame a few people can ruin this. I will not be participating if no ffs allowed.

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for comment and thanks for watching!

[@philames5733]

@@BigJimFishing your welcome, keep up the good work. Just seems to me that some of this is pretty much a common sense thing. I have fished for over 50 years. I remember the red box flasher when they came out. Seems to me that was going to ruin fishing then. I have learned alot about fish behavior since ffs. It is not as easy as it is made out to be. Today's young anglers pick up on technology today much faster than us old guys. These pro anglers are all running a business, it only makes sense that they use all available tech to help then win. I enjoy Bassmasters coverage of ffs when they show the screen and what these guys are looking at. I saw an idea put forth on here about 2 divisions, 1 for non ffs, and 1 for ffs. I get the co anglers gripes about scopers, but I seem to remember that they complained about boaters putting them out of position to fish a spot. Maybe they should get their own boats.

[@BassboatJoe]

BIG Jim I enjoy your videoes and watch as much as I can BUT your arguments for FFS is the most absurd… there are good arguments for it but yours are just crazy and not factual man…. saying 360 is the same as FFS(360 os a still image that only gives you structure location), saying mapping can be compared to FFS, saying the FFS mount industry will be hit (dude people will still by these mounts lol), saying bed fishing with a co back boated is the same as a co being back boated by someone using FFS . (Not everyone is bed fishing, but most everyone is using FFS, so there is a big difference between the 2… cmon man. I think boater participation would skyrocket if FFS was banned, and so would coangler participation. Gambling is gambling, people will gamble no matter the circumstances. And if you put everyone on a level playing field more people will join… I’ve heard better arguments for FFS but the ones you listed in this video is false and not factual information.. The problem being brought up to attention is not about whether you like it or not. Most people LIKE using it, but it’s about teaching the younger generation how to FISH. How to not rely on FFS to teach them how to FISH. You learned to bass fish by instinct and trial and error, now is young guns are learning by dropping a transducer in the water and playing with them using lures in real time. That’s not FISHING that’s playing a video game…. It’s not what the future of this sport needs, the argument is about the future of the sport and how can we better it whether we make the tough decision to eliminate a threat to the sport or not.. We don’t need this type of technology in our future. I respect your outlook but need to sit down with those that see it the other way around instead of those that love it and are extremely biased about it.

[@BigJimFishing]

That’s why we all have opinions. I was saying where do we draw the line? Stop at FFS? Why. Do you still have a flip phone? I don’t think you do. I appreciate all the comments even if we don’t agree because we are adults. Thanks for watching!

[@BassboatJoe]

@@BigJimFishingwill continue to watch your videos. Love your blast off scenes and interviews! Good luck!

[@fshn4dlrs805]

Great video Jim. Thanks

[@BigJimFishing]

@@fshn4dlrs805 thanks for watching!

[@edwardmarshall8795]

And I’m not a co angler

[@BigJimFishing]

Ok 👍🏻

[@patdarling2036]

I agree with you on all it

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@brandonhavis8526]

Great video, very well spoken. Glad to see someone put some facts and logic into a video. And boat on boat draw is a horrible idea. It’s bad for all of the reasons you named plus you are taking a direct competitor to your fishing spots and showing them your techniques in those areas. Personally, as long as everyone has the same rules I usually don’t pitch a fit too much but the 1/2 day without FFS option seems kinda ridiculous. Good luck, I hope the vote goes in the way you like.

[@BigJimFishing]

@@brandonhavis8526 thanks for watching and comment

[@jshyinski8933]

Please send me the survey please,thank you

[@BigJimFishing]

MLF sends it to 2024 participants

[@jshyinski8933]

@@BigJimFishing I'm a coangler on bfl ,a boater on the ABA Pro Solo that you

[@toddpeterson2362]

I am for FFS. I bought the boat and I bought the graphs and all of the electronics. I want to use them to be competitive. I have been a co angler as well and I see their side too!

[@BigJimFishing]

Exactly. Thanks for watching!

[@michaelbirr4040]

great video I'm out if they ban it .

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@MrVinced1201]

Jim good video and I like your view on this and I will fill my out the same way.

[@BigJimFishing]

Thank you and thanks for watching!

[@jameswilloughby4899]

I agree with you

[@BigJimFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@NRP.fishing]

it won't let me submit my survey. I voted to change nothing and make the co side 3 fish limit. I might co a couple divisions next year and 3 fish would give more of the field a chance without relying 95% on the boater. if they ban ffs I'll be asking them to pay me for my graphs

[@BigJimFishing]

@@NRP.fishing thanks for watching!

[@davidbmullis]

Great video!!! I was going to comment about the squeaky wheel getting grease and you said it on the video as I was typing it!

[@BigJimFishing]

@@davidbmullis 😂 thanks for watching!

[@vernonneal7050]

Great video! I love fishing with or without FFS. I fish with a local bass club, most guys have it and those that don't just go out and fish.

[@BigJimFishing]

@@vernonneal7050 thanks for watching!

[@toddhoppes1123]

This is not fair chase using this technology. And that’s why this guy likes using FFS because he’s not very good at fishing true fisherman can find fish.

[@BigJimFishing]

Do you have livescope?

[@johnharpold3994]

True Fisherman can catch fish with just a cane pole and piece of string. I'm with you! Let's ban electronics, outboard engines, trolling motors and fishing reels! LOL They get a canoe and paddle!

[@chasinthedreamwithericdani2411]

NO CHANGE

[@BigJimFishing]

@@chasinthedreamwithericdani2411 thanks for watching!

[@scottsilver5409]

Yes on FFS , boater

[@BigJimFishing]

@@scottsilver5409 thanks Scott!

[@fshn4dlrs805]

Change for the Minority seems to be the way things go nowadays. Let’s STOP this here and now MAJORITY RULES

[@BigJimFishing]

@@fshn4dlrs805 thanks for watching!

[@jerryking9215]

Mob rule?

[@fshn4dlrs805]

So True. Still got to get them to Bite. I’m in on Technology helping me catch fish. Tourney fisherman are more even with Technology IMO.

[@BigJimFishing]

@@fshn4dlrs805 thanks for watching!

[@garyheath9531]

It's official ffs Is banned in bfl next yr I hav a inside connection so glad this happened

[@BigJimFishing]

Not official as of Labor Day morning.

[@garyheath9531]

@@BigJimFishing yea jus not "officially" announnced

[@BigJimFishing]

@@garyheath9531 send me contact info so I can verify for a video

[@garyheath9531]

@@BigJimFishing can't but will b released very shortly. U can bank on it

[@BigJimFishing]

@@garyheath9531 seems like speculation, just like my video

[@johnhelems721]

Just do away with co anglers

[@BigJimFishing]

@@johnhelems721 I like them. Good guys for most part.

[@johnhelems721]

@@BigJimFishing nothing wrong with them but it would eliminate them crying about livescope and all the boaters could fish since they don’t have to worry about a co angler

[@parisite99]

Just do away with the box!

[@wadebalding5783]

🔥🫡

[@BigJimFishing]

@@wadebalding5783 thanks for watching!