The Disturbing Secret Bassmaster Elite/MLF Pros Are Keeping From The Public…

[@GarryMurray-i1y]

FFS is one issue. But as a Canadian, it still shocks me how tournaments in the US allow bed fishing. We have a bass season and you cannot fish bass while the spawn is on. That’s how you protect your fishery. It’s really simple to catch bass off beds. That is not an art.

[@waterdog3978]

In clear water maybe. It’s pretty difficult to even see a fish on a bed here

[@motherlodebassin5369]

It would be nice if the Bassmaster people actually worked with people to fix the few major issues with it. They are gonna ignore everything until it’s ruined completely

[@Justin.Hawkins]

So a couple RESPECTFUL rebuttals. 1 KVD never complained when he was one of the few using side imaging crushing the fields with “an unfair advantage” 2. Viewership is not down, not sure where your source of information is, but across the board, viewership is up. 3. Iaconelli was a founding father of the multigraph club. I am not 100% certain, but 99% sure that he was the first using dual console. In summation, these guys had no issues using technology to their advantage when they were younger, but now they want to talk about how unfair it is, and they both still use it? How is John Cox staying competitive without it? Anyone that wants to complain and whine about it; be a man and remove it from your boat or sit down.

[@rosschappell7014]

You have to take viewership “being up” numbers with a giant grain of salt. The algorithms pick up if you are even just scrolling by and it comes across your screen that’s counted as a “viewer” or if you stop to watch a minute of it, it’s counted. The sport is down. You can tell just with the payouts. They are less than they used to be while entry fees have increased. Sponsors have started pulling out

[@shadygraves]

It absolutely blew my mind to see Jacob Wheeler on the St Lawrence River, bathyscope in hand, peering into the water, while taking smallmouth bass off the bed. Ethics have obviously gone out the window in bass fishing.

[@jamesrice304]

💯

[@jktarheel]

What's wrong with that. Our fisheries are in no danger. Go Jacob.

[@willbutler2639]

At least they put the fish right back unlike BASS. I’m fine with it.

[@brianpierson7708]

@@jktarheel you have no clue what you’re talking about even to think that our fisheries are not in trouble saying you have no clue about them. How many do you fish every year 00

[@jktarheel]

@@brianpierson7708 No, they are not in trouble. Dig a little deeper. Do a little more homework. Yes I fish tournaments all the time. Finished 4th in points in Va. Usa bassin. Qualified for pickwick. In 2 weeks. I've lived it man. I'm 56, grew up in the back of my uncles bass boat. Fishin is 1000% better today then it was in the 70s, 80s, 90s. Hatcheries are hard at work stocking florida strain bass. They have millions. Why do you think they are in danger????

[@jacymesserjr3707]

I'm 43 years old. I've fished since I was old enough to hold a fishing pole. I have family that has owned and operated fishing tackle stores for 35 years. I thought i knew everything about fishing. I bought Livescope about 3 years ago and learned more about fishing and how to catch fish in the last 3 years than I have in the last 40 years. So when someone says an angler that has Livescope wins a tournament using it, knows nothing about fishing, they are just ignorant and too stubborn to admit they have gotten left behind in learning new things.

[@906bass]

Then they spend their time bitching about it and get left further behind.

[@lesyoung9294]

Couldn’t agree more

[@Rightiswrong-qv5ul]

Don't care to how all of you feel about tech but how did it ever be allowed to basically have a diver down there spotting the fish and telling you where to fish . I'm with you on this . Whats next. Tight lines .

[@williamwhite1997]

"20 year old flat brimmer" is a hilarious derogatory comment that I've never heard before.😂

[@defbear]

Oh no no no he’s not criticizing the people using it didn’t you hear him? He’s just going after the COMPANIES! See all is well now. He’s the arbiter of truth! You can trust him!

[@easton00033]

@@defbear😂😂

[@gregkuhn7123]

@@defbear you sound like a flat brimmer....

[@defbear]

@@gregkuhn7123 That’s because you’re too thick to see the joke that flew over your head. Delete your comment. Save face.

[@zachg5356]

100% hilarious

[@JamesDobson-g1n]

Perfect example of another reason not to use FF. Today at Mega Bass Tournament on Lake Fork. Guy that had winning fish (hourly payout tournament and overall winner wins new Skeeter). When he went to do polygraph, first question was did you read the rules?. He said no so they asked him questions related to the rules. 1st question was did you use any electronics for any other purposes other than navigation prior to start of tournament fishing hours. He said “yes”. They DQ’d him. They talked to him after DQ and he said he found her before fishing hours and power poled down and waited until fishing hours and then caught her. Cost him almost $100k.

[@atthebrink74]

Oops! Life is hard, it’s even harder when you’re stupid.

[@1980chardison]

He did everything prior to the fishing hours that’s not cheating, not morally right but he didn’t break any rules during fishing hours

[@SteveCrosd]

@@1980chardison how is this not cheating?

[@haphartmann3394]

@@1980chardison So if you was the guy in second place that would have lost $100,000 because this guy cheated you would not have protested ?

[@michaelmcclenon6663]

​@haphartmann3394 protest dame right get alot of prostitutes for 100k

[@arnoldfoote1925]

Out of this simple beginning, a new industry was formed in 1957 with the sale of the first transistorized sportfishing sonar. In 1959, Lowrance introduced "The Little Green Box" which became the most popular sonar instrument in the world. Bet you the old guys back then thought there wouldn't be a single fish left in 5 years? ( I guess the Old Dog saying is true)

[@seanleeds-lx9gj]

U know damn well the technology that ffs uses is a hell of a lot more effective at finding fish then “the little green box” lmao

[@arnoldfoote1925]

@@seanleeds-lx9gj Did I hit a soft spot, by the way I'm 66 years old, Work at a Tackle shop, Part-time the Technology of today Doesn't scare me.

[@travistweedle9674]

@@arnoldfoote1925 You are right there will always be fish. But were here talking about the Pro fishing tours. And nobody wants to watch a flat brimmer watching a computer screen holding his pole in his hand. That isn't good for the TV viewers, sponsors, lure manufacturers, etc. The business will lose money and eventually have to shut down. This is pretty much what this episode was foreshadowing. The decline and or end of professional fishing.

[@arnoldfoote1925]

@@travistweedle9674 You are saying exactly what I just said in my Post, people of that era thought the fishing was done. But here we are Pros still fishing for Cash, average people still fishing for enjoyment. Even the Flat Brimmers?

[@brianberkshire9169]

The problem is, it seems to me , that technology has driven the rise in the popularity of tournament fishing from the beginning. It's the money from sponsors that creates the large payouts. So we've been moving towards this for years. It's not about fishing. It's about selling product

[@wciii3591]

And, there are fewer and fewer companies controlling the not just tech, but other fishing equipment, all the way down to hooks. That is why hooks cost a dollar apiece.

[@EarlSChristy]

The exact opposite is the case. Payouts have shrunk dramatically both in real & inflation adjusted dollars. As entry fees skyrocket! And the added expense of buying always spending $ to get the top priced electronic hard & softwares. We all know the latest scientific breakthrough products will cost the most when 1st introduced to markets.When the quarry has near impossible odds to avoid capture who will care to watch or follow tournaments. And the more people support your view the faster it will progress to the determent of the fish = the industry

[@MikesBassFishing]

Everyone is fishing for their own money. There are no sponsors creating payouts (very few anyway). Anglers have to make their own money on the side as well. All these PE companies have been ruining the sport for years. They are paying less and less as the years go. Crazy that a professional angler has to make money from the internet so they can be "professional" anglers and be able to pay their bills

[@BryanSmith-k4r]

Imagine a professional Deer Hunter who has been hunting professional Deer tournaments for years under a Deer hunting sportsman's society. He has learned the patterns, spent countless hours in the field, countless hours on the road, created a brand for himself, Deer hunting is the #1 way he provides for his family & one day that Deer Hunting Sportsman Society that he's been loyal too for years, now decides to allows professional Deer Hunter's to use a new technology that can track the deer in real time, tell you where they are standing & where they are possibly moving to by looking at a screen/monitor. I can only imagine.

[@ulanglegang]

There's a big difference between someone killing 5 deer and practicing catch and release for 5 bass.

[@d-rocky615]

Stupidest statement I’ve heard so far!

[@lesyoung9294]

You mean sort of like watching deer movement on live web cams all the time?

[@lesyoung9294]

I said live webcams like some do. They let you know what timer he’d ever ate moving & direction they’re coming from all from the comfort of your home. When I deer hunted hard I scouted even harder & sure didn’t bait areas like most do. So how does those deer hunting tidbits remotely remind you of folks using the latest technology to put the odds in their favor? Maybe deer hunters need to go old school like we use to. 🤷‍♂️

[@lesyoung9294]

No need for technology in deer hunting like some think their shouldn’t be in fishing. Take the cams, feeders & cover crops out of it & go hunting the traditional way like the old has been fishermen think should happen to fishing.

[@guitarpicker65]

Hey Randy, Been fishing since I was 3 yrs old. Raised near you, graduated from Diamond 1983, knew about you, was a little envious that a hometown area guy made a good livin fishin. I really like what you do Randy! I'm retired from the military, down south where it's warm. Some family still around Joplin. I visit there a couple of times a year. If you're ever down around Biloxi, look me up. Seriously. We'll go marsh fishin for redfish and speckled trout using Your bass fishing techniques. It works down here for saltwater species too! Anyway man, I appreciate you.

[@bruceesterline3170]

FFS is like taking a exam with the answers on your desk. Oh its true.

[@Bigdawg9989]

As someone who has fished the highschool BASS tournaments in Michigan, the next generation is all learning how to livescope at the same time they’re still learning about bass movement patterns, habits, etc. The distinction I draw especially for people on the lower end of the income spectrum, the tournament scene is becoming a pay-to-enter sport. To come up like Mike Iaconelli or Randy is simply not possible anymore. In todays bass fishing world it’s impossible to rise to the top in the traditional way because of the gauntlet of livescopers.

[@godude7275]

You are right young man, bass fishing is becoming or actually already is a pay to play sport. I will give you a perfect example; BASS started a kayak division a few years ago on the federation level with a format that any state that participated was given 5 spots to Kayak Classic. Only 2 years in to it, they started a National Kayak Trail and suspiciously changed the state federation trail format, only allowing 10% of participation to be eligible for the Kayak Classic. However, anyone who (paid the big bucks) fished the National Trail and participated in all 4 events got a free invite (not based on any kind of performance, points, etc.) to fish the Kayak Classic. So, they took spots from federation guys who were earning their spot by performance and gave them to guys who spent money to fish national trail.

[@Bigdawg9989]

@@godude7275 absolutely right. It has a lot to do with the tournament organizations as well.

[@MJ_Bass]

To be honest, it was only a very short period in BASS fishing where the guy who didn't have some money could make it. Lets be honest, it's not a huge spectator sport and never will be. Not only that, if a $1700 livescope setup is too much investment to become a pro, you have no idea how the other expenses will add up.

[@Bigdawg9989]

@@MJ_Bass really it could happen up until 2010ish. I know it costs a lot of money, but the gateway to entry is only increasing in price. Even on the local level. To win a club tournament now you have to have livescope.

[@zachg5356]

Maybe somebody will do the impossible

[@HughShepard-k4n]

Thanks for stepping on some toes.

[@O-C-WT]

Randy, you didn’t show up for the TAA. An open tournament literally formed around everything you want. (Minus the bed fishing) A “put your money where your mouth is” kind of tournament, with a rather large pay out…. Why didn’t you show up to that? Seemed like it was right up your alley. Everything you’ve preached about, but still didn’t go fish it… id honestly LOVE to know why you didn’t?

[@easton00033]

He stated it wasn’t financially feasible with 4 kids. However, it would be more feasible, that he didn’t want some 23 year old “scoper” that hasn’t even made the Elites yet, to beat the crap out of him like he did 95% of the rest of the field ! 😂😂 Yet he won’t mention Emil, the 20 something flat billed scoper in any of his tirades.

[@O-C-WT]

@@easton00033 i didn’t even see that lol i can’t hate on the guy for making a good financial decision. But as far as sponsorships go, and him being at the “forefront” and a “leader” in the war of livescope, i would think he could have swindled 5gs collectively from them, IF they actually stand behind his stance like he states they do…. But I’m going to go with (B) like you said lol. If some young kid, or any of these “scopers” who couldn’t catch them without their “umbilical cords” were to beat him at his own game, he wouldn’t have a leg to stand on.

[@easton00033]

@@O-C-WT I mean he had a 1 in 47 chance at pulling down 65k. You would think with 50 years of experience and over 2 million dollars in winnings , those odds would have been a no brainer !! 😂😂 No practice, no LS/FFS/360 , tons of fish shallow and a bank beaters dream week … yea, I’m going with option B as well !! 😂😂

[@RhinoJoeOutdoors]

If KVD is sponsored by Humminbird and comes out against FFS then he’s probably going against a lot of the marketing of one of his key sponsors.

[@astrophysicistguy]

He has been sponsored by Humminbird for a very long time and he's not about bite the hand that feeds him. It's very easy to be anti tech when you're not sponsored by any electronics company. You notice that Randy never comes out against tournaments themselves even though he KNOWS they kill tons of bass and are a major reason fisheries have declined over the last 40 years because he's a tournament fisherman

[@VinnyM.92]

@@astrophysicistguymic drop 🎤

[@MJ_Bass]

Nah, humminbird is getting killed with ffs right now. They even sponsor guys and allow them to run livescope. They wouldn’t mind a ban 😂

[@Tedthib]

Humminbird would profit greatly from a FFS ban. They fallen so far behind can't catch up. They are losing tons of sales on head units because of it

[@joegreenwood6663]

At what age do i become to old to understand livescope? I just want to make sure i sell it before i know too much about it that im a professional angler and it no longer helps me anymore. Also at age 33, am i too old to start now. I've used it like 5 times now and it seems to be helping me catch more fish but im worried i'm too old and good at fishing to understand it. I just want to be able to make sure that when im old enough to know everything about fishing im not hindered by technology. Ive been tournament fishing since age 12 and been successful in tournaments for years without it but i just want to make sure im not already too old to learn.

[@b.s.fishing5902]

🤣🤣🤣

[@eatsquawk]

I don't know. To hear Randy tell it... 33 and 20 are the same. Hamner's 33 and Randy continues to call him a 20 year old.

[@jacymesserjr3707]

🤣🤣 I have noticed a trend of those complaining about FFS is those that are getting beaten by those who are using it. The guys of the sport 50 years ago complained about the guys of 30 years ago using fancy depth finders and so on and so on......

[@eatsquawk]

@@jacymesserjr3707 right. I remember years ago guys complaining that we had an aerator for our minnow bucket at the local crappie barge. I wonder what those old guys would think about this. It's just how things are. People always complain about new stuff. "All this has happened before and it will happen again."

[@robkennedy1313]

Jacob Wheeler is a direct contradiction to your argument. He was arguably the best tournament angler in the world before the wide adoption FFS, and he’s adapted and is still the best.

[@lloydcarter6631]

Again, doesn't sound like you listened to video. How old is Jacob??

[@robkennedy1313]

He’s 34. What’s your point? I watched the entire video. He’s a “hammer” to quote Randy, and he’s adjusted to scoping. Was dominant before and is dominant now.

[@brianpierson7708]

@@robkennedy1313 he did not adjust to it. He was in with it as they were building it and at 35 was born and raised with computers it’s all on his channel and he didn’t like it and doesn’t want it in the tournaments. So that’s the point of the comment how old are you 15. Because you sure crying like a 10 year old

[@castmastersoutdoors7762]

Jacob Wheeler is a clown DING

[@robkennedy1313]

Nah 58, and if you don’t think Wheeler was dominant before the adoption of FFS, you’re kidding yourself. Kid won the All American, Cup, and Bassfest all before anyone knew what it was. SMH. Good day

[@thomascoleman3540]

Ive watched old Bass stuff and the new stuff. Whats the difference? Both are showing a guy facing forward. The only difference is ine has there head down while the other is just casting around. The coverage today is 100% better.

[@donprater2754]

Honestly You need to move own from forward facing sonar. The ones that are working with this issue are competent enough to come up with a solution. We’ are all aware of Your position. Respectfully Don P.

[@BradHope_Fishing]

FFS is not going away. As an organization, B.A.S.S. and MLF can't go to their sponsors (Garmin, Lowrance, Humminbird) and tell them that their brand ambassadors aren't allowed to use this new tech. It's $$$, that's how it works. As tech advances, these things are going to happen. Who knows, maybe someone will start a division in BASS or MLF that can't use FFS. Might actually end up expanding the sport.

[@russell7140]

Not allowed to use drones for deer hunting.

[@franklee6518]

Yet

[@charlesjohnsjr.5809]

But you can use cellular trail cameras.

[@codypaulsell]

​@@charlesjohnsjr.5809can't use any trail cameras in Arizona.

[@charlesjohnsjr.5809]

@@codypaulsell your mileage may vary.

[@herbsteiner1013]

"Flatbrimmer!" I hadn't heard that one before! 😂

[@northernbassalliance1442]

Milliken isnt 20, jordan lee isnt 20, johnston bros arent 20, paulanik isnt 20, justin atkins isnt 20, wesley gore isnt 20, matty wong isnt 20 etc. saw some interviews with some of those younger guys and they were sayin they prefer catching fish up in 6" of water. But you cant win doin that right now. They didnt pick up a rod 1 yr ago. Guarantee they fished with their dad since they were little abd learned to fish and then learned FFS the last few yrs as well.

[@Glock-1]

You don’t think they learned live scoping with their dads? I’d eat money they did and they didn’t get as good as they are with it in a year or two

[@adambrodahl9849]

I think where u are missing the point is. Baseball ,golf ,Nascar, every major sport has regulations . Bass has not allowed live bait ,or albama rig or 8 ft poles . You do not think this device catches fish better then these already banned techniques?. Alota states don't allow riffles for deer. Only the prarie in tundra states . Just saying at what point is this not about the best angler? When u depend on this one thing to do everything for you. These young guys couldn't hold these old guys jock straps without live scope . Prove me wrong?

[@horbie5039]

It was amazing that Pat Schlapper spent a month in Texas working on his ffs game before Toledo and killed it there. He’s not twenty either.

[@spencersmith6754]

@@Glock-1do you know how long ffs has been around?

[@northernbassalliance1442]

@@adambrodahl9849 out of curiosity what do you consider young? Lee is in his 30s yet the legendary elites are in their 50s or older. Is he a young guy cuz if he is he won 2 bqck to back classics without FFS and now is using it to finish well. Meanwwhile legendary guys havent even came close to winning a classic. Also what is considered a prairie state? Im from northern Mi and we can definitely use rifles. I wouldnt consier that state a prairie state. Im stationed in ND and this is definitely a praire state. You can use rifles in MN, and WI too also not prairie states.

[@kevinzap.fishing]

As a 21 year old flatbrimmer, I agree 100%. We should have to work for what we get and not be able to beat the guys who have been doing it for way longer than us. I don’t livescope myself and I see the disparity of it and I don’t like it at all because it allows people who haven’t put their due time in to dominate.

[@MJ_Bass]

Young people full of piss and vinegar have came in and done well in tournaments for as long as they have been around. If it was all about experience Clunn would be undefeated the last few decades or so 😂

[@Darkman-Fishing]

At 21, you haven't paid your dues enough to say others should pay their dues

[@squonto47]

With all the comments out there that make zero sense, you, madam, have somehow managed to fall even below that threshold.

[@jacymesserjr3707]

@@squonto47 🤣

[@frankgilroy3189]

I just wish you wouldn’t broadbrush, the young guys as not knowing how to fish if you’re a gentleman and an aging pro, find a way to be a little more dignified. When a non-spotlight tournament comes up, put your money where your mouth is and go fish it.

[@randyemerson8729]

i’m coming

[@johnjukas8019]

Don't over exaggerate, he's saying there's no way a new 20 year old has the knowledge experience etc of a KVD or hammer. They are reliant on forward-facing solar in order to compete and win. There's plenty of hammers in Florida that will have no problem proving what Randy is saying. Turn off the FFS show up and fish against them. Then tell me how much you know about fishing.... So yes they have knowledge they will and would eventually become even great fisherman, but don't ignore the fact that watching save chasing a fish on a screen as bass fishing knowledge. It's technical knowledge not the knowledge gained over the years of time on water, logs kept, weather condition, temp, tides, fronts, etc... Because it is not!

[@gfarmfishing]

I think your argument on livescope taking over professional tournaments is a matter of perspective. The reason it is being highlighted is heavily due to the schedule put out by both tournament organizations. It will not come into play in the next couple Elite events nearly as much as it has to start the year. I also think the assumption that the young up and coming anglers know “nothing about fish behavior” is completely false and unwarranted. Bass fishing is becoming more of a professional sport now more than ever. It is shifting away from who can sell the most product to who is the best angler. If you took ffs away from Dustin Connell, Jacob Wheeler, Kyle Welcher, Trey McKinney and other younger anglers they will still compete and win. Trey McKinney dominated on the BFL’s since he was old enough to fish them against anglers with many more years of experience. Why? Because he understands fish… Chris Johnston just won a tournament with no ffs against many other veteran anglers who have been fishing a lot longer than he has. If you stopped to talk to the next generation of anglers what their view is the answer is simple. They EAT, SLEEP, and BREATHE bass fishing. Many of us are choosing careers with flexible schedules so we can spend more time on the water than those we are competing against. Personally I’m working in the industry myself at a boat dealership and as a fishing guide. My dad always said “nothing beats time on the water”. The younger guys are doing what it takes to spend 200-300 days a year honing their craft. The next generation of anglers is hungry. Just like any other sport practice and training are key. Whether it’s baseball, football, basketball or now bass fishing, those that spend more time and effort into their training will rise to the top. Us young anglers don’t have as many things to focus on in life. For a lot of us it’s just fishing. Randy you are entitled to your opinion, and I have a lot of respect for you. I grew up watching you. Watching you navigate shallow water the way you did was a big influence on the way I fish. I would love to talk to you about this and give some perspective of a younger angler. I honestly think if you had a conversation with some of us, your view of all of us being “spotlighters and scopers” very well might change. Sincerely, “Some 20 year old flat brimmed kid”

[@martinpena5614]

You keep talking about these anglers who spent all their life learning about Bass behavior, well there are a lot of old pros admitting what they thought they knew about Bass behavior is completely wrong. We’ve heard it over and over from many big names , what they are learning is you never stop learning. And for you to keep saying these young anglers have no talent is so messed up of you, you don’t know these people you’ve never fished with them. You have no idea what their skills really are. You cannot make that assumption just because they are mastering new technology. We all watch the same videos and podcasts . They are way more pros for it than against it. You just think you speak for everybody. A true pro never stops learning or adapting, everything I keep hearing you say you can’t even master regular mapping sideview or traditional sonar so you have to hate on anybody who is having success.

[@eatsquawk]

He also keeps saying he has "sources" but never brings them on. I'm convinced the only "sources" he has are the old guys at the coffee shop or in his head.

[@easton00033]

@@eatsquawk😂😂

[@TheAverageFisherman99]

Even mikeybalzz is saying watching all the livescopers isnt entertaining anymore.

[@astrophysicistguy]

I find it bizarre that the center focus of this is that it now no longer makes it fun to watch other guys bass fish? News flash .. It was NEVER fun to watch other guys bass fish. I can't think of a more boring way to spend my time than watch others fish ...

[@Boethius411]

@@astrophysicistguyNews Flash… Just because you think it’s boring doesn’t mean everyone else does. I enjoy watching certain guys fish to see how they break down the water and strategize in the heat of competition. I root for some guys just because they are friends of mine and I want to see them do well. Either way, I’m mentally and emotionally invested in it and that’s why I enjoy watching it.

[@GKL1954]

Real boring. Every video has a guy in front of his fishing boat, looking down and then catching a fish. Then over and over again.

[@HBeretta]

@@astrophysicistguy i grew up watching jimmy houston fish on tv...i also like watching golf on tv. to each their own, this said, if you thought watching tournament fishing was boring...with livescope you may as well take a bath with your toaster.

[@mloll1121]

@@Boethius411 right, and viewership is at an all time high on BASS. Watching guys crank in 25 ft of water in the middle of the lake for hours wasn't boring? This is getting exhausting. Funny how Randy didnt fish the TAA last week. probably would have finished in the bottom 1/3 of that that,

[@jimmyboone4496]

You shouldn’t say no one, I enjoy watching it cause I feel like I understand what they’re doing and I take it as an opportunity to learn.

[@Bassfreak]

Always appreciate your insight. Keep up the good work!!!

[@kevindejong7754]

Bravery is needed. If you have more tournaments like the recent one on Lake Lanier and those are the ones more and more pros go to and the fans support that would be the pressure necessary to change the sport

[@haphartmann3394]

I am with you 100% Randy.Please keep up te good fight to help preserve our fisheries.

[@amulrich1]

Hey Randy, I really appreciate your fishing content and am open to your whistleblowing with forward facing sonar. I would encourage you to be more thoughtful with your use of comments about people’s age and choice of hat style. Good people are good people regardless of their age and the flatness of their hat brim. Jerk are jerks regardless of those facts as well. When you lump in age and appearance it undercuts your message about the potential threats of technology.

[@staleek100]

5:20 Please be specific Randy: which 20 year olds do you know personnally well enough to say they know nothing about bass fishing? You are not helping your arguments by speaking in a derogatory manner about an entire demographic of bass fisherman. That's just downright disrespectful.

[@EHELLC]

Randy is a clown losing any credibility he MIGHT have once had.

[@georgemebs]

Not sure what ikes stance is on ffs he said if your not scoping your hoping🤔

[@catchofthedave8681]

Randy, I'm noticing that more and more tourneys are being won WITHOUT forward facing. Like the past couple years it seemed everyone was winning with livescope, and this year, at least in the 3 series Im fishing, theres not as many people winning with it. Ive noticed personally, that the fish are getting super smart with livescope. They literally will not eat if the transducer is pointing at them. The fish are becoming conditioned to the livescope. Even the little minnow baits, the fish won't eat. But, I tested some fish on Dale Hollow. They would not eat when i was throwing at them with livescope. I tried fish in a few different areas. Then I went back to the first area and turned the scope off, and threw a jig, and they ate it with the sonar off. So it's only a matter of time before like any new super bait, or whatever, the fish will adapt and it will be harder and harder to catch them with a forward sonar pinging. Every tournament I hear people saying how much harder it is to catch fish on livescope. So I truly feel like livescope will burn itself out. Sure, there will be some people who will find the right fish with the right bait to catch them off livescope, but I think most fish will know not to eat when they feel the scope.

[@MikesBassFishing]

Thats not true. They are being used heavily in every tournament there is. The way they are being used may be different, but they are used. Only a small percentage is not using it at the higher levels. Maybe in some local stuff, it is probably different due to costs. Same reason those guys dont have 21' loaded out boats and gear. Id say 95% have of the Tour level guys have them on their boats and use them.

[@deanmentjes7774]

Good video, thanks Randy!

[@Fish_Around_Find_Out]

I understand the sentiment that ffs does not align with the standards expected in professional tournament fishing. It is important to acknowledge the impact of divisive rhetoric and its potential harm. While I recognize that generating views and engagement is crucial for the success of your channel, it is essential to approach topics with sensitivity and respect. Speaking negatively about the younger generation or any individual does not contribute constructively to our sport or society as a whole. Fear-mongering only perpetuates existing problems and works against progress. Demonstrating leadership through positive examples, rather than negativity, is key to fostering meaningful change.

[@EHELLC]

Randy is a total divider and since he can't make any money fishing he has to do it with his patthetic youtube channel.

[@ronfeltonfishing]

Wait til you see the new Garmin LVS36. It’s insane..!

[@EHELLC]

Thats a scam.

[@randyemerson8729]

I would say remove the FFS from upcoming season only one transducer for sides, scan one 360 that’s it the rules also stipulate that you cannot sit and spotlight in areas. You must be moving in casting, and there must be rotation among your fishing techniques, the equivalent and golf would be as you’re going to the golf course using the driver all day long now you need to use all the irons inside your cough bag, same thing with the fishing equiptment.

[@SpookyRedz]

Live Scope is cheating , and it should be illegal , Hank Parker is standing up too MrRandy , you are gaining ground , I promise u

[@eugenefoster9120]

These Pros need to grow a pair and stand up a say whats on their minds.

[@astrophysicistguy]

Much easier to say when it's not your livelihood on the line

[@robertlewis3116]

Yes. At some point ya have to stand up for what’s right. Have principles and voice your opinion. If I were a pro fisherman that was against ffs, I would have to stand up against this technology. I understand these guys feel like they’re stuck between a rock and a hard place but geez, something has got to change. Ffs just isn’t real fishing, no matter how you spin it

[@5150Fishing]

Maybe they’re not standing up because don’t agree with Randy

[@dannyfinn556]

Lowrance green box flasher Paper graph Fish ID ( Eagle ) Chirp GPS Side scan Power poles Spot Lock. What is traditional? I remember Mark Rose tired of not being competitive ledge fishing , then he was , how? I think the tournament organizers can control to a degree who does what by scheduling tournaments. How? David Fritz got railed by tournament scheduling, As did Denny. Brauer . Then KVD . This is how they fix it should they decide it needs fixed. I loved watching the Lake Fork Bassmasters , the camera dude was showing the audience what the angler saw. McKennly won. I’m 62 I love watching that tournament. Calling kids flat hatter isn’t cool. Who exactly hates FFS? The guys that can’t do it that’s who. The movement good or bad will be the guys that can use the latest technology, when it applies to the event , will win. Adjust or move over.

[@gregkuhn7123]

you sound like a flat hatter ....

[@pbpd4816]

Can someone explain what the difference is when I watch a fisherman on tv look out towards the bank or horizon versus looking down at a monitor? Because what they’re looking at while fishing means or changes absolutely nothing to/for me.

[@horbie5039]

Unless there’re throwing top water, it doesn’t look much different on camera.

[@McGerkFish65Outdoors]

You make good points Randy. FFS ranks up there with High Fence Hunting. A good approach against this may be for several of you Tour veterans to mass together and voice your protest directly to the administrators who run BASS and MLF. Request a meeting and also invite reps from Garmin, Hummingbird, Lowrance, etc. Organize active protest and draw strength in numbers. You will probably find that the majority of the fan base is behind you. Good luck.

[@HillbillyOnTheHill]

They gonna just laugh at him..

[@DLTJR1959]

The electronics industry in fishing has the same interests as any other industry. Profit. It's up to the tournaments to decide how to apply the new technology. I don't know the "balance" required but it will eventually come to pass.

[@jdmiller676]

Is sight fishing bedded bass more ethical than using ffs to catch a bass in open water?

[@midwestmokai6241]

Technology has dumbed-down our society at every level. This is well documented. People can't read maps and are lost without their phones, popular music is completely automated and as a result is horrible to listen to, traffic fatalities are rising due to tech-distracted drivers, and there is a crisis looming among our youth because of the serious cognitive damage caused by social media and smart phones (see recent book authored by Jonathan Haidt). Why should we expect bass fishing to be immune? The answer is we can't. Accept that there has been a fundamental change, and not all change is good. It seems to me that the natural progression of technology and bass fishing is that we will produce "anglers" who don't know how to fish. They only know how to catch. My suggestion? Pick up a fly rod and check out your local streams and rivers. Randy, I look forward to seeing you on the James or Flat Creek chasing Ozark smallies with a fly rod in your hands. Or on Taneycomo, the White River or Crane Creek, chasing those beautiful rainbows and browns. There are more dimensions to fishing than just running around on a man-made lake in a 200+ hp boat.

[@justhewaves]

New sub here and I appreciate the context. This whole FFS craze seems like a sign of the times. That said, even fish finders are a crutch. Any true angler should be able to find the fish and a pattern. Some can't and that's okay. Whatever makes it fun for you to catch fish. However, as far as competition goes, it should never be allowed and rely purely on skill. That's not important to competition fishing, though. Once you cross over to that side, you too often see people abusing fish, ruining lakes, acting like absolute jerks and being an all-around bad reflection on the sport of fishing. I've fished for my entire life and nothing is better than having the the river beneath my waders and some pigs lurking in the same water! Get back to the basics and enjoy the moment.

[@Glock-1]

I seen a video of a guy that is making a set of goggles that are livescope screens and where he turns his head the transducer turns that way also, so it is coming and I pray they stop it now!

[@bigc8018]

VR glasses. Way cool.

[@astrophysicistguy]

@@bigc8018 absolutely! That sounds really cool

[@brianpierson7708]

No late they are in production already that video came out about a week ago but was videoed close to a year ago they will HAVE TO BE ILLEGAL TO USE ON PUBLIC WATERS !! Or there stupid kids will be getting killed because they will have no clue where they are at

[@GS-zv3qn]

Like scuba diving without getting wet

[@kenlay6004]

What about the sun tan lines?

[@stevencrane9949]

Sir Randall you are correct on all points

[@jeffdempsey6478]

Just watched a Matt S. vid from Dale Hollow...showed me that ffs is gonna kick butt over his patterns and he didn't seem happy but resilient to go getem.😊

[@rlucas12348]

I totally agree with you Randy! Keep up the fight, someone’s got to stand up for what is right. I wish more would have the courage that you have.

[@Briank83]

Imagine what all the old pros could do with FFS ON TOP of all their traditional fishing knowledge if they chose to utilize it? Not using every available tool in the shed to help you do your job based on your feelings just makes you the dullest tool in that shed. Only a bad mechanic blames his tools, or in this case, a lack thereof. Maybe the people who aren't using it and losing just aren't good enough anymore...perhaps they weren't that good to begin with. Anyone can go out and bang banks with a spinnerbait, crankbait and wacky rig. How much skill is involved in volume casting and covering water? ZERO. Should THAT be illegal? If it's so damn easy and you don't have to know anything to use it and win tournaments, shouldn't the "legends" that are using it be winning all the tournaments? No one cares that some people think FFS is boring to watch. Seriously? The fishing industry doesn't make their millions off their viewer base on cable lol, cmon dude. Not watching a pro catch any fish is boring, period. Doesn't matter if he's banging banks or using Livescope. FFS does not tell you where to fish, how to find them, navigate the lake, map your waypoints, tell you what to fish, how to fish, what they're eating, how to present a bait, judge weather conditions etc. The only difference between traditional or side scan sonar and FFS is its real time. It's instant feedback to the users input. 2D and side scan is the same thing, just takes longer to get the feedback and make adjustments. A lot of the dad hat & new balance pros are using it now too. The "iTs BaD fOr ThE fIsHeRy" whining is a dead horse. You very well know that tournament fishing as a whole is the killer of fisheries by a wide margin. How about YOU grow a spine, nut up and argue against THAT for once, or are you scared to put your job on the line? Which in case you haven't realized, is exactly why you argue against FFS, it threatens your livelihood. Its not a good look. As an avid fisherman since the 80's and a fan of watching, I want to see good fishermen, not bitchy old cooters refusing to get better. What other sport is doing this whiny nonsense? What happened to MMA when Royce Gracie introduced BJJ to the world? Did all the old fashioned "put yer dukes up", porn 'stache fighters of the 19 & 20th century sit back and bitch that it wasn't a traditional way to fight? No, they started learning it and WINNING. Sorry, Randy, it's not going anywhere. If this is the hill you want to die on, you will do so at the bottom of it with the rest of the "legends" that refused to adapt to the change in their own sport. You want your voice to be heard?...WIN A TOURNAMENT WITHOUT IT and stop using it as a pathetic excuse for why the people who don't win are losing.

[@martyaustin6545]

Damn, that was a lot to read

[@chancegwaltney7510]

Exactly. If you can’t beat ‘em join em. Guess I’m an idiot to think that an old timers knowledge plus a year of experience learning to use FFS would still have the success they’re used to right? My dad is the same with cell known technology however he doesn’t sit around and bitch about his emoji game not being good anymore. Get with it or get left in the dust.

[@HillbillyOnTheHill]

100%

[@DewRods]

DING!

[@lesliemosley4748]

Randy I would love to see you and the true bass masters start fishing this new TAA !! I think this is going to become big !!

[@5150Fishing]

They need to adjust payouts. They 150 to 200 boaters while only paying out the top 12.

[@b.s.fishing5902]

I think they did adjust to only top 12 after only 47 paid to fish. Their goal is to get fields the size of the Opens but this was more of proof of concept for them

[@5150Fishing]

@@b.s.fishing5902 that’s the advertised payout prior to the tournament. As of now all future tournaments pay out top 12 only

[@bayoustateoutdoors9650]

If they can use ffs during tournaments, let them use Aqua View cameras as well

[@carlhertel7581]

Ray Scott NEVVER would allow that, that is a fact !!! You would be band for life if you used Aqua View !!! That is Ray Scotts own words !!!

[@kweeks10045]

Doing away with the forward looking and live sonar at the top echelon tournaments would separate the real pros from the joes. That's where experience, skill, and practice will get you and keep you at the top.

[@DonJoyce-z3q]

For the most part I agree with your position on FFS. Just curious, where do you draw the line beyond 2D? Down scan? Side scan? 360?

[@gregarmstrong6798]

Scott Martin isn’t a 20-something, and he’s got a win and a 3rd using FFS. So why can’t the other OGs do well with it?

[@MJ_Bass]

Other guys gotta sit in the deer stand all offseason…

[@gregkuhn7123]

and you notice he couldn't win shit until he started video game fishing.

[@MJ_Bass]

@@gregkuhn7123 this might be the worst take ever. Won over 3 million and had a long career, 600k in 2011 flw cup

[@ulanglegang]

I think we are starting to see the real underlying issue that motivates the anti-livescope crusade...old guys dont like getting beat by younger guys.

[@ulanglegang]

@bruceblocker4372 Absolutely, just making an observation about the motives, seems like there's a bit of age bias and pride involved for Randy and those who agree with his position. I have nothing but respect for seasoned pro anglers who put in the time and effort to make this content for fishermen because they are paving the way for the future of fishing sports. But arguing that access to a tournament boat with $75k in electronics is the only thing that makes someone a winner is just not true and is denigrating the legacy of those pros who choose to use FFS technology.

[@Jon45678]

So you’re cool with a guy sticking his transducer on a pole in the water so he can catch bedding bass? Young and old alike should have a problem with that.

[@ulanglegang]

@Jon45678 If you have an issue with bed fishing as a tactic, that's fine, it's your opinion. But it makes practically no difference if someone is doing it on FFS, traditional sonar, or just staring at the fish in the shallows.

[@jeffreyjensen1553]

Heard that all the livescopers missed the eclipse, because there necks can’t bend the other way

[@gregkuhn7123]

LOL!!

[@johnroyal943]

For or against FFS, doesn't matter. But to say these 20 year olds know nothing about bass fishing is absurd! I'm 57 and I'm thinking the 20 year olds have passed you up Randy. Absolutely absurd take on your part.

[@FishinCharlie]

Did he say “flat brimmer”?

[@timburton9514]

Yes, the young guys don’t bend their hat brim like us old guys. It looks stupid to me.

[@GS-zv3qn]

They try different things to look cool, last thing I seen was dude had 2 different colors of shoes, but they were same brand and model just different colors, shoe stores like that fad because you end up buying 2 pairs, unless your buddy wears same size ,then they just each buy a color then trade a left or right

[@Artseventy6]

Seriously? Sounds like more money than brains to me. And guys buying shoes to share/trade? WTH is going on here? What if they both want the same color on one foot? rock, paper, scissors?

[@dannyyork1142]

Tide is turning Randy!!!! Keep up good work. Fans have already made there position known, now it's time for the legends to stand up for whats right. No way this is right!!!!! Learn to fish, don't relie on a monitor and bunch of wires!!!!!!! Reley on what u know.

[@nickkoschmeder3288]

The 20 year old did his research and drove around and found bass the old guys aren't willing to work for. Sounds like the 20 year old is working harder to me, he's outworking the knowledge. Sounds like new traditions are in order!!?? Time for the old guys to start working harder!! And when one does, an old guy that can do both, it'll be awesome. Funny, didn't see you at Lanier!!??

[@maycontainoutdoors]

Randy it’s also gonna change the kayak tournaments that are following in the same footsteps. It’s ridiculous to see the amount of electronics on a kayak.

[@lloydcarter6631]

Randy this is such a great video. Personally I've unsubscribe from every fishing related channel that isn't clearly and open against FFS. Even Tactical, and the tackle stores! Your a lion amongst lambs!

[@Texaslivinoutdoors]

The worst is all the tackle ads we have now around lures for live scoping. So lame!

[@gregkuhn7123]

lame af!

[@shoplife8103]

Randy you have got to start giving these young guys credit!!! they do know bass behavior and movements! how do you think they know where to go and try to scope!?! Big bass arent everywhere in the lake. the fact is they are learning faster than the old vets are because the informationis more easily available! youtube,titok,sidescan,live scope,and years and years of past tournaments on video for replay

[@theoriginaltech019]

Weird. Never had anything to "expose" before this. Surely this isn't all that they would be hiding. Where is the rest??? Ohh that's right... I feel bad for the sheep that actually believe the garbage you put out. Had a chance to prove yourself this last week and as usual you all talk no go.

[@boognish.]

I hate ffs but I’m starting to think it’s here to stay and it just is what it is

[@Justin.Hawkins]

If spotlighting was that easy, why are some people struggling to catch fish with it randy? If it’s as easy as a video game than everyone using it should be tied right? No skill for the young kids? I’m confused

[@jeremyglascock2320]

To start you must be very very careful about calling people out for staying within the rules. Second where is the line? What can you have? What can’t you have? Is spot lock technology to much? I mean when you start outlawing things where is the line? Why was the Bama rig outlawed and you allow all electronics? Personally I think to test pros abilities, give them a 17 foot boat with a 90 and a flasher. Put them all up in a hotel and send them to a place where ain’t none of them been. With 20 pounds of tackle. We wanna learn who can fish give them a choice of 4 baits and turn them loose. The problem is it isn’t who is the best fisherman anymore. It’s a buisness and what we all want doesn’t sell man. We will never see true tournament fishing ever again, because it don’t sell.

[@mikejuby270]

I can't for the life of me figure out why you keep saying "a 20 some year old that doesn't know a thing about bass fishing." I have a 23 year son that fishes in college at NSU in Tahlequah. He and his partner are very proficient at Livescoping. But even more so they are very proficient at know weather patterns, where big fish should be during a particular time of year and also figuring out patterns for a lake. Its comments like this that irk folks...

[@paulbruemmer9629]

It's because he's past his prime and when he came up through the ranks, there wasn't information available like there is today about bass habits etc. Wonder if he ever did anything unethical during a tournament? Like getting out of his boat to dig a ditch so he could fish a certain area. Point being if it's not against the rules then it's ok to do .

[@mikejuby270]

@@paulbruemmer9629 My problem is that Randy thinks "20 something" year old kids can't fish. I will argue that all day long. There are a gawb of college age kids that spend every waking minute on the water to get better. All "20 something" year olds don't live scope all the time to win. Those that are getting into the sport now have way more information they can get than at any other time in history. Kids process things much quicker today than yesteryear. Just pisses me off when he uses a broadbrush on anyone young that has success.

[@CharlesAndwind]

I'd love to see you and Trey Mckinney go head to head with no electronics. My money would be on Trey.

[@jamesborders9841]

BAN LIVESCOPE IN ALL TOURNAMENTS!

[@DennyR-qk1zw]

I’m not for it or against it but I don’t think the tournament organizations are going to change anything unless they are losing money .. as far as I hear none of them are losing money over it . A few guys canceling subscriptions won’t do anything. I mean they are a business and all the people that work for them are not working there just because it’s fun.. they are trying to support their families as well. If some anglers don’t like it and get replaced by younger guys that’s probably good for business since the younger anglers are better at the social media promoting and what not . People from the organizations keep getting paid.. it’s sad but the good old days are over I’m afraid

[@chadgregorini5038]

I fish as a co on the Toyota. There are pros now fishing by themselves because MLF they cant get enough co's to sign up or are leaving after day 1. Ive spent 8 hours on a boat talking to these guys, some are at the top of their game and they cant stand it. They still use it because they cant compete otherwise with the catch rate volume of fish that are caught per hour compared to using traditional bass fishing skills. When I asked them what they would do to change it they all said there should be two divisions. One that allows FFS and one that doesn't. The guys could all still fish on the same day but the field would be broken into two divisions. Also, this way as a co angler you could go in knowing you are not with a FFS guy. Those that are using livescope would have marshal or local volunteers.

[@David-yg2jo]

What do you think Ray Scott would say about forward facing sonar

[@Twangtown7]

Fishing tournaments themselves killed tons of bass every year. And yet you still partake in them. Why's that?

[@WFSmith]

Maybe Randy has never killed a bass

[@Twangtown7]

@@WFSmith Many bass die after they're released or during the release from weigh-in tourneys. I'm sure Randy has contributed to that over his years of tourney fishing.

[@mikeharris130]

Agree with your points, but can't figure out who is currently fishing at the pro level that you are describing, but aren't naming. And I agree you can't name them. It indeed is "the bridge too far" for the professional bass fishing. I do disagree on many of your non fishing comments, but I do respect, and admire, your passion.

[@d-rocky615]

Seriously, no one should ever comment about FFS unless you have it. It ain’t what you think.

[@gregkuhn7123]

LOL! Ok, flat brimmer....

[@d-rocky615]

I’m 52. Don’t comment on something you know nothing about.

[@jonfishmacon]

i want a flasher only series. :) maybe gps for safety

[@brettaylor9098]

Why can't a 30-40 year old learn how to use FFS as well as a 20 year old?

[@donyarborough4114]

It is because that doen't fit into Randys' narrative.

[@brianpierson7708]

Why can’t kids learn to fish The real way ??

[@5150Fishing]

They are. Your assuming that your narrow mindedness is the only true way to

[@EHELLC]

I'm 53 and have been learning for 3 years Randy is a fraud.

[@randyemerson8729]

You took the words right out of my mouth Randy....from my comments between here and you know where else😁🔥 Keep it up. You gotta keep talking about it.

[@grgnfl05]

Flat Brimmer! That is funny. Love the vid. Thanks Randy

[@davidmcgoldrick4658]

cry baby this guy never shuts up about the fact that forward facing sonar is the future.

[@thundermidgetfishing2727]

It sounds like a bunch of whining about oh we can’t adapt and evolve. Omg old people are stuck in their ways and just cry and cry and cry. I’m a semi flat brimmer. Sounds like they know a lot about bass behavior. They found the un catchable fish and are catching them now.

[@stephanieslaton1781]

One thing I’ve wondered as to why some of the “older” elite fisherman isn’t coming out against FFS, could it be Bassmaster has told them not to? Nobody knows what Bassmaster has told them what they can and can’t say. This is just my opinion. I refuse to watch the tournaments. I watched the highlights after the 1st tournament and couldn’t do anymore. I’m against FFS 💯%. Also, on another livestream I watch, I talk against FFS so much, I’m called the Randy Blauket of that stream. That’s a compliment to me. 🤷‍♀️

[@gregkuhn7123]

you are a very intelligent woman...

[@seadogjack2022]

Why not get rid of sonar altogether, what’s wrong with fishermen winning tournaments old school?

[@EHELLC]

Cause they cheated by getting info from local guides...............................

[@MichaelThomer-wo7pj]

I agree to a point. It was not the fishing series who asked for this. It is the pro staffers and pro anglers who asked for this technology. If you cannot keep up with the times maybe it’s time to move on. Look at this platform he is talking on. You tube and social media was not around when these old timers first started fishing. Just another tool. He aimed it up. The people pissing and moaning are the ones who don’t o ow how to use it.

[@bradgoodwin4939]

I couldn’t agree with you any less.

[@T_J_Fishin]

SO MUCH NEGATIVITY ! Quit whining and go back to bait and tackle analysing like when I first subscribed !!!

[@kmby1531]

How bout I do this Randy. I'll put up 10k and put on a tournament where no foward facing sonar is allowed I'll take the 20 year old elite series pros that you say know "nothing about bass fishing" vs you . And if you can beat just one of them you can have the 10k. If you don't and come in dead you get nothing . Then I'll give each one of them 2000 ea for just showing up and shut you up for good that they " know nothing about bass fishing" . I guarantee they can outfish you without it.

[@HillbillyOnTheHill]

Gosh.. Randy should jump on that easy 10K … wait he might have to eat crow.. and probably more likely that “might” will be why he won’t take up your money offer.. how bout it Randy here’s your chance to beat up on those 20 year olds that know nothing about fishing except FFS ..

[@troyroach1277]

The amount of insults tossed at these young anglers is embarrassing. He’s even coming up with new derogatory labels for them. Pathological envy at its finest. As evidenced by this video, it’s not even about sustainability now. It’s all about others having an easier path than they did.

[@Huntinandfishin]

These young anglers wouldn't be ranked where they are without that ffs crutch. I like to call them lock neck livescopers. Funny to think s pro needs help from a screen to be competitive. The word professional sure doesn't mean what it use to!!!

[@dannyhocutt8490]

I just sold my 20 ft hi $$$$$ bass boat ! I'm buying a boat like a1990 Ranger 362 with an old er style v6 low hrs on it ! It's going to be my boat I'll b using the same ways you've been talking

[@glynnwilliams4748]

I find either side of this situation hard to defend either way! I can see good and bad from both sides, and I'm not sure, who is right. My feelings are, sponsors are to blame for this situation and their motivation is sales, not supporting fish habit. As tournaments grew in number of fishermen and more money was added by getting more sponsors, sponsors started demanding more say so in how things are run. I can see the sponsor wanting to make the best and clearest product so an idiot can look at a screen and catch a fish, but at the end of the day the only winners with FFS are the sponsors. I think there is merit that it will have an impact on the fish habit, and we may find in years from now it hurt the fishing overall, so only time will tell. It has changed the sport, boring to watch tournaments, and it has changed the class (younger) of fishermen who are winning. The bottom line is no matter what side you are on with FFS it is still a fair product that anyone can install the FFS today, until such time the tournaments change the rules about the use of these products. I would bet most bigger tournament will NOT change the rules about FFS because sponsors will push back by withdrawing from sponsorship, or at least reduce monies paid for sponsorships. I have younger fishermen tell me I'm just old school, and that maybe true, but maybe I'm thinking back to when we had to make changes about keeping fish as apposed to, catch and release. Good Fishing!

[@chaddrumm6809]

You seemingly have to devote all of your time to spotlighting to have any chance at success! The tech has taken over.

[@ScottIvie-gm6gu]

Your prime example of spotlighter. Your the guy Randy is talking about. Your just a hater.

[@the.real.ozarkangler]

Unfortunately we have too many dads on here thinking their son is going to be the next Jacob Wheeler taking out 2nd mortgages for boats and electronics.. maybe not so much flat brimmers but the ones wearing sandals with pants on in 42 degree weather on the boat. I bet none of these dads forking over money were in the military like you Randy. You dont have to put in time the hard way to be successful in fishing now. You are forced and coerced into learning these new ffs electronics but need wealthy parents to even give you a chance to be in that .02% of college kids that go on to the pro tour. That is what high level tournament fishing has come to now. Electronic companies and fishing organizations are looking for that 50 yr old guy in the 2024 Yukon with his bright eyed son to step up to their plate every day. Go get em 💪