Vance McCullough

It’s ICAST week in Orlando. That means the entire fishing world is hanging out, talking. There’s a lot of positive energy. But there’s also the occasional blurb of honesty.

I’ve personally overheard two different conversations in which anglers (who will remain unnamed) expressed dismay over the newest incarnation of the B.A.S.S. rule that prohibits Elite Series anglers from getting help or information. According to an email sent to the anglers from B.A.S.S. on Thursday, anglers may not solicit or collect waypoints from others. Specifics appear to be lacking. “So, somebody can tell me I should flip docks, as long as they don’t give me a waypoint?” questioned one pro.

Another wondered how to define someone who has ‘significant knowledge’ of the lake being fished.

The ripple effect is far-reaching.

For instance, one prominent lure company will be forced to cancel or move its annual writers conference from Kentucky Lake because the Elite Series will stop there next year. The conference would be held in October – many months before the tourney takes place, but still out of bounds according to the rule.

Then again, if none of the writers have ‘extensive knowledge’ of Kentucky Lake, is it legal for Elite Series pros to take them out on the lake?

Therein lies the problem for some – the rule appears to lack specificity.

Stay tuned as we learn more.