Thanks bud. 🙏🏽 Appreciate the kind words. I think everyone is passionate about the sport. Unfortunately they seem more passionate about their side and making sure the other side gets torn down. Just like in politics. That’s what social media behavior has devolved into: “I don’t want my side to win as much as I want your side to lose.” Fishing is where a lot of us went to get a reprieve from this stuff and now it’s all we see here too. I hate it. I hate the situation pro fishing finds itself in now. I for one find it hard to support the product being put out there not for the technology argument but rather for a reoccurring lack of character.
You are so right. Working a high stress job, day in and out, I treasured the times I could go out on a lake, put the trolling motor down, and forget about all that. It has always been my escape from the daily stresses of life and work. I hate what the tournament circuit has become with all this drama now and adversity along with it. It's really pathetic and has taken the art out of bass fishing.
I couldn’t agree more with you. Fishing has always been an escape from the stresses of work and daily life. I’ve tuned out from the pro trails because the sniping and negativity have gotten out of control. I just don’t need that nonsense - that’s just not what fishing is for me. I’m guessing I’m not alone.
There was an academic Garret Hardin who's essay I had to study and reflect on years ago (it's basically using the model of pastures, and grazing activities that occur on this resource). Modern day competitive angling is to some extent related to what Hardin was talking about decades ago (except you substitute water for pasture land, and bass for sheep). A lot of the same elements are present, the resource, the resource utilization behaviors and the human being actors. What FFS did was it walked us straight into that Hardin type of nightmare, where certain farmer over graze the pasture. Hint, the way competition angling was set up was so that many angling styles or angling identities were present and competing at the same time. That became substituted by conformity, eight to a hundred replicants all standing on precisely the same boat carpet, all shaking the same bits of plastic up and down and all peering at the same screens. It was what became the Netflix-ification of 'the sport'. Where in order to compete, all of the sheep herders all embarked on this exact same sheep over-grazing policy. Further hint, what drew audience attention and created economic surplus (which was shared amongst those competitors), wasn't a hundred guys all trying to replicate, each other's strategy. What drew audience attention to 'the sport' once, was that you knew that level of absurd conformity, would not happen. When you know what's going 'to happen' (the scopers win again, take all), suddenly there's no reason to tune in. That's the sheep herder over grazing 'tragedy of the commons' problem right there. Like it was described by that social science author way back in the seventies.
I agree. We have peaked and I don’t believe it will get any better. I’m to the point in my life where I just enjoy fishing for fun and sharing my experiences with others.
I talked to an Open’s EQ angler who was close to making elites last year, he said he was glad he didn’t make it this past year because of all the drama. Positivity breeds positivity. You can be the change needed! Thanks Andrew
I actually happen to have read Sealock's article just before watching this video from Andrew. The article was spot-on & this video is great too. I myself was caught up in the negativity earlier this year but rose above that. We do not have to hate each other because we disagree we just disagree. Thank you Andrew for the video & Jason for the great article.
Thanks for just telling the truth. I appreciate your honesty and integrity. It's really too bad things have become so divided in bass tournaments. Coming from a guy who's been fishing tourneys for 30+ years, it really sucks to see all this drama. Anyone who has fished for a long period of time knows that the new technology is making the rookies successful today. No one can deny that. I hope the organizations can come up with a way to make it fair for all anglers to compete on a level playing field. FFS is not good for competitive bass fishing. IMO, it shouldn't be allowed during competition. It's fine for practice and finding fish beforehand, but not during the tournaments.
I’m 61 with a dream to fish bass tournaments just for fun when I retired. I even saved up for entry fees. I’m not bitter, just know the dream is gone. I’ll continue to fish…but Andrew your are 100%, the cannibalism must stop. I am now starting to limit my You Tube - the toxicity is not worth it in my life. Lord Bless. PS Caddo Lake is nice.
I hope you get to fish some tournaments. It's fun and you can learn a lot. Even at the club level can be more fun than the big circuits. Good luck and have fun!
It's sad. I'm 5min from Smith Mountain Lake in Va. I fish it a lot, 2-3 days a week w no FFS. My son was in the High School fishing team but they just could not compete bc both kids parents could not afford 5k in FFS setup for them to compete. 10yrs ago 12lb bags were good. Now if you don't have 17-23lb don't even go to weigh ins.
Andrew Well said, well done I had a feeling you've been overly quiet because of the pushback. Sadly it's cost us a guide through this mess. Nothing but respect for sharing with us
Great all around perspective Andrew. Really hits home. I never got to the level you did but I’ve fished opens as a boater and done well. I’ve taken the Nation route the past few years and this year at the Regionals I had that same awakening that this isn’t the same sport I grew up loving and that things around home are sometimes more important that fishing!
Jason is a someone i call a friend. He helped me years ago learning about this sport and how to catch em better. I agree his article is spectacular as was this video. Thank you making it! Its going to take a large group of well known anglers to stand up and say this is enough. They dont have to agree on everything just that what has happened has to stop and will not be tolereated. I fear there isnt enough of those types willing to put their necks on the block to see what happens when and if they do.
19 YEAR OLDS SHOULDN’T BE OUT FISHING GUYS WHO HAVE DECADES OF EXPERIENCE….TAKE IT AWAY THEY CAN’T CATCH’EM….CO-ANGLERS ARE GOING TO BE GONE IF THEY DON’T FIX IT….GUYS SIGNED UP TO LEARN FROM THE PROS NOT LOOK AT THE BACK OF HEADS WASTING A 500 ENTRY FEE…ITS NOT FISHING ANYMORE…YOU ARE A GREAT DUDE AND I’LL GO FISHING WITH YOU ANY PLACE ANY TIME…..
Hey buddy you doesn’t owe anyone an apology for being just down right honest, that’s why I follow you. It’s not many that can do what you does and that’s what wrong with individuals fighting with their soul but once again I appreciate you
Dayum. Spitting facts. You sir have got to be the most honest person and angler. This makes you #1 in every category. Great video. Goodluck in your future. And ur right always be honest. Truth hurts folks
Great video Andrew,i hate what the industry has become,i havent fished a tourney in 2yrs dropped out of my club and havent even been on a lake this year just pond fishing with my wfe, lil boy and lil girl,but i been watching your TV show and i love it,my kids do to,we have every show recorded so they can rewatch them,keep up the good work,Tell Bradley hello when you talk to him,havent hears much from him in forever,god bless and good luck
Back in the late 80’s early 90’s for me was the best time to be a professional angler. See I believe tech really ruined it. We knew the tournament schedules of lakes the pros were fishing but nothing back then was live. Everything was pre recorded as far as time line. And the only way you knew anything back then was word of mouth. I remember a friend running to my house yelling Denny won!Denny won the classic!Could not wait for bass master classic to be televised so we could watch. We had to call people 500 miles away just to get the scoop who on who was leading or won. I do remember seeing Denny on Wheaties box of cereal and was like man us bass fishermen have finally made it to the forefront. Hope these young anglers get to have the same opportunity Denny had. But with all the negativity out there it’s just sad. Bass fishermen have always been a tight nit group hope it stays that way.
I heard an angler say I didn’t leave the area because I could see big fish still on livescope and that’s changing it from fishing to catching fishing should be a thought process and livescope takes away instinct decision making and ability to adjust you have a screen to do all that for you I’m just glad I got to grow up watching Nixon Parker Elias Rojas and more they didn’t need anything but a map depth finder and water
Me too grew up watching all the greats I’m 65 and don’t do ffs and don’t fish any tournaments anymore it’s sad what it’s come to. Bass and bpt is not worth viewing.
Well said! Enjoyed your perspective and honesty. Hopefully the article and your video will get the people talking and help end the negativity and hate running rampant.
You are correct about it all. There is a lot that needs to be looked at and fixed in a hurry. I barely watch anymore because its become such a mess [not just fishing]. In todays world negative is all we see it seems. Do you know if there are people that are speaking with the organizations to make these things better and benefit everyone not just people on one side of the issue?
Totally makes sense to not fish the rest of the season. You say where do we draw the line in moving backwards, but we really need to figure out where to draw the line moving forward. Because the next tech is gonna make Livescope look silly. It will also make fishing look silly, in my opinion.
Fishing tournaments are becoming ridiculously expensive and novices without time [FFS] on the water can, with deep pockets, rocket to stardom. I've gone back to just fishing for fun (and with friends). It's been a highlight once again and I look forward to taking out inexperienced people and getting them hooked. The fishing industry is changing ... and not in a good way.
We are on here for your opinion. Just don’t keep the flame going for months. Come up with the awesome stories you have been apart of. Also we watch bass pick ‘em because it’s friends having fun. Keep that stuff going
I was introduced to you years ago by Chris at GL head quarters, we made small talk about Toledo Bend and I've been a fan of your since then. I've watched your war games and talked with all those guys for hours. I have watched about everything you have produced just because your a solid dude. But I cannot watch anything that has FFS ,it's just not fun. I've cancelled my BASS sub,done away with about everything as far as watching tournaments. I still fish them and enjoy the hunt for the fish. But FFS is not a good business decision for any circuit thats being sold to the TV market. When they loose viewers, they will loose sponsors,then they loose market share.. that's just business 101. You do you for the good of family, business and viewers. You can't let this chaos get to you. Your on a different level of entertainment than the tournament industry. Stay strong brother we got you.
Andrew, great video! it's not easy to be real these days especially on social media but you always try to be a voice of reason. Not everyone appreciates that, but I do. Thanks again for all you do for the sport. you're a class act!
Among everything negative going on in the sport , thank you for mentioning the positives with the legends of the sport that have contributed so much , Mark Zona and Rick Clunn !
I think the biggest thing is the perception of ffs. It really isnt as easy as tv makes it look. You still have to find fish to use ffs. You still have to effectively present a lure using ffs. I think the best way to limit it is you can use it during practice period, but not allow it on tournament days. Still gives the tournament angler the opportunity to find and identify fish, but limits the impact come tournament time.
Dude....I hear ya. That said "The Rookies" are not catching shade simply because they are using FFS. Hamner won the classic on it....he's gotten no shade. "The Rookies" are catching heat because SOME of them have been CONSISTENTLY living in the gray or breaking rules, or flat out cheating for two years. The Rookies that are NOT doing that should be calling out their peers the most.....and they are not doing that. Peers need to hold peers accountable. THAT is "doing better"
I dont understand why it cant be 2 leagues... one league with ffs and beyond electronics and one league with side, down and gps... let anglers figure out which trail is right for them and let the fans watch one over the other or both... its a win win for everybody and no more drama...
Faith, family, and fishing in that order. Todd has the best way to choose his tournaments and support and balance the family. Life is short, to short. Be positive and live everyday to the fullest.
Great video and 100% right on whats going on with fishing today. I met you years ago I believe you was just out of college you was at a Sealy big bass at Rayburn I believe and you was giving rides in your Legend me and my buddy ride with you and Ive always thought you was a stand up dude and you still are. I know first hand on why you kind of stepped away to be with Cane my job is similar Im gone 8 months out of the year. My daughter is almost 18 senior in high school and I missed a lot so I relate on that aspect. But keep on doing whats good for you and yours lots of respect on that.
Thanks for your honest input Andrew. Just as I was watching this Slick posted a video reporting that a BASS polygraph specialist was just busted for falsifying records. Our society needs to get back to practicing moral and ethical behavior
Andrew out of everybody else that is blaming and complaining what you just said is the most true statement I have heard everyone needs to watch this. You are 100% right it’s just the era we are in so these anglers need to figure this out they need to ether figure this era out r get out and stop complaining because it’s just making all this bad and to everybody that is on social media and the anglers know who they are you you can lie us all you want but you know you are angry and mad and crying about everything because your not making checks like you used to that’s what there main issue is and you know it
Your kids are more important than tournament fishing it has put a bad taste in my mouth I hate all the negativity I don’t even watch it on tv Thanks for sharing your story 😊
I watched this video based on the title and the part "...Why Our Industry is Failing!" Why is keeping FFS the way to save the industry when that is what is causing the hate?
That article by Sealock was great. Honestly I think we should all just log off for a while. When you go in person to a tournament, the atmosphere is usually great. Guys are having a blast and the FFS “arguments” are light hearted and fun. It tends to only get nasty online. The pro level is a different story. Honestly we just have way too many “pros” vs fans. The sport needs consolidation, it’s gonna be ugly but it’s gotta happen imo.
You are absolutely right! F:-k all the haters creating content for clicks. I now I’m at fault for clicking on Randy’s hating on ffs, just to see what he has to say, knowing full well that I shouldn’t be. Because it’s paying him. Need to start boycotting all haters in the industry
Skill vs the Machine! Answer is take the machine away for 2 years and see if the young angler is able to still compete with the skill of the older more experienced angler . You will have your answer.
I will start this by saying I’m not Thompkins fan . But I have nothing against him ! I do have issues with his Polygraph though. # 1 he passed the major Question about receiving Information from the so called Mlf Photographer! # 2 Information on the Internet is ( Public information) all of it ! # 3 The question on receiving waypoints is kinda unfair since he received tons of info before all the veterans started crying and getting it banned. I did agree with it though. So he was in a catch 22 with that Question! Honestly the Vets should be worried that BASS can ask those type of questions. I think JT has a great case , but working for a private company ( they make the rules ) there is no free speech either in a private company! I agree with what IKE said on his channel last night. The major problem is very weak management at the top ! It runs right down hill ! Personally there shouldn’t be an information rule . Heck Roland Martin won 9 AOY ‘s gathering info lol…. Plus I think an angler should get fined crying about someone going in there spot ! As long as you stay the minimum distance away from an angler you are ok . All fish must be hooked in the mouth (period) Jerk bait fishermen still get 90 percent of there fish still hooked in the mouth lol…. Plus If you can have 50 k of electronics in your boat , all boat should have a camera! A camera also would be nice for a fan to watch the angler of his choice . Ott Defoe already does it and the NPFL has a setup similar!
Great video and thanks for sharing your thoughts and feelings. There is a ton of bullshit going on in the fishing World and I think it's only going to get worse this off season before it "hopefully" gets better. Enjoy your family time and forget about tournaments for awhile. Life goes on and fishing is always there when you want it.
You're not wrong, but don't give up. Objectively speaking, in any industry or field whether you know it or not, you're either part of the problem or part of the solution.
Thanks Andrew. Unfortunately your opinion is wide spread and the industry/sport just sucks right now. Most of us understand completely. Keep your head. You are a hammer on the water.
Andrew, you said something that I think is wrong with society in general, not just the fishing community. I think people have gotten too negative lately. Unfortunately, the negative gets better results though
It has to start with the leaders of the sport not being afraid to lead in the best direction of the sport. Like you said either direction the sport goes, its going to be wrong for someone. The leaders of sport needs to stand up and say, this is what we are doing. Whatever that may be. In my opinion it is only causing more division because of weak leadership.
A-rigs banned but FFS isnt? Thats crazy! If half the field could use A-rigs and no FFS and the other half FFS and no A-rigs, id put my money on the FFS guys placing higher overall. Its a much bigger advantage than a lure rig.
Thank you for your honesty. But we both know, professional fishing is a giant money pit. You better have some FU money or just be young with no responsibilities….Good luck in your future.
You all know what the problem is. Live scoping or live target. Whatever you want to call, it has ruined competitive bass fishing. I know you all agree, although you can't speak your minds because of sponsorships and the money involved. We understand, but if you veterans take a stand, it can be changed. Let's get back to the art of the sport and the skill it takes to win at the highest level.
Read his article cuz of this video! He probably represents the vast majority of the silent majority who are not spewing hate on social media for clicks and views. I love professional tourney fishing and hate to see where it’s at now
Great video! Personally, I think there can and should be a line drawn in the sand on certain things within a pro sport IMO. All the other great sports that are far more popular have done so. Just my opinion is that line in pro fishing is live sonar. Not saying it should be banned from recreational use, but at the highest level, IMO is where the line should be drawn. Once again great video and perspective on the sport and best wishes to you and yours in the future!
Thanks bud. 🙏🏽 Appreciate the kind words.
I think everyone is passionate about the sport. Unfortunately they seem more passionate about their side and making sure the other side gets torn down. Just like in politics. That’s what social media behavior has devolved into: “I don’t want my side to win as much as I want your side to lose.”
Fishing is where a lot of us went to get a reprieve from this stuff and now it’s all we see here too. I hate it. I hate the situation pro fishing finds itself in now. I for one find it hard to support the product being put out there not for the technology argument but rather for a reoccurring lack of character.
You are so right. Working a high stress job, day in and out, I treasured the times I could go out on a lake, put the trolling motor down, and forget about all that. It has always been my escape from the daily stresses of life and work. I hate what the tournament circuit has become with all this drama now and adversity along with it. It's really pathetic and has taken the art out of bass fishing.
I couldn’t agree more with you. Fishing has always been an escape from the stresses of work and daily life. I’ve tuned out from the pro trails because the sniping and negativity have gotten out of control. I just don’t need that nonsense - that’s just not what fishing is for me. I’m guessing I’m not alone.
You’re the man Jason. KY lake greatness.
"Take some accountability" truer words could not have been spoken, not only in fishing but in life.
Completely agree
There was an academic Garret Hardin who's essay I had to study and reflect on years ago (it's basically using the model of pastures, and grazing activities that occur on this resource). Modern day competitive angling is to some extent related to what Hardin was talking about decades ago (except you substitute water for pasture land, and bass for sheep). A lot of the same elements are present, the resource, the resource utilization behaviors and the human being actors. What FFS did was it walked us straight into that Hardin type of nightmare, where certain farmer over graze the pasture. Hint, the way competition angling was set up was so that many angling styles or angling identities were present and competing at the same time. That became substituted by conformity, eight to a hundred replicants all standing on precisely the same boat carpet, all shaking the same bits of plastic up and down and all peering at the same screens. It was what became the Netflix-ification of 'the sport'. Where in order to compete, all of the sheep herders all embarked on this exact same sheep over-grazing policy. Further hint, what drew audience attention and created economic surplus (which was shared amongst those competitors), wasn't a hundred guys all trying to replicate, each other's strategy. What drew audience attention to 'the sport' once, was that you knew that level of absurd conformity, would not happen. When you know what's going 'to happen' (the scopers win again, take all), suddenly there's no reason to tune in. That's the sheep herder over grazing 'tragedy of the commons' problem right there. Like it was described by that social science author way back in the seventies.
@@academicmailbox7798
That’s a great analogy
I agree. We have peaked and I don’t believe it will get any better. I’m to the point in my life where I just enjoy fishing for fun and sharing my experiences with others.
I talked to an Open’s EQ angler who was close to making elites last year, he said he was glad he didn’t make it this past year because of all the drama.
Positivity breeds positivity. You can be the change needed!
Thanks Andrew
I have been close two of the last 4 years. I’m glad I’m not there right now either
Great video Andrew, I enjoy your honesty, we all need to do better, the industry is in trouble. We need to unite as anglers to help bring it back.
I actually happen to have read Sealock's article just before watching this video from Andrew. The article was spot-on & this video is great too. I myself was caught up in the negativity earlier this year but rose above that. We do not have to hate each other because we disagree we just disagree. Thank you Andrew for the video & Jason for the great article.
You Don’t have apologize to anybody keep your head up and keep grinding!
Thanks buddy
agree. I used to love fishing, now not so much.
Thanks for just telling the truth. I appreciate your honesty and integrity. It's really too bad things have become so divided in bass tournaments. Coming from a guy who's been fishing tourneys for 30+ years, it really sucks to see all this drama. Anyone who has fished for a long period of time knows that the new technology is making the rookies successful today. No one can deny that. I hope the organizations can come up with a way to make it fair for all anglers to compete on a level playing field. FFS is not good for competitive bass fishing. IMO, it shouldn't be allowed during competition. It's fine for practice and finding fish beforehand, but not during the tournaments.
The sport is shrinking and has been since the heyday when it was featured on ESPN. People need to wake and realize this fact.
Yes it is. Sad but true.
ESPN destroyed bass fishing.. ESPN destroyed NASCAR.....
I’m 61 with a dream to fish bass tournaments just for fun when I retired. I even saved up for entry fees. I’m not bitter, just know the dream is gone. I’ll continue to fish…but Andrew your are 100%, the cannibalism must stop. I am now starting to limit my You Tube - the toxicity is not worth it in my life. Lord Bless. PS Caddo Lake is nice.
I need to come check out Caddo, heck probably should do a show there!
I hope you get to fish some tournaments. It's fun and you can learn a lot. Even at the club level can be more fun than the big circuits. Good luck and have fun!
It's sad. I'm 5min from Smith Mountain Lake in Va. I fish it a lot, 2-3 days a week w no FFS. My son was in the High School fishing team but they just could not compete bc both kids parents could not afford 5k in FFS setup for them to compete. 10yrs ago 12lb bags were good. Now if you don't have 17-23lb don't even go to weigh ins.
Killed it!! Real talk!
Andrew
Well said, well done
I had a feeling you've been overly quiet because of the pushback. Sadly it's cost us a guide through this mess.
Nothing but respect for sharing with us
Great all around perspective Andrew. Really hits home. I never got to the level you did but I’ve fished opens as a boater and done well. I’ve taken the Nation route the past few years and this year at the Regionals I had that same awakening that this isn’t the same sport I grew up loving and that things around home are sometimes more important that fishing!
Jason is a someone i call a friend. He helped me years ago learning about this sport and how to catch em better. I agree his article is spectacular as was this video. Thank you making it! Its going to take a large group of well known anglers to stand up and say this is enough. They dont have to agree on everything just that what has happened has to stop and will not be tolereated. I fear there isnt enough of those types willing to put their necks on the block to see what happens when and if they do.
A man's gotta do what a man's gotta do. I admire that you are taking time to be with your family over something else you love. Be well Andrew.
19 YEAR OLDS SHOULDN’T BE OUT FISHING GUYS WHO HAVE DECADES OF EXPERIENCE….TAKE IT AWAY THEY CAN’T CATCH’EM….CO-ANGLERS ARE GOING TO BE GONE IF THEY DON’T FIX IT….GUYS SIGNED UP TO LEARN FROM THE PROS NOT LOOK AT THE BACK OF HEADS WASTING A 500 ENTRY FEE…ITS NOT FISHING ANYMORE…YOU ARE A GREAT DUDE AND I’LL GO FISHING WITH YOU ANY PLACE ANY TIME…..
I said it on Xanga and MySpace 20 years ago... Social media will be the DEATH of us all...
Hey buddy you doesn’t owe anyone an apology for being just down right honest, that’s why I follow you. It’s not many that can do what you does and that’s what wrong with individuals fighting with their soul but once again I appreciate you
Dayum. Spitting facts. You sir have got to be the most honest person and angler. This makes you #1 in every category. Great video. Goodluck in your future. And ur right always be honest. Truth hurts folks
Great video Andrew,i hate what the industry has become,i havent fished a tourney in 2yrs dropped out of my club and havent even been on a lake this year just pond fishing with my wfe, lil boy and lil girl,but i been watching your TV show and i love it,my kids do to,we have every show recorded so they can rewatch them,keep up the good work,Tell Bradley hello when you talk to him,havent hears much from him in forever,god bless and good luck
Respect! I have said we need to get back to respect we used to have.
Completely agree
Back in the late 80’s early 90’s for me was the best time to be a professional angler. See I believe tech really ruined it. We knew the tournament schedules of lakes the pros were fishing but nothing back then was live. Everything was pre recorded as far as time line. And the only way you knew anything back then was word of mouth. I remember a friend running to my house yelling Denny won!Denny won the classic!Could not wait for bass master classic to be televised so we could watch. We had to call people 500 miles away just to get the scoop who on who was leading or won. I do remember seeing Denny on Wheaties box of cereal and was like man us bass fishermen have finally made it to the forefront. Hope these young anglers get to have the same opportunity Denny had. But with all the negativity out there it’s just sad. Bass fishermen have always been a tight nit group hope it stays that way.
I heard an angler say I didn’t leave the area because I could see big fish still on livescope and that’s changing it from fishing to catching fishing should be a thought process and livescope takes away instinct decision making and ability to adjust you have a screen to do all that for you I’m just glad I got to grow up watching Nixon Parker Elias Rojas and more they didn’t need anything but a map depth finder and water
Me too grew up watching all the greats I’m 65 and don’t do ffs and don’t fish any tournaments anymore it’s sad what it’s come to.
Bass and bpt is not worth viewing.
Well said! Enjoyed your perspective and honesty. Hopefully the article and your video will get the people talking and help end the negativity and hate running rampant.
You are correct about it all. There is a lot that needs to be looked at and fixed in a hurry. I barely watch anymore because its become such a mess [not just fishing]. In todays world negative is all we see it seems. Do you know if there are people that are speaking with the organizations to make these things better and benefit everyone not just people on one side of the issue?
I hate the negativity
I'm old, I miss and love the old school. I hope things get better for the sport.
I do too
Very well said, I'm not a professional but I've been a lifelong fan
Totally makes sense to not fish the rest of the season. You say where do we draw the line in moving backwards, but we really need to figure out where to draw the line moving forward. Because the next tech is gonna make Livescope look silly. It will also make fishing look silly, in my opinion.
Fishing tournaments are becoming ridiculously expensive and novices without time [FFS] on the water can, with deep pockets, rocket to stardom. I've gone back to just fishing for fun (and with friends). It's been a highlight once again and I look forward to taking out inexperienced people and getting them hooked. The fishing industry is changing ... and not in a good way.
I hope it gets better. I really do
United we stand divided we fall! Same for fishing and our country!
Agreed
We are on here for your opinion. Just don’t keep the flame going for months. Come up with the awesome stories you have been apart of. Also we watch bass pick ‘em because it’s friends having fun. Keep that stuff going
I was introduced to you years ago by Chris at GL head quarters, we made small talk about Toledo Bend and I've been a fan of your since then. I've watched your war games and talked with all those guys for hours. I have watched about everything you have produced just because your a solid dude. But I cannot watch anything that has FFS ,it's just not fun. I've cancelled my BASS sub,done away with about everything as far as watching tournaments. I still fish them and enjoy the hunt for the fish. But FFS is not a good business decision for any circuit thats being sold to the TV market. When they loose viewers, they will loose sponsors,then they loose market share.. that's just business 101. You do you for the good of family, business and viewers. You can't let this chaos get to you. Your on a different level of entertainment than the tournament industry. Stay strong brother we got you.
Andrew, great video! it's not easy to be real these days especially on social media but you always try to be a voice of reason. Not everyone appreciates that, but I do. Thanks again for all you do for the sport. you're a class act!
Thank you for the extremely kind comments.
Among everything negative going on in the sport , thank you for mentioning the positives with the legends of the sport that have contributed so much , Mark Zona and Rick Clunn !
Great take Andrew ! Enjoy your content , keep it up .
Thanks!
Thanks Andrew. Enjoy your TV show. Change is always hard to embrace but your so on point with then negativity just hurting any sport.
Great Job as always, Andrew!!
I appreciate this video... industry needs more younger folks standing up that are in the pro level showing good character... thank you.. sir 👍
I think the biggest thing is the perception of ffs. It really isnt as easy as tv makes it look. You still have to find fish to use ffs. You still have to effectively present a lure using ffs. I think the best way to limit it is you can use it during practice period, but not allow it on tournament days. Still gives the tournament angler the opportunity to find and identify fish, but limits the impact come tournament time.
You are the man. Thanks for some truth.
Great job Andrew, Thank you buddy
Thank you for this video!
Dude....I hear ya. That said "The Rookies" are not catching shade simply because they are using FFS. Hamner won the classic on it....he's gotten no shade. "The Rookies" are catching heat because SOME of them have been CONSISTENTLY living in the gray or breaking rules, or flat out cheating for two years. The Rookies that are NOT doing that should be calling out their peers the most.....and they are not doing that. Peers need to hold peers accountable. THAT is "doing better"
Completely 1 million percent agree lol
Great video Andrew. God Bless You and your family!
My Advice. Listen to your HEART and YOUR FAMILY. sir nothing else matters
Great video Andrew!
Good post Andrew . Keep your chin up , it will get better !
Yes!!! Just like anything else. Whoever puts in the most time and finds the most fish generally is the most successful. I’m in the same boat as you.
Hang in there! Hopefully you find joy in tournaments again! I agree that the negativity needs to stop. It is driving fans away too!
Andrew, I read it before I finished watching your video and agree, it is spot on. I hope you keep competing, enjoy your videos too.
I’ll be doing something for sure. What that is hasn’t been decided yet!
Well said Andrew I remember when Bass started and it and tackle are and all ways evolving
I dont understand why it cant be 2 leagues... one league with ffs and beyond electronics and one league with side, down and gps... let anglers figure out which trail is right for them and let the fans watch one over the other or both... its a win win for everybody and no more drama...
Thanks Andrew well said,
Faith, family, and fishing in that order. Todd has the best way to choose his tournaments and support and balance the family. Life is short, to short. Be positive and live everyday to the fullest.
Great video and 100% right on whats going on with fishing today. I met you years ago I believe you was just out of college you was at a Sealy big bass at Rayburn I believe and you was giving rides in your Legend me and my buddy ride with you and Ive always thought you was a stand up dude and you still are. I know first hand on why you kind of stepped away to be with Cane my job is similar Im gone 8 months out of the year. My daughter is almost 18 senior in high school and I missed a lot so I relate on that aspect. But keep on doing whats good for you and yours lots of respect on that.
Thanks for your honest input Andrew. Just as I was watching this Slick posted a video reporting that a BASS polygraph specialist was just busted for falsifying records.
Our society needs to get back to practicing moral and ethical behavior
Pretty sad
Thank you Andrew for this video
Thank you Andrew I agree with you so much from Tulsa keep being real!
Andrew out of everybody else that is blaming and complaining what you just said is the most true statement I have heard everyone needs to watch this. You are 100% right it’s just the era we are in so these anglers need to figure this out they need to ether figure this era out r get out and stop complaining because it’s just making all this bad and to everybody that is on social media and the anglers know who they are you you can lie us all you want but you know you are angry and mad and crying about everything because your not making checks like you used to that’s what there main issue is and you know it
Your kids are more important than tournament fishing it has put a bad taste in my mouth I hate all the negativity I don’t even watch it on tv Thanks for sharing your story 😊
I watched this video based on the title and the part "...Why Our Industry is Failing!" Why is keeping FFS the way to save the industry when that is what is causing the hate?
That article by Sealock was great.
Honestly I think we should all just log off for a while. When you go in person to a tournament, the atmosphere is usually great. Guys are having a blast and the FFS “arguments” are light hearted and fun. It tends to only get nasty online.
The pro level is a different story. Honestly we just have way too many “pros” vs fans. The sport needs consolidation, it’s gonna be ugly but it’s gotta happen imo.
Respect brother!
You are absolutely right! F:-k all the haters creating content for clicks. I now I’m at fault for clicking on Randy’s hating on ffs, just to see what he has to say, knowing full well that I shouldn’t be. Because it’s paying him. Need to start boycotting all haters in the industry
Your my new hero !
Good one, Andrew,
Good video!!
Thanks!
Skill vs the Machine! Answer is take the machine away for 2 years and see if the young angler is able to still compete with the skill of the older more experienced angler . You will have your answer.
Great video! The tournament fishing industry should heed your advice to save it.
I will start this by saying I’m not Thompkins fan . But I have nothing against him ! I do have issues with his Polygraph though. # 1 he passed the major Question about receiving Information from the so called Mlf Photographer! # 2 Information on the Internet is ( Public information) all of it ! # 3 The question on receiving waypoints is kinda unfair since he received tons of info before all the veterans started crying and getting it banned. I did agree with it though. So he was in a catch 22 with that Question! Honestly the Vets should be worried that BASS can ask those type of questions. I think JT has a great case , but working for a private company ( they make the rules ) there is no free speech either in a private company! I agree with what IKE said on his channel last night. The major problem is very weak management at the top ! It runs right down hill ! Personally there shouldn’t be an information rule . Heck Roland Martin won 9 AOY ‘s gathering info lol….
Plus I think an angler should get fined crying about someone going in there spot ! As long as you stay the minimum distance away from an angler you are ok . All fish must be hooked in the mouth (period) Jerk bait fishermen still get 90 percent of there fish still hooked in the mouth lol…. Plus If you can have 50 k of electronics in your boat , all boat should have a camera! A camera also would be nice for a fan to watch the angler of his choice . Ott Defoe already does it and the NPFL has a setup similar!
Enjoyed the video Andrew!
Thanks buddy
Great video and thanks for sharing your thoughts and feelings. There is a ton of bullshit going on in the fishing World and I think it's only going to get worse this off season before it "hopefully" gets better.
Enjoy your family time and forget about tournaments for awhile. Life goes on and fishing is always there when you want it.
well said
Well said Andrew
I just want integrity and sportsmanship to be upheld in the sport
Well said.
You're not wrong, but don't give up. Objectively speaking, in any industry or field whether you know it or not, you're either part of the problem or part of the solution.
Well said
Thanks buddy
Great article.
Thanks Andrew. Unfortunately your opinion is wide spread and the industry/sport just sucks right now. Most of us understand completely. Keep your head. You are a hammer on the water.
Thanks buddy. I truly hope it gets better sooner than later.
The negativity in this day and age is ridiculous. Not just in fishing, but in everything. People need find Jesus!
Andrew, you said something that I think is wrong with society in general, not just the fishing community. I think people have gotten too negative lately. Unfortunately, the negative gets better results though
It has to start with the leaders of the sport not being afraid to lead in the best direction of the sport. Like you said either direction the sport goes, its going to be wrong for someone. The leaders of sport needs to stand up and say, this is what we are doing. Whatever that may be. In my opinion it is only causing more division because of weak leadership.
If the rumors I hear are true, it might be tooo late.
Ha so true about how small the industry is. I’ve had several people ask me the same thing about weights in fish who don’t fish
A-rigs banned but FFS isnt? Thats crazy! If half the field could use A-rigs and no FFS and the other half FFS and no A-rigs, id put my money on the FFS guys placing higher overall. Its a much bigger advantage than a lure rig.
Agreed
Great Video Brother!!
Thanks buddy
Great article....thanks andrew
Thanks Bobby!
Definitely agree with everything you say
Thanks buddy
Andrew great show 👏 👍
Well said buddy
Thanks man
Thank you for your honesty. But we both know, professional fishing is a giant money pit. You better have some FU money or just be young with no responsibilities….Good luck in your future.
Thanks buddy. And I agree
Just because something is negative doesn’t mean it isn’t true
You all know what the problem is. Live scoping or live target. Whatever you want to call, it has ruined competitive bass fishing. I know you all agree, although you can't speak your minds because of sponsorships and the money involved. We understand, but if you veterans take a stand, it can be changed. Let's get back to the art of the sport and the skill it takes to win at the highest level.
Read his article cuz of this video! He probably represents the vast majority of the silent majority who are not spewing hate on social media for clicks and views. I love professional tourney fishing and hate to see where it’s at now
Great video! Personally, I think there can and should be a line drawn in the sand on certain things within a pro sport IMO. All the other great sports that are far more popular have done so. Just my opinion is that line in pro fishing is live sonar. Not saying it should be banned from recreational use, but at the highest level, IMO is where the line should be drawn. Once again great video and perspective on the sport and best wishes to you and yours in the future!
Thanks buddy
Let’s make Fishing Great Again
Thought on Ike saying last night that FFS would be banned 2025 for invitationals and BFLs?
I didn’t watch it. But it wouldn’t surprise me
@@AndrewUpshawFishing me too. guess we will see. Email went out to all anglers co and boaters for questionnaire.