Posted this on the Potomac forum also....
Let me start off by saying I do not fish the BASS Opens, nor do I think I'd ever attempt to qualify for the BASS Elite Series. So in other words, I really have nothing in the issue, but thought it was a bad move on the part of BASS. Previously, you could qualify for the Elite Series if you fished a 3 tournament Division and did well enough to finish in the Top 5 of that division (I think). Now instead of just fishing the three tournaments in one division, BASS now requires you to fish all three divisions (9 tournaments) to be eligible for Elite Qualification status. I just don't see how a working guy can afford to take off a full week of leave to travel and practice for 9 tournaments, unless you happen to be self employed, have a wealthy family, or are well sponsored. I think this move by BASS pretty much eliminates most of the guys who would have aspired to the Elite rank. I think what you'll have left are sponsored pros (semi-pros) who only have fishing as their full-time job, and can run around the country to compete. BASS gave a bunch of reasons why they feel this is a good move, but I disagree.
Again, I don't have a dog in this fight and it won't affect me, but just wonder how you all feel especially if you or someone you know had BASS Elite aspirations.
Comment if you'd like, but don't argue because as I said before, it's not that important to me.
Thanks!