Wow, the list of those jumping from the Elites is longer then I thought it would be. But as long as BASS stays the course with their current changes I think they will ultimately be the big winner when this all settles out in 3-5 years. I don’t see MLF replicating their made for TV format success with the larger field. After a few years the field will be divided into those at the top making money, those in middle barely breaking even, and those at the bottom wondering “what about me? I thought this was all about every angler?”
A third tour will be good for fans and aspiring pro-anglers for it adds top level competition and should keep all tours striving for the best talent. My prediction is 1/3 of those who jumped from the elites will be trying to work their way back to one of the other tours within 5 years. And if the schedule allows, just as many will be trying to qualify for the BMC via the opens unless they have a strict non-compete clause in MLF. If there is a strict non-compete clause it would be a clear indication this MLF hype isn’t about advancing bass fishing, just about making money for those who ultimately own it.
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