Forward-Facing Sonar (FFS) Rules Updates

Big Bass Tour Statement on Forward-Facing Sonar (FFS) Rules Updates

Over the last six months, the Big Bass Tour has conducted an extensive evaluation of the impact of Forward-Facing Sonar (FFS) on our events, participants, and overall tournament format. During this period, we carefully analyzed FFS usage through a series of real-time surveys, participant feedback, and direct observations at our events. We assessed how FFS interacts with our unique format, which includes livewell limits, hourly weigh-ins, and strategic weigh-in procedures.

While our hourly weigh-in format and associated logistical challenges, such as fish transportation and timing requirements at the bump tanks, inherently limit many of the perceived advantages of FFS, we recognized that it continues to play a growing role in competitive fishing. After thorough analysis, we have introduced additional rules regarding FFS to preserve the fairness and spirit of the Big Bass Tour.

The decision to implement these new rules was not made lightly. The Big Bass Tour Rules Committee has taken a thoughtful and measured approach, ensuring that the rule updates reflect the most comprehensive and data-driven analysis of FFS usage in competitive fishing. Our findings revealed that while some FFS advantages are mitigated by our tournament format, other aspects, such as real-time tracking and multi-angle sonar use, required further oversight to maintain a level playing field.

As a result, we are implementing the following new rules, effective October 14th, 2024:

One Single Real-Time Sonar Transducer Per Boat:

Only one real-time sonar transducer (such as Humminbird MEGA Live, Garmin LiveScope, or Lowrance ActiveTarget) may be in operation on a boat at any given time, regardless of the number of participants. The transducer can be switched between modes, but no additional real-time transducer may be used simultaneously.

Collaboration Restriction on FFS Use:

Participants may not collaborate with other boats in using Forward-Facing Sonar (FFS) to track or locate fish in the same area. This includes sharing FFS data or targeting fish that are actively being monitored by other participants in separate boats.

These measures are designed to ensure that the core values of the Big Bass Tour—centered around angling skill, strategy, and sportsmanship—are preserved.

By focusing on both sustainability and competitive integrity, we continue to adapt to the evolving technological landscape while upholding the unique challenge that our tournaments offer. We believe that these changes strike a balance between allowing anglers to use technology effectively and ensuring that all participants have an equal opportunity to compete and succeed.

We remain committed to monitoring the role of technology in our sport and will continue to evaluate its impact on future events. Our goal is always to ensure that our anglers can enjoy the competition in a fair, strategic, and engaging environment.