Rules

Article I: Rules and Regulations

1.01 These Rules and Regulations are the Official Rules (“Rules”) of the Big Bass Tour (“Event”).

1.02 Participants acknowledge and agree that they have reviewed, understand, and will abide by the Rules as posted on the Event Organizer’s official website. Continued participation constitutes acceptance of any Rule updates posted prior to the official start of the Event.

1.03 All applicable local, state, and federal laws apply at all times in connection with participation in the Event.

1.04 All boating and fishing regulations, including those issued by the U.S. Coast Guard and applicable state or local agencies, and all posted off-limits areas, apply at all times.

1.05 In the event of any discrepancy between printed and digital versions of these Rules, the version posted on the Event Organizer’s official website Rules page at the time of the Event shall prevail. The Rules posted there are the definitive guide for tournament conduct and procedures and take precedence over any verbal, email, chat, or other guidance. This includes responses from the AI Assistant, Website Chat, and Customer Service Staff, which are provided for general information only and are not binding. It is the responsibility of all Participants to review and understand the Rules prior to participation. All interpretations of these Rules and decisions regarding their enforcement are administered exclusively by the Event Director. Such decisions are final and binding for all Participants.

1.06 Participants are solely responsible for understanding and complying with all laws and regulations governing boating, fishing, and general conduct on the water. The Tournament operates under the principle that each participant bears full responsibility for their own legal compliance during the Event. Tournament Officials interpret and enforce these Rules based on credible information available, which may include reports or actions by law-enforcement agencies or other authoritative sources. The Tournament does not assume responsibility for verifying individual compliance with external laws but reserves the right to impose disciplinary action, including disqualification, for conduct determined to be in violation of such laws or these Rules. This policy ensures consistent fairness across all competitors while maintaining the integrity, safety, and reputation of the Event and its participants.

Article II: Event Participation and Eligibility

2.01 Each person in a boat must be a registered and paid Participant of the Event and must abide by the Rules. A maximum of three (3) Participants are permitted per boat at any time.

2.02 The Event is an open amateur competition. (See Rule 2.07 for Professional Angler Criteria.)

2.03 Participants less than 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or adult with written parental permission. (Written parental permission must be provided to Event staff prior to the start of the Event.) Participants under the age of 18 years may not fish alone in the Event. Click here for parental consent form. (You do NOT have to complete the consent form if you're fishing with your own parent/child.)

We will continue our Youth Division in 2025. Participants 12 and under will compete for a top three overall payback at a reduced entry fee. The entry fee for the entire event is $75 (regardless of the number of days fished). Youth anglers may weigh in multiple times throughout the event; however, only their single heaviest bass will count toward the final Youth Division standings for the top three payouts.

Anglers 13 and over will compete for full payouts and pay full entry fees. Anglers 12 and under must fish in the Youth Division.

2.04 The Event Organizer reserves the right, in its sole and exclusive discretion, to refuse entry or remove, disqualify, penalize, sanction, suspend, or otherwise restrict any Participant before, during, or after any Event, including after entry fees are paid or registration is completed.

2.05 Any individual who has failed a polygraph examination or been disqualified or removed from any fishing tournament, past or present, may be deemed ineligible to compete, at the sole and exclusive discretion of the Event Director.

2.06 This Event and its series of Events are reserved for amateur anglers. Professional anglers are not eligible. If a Participant is uncertain about their professional status, it is their responsibility to request a written determination from Event Staff prior to entering. Any Participant determined to be professional will be removed immediately and will forfeit all Entry Fees.

Note: These updates to the Professional Angler Criteria will begin Monday, October 14th, 2024, and are effective immediately for all future Big Bass Tour events.

2.07 Professional Angler Criteria:

Any angler meeting any of the following criteria is considered a “professional” and is not eligible to compete in this Event or future Events:

A. Guiding Restriction:

Anglers who have guided professionally for a fee (of any kind) on the host lake within the last twelve (12) months immediately preceding the Event. This includes any species of fish.

B. Professional Tournament Participation Restriction (24 months and current year):

Anglers who have competed or are currently registered to compete on the professional side in the B.A.S.S. Opens, the Toyota Series (MLF), or any other professional-level events within the last 24 months prior to the Event, or are registered to compete in any such events in the current year, are not eligible to compete. This restriction applies regardless of the entry fee amount.

 Note: Co-anglers (also referred to as "co's") who have competed in the B.A.S.S. Opens or Toyota Series (MLF) are not considered professionals and remain eligible to compete in Big Bass Tour events unless their co-angler entry fee exceeded $1,500.00 per tournament. Participation on the Pro Side of the BFL (Bass Fishing League) is also not included under this restriction and are not considered professionals for our purposes.

C. Major Professional League Restriction:

Anglers who have competed professionally in the Bassmaster Classic, B.A.S.S. Elite Series, Forrest Wood Cup, Former FLW Tour, Major League Fishing Bass Pro Tour, Tackle Warehouse Series/Invitational, General Tire Team Series, or the National Professional Fishing League (NPFL) within the last five (5) years.

D. Career Earnings Restriction:

Anglers who have professional career fishing tournament earnings in the aggregate in excess of $250,000.00 with B.A.S.S., Big 5, FLW, MLF/BPT, the National Professional Fishing League (NPFL), the former PAA, or any other tournament organization are not eligible to compete.

* Note: These updates to the Professional Angler Criteria will begin Monday, October 14th, 2024, and are effective immediately for all future Big Bass Tour events.

2.08 Any Participant who questions the professional status of another Participant must submit a formal inquiry under the Protests and Disputes Article (Article XIII) of these Rules.

Article III: Registration and Entry Fee

3.01 Each Participant shall pay an entry fee of $325 for a four-day entry (Guntersville only), $250 for a three-day entry, $165 for a two-day entry, or $115 for a one-day entry, plus applicable processing fees (collectively, “Entry Fee”). All major credit cards, PayPal, and Venmo are accepted. Entry Fees must be paid in full prior to participation in the Event. Participants who register for a one- or two-day entry may add additional days on or before the Thursday before a three-day Event, or the Wednesday before a four-day Event. Once the Event begins, additional days may be added only at the full daily entry rate. To modify an existing entry, Participants must request a code from Event Staff at info@bigbasstour.com prior to processing. Payment of the Entry Fee constitutes a binding agreement to abide by all Rules and represents acceptance of all terms contained herein. Entry Fees are non-reversible once processed, and Participants agree not to initiate chargebacks or payment disputes for any reason other than verified duplicate billing. 

3.02 Registration times are based on the local time zone where the Event is hosted. Four-Day Events (Lake Guntersville 2025): Registration available online until 9:00 PM the day before the Event begins. Three-Day Events: Registration available online until 9:00 PM the day before the Event begins. Daily Registration Deadlines (for ongoing multi-day Events): Thursday and Friday – online registration available until 9:00 PM; Saturday – online registration available until 6:00 PM; no registration permitted on Sunday. Onsite registration (rod pickup/check-in) is available from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM on the day before the Event begins. Onsite or ramp-side registration on the morning of the Event is not permitted. All Participants must comply with the off-limits provisions described in Rule 6.02 prior to participation. In the event of conflicting published times, the Event Director’s determination of the official registration deadline shall control. 

3.03 Entry Fees are non-refundable except if an Event is permanently canceled without a rescheduled date. If an Event must be postponed or rescheduled due to floods, droughts, closures, force majeure, or other circumstances beyond the control of the Event Organizer, all entries will automatically transfer to the rescheduled date. Participants unable to attend a rescheduled Event may transfer their Entry Fee one time to another future Event. Requests for transfer must be submitted prior to the rescheduled Event start date. Subsequent withdrawals or no-shows will result in forfeiture of the Entry Fee. As a one-time courtesy, the Event Organizer permits substitution of another angler, subject to prior approval. The original registrant must submit a written request including the substitute angler’s full name and contact information. Both parties are responsible for ensuring compliance with all Rules. Transfers and substitutions expire twelve (12) months after original registration unless used. Participation by a substitute angler constitutes acceptance of these Rules and binds both the original registrant and substitute jointly and severally for any violations or damages arising from participation. No partial refunds or prorations are permitted under any circumstances. All entry transfers and substitutions are discretionary privileges, not rights, and may be denied at the Event Organizer’s sole and exclusive discretion. 

3.04 Participants who register online are not required to attend any onsite meeting or activity prior to the Event. 

3.05 Participants qualifying for a complimentary fishing rod (as specified in Event details) may pick up their rod at the designated registration location listed on the official website, or at the weigh-in site on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. Complimentary rods are subject to availability and must be picked up in person. The Event Organizer is not responsible for shipping or later delivery. Complimentary items are promotional and hold no cash value. 

3.06 Payment of the Entry Fee represents the Participant’s acknowledgment that they have read, understand, and agree to abide by these Rules and all decisions of the Event Director and Event Staff, made in their sole and absolute discretion. 

3.07 Chemical dependency, substance abuse, conviction of a felony or any crime involving moral turpitude, or conduct reflecting unfavorably on safety, sportsmanship, or compliance with Event Rules, may result in rejection of registration, disqualification, suspension, or other disciplinary action, at the sole and exclusive discretion of the Event Director. Disciplinary determinations may be made without public disclosure, and the Event Organizer is under no obligation to provide specific details beyond notification of ineligibility.

Article IV: Interpretation and Discipline

4.01 Participants agree to abide by all Rules and any decisions rendered by the Event Director and/or Event Staff. By entering and participating in the Event, each Participant acknowledges that all such decisions are final and binding and not subject to further appeal except as expressly provided in Article XIII.

4.02 Interpretation and enforcement of the Rules shall be at the sole and exclusive discretion of the Event Director and/or his or her designee. If a Participant violates any Rule set forth herein, or engages in conduct inconsistent with the spirit or intent of fair competition, the Event Director may impose penalties or sanctions (including, but not limited to, any Participant competing from the same boat). Such penalties may include: 

4.03 Each Participant is required to report to the Event Director any credible or directly observed violation of these Rules as soon as reasonably possible. Reports should be made in person, by phone, or by text to the Event Director or Event Staff. Failure to report known violations, knowingly filing false or misleading claims, or failing to cooperate in an investigation may result in penalties or sanctions, including disqualification from the current Event and/or future Events. Good-faith reports made without malicious intent shall not, in themselves, result in penalties.

Article V: Safety

5.01 Participants acknowledge and expressly assume all risks associated with participation in the Event, including activities occurring before, during, and after official Event hours. These activities may involve severe cardiovascular stress, sudden movement, or impact, and may result in injury or death. Risks include, but are not limited to, environmental conditions, collisions, acts or omissions of other participants, and property damage. Participation is voluntary, and each Participant releases the Event Organizer from any duty to protect against such risks. Although adherence to Rules, use of proper equipment, and personal discipline may reduce risk, the potential for serious injury cannot be eliminated. 

5.02 No Participant shall consume or possess alcoholic beverages or impairing substances on board a vessel during Event hours or while operating a vessel prior to or during competition. Prescription and over-the-counter medications shall be used only as directed. Violation of this rule may result in immediate disqualification and removal from current and future Events. 

5.03 All boats must be equipped with an operational emergency ignition cut-off device (“kill switch”) on any remote-steered outboard while the main engine is in use. The device must stop the engine immediately when activated and must be attached to the boat operator at all times while the engine is engaged. Failure to maintain a functional kill switch or to attach it properly shall be deemed unsafe conduct under these Rules. 

5.04 U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets are required for each person on board during competition. Life jackets must be worn, fastened, and secured until the combustion engine is out of gear or shut off. Participants shall inspect inflatable-vest indicators daily. Compliance with this requirement is the sole responsibility of each Participant. The Event Organizer does not inspect or verify the condition or fit of life jackets and assumes no responsibility for non-compliance. 

5.05 Participants who observe any significant hazard, unsafe condition, or dangerous activity during the Event are encouraged to remove themselves from participation and notify Event Staff as soon as reasonably possible. Recognition or awareness of a hazard by Tournament Officials shall not create any duty or obligation to remedy, control, or supervise such condition. 

5.06 Safe boat conduct must be observed at all times by Participants. Prior to the official start of competition, Participants may launch and motor to their desired locations. All operation prior to the official “First Cast” notification must comply with Tournament Rules requiring idle-only speed and safe conduct. Each Participant is solely responsible for adhering to these requirements and for the safe operation of their vessel in all conditions, regardless of Tournament instructions or lack thereof. Any activity or vessel operation that occurs before the official start of competition is undertaken entirely at the Participant’s own risk and is outside the scope of Tournament responsibility. Awareness by Tournament Officials of unsafe operation shall not create any duty or obligation to intervene. The Tournament may provide general guidance concerning safe operation but is under no obligation to monitor, control, or enforce the operation of any vessel. Compliance with these requirements is a condition of participation only and does not constitute supervision or assumption of risk by the Tournament. Each Participant expressly assumes all risk associated with vessel operation and navigation. The Tournament Director’s determinations regarding safe-boating conditions may be made at any time prior to or during the Event and shall be final. 

These requirements govern operational conduct only. For additional participant responsibilities and acknowledgment of risk, see Section 14.

5.07 Each Participant is solely responsible for ensuring compliance with horsepower limits established by the U.S. Coast Guard and/or the lake authority. The Event Organizer does not verify horsepower ratings, modifications, or compliance and assumes no responsibility for violations. 

5.08 No firearms are permitted in a Participant’s boat during Event hours unless the Participant holds an active, valid concealed-carry permit or is a credentialed law-enforcement officer. Firearms are strictly prohibited—regardless of permit—on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers lakes, including Table Rock Lake and Clarks Hill Lake. Compliance with all firearm laws and restrictions rests solely with the Participant, and possession in violation of any applicable law or regulation may result in immediate disqualification. 

5.09 In the event of significant weather conditions during competition, the Event Director may, at his or her sole discretion, issue advisories, delays, suspensions, or cancellations of one or more hours or days. Daily payouts will be allocated among completed competition hours for that day, and any canceled day’s payout will be evenly distributed across all completed Event hours. No refunds will be issued under these circumstances. Participants acknowledge that weather conditions are inherently unpredictable and that the Event Organizer assumes no responsibility for adverse conditions or resulting delays. (See Rule 3.03.) 

5.10 In the event of fog, low light, or other conditions that create reduced visibility or unsafe navigation, the Tournament Director may issue real-time instructions including, but not limited to, idle-only operation, mandatory trailering, or delayed competition start times. Such determinations may be made before or during the Event and shall be final. All Participants must comply immediately with such instructions once issued, regardless of the time or method of communication. Failure to receive or acknowledge an advisory does not exempt any Participant from compliance. Each Participant remains solely responsible for the operation and safety of their vessel and for exercising sound judgment at all times, irrespective of Tournament advisories or directives. Compliance with any Tournament directive is a condition of participation only and does not constitute supervision or assumption of risk by the Tournament.

Article VI: Permitted Fishing Areas, Off Limits, Access, Hours & Miscellaneous

6.01 All fishing areas must consist of water that is naturally and continuously connected by a navigable waterway to the official designated Event waters and accessible by boat from the main body of water under normal, reasonably navigable conditions. Participants may not access or fish in any area separated by land, levees, dikes, or other natural or man-made barriers, nor may they jump, cross, or traverse such obstacles to enter an area. 

The use of specialized equipment or vessel modifications, including but not limited to jet-drive engines, airboats, or any equipment primarily designed to access otherwise inaccessible areas, is prohibited. Trailering is permitted only to locations within the official Event waters that remain connected to the main body of water under normal conditions. 

The Tournament Director may, at his or her discretion, declare specific areas off-limits at any time based on water levels, obstructions, or other environmental factors. Such determinations may be made before or during the Event and shall be final. The Tournament does not inspect or verify accessibility of water or navigation paths; compliance with these access requirements is the sole responsibility of each Participant. Participation in the Event constitutes acknowledgment and acceptance of all such determinations. 

6.02 The off-limits period for the Event starts at 6:00 p.m. on the day prior to the first official day of the Event. All Participants must adhere to these off-limits rules regardless of the number of days they participate. 

For three-day events, this is the Thursday before the Event.
 For four-day events, this is the Wednesday before the Event.
 Participants must:
 • Be off the water by 6:00 p.m. the day before each Event day.
 • Not begin fishing until the official start time, which will be communicated via text message on the morning of each Event day.
 • Cease all fishing activities by 3:00 p.m. on the final two days of three-day events (Friday and Saturday) and the final three days of four-day events (Thursday, Friday, and Saturday). 

During the off-limits time:
 • Participants may return to their respective launch sites by boat.
 • No fishing is allowed.
 • Use of electronics or other devices, including spotlights, underwater lights, or any illumination intended to locate or attract fish, is prohibited. 

Failure to receive or acknowledge any official message does not alter the start or end of any off-limits period. Compliance with off-limits timing is the sole responsibility of each Participant. 

6.03 There is no formal launch site for the Event. Participants may leave from any launch site on the Event day at any time; however, Participants may not begin casting and are not allowed to fish or use electronics or other devices, including spotlights, underwater lights, or other illumination intended to locate or attract fish, until the Event has officially started. Official start times will be determined by the Event Director and Participants will be notified when to commence fishing via text message the morning of the Event. (In the event the Participant does not receive the official text message, the Participant may commence fishing at the official start time as verified by the official time of the Event as kept by the Event Director or his/her designee.) 

Each Participant is responsible for complying with these requirements and ensuring that their activities conform to Tournament Rules. Tournament Officials may review reports or observations to confirm compliance but are not required to actively supervise or patrol launch sites. Awareness by Tournament Officials of any pre-start activity shall not constitute assumption of responsibility or liability. 

6.04 No fishing shall occur within fifty (50) yards of a marina gas pump or fueling area. 

6.05 No one may leave his or her boat to fish or land a fish, except in cases of emergency. 

6.06 Participants are limited to use of a primary motorized boat only with a fully operational livewell. No personal watercraft, canoes, kayaks, rafts, or flotation apparatuses are permitted. 

6.07 No fishing is allowed within twenty-five (25) yards of a non-anchored boat or fifty (50) yards of an anchored boat—defined as a vessel securely positioned with its trolling or primary motor disengaged—without that boat’s permission. 

6.08 Participants may not collude to buy, barter, block, or hold a fishing location for any other Participant or non-participant for use during any Event day or during off-limits periods prior to start. This includes Participants or non-participants attempting to block access to Event water or specific locations, or otherwise impede another Participant’s ability to compete. Violations may be determined based on credible information obtained before, during, or after the Event. 

6.09 Participants must be in line at the bump tanks and “declared” before the end of the respective hour for their fish weight to be tallied and counted in the Event results. 

6.10 From time to time, areas where the Event “live-releases” fish may be made off-limits to fishing at the discretion of the Event Director.

Article VII: Methods, Tackle, and Equipment

7.01 All bass must be caught on artificial bait by casting only. No foul hooking of bedding fish is allowed. A foul-hooked “bedding” fish is defined as a fish that does not have at least one hook in its mouth and must be released immediately. Trolling as a method of fishing is prohibited. “Long-Lining” and/or “Strolling” (use of a trolling motor or outboard motor to mechanically extend a cast) is not allowed. Participants may use only one rod at any one time. Other rods may be in the boat for substitute purposes. “Use” means a rod with line in the water, lure attached, and actively fished; any additional rod with bait in the water constitutes a violation. The Tournament Director may determine whether an action constitutes “trolling,” “long-lining,” or the use of more than one rod. Such determinations are final. 

7.02 Prohibited Electronic Devices. No electronic tracking devices (such as implanted microchips, GPS fish trackers, or other external tracking systems) may be used to locate fish for Event purposes. Devices that record, transmit, or share positional or sonar data between boats in real time are likewise prohibited. Forward-Facing Sonar (FFS), depth finders, sound-mimicking devices (e.g., Hydrowave), and graph charts are permitted only if operated in accordance with Rules 
7.04 and 7.05 and all applicable laws. The Tournament reserves the right to amend or restrict use of emerging electronic technology at any time before or during the Event. 

7.03 Alabama (Umbrella) rigs are permissible, and each Participant must comply with all local, state, and federal fishing regulations governing hook count, wire count, and lure configuration for the host lake(s). Failure to know or follow local law remains the Participant’s sole responsibility. 

7.04 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. “In operation” means powered on and capable of transmitting or receiving sonar data. The transducer may be switched between modes or devices, but no more than one real-time transducer may be active simultaneously. Any backup or secondary units must remain powered off while the primary is in use. The Tournament Director or designee may inspect electronics to verify compliance at any time, and refusal of inspection constitutes grounds for disqualification. 

7.05 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 live or recorded FFS data, coordinating to monitor, corral, or target the same individual fish or group of fish, or acting on another Participant’s real-time sonar information. The Tournament Director will determine whether conduct constitutes prohibited collaboration based on available evidence, including witness statements, electronic inspection, or observable behavior. Such determinations are final. Note: These FFS updates to Article VII: Methods, Tackle, and Equipment will be enforced starting October 14, 2024, and apply to all future Big Bass Tour events.

Article VIII: Sportsmanship

8.01 Sportsmanship, courtesy, safety, and bass conservation are required from every Participant. Participants shall demonstrate professionalism and integrity in support of the sport of fishing and the Event. This includes all conduct during competition, at weigh-in sites, during communications with Tournament Officials, and in any related online or public setting. This also includes social media content shared before, during, or after the Event. Any Participant found to have engaged in behavior that compromises the integrity, reputation, or fairness of the sport of fishing or the Event may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including disqualification, as determined in the sole and absolute discretion of the Event Director. 

8.02 The favorable public reputation of the Event, the sport of fishing, the Event Director, the Event Staff, sponsors, partners, and officials is of paramount importance. Participants shall refrain from making unreasonable attacks, accusations, or comments that disparage the integrity of the Event, the sport of fishing, or those associated with it. This applies to verbal statements, written communications, social media, and other digital platforms. Constructive communication with the Event Organizer or Tournament Officials regarding rules, conduct, or interpretation is encouraged, but public commentary intended to damage the Event or its affiliates may result in disciplinary action in accordance with Rule 4.02. 

8.03 Participants shall act in a courteous manner at all times, especially with regard to boating and angling in the vicinity of non-participants on Event waters. Participants shall not use profanity directed toward or in the presence of other Participants, non-participants, the Event Director, or Event Staff. Conduct that reflects poorly on the Event or violates principles of safety, respect, or fair competition may result in sanctions as determined by the Event Director. 

8.04 Any Participant attempting to manipulate the outcome of the Event or defraud the Event Organizer, including through collusion, falsification, or deceitful conduct, will be disqualified and may be subject to prosecution or civil action as applicable. Evidence of manipulation, whether direct or circumstantial, may be considered sufficient grounds for penalty or disqualification under Rule 4.02. 

8.05 Participants shall not provide inaccurate, false, or misleading information to the Event Organizer, Event Director, or Event Staff. Participants must provide all requested information truthfully and completely and may not withhold material facts relevant to competition, eligibility, or rule enforcement. Failure to cooperate with Tournament inquiries or polygraph examinations constitutes a violation of these Rules.

9.01 All bass weighed-in will be released back into the lake alive, whenever possible, by the Event Staff and/or the dedicated Fish Care Team. The preservation and welfare of the fish population are fundamental priorities of the Big Bass Tour. The Event utilizes established best practices for livewell management, handling, and release procedures designed to minimize stress and promote post-release survival. While every reasonable effort is made to ensure fish are returned to the water in healthy condition, natural factors and participant handling can affect outcomes beyond the Event’s control. 

9.02 Trailering a bass to a weigh-in site during Event hours is permissible at all times and may be required by the Event Director based on adverse weather, safety conditions, or facility constraints. If trailering becomes mandatory, anglers will be notified via text message. Any Participant, whether trailering or not, shall be required to bring their boat and respective partner or partners, if any, to the official weigh-in site for a boat inspection when weighing bass in any respective hour. Failure to comply with an inspection request may result in disqualification. 

9.03 Hourly weigh-ins are held each day at 8:00-9:00 a.m., 9:00-10:00 a.m., 10:00-11:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., 12:00-1:00 p.m., 1:00-2:00 p.m., and 2:00-3:00 p.m. These hours are subject to adjustment due to weather, daylight, or operational conditions. Participants must verify exact weigh-in times on the official event page. Summer weigh-in hours are 7:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. 

9.04 For reasons of conservation and fish health, all bass brought to the official weigh-in station must be in a weigh bag with adequate, oxygenated water. Anglers are required to bring their own weigh bags. Only live bass will be accepted for weigh-in. Bass showing signs of severe stress or mortality may be refused at the discretion of the Fish Care Team or Tournament Staff. The Fish Care Team may provide aeration or supplemental treatment as needed. Participants are encouraged to monitor water temperature, livewell oxygen levels, and overall fish condition throughout the day to promote the best possible fish care practices. 

9.05 No Participant may weigh more than one (1) bass per official Event hour or a total of five (5) bass per day. Bass entered for big bass of the hour does not carry forward from hour to hour. A Participant’s single heaviest bass is registered into the final overall standings. Anglers must use their own weigh bag or purchase one of the Event’s provided bass sacks in advance or at the Event. 

9.06 Bass must be weighed-in by the Participant who originally caught the bass and must be in said Participant’s actual physical possession in the weigh-in line. The only exception is for a Participant with a documented physical disability, in which case another Participant may deliver the fish to the scales on their behalf with prior approval from the Event Director. 

9.07 Any artificially weighted or tampered bass will be disqualified, and the Participant(s) may be subject to prosecution. Participants involved will be permanently disqualified from all future Event Organizer tournaments. Any questionable fish may be held for inspection by a qualified biologist or similar expert as determined by the Event Director. 

9.08 Only largemouth, smallmouth, and Kentucky spotted bass will be weighed-in. Participants must comply with all local, state, and federal size, slot, and species restrictions. Failure to do so is a violation of these Rules and may result in disqualification. Responsibility for knowing and following lake-specific regulations rests solely with the Participant. 

9.09 No Participant may have more than three (3) bass per Participant in possession at any time during official Event hours. When the Event officially concludes each day, all bass not weighed-in must be released immediately and may not carry over to another day. “Possession” includes fish held in livewells, on stringers, or otherwise retained by any means. 

9.10 In the event of a tie for the overall big bass, the winner will be the Participant who weighs-in his or her fish first, as determined by official Event timekeeping. 

9.11 Every effort must be made to keep bass alive, including proper livewell aeration, use of treatment additives, and temperature management. Participants may not weigh a dead fish. Repeated submission of non-viable fish may result in penalties or disqualification at the discretion of the Event Director. 

9.12 Any alteration of length, weight, or condition of bass is strictly prohibited. Participants found to have manipulated or attempted to manipulate a fish will be permanently banned from all future Event Organizer tournaments and may be subject to criminal prosecution under applicable state or federal law.

Article X: Communications

10.01 Participant’s entry into an Event via mail, facsimile, online or onsite represents your express consent to receive email, phone, and text message communication from the Event Organizer and any of its successors, directors, members, officers, agents, contractors, affiliates, employees, sponsoring agencies, sponsors, and/or advertisers before, during, and after an Event. Participants who remain in the Event Organizer database after an Event understand and acknowledge that they will receive ongoing communication. To initiate communication with the Big Bass Tour via text, you may text us at 877-958-8687 and we will communicate with you via text and answer any questions you may have. In order to discontinue communications, it is Participant’s responsibility to notify the Event Organizer in writing to opt out of the Bass Pro Shops Big Bass Tour’s mail, email, text message, and other databases. Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions

10.02 Text message updates and Event communication is an added value service provided by the Event. The Event and the Event Staff can NOT guarantee delivery of any text messages or communications. It is the Participant’s responsibility to manually enter themselves into the text system. Some carriers/providers block text messaging services and it is the Participant’s sole responsibility to check with his/her respective provider to determine text delivery services. If Participant is unable to receive text messages, please contact your provider prior to the Event or you may utilize the Event Organizer live leaderboard. If you have ever opted out of our text system we can NOT put you back into our system and you will NOT receive text updates unless YOU put yourself back into the system with the keyword. If you have opted out previously some carriers will NOT allow you to re-enter yourself into the system and you will have to use the Live Leaderboard link on the website.

Android users: If you have an android and you aren't receiving texts from us, you will need to search the number 90294 in your text app and accept that it is not spam.

10.03 Cell phones and other communication devices may NOT be used for the purposes of locating or finding fish and/or communicating with other Participants or non-participants regarding such.

Article XI: Polygraph Examination

11.01 Participant agrees to submit for a third-party administered polygraph examination and agrees to provide truthful and honest responses as to be determined by the third-party polygraph examiner.

11.02 Refusing to take a polygraph examination for any reason will result in immediate disqualification.

11.03 Any Participant taking medication or medical condition should notify the polygraph examiner prior to examination.

11.04 Any Participant determined by the polygraph examination and/or other Event Staff to be intoxicated and/or under the influence of any type of illegal drug(s) at the time said Participant is required to take the polygraph examination or in violation of the Rules, will be disqualified from this Event and all future Event Organizer events.

11.05 Participants acknowledge and agree that Event may disclose the results of the polygraph exam. Whether disclosure occurs or not is at the sole and exclusive discretion of the Event Organizer.

11.06 By his/her signature on the Event entry form and/or other required documents or entering the Event online, each Participant agrees to submit for a third-party administered polygraph examination. Each Participant shall abide by the conclusion reached by the third-party administrator administering the polygraph examination and, specifically, whether the Participant provided honest and truthful responses. Participants must successfully pass the polygraph examination. If a Participant is unable to pass a polygraph examination, as exclusively determined by a third-party polygraph examiner, Participant and his/her team or other occupants or participants competing with or along with Participant shall be disqualified and removed from the Event and may be disqualified from participating in future Events.

11.07 At the sole discretion of the Event Director or his/her designee, random third-party administered polygraph examinations may be administered on site during the Event.

Article XII: Boat Inspection

12.01 All Participants, by entering this Event, hereby agree to allow their boat to be boarded and inspected by Event Officials at any time prior to, during, or following the Event, to include, but not limited to, their boat registration, U.S. Coast Guard horsepower rating plate, live-well, rod boxes, closed storage compartments, tackle boxes, life jackets, personal floatation devices, and safety equipment.

12.02 The Event cooperates with local law enforcement, park rangers and fish/wildlife officers during the Event. If any Participant is found to be in violation of local, state or federal law during Event hours, he/she/they will immediately be disqualified and unable to compete in future tournaments.

Article XIII: Protests and Disputes

13.01 All protests or disputes involving the Rules or the Event must be registered in writing with the Event Director within fifteen (15) minutes of the designated weigh-in and prior to delivery of any prizes or winnings. Protests submitted after the deadline will be disregarded, and the protesting Participant may be subject to disqualification. Failed polygraph results are final and not subject to dispute. 

13.02 To maintain tournament integrity, all protests must be supported by verifiable evidence. Participants must provide credible proof (e.g., photos, video, witness statements) at the time of filing a protest. Unsupported claims may be deemed invalid. Repetitive filing of unsubstantiated claims may result in penalties, including suspension or disqualification. 

13.03 Any protest will be reviewed by a committee of Event Staff as determined by the Event Director. After review, the Event Director shall inform the protesting Participant of the committee’s decision. The decision is final and binding. 

13.04 Interpretation and enforcement of the Rules shall remain the sole and exclusive responsibility of the Event Director and, when applicable, the Event Staff committee.

Article XIV: Supplemental Provisions – Additional Participant Responsibilities and Clarifications

14.01 All participants are solely responsible for the safe operation of their vessels at all times. Participation in this tournament is voluntary, and each angler assumes full responsibility for complying with all applicable local, state, and federal boating laws and safety regulations. Tournament participation does not alter or supersede an angler’s legal obligations as an independent vessel operator. By participating in the tournament, each participant acknowledges that they are personally responsible for: • Maintaining a safe speed. • Keeping a proper lookout. • Navigating their boat according to prevailing weather, visibility, and water conditions. Each participant must comply with all laws regarding reckless and careless operation of a vessel, including adjusting speed and behavior based on environmental factors such as fog, wind, and congestion. Big Bass Tour assumes no responsibility for the conduct of participants on the water. Each angler is an independent vessel operator under applicable boating laws and assumes full legal responsibility for their own actions and decisions while navigating the water. See also Rule 5.06 regarding safe-boating conduct during tournament operation. 

14.02 Each participant is responsible for determining whether they can safely launch, navigate, and operate their vessel based on weather conditions, visibility, and other factors affecting safe boating. Environmental conditions such as fog, rain, or wind do not modify an angler’s duty to operate their vessel safely. Big Bass Tour does not mandate or enforce weather-related delays; participants must use their best judgment in deciding when, where, and how to operate their boats. In the event of extreme weather, Big Bass Tour may issue advisories or suspensions, but these do not relieve individual participants of their duty to assess and react to conditions independently. Any angler who proceeds onto the water does so at their own risk, assuming full responsibility for their safety, vessel, and actions. Nothing in this section limits the Tournament Director’s authority under Rule 5.10 to issue real-time safety directives or temporary restrictions. 

14.03 Big Bass Tour does not conduct a formal launch requiring participants to take off from a single location at a specific time. Participants may launch at any time after 12:00 AM and navigate freely, provided they do not begin fishing until the designated "First Cast" time announced by tournament officials via SMS notification. Participants may be on the water before the first cast, but no fishing is permitted before the official start time. Big Bass Tour allows trailering to the weigh-in at all times during the event. Anglers may load their boat onto a trailer and drive to the weigh-in location instead of boating there. This rule is a critical safety provision that allows anglers to avoid hazardous water conditions, mechanical failures, or other risks that may arise while navigating to weigh-in sites. The decision to trailer is at the discretion of each participant. The tournament does not require anglers to weigh in each hour. Participation in hourly weigh-ins is entirely optional, and participants must decide when and how they travel to weigh-in locations, whether by boat or trailer. Big Bass Tour does not direct vessel movement before, during, or after weigh-ins, and participants are solely responsible for their safe transit to and from weigh-in locations. 

14.04 Participants may use their boat’s electronics (including GPS, sonar, and mapping systems) for navigation purposes only prior to the official start of fishing. However, participants are strictly prohibited from using electronics to scan, locate, or mark fish before the designated "First Cast" time. Any angler found to be using electronics to identify or target fish before the start time will be subject to penalties, including disqualification. This rule ensures fair competition and prevents any advantage gained through the early use of technology. 

14.05 By participating in this event, anglers acknowledge and accept the inherent risks associated with boating, fishing, and tournament competition, including but not limited to: • Collisions with other vessels, docks, debris, or submerged objects. • Adverse weather conditions, including fog, high winds, or limited visibility. • Mechanical failures, capsizing, falling overboard, or other boating-related hazards. • Injury due to wave action, wake impact, or rough water conditions. Big Bass Tour assumes no responsibility for injuries, accidents, or property damage resulting from participant actions, environmental conditions, or third-party conduct. Participation in the event constitutes acceptance of these terms, and anglers agree not to hold Big Bass Tour, its officers, sponsors, directors, or affiliates liable for any incidents occurring before, during, or after tournament activities. 

14.06 Participants, their families, and any related parties agree to refrain from making false or misleading public statements, including on social media or other platforms, that negatively impact Big Bass Tour’s reputation or operations. Any participant, family member, or associate who knowingly spreads false or defamatory statements about the tournament, its officials, or its policies may be subject to disqualification and legal action. If a legal claim against Big Bass Tour is determined to be frivolous, meritless, or in bad faith, Big Bass Tour reserves the right to pursue recovery of attorney’s fees and costs against the claimant under applicable laws. 

14.07 All participants are required to comply with law-enforcement investigations, local and state wildlife-agency inquiries, and U.S. Coast Guard regulations. In the event of a boating accident, participants must immediately report the incident to the appropriate authorities in the jurisdiction where the event takes place and follow all accident-reporting requirements. Participants may be subject to investigation and enforcement for violations of state and federal boating laws, and Big Bass Tour will cooperate fully with authorities in such matters. Any angler found to have acted negligently or recklessly in violation of applicable laws may be subject to tournament disqualification and banned from future participation.

Article XV: Miscellaneous

 A. “Event” or “Events” shall mean any training, skill progression, competition, training, events, fishing tournament, fishing contest, fishing competition, activities, including travel to and from any such competition, tournament, contest, or event hosted, operated, offered, or overseen by Trifecta Fishing, LLC d/b/a Big Bass Tour.

 B. “Event Director” shall mean the individual(s) who oversees the overall management of any specific Event or Events.

 C. “Event Organizer” shall mean Trifecta Fishing, LLC d/b/a Big Bass Tour.

 D. “Event Staff” shall mean the individual and entities, including host committees and volunteers, who provide support for any given Event.

 E. “Participant” or “Participants” shall mean any individual, entity, or trust who enters, attempts to enter, registers, attempts to register, participates, attempts to participate, competes, and/or attempts to compete in an Event. Any reference to Participant includes Participant’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s) in the event Participant is a minor.

 F. “Related Parties” shall mean any accompanying individuals, entities, trust, trustees, parties, personal representatives, heirs, spouses, guardians, executors, successors, assigns, administrators, next of kin, parents, legal guardians, and any other persons, entity, or trust acting or purporting to act on a Participant’s behalf.

 G. “Rules” shall mean these official rules and regulations of the Big Bass Tour as amended from time-to-time and located at https://bigbasstour.com/rules.

 
A. PARTICIPANT, FOR HIMSELF/HERSELF AND THE RELATED PARTIES, UNDERSTANDS THAT THESE RULES INTENDED TO BE AS BROAD AND INCLUSIVE AS PERMITTED BY THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF TEXAS. ANY DISPUTE RELATING TO THESE RULES AND/OR THE EVENT SHALL BE SUBMITTED TO BINDING ARBITRATION CONDUCTED BY THE AMERICAN ARBITRATION ASSOCIATION AND ITS NATIONAL SPORTS PANEL UNDER THE AMERICAN ARBITRATION ASSOCIATION COMMERCIAL RULES. ANY SUCH DISPUTE SHALL BE SUBMITTED TO A SINGLE ARBITRATOR. PARTICIPANT FURTHER AGREES THAT THE VENUE OF ANY ARBITRATION, DISPUTE, OR CLAIM CONCERNING, ARISING UNDER, IN FURTHERANCE OF, PURSUANT TO, IN RELATION TO, OR ARISING OUT OF THESE RULES AND/OR THE EVENT SHALL BE IN TARRANT COUNTY, TEXAS AND SHALL BE CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF TEXAS.

B. IF ANY PARTICIPANT AND/OR RELATED PARTIES COMMENCE LITIGATION IN A STATE OR FEDERAL COURT IN VIOLATION OF THE TERMS OF THESE RULES, THE PARTICIPANT AND RELATED PARTIES SHALL BE ORDERED TO PAY AND SHALL REIMBURSE THE EVENT ORGANIZER FOR ALL ATTORNEYS’ FEES, COSTS, AND EXPENSES INCURRED IN SEEKING ABATEMENT, STAY, OR DISMISSAL OF SUCH LITIGATION AND ENFORCEMENT OF THE ARBITRATION PROVISIONS OF THESE RULES. SUCH PAYMENT AND REIMBURSEMENT SHALL BE MADE WITHIN TEN (10) DAYS OF ANY SUCH ORDER.

C. THESE RULES SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF TEXAS IN ALL RESPECTS, INCLUDING MATTERS OF CONSTRUCTION, INTERPRETATION, VALIDITY, AND ENFORCEMENT. IF ANY PROVISION OF THESE RULES IS PROHIBITED BY LAW, SUCH PROHIBITION SHALL NOT AFFECT THE VALIDITY OF THE REMAINING PROVISIONS OF THESE RULES. VENUE FOR ANY LITIGATION, DISPUTE, OR CLAIM CONCERNING, ARISING UNDER, PURSUANT TO, OR IN RELATION TO, OR ARISING OUT OF THIS AGREEMENT SHALL BE IN TARRANT COUNTY, TEXAS.

D. PARTICIPANT AND RELATED PARTIES HEREBY IRREVOCABLY WAIVE ANY AND ALL RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY LEGAL PROCEEDING ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO THESE RULES OR THE EVENTS.

E. IF MINOR(S) AND/OR OTHER RELATED PARTIES ATTEND THE EVENT WITH PARTICIPANT, PARTICIPANT IS DEEMED TO HAVE AGREED TO THESE ARBITRATION PROVISIONS ON BEHALF OF: (A) SUCH MINOR(S) AS THEIR PARENT OR LEGAL GUARDIAN OR AS THE AUTHORIZED AGENT OF THEIR PARENT OR GUARDIAN; AND/OR (B) OTHER RELATED PARTIES, AS THEIR AUTHORIZED AGENT. IF PARTICIPANT DOES NOT WISH TO OR IS NOT AUTHORIZED TO MAKE SUCH AGREEMENT ON BEHALF OF: (I) ANY MINOR, PARTICIPANT SHOULD IMMEDIATELY LEAVE THE EVENT WITH THOSE MINOR(S); AND/OR (II) ANY OTHER RELATED PARTIES, SUCH RELATED PARTIES SHOULD IMMEDIATELY LEAVE THE EVENT.

15.10 To the extent a Participant receives a monetary award or prize (whether monetary, merchandise, or goods) at an Event, the Participant shall be responsible for any and all taxes, including local, state, and federal taxes, and agrees to execute any and all documents necessary to confirm information necessary to pay appropriate taxes. 

PARTICIPANT HEREBY AGREES TO INDEMNIFY, DEFEND, AND HOLD HARMLESS EVENT ORGANIZER FROM AND AGAINST ANY AND ALL CLAIMS, LOSSES, COSTS, FINES, ASSESSMENTS, FEES, LIABILITIES, DAMAGES OR INJURIES SUFFERED BY EVENT ORGANIZER ARISING OUT OF ANY BREACH BY PARTICIPANT OF THIS SECTION, AND PARTICIPANT FURTHER AGREES TO INDEMNIFY THE EVENT ORGANIZER AND HOLD IT HARMLESS TO THE EXTENT ANY OBLIGATION IMPOSED ON EVENT ORGANIZER TO PAY WITHHOLDING TAXES OR SIMILAR ITEMS.

15.11 These Rules, together with the Participant Agreement, Waiver, and Release, constitute the entire and exclusive agreement between the Participant and the Event Organizer regarding participation in the Event and supersede any prior or contemporaneous oral or written statements, representations, or understandings, including those provided by Event Staff, contractors, or digital systems. In the event of any conflict between these Rules and any other communication or publication, these Rules shall control. 

15.12 If any provision of these Rules is held to be invalid or unenforceable, such determination shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining provisions, which shall continue in full force and effect.