Event: BAM Lake Shasta Pro-Am
Actions: Disqualifications – Rules 30 and 36 Violations
Day of Competition: Day Two
On Day Two of competition at the BAM Lake Shasta Pro-Am, multiple rules violations were voluntarily self-reported by participating anglers. Each incident was reviewed independently by BAM officials and ruled on in accordance with BAM competition rules.
Rule 30 – Boat Operation Violation
Pro angler Matthew Soule and high school angler Justin Maraviglia voluntarily self-reported a rules violation involving boat operation and fishing position.
Rule 30 – Boat Operation states that during competition, pro anglers may only fish or cast from the front deck of the boat. Pros may briefly enter the seated or lower area while fishing, provided it is not used as a primary fishing platform. Co-anglers are limited to fishing or casting from the back deck or the lower passenger-side seated position.
During the course of the day, Matthew Soule allowed his co-angler, Justin Maraviglia, to operate the trolling motor and fish from the front deck. Matthew stated he was unaware this action constituted a violation of Rule 30 at the time it occurred. Despite the lack of intent, the action clearly violated BAM competition rules.
Following the self-report and review by BAM officials, it was determined that the violation warranted disqualification in accordance with BAM rules and enforcement standards. As a result, Matthew Soule’s Day Two catch was disqualified and did not count toward the overall event standings.
Rule 36 – Creel Limit Violation
Also on Day Two, pro angler Noah Nguyen voluntarily self-reported that he inadvertently brought six (6) fish to weigh-in, exceeding the five (5) fish daily limit.
Rule 36 states that all anglers must bring all fish in their possession to the weigh-in after check-in. Exceeding the five (5) fish limit results in disqualification for the day, with a total daily weight of zero. Once an angler enters the no-wake check-in area, culling is not permitted.
Following review by BAM officials, it was determined that this action constituted a violation of Rule 36. In accordance with BAM rules, Noah Nguyen’s Day Two catch was disqualified and recorded as a zero-weight day.
BAM acknowledges the integrity shown by all anglers involved for self-reporting these violations. While disqualifications are never taken lightly, BAM works diligently to ensure that rules are applied consistently and fairly to protect the integrity of competition and maintain a level playing field for all anglers.
No safety issues or injuries were associated with these incidents.
These decisions are final.
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