A comment on WON BASS Thread

Larry Hemphill · Post by **Larry Hemphill** » Tue Feb 05, 2013 1:17 am

Yes, I read the whole thread! I don't share opinions on tournaments since I don't fish them. Just a reminder to all of you - the first tournaments in Nor Cal during the early 70's were quite daring. The general public was very amused at the funny looking boats that had 2 "barber" chairs at either end. Yes - they had arm rests!! I probably launched the first bass boat at Lake Tahoe (1974) - and did it ever attract attention!!! The reason for my post is to remind all of you how far this sport has evolved on the west coast and we should be grateful. Some of you are probably old enough to remember the general attitude of the public concerning this new organized sport and its funny-looking boats. The collective wisdom went like this: Bass boats will never make it in California. "THIS IS A TROUT AND SALMON STATE!!!!" My hat is off to all of you that helped build the tournament clubs and circuits. I think the tournament sport has become about as big as it can in our state. Our problem is that there are just too many available hunting and fishing opportunities here that can really stretch our "fun" dollars - and, outdoor recreation is simply more expensive in "sunny" California! Remember - we can spend our fishing money all year long. Many other state don't offer that blessing. And thanks to Gary Dobyns for reminding us about the "fun" factor in bass fishing. Sometimes we tournament pros and professional guides can forget that! I hope you all have a great "2013" and - save me some!!!

Bill Hutcheson · Post by **Bill Hutcheson** » Tue Feb 05, 2013 7:38 am

Well put Larry.

DanIsaac · Post by **DanIsaac** » Tue Feb 05, 2013 9:38 am

I remember those daysz....Tri-Cities in Fremont carrying Ranger, Monark, and Skeeter boats all under one roof!

Those were indeed the FUN days!

Dan

Rich hamilton · Post by **Rich hamilton** » Tue Feb 05, 2013 12:20 pm

Great post Larry! I never really looked at that thread as a "won bass thread" I can see how folks would feel personally attacked. I just saw it as a thread about the times and frustrations we are going through within the fishing community. You are right we are blessed with what we have and hopefully it will come full circle and be strong again!

I liked when Gary said something like "we used to win boats!" makes me realize how far we have slid. I remember Korny giving away 3 boats at a tournament one time? RR