When did TOC entry fees become the norm?

[Bassdrool]

Remember the days when qualifying anglers made a TOC and got to fish it for free (without options)? Everyone knows there are costs associated with running tournaments but the TOC does not have the level of accomplishment that it once did. The field is open to nearly anyone, the prizes are of less value, the payout is worse, and on top of everything, anglers must now pay the regular entry fee to even fish them...

It feels as though one circuit began to charge an entry fee for their TOC's and opened up the field allowing the circuit to make more money, and all the other circuits did not want to be left behind so they jumped on board with that concept. When it all comes down to it, anglers are now paying anywhere from $500 - $1000 during TOC week to have a good time, because of the odds of "winning" money is very slim. For the individuals who have that money to burn the more power to you and the TOC is definitely a good time. But for the average Joe, it could be a financial burden, after all the hours and money they have put in throughout the year just to "qualify."

This is an open-ended subject for all to voice their opinions.

[Mitch]

There's a lot of things different now than in the "Old Days" of Bass tournaments. Fees, pay out, prizes, etc, etc !! I could go on and on, but what you need to do now of days is to KNOW all the good and bad of the circuit you're going to fish before you sign up for that very first event !! Then the choice is yours as to accept or look elsewhere.