BASS yesterday released newly revised payouts and entry fees for its 2009 Bassmaster Elite Series. BASS stated that the newest revision was made “in light of recent feedback.”

Entry fees were increased to $41,600 for the 8-event season (up from the previously announced $32,000). Payouts were adjusted accordingly and can be found below. Note that significant money was moved from the Angler of the Year program into regular-season events, alongside the increase in entry fees, so that anglers who finish 50th or better will now win at least $10,000.

In addition, BASS moved its rescheduled Oneida Elite Series back to its original dates of Aug. 13–16, and hence there is no longer a Forrest Wood Cup conflict.  Which is excellant news for Ish Monroe, Takahiro Omori, Greg Hackney & Tommy Biffle who have qualified for this event.

Newest Revision: 2009 Elite Series Event Payout
1. $100,000
2. $25,000
3. $20,000
4. $15,000
5. $14,000
6. $13,500
7. $13,000
8. $12,500
9. $12,000
10. $11,500
11. $11,000
12. $10,500
13-50: $10,000
> Total = $638,000 (an increase of $178,000 per event)

Newest Revision: 2009 BASS Angler of the Year Payout
1. $200,000
2. $75,000
3. $40,000
4. $35,000
5. $25,000
6. $22,500
7. $20,000
8. $19,000
9. $18,000
10. $16,000
11. $15,000
12. $14,000
13. $13,000
14. $12,000
15. $11,500
16. $11,000
17. $10,500
18. $10,200
19. $10,000
20. $9,700
21. $9,300
22. $8,900
23. $8,520
24. $8,100
25. $7,750
26. $7,700
27. $7,500
28. $7,300
29. $7,200
30. $7,050
31. $6,850
32. $6,680
33. $6,545
34. $6,352
35. $6,255
36. $6,160
37. $6,060
38. $6,020
39. $5,964
40. $5,868
41. $5,770
42. $5,722
43. $5,674
44. $5,626
45. $5,577
46. $5,529
47. $5,480
48. $5,430
49. $5,384
50. $5,334
> Total = 785,000 (a decrease of $225,000)

Overall, most elite series anglers reactions have been more positive about the recent changes!

Also, on another note.  BASS has now moved the BASS Federation Nation Northern Divisional Tournament to Escanaba, MI, so Big Bay De Noc will be hosting a large BASS event, with 104 anglers in that tournament.  I will be one of them and I am excited to fish these waters!!!

Rich
RichLindgren.com 
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