Similar, yes. I don't think there's a system in place to encourage anglers to compete in their level without dropping down and making essentially "easy money".

When that occurs, like I said, it discourages anglers from competing.

This format also keeps all the levels in one tournament series and makes for an easy transition into higher divisions.

Thanks for the feedback.

I've never done anything where I didn't want to compete against the best. May donate some money for a while but that's part of the process.
Imo, if that's not how you think then your just going for a participation ribbon. (And I'll be happy to take your donation)

I have put some thought into ways to promote the sport of tournament fishing. There are many anglers who tournament fish, or would like to tournament fish, and be able to compete at a certain level. The sport is growing with new and young anglers that would like to compete, but may get discouraged due to their skill level or experience. Yes, you can say that people need to spend more time on the water, but for some, that is not viable. My idea is to create a tournament series with divisions based off skill.

Almost every sport has varying levels of competition through which athletes are able to compete in as they practice improving their skills. Why not translate something like this to bass fishing?

Format:

- 10-12 tournaments in a season
- Two or three divisions
- Individual or team

(For two division system)

Division 2 (Lower Division):

- $40 to $60 entry

Division 1 (Higher Division):

- $120 to $180 entry


Anyone can fish whichever division they choose, but once you place in a division, you are to continue in that division for the remainder of the year.
If you fish in division 2 and place three or more times that season, you are to fish the following year in the next highest division.
If you do not place in the higher division that year, then you may drop down a division.

This format will promote growth in the sport and level competition. Anglers will be able to identify with a division based off skill. They will also be able to compete at a level while improving their abilities.

What does everybody think of this idea?

Thanks

That is the biggest issue to tackle. People will want to fish against those less skilled because it's easy money. I'm trying to come up with a way to keep that from happening.

Maybe the first year, since there will be no record on anglers performance, have placement tournaments. These will place anglers in their respective division to get the series started.

Playing devils advocate here....What's to prevent a better angler from purposefully competing in the lower classes to take home more cash?

As long as there is a "I suck at fishing" level, I may have enough ability to be able to enter.