We had a very similar post not long ago that dealt with paybacks. I also have fished all three series and this was my first year fishing Topbass. The reason, the Reelfish`n series folded and Bassmania series conflicted with the CFT`s. So Topbass filled the gap. Not long after signing up I realized what Bill has mentioned on this post (the reason for the other post). What I was hoping is that the anglers would bind together to possible change these payouts for the better of us anglers, instead we jumped on the back of each series we liked and banged heads against each other. Each series has great camaraderie great anglers, great people. The CFT crew helped me this year with trailer problems at the start of the year and boat problems at the end of the year. Bassmania I have to agree with another post Vita is one of the hardest working persons in the industry and her and Andy are great people. I got to know Ted this year and all is good.
All that being said, we come to paybacks and exposure for the anglers.
CFT-each of its different series pay back over 100% and each of its events has television exposure not to mention media exposure.
Bassmania 70% to 80% paybacks limited exposure/fields.
TopBass 55% to 70 % paybacks limited exposure/ full fields.
We as anglers put a lot into this sport both monetary and time. Some of us put a lot of time into finding sponsorship to help us with monetary commitments. For these sponsors they require both our time and exposure to media.
Looking at these three series its a no brainier to distinguish which one will help us with both. If we happen to do well in tournament we get paid for it, possible a shot at a big prize as well boat, motor and trailer (Classic). Also media attention for those sponsors.
If some of the other series organizers could do the same we all win as competitive anglers.
The better for all of us as anglers because we get what we want from all the different series. We as competitive anglers have to get together and inform the series organizers what we would like. Almost guys and girls, like our own players union.
When Ted had a meeting prior to the Rice Lake Classic and asked us what we would like to see changed no one stood up and said how about higher % paybacks and sponsorship prizes. Ted did mention that he has a hard time with obtaining sponsors. We as anglers have to work together jump on our own team and demand a great product from all three series. Banging heads is just not going to do it for us. Were going about it the wrong way.
So how about it, Higher paybacks say 100%, and more media coverage for all three series
Bruce do you want to Start the Competitive Anglers Association.