Are the "BASS" rods really tournament legal?

[jklett]

I keep seeing mention to the new "bass" rods being put out lately and I was wondering if they really are tournament legal. I can't find the full regulations for all of the various governing bodies but the few that I found(ABA 2008 Bassmaster weekend series for example) say "Only one casting, spin casting or spinning rod (8 foot maximum length from butt of handle to rod tip) may be used at any one time."

I remember that B.A.S.S. had pretty much the same rule(something about having to cast and retrieve from the reel) but that may have changed with ESPN taking them over(I was a member a bunch of years ago before the switch). Going off of that, the new rods would fit the length requirements but unless you hang a spinning reel under them they would still not be permitted in the tournaments.

Any thoughts (or does someone have a current copy of the rules that may contradict this)? I'm not trying to start an internet argument, I would really like to know if I am mis-interpreting this one because it would suck to see someone try and enter using a fly rod only to be disqualified for illegal equipment(you know someone would complain to the judges after getting outfished).

[tailingloop]

The various bass tournament tours and organizations enforce different rules. Some limit rod length, some limit type of rods, some specifically prohibit fly fishing techniques, some specifically allow longer fly rods if used for traditional fly casting techniques. FLW tour gear rules are much less restrictive than B.A.S.S national tour rules and do not restrict the type of rod/reel for instance. WON tour has an 8' max length but does not restrict the type of rod. Local affiliated clubs may often have their own local rules that vary from the parent rules.

[jklett]

So in other words, they are legal for some events but not all. You'd just have to check with the organization running the event before registering. That's pretty much what I wanted to know. Thank you.

[William Fitzgerald]

Why are you asking this question on a FLY FYSHING sight----ask BASS BILL

[tailingloop]

Oh, and in Northern California, there was a fly rod only bass tournament at the end of May this year.

www.bassnfly.com/Home.html

[Colston Newton]

Oh, go on and use a fly rod. You won't win, so they won't disqualify you. (Fly rods will catch more fish, but for poundage, other methods are better.)