Examining impacts of forward facing sonar (FFS), Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources conducted a survey, a starting point in evaluating FFS’s impact. They are not motivated to make any decisions at this time, but are aware of angler and fishery manager concerns in the aftermath of the Bassmaster Classic.
Proponents claim technology attracts younger anglers. The reality is bass fishing has always been about money. Anglers under 25 may appear to increase numbers but older anglers are losing interest and so the industry looses their money. There were many empty Classic seats and dissatisfied viewers according to social media.
The Classic broadcast, with anglers staring at screens, was boring. Time on the water is being replaced with electronics expertise. Many feel future stars will become younger as they forgo fishing experience for video game prowess. Rather than being proficient with a variety of lures, techniques, and water depths, FFS anglers are equipped with spinning rods, jigs and minnow imitators. Overall, this hurts lure makers.
Previous electronics advances like flashers, 2D, side and 360 imaging, pale in comparison with FFS. These units show where fish were. FFS reveals where they are in real time. Anglers put baits close to fish and watch lures elicit reactions. FFS was initially used to see cover from a distance. As with video games, FFS morphed, becoming an open water chase. Old school maps, contours, and history are no longer required reading.
Claiming older guys can’t keep up with technology isn’t true. For decades, pro anglers met the challenge of electronic advancements. Many experienced pros say they just don’t like fishing with FFS. Bait sponsors are likely thankful as established pros, with strong followings, boost traditional lure sales of crankbaits, spinnerbaits, jigs, and others. Sponsors support anglers selling their products. Attracting a younger audience doesn’t sell $120,000 bass boats.
There’s never been a piece of equipment that allows average fishermen to win tournaments like FFS, and it’s no coincidence livescopers don’t do as well in tournaments where it’s not allowed or irrelevant.
FFS won’t make fish bite, however in any event, scopers rise to the top. The MD DNR survey confirms anglers see an FFS advantage. Younger anglers refer to scoping as a craft and challenge older anglers to learn it. All pros have FFS. For younger guys, its reliance. For older ones, it’s for reference. Fans liken FFS to MLB allowing steroids and metal bats.
Anglers responding to the DNR survey agree FFS helps find fish, creating more time for catching them. Finding active fish the old fashioned way leaves traditional anglers behind, while scopers offer repeated presentations until fish bite. FFS singles out the biggest fish and allows scopers to try to make them bite. Individual ability is replaced with interpretive electronics.
FFS is on everyone’s radar and dominates dock talk. Professional bass fishing’s newer generations will learn to fish only with electronics, forsaking grandpa’s fishing lures. A level playing field with everyone fishing with electronics will feature anglers not trying just to catch fish but learning to decipher the code.
Author Capt. Steve Chaconas is Potomac bass fishing guide & freelance writer. Potomac River reports: www,nationalbass.com. YouTube video channel NationalBassGuide.
