B.A.S.S. announced in a press release today that Bassmaster Elite Series competitor Josh Stracner will sit out this week's event at the Sabine River due to an inability "to secure the required Texas fishing license."
Stracner has been ruled ineligible under Elite Rule C6. IV (Sportsmanship), which states: “In both official practice and competition, competitors are required to have all licenses and permits required on the tournament waters in which they fish.”
B.A.S.S. said in the release that after contacting the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department in an attempt to resolve the issue, Stracner notified B.A.S.S. officials in advance of the tournament. No other details were provided.
Stracner, a third-year pro from Alabama, is in 80th place in the points standings out of 104 anglers. He captured Rookie of the Year honors in 2021 when he finished 27th on the final points list.
