MLF announced today that Bass Pro Tour pro angler Jeff Kriet of Ardmore, Okla. has withdrawn from competing in this week's event at Lake St. Clair in Michigan due to personal circumstances. Kriet informed MLF that he plans to return to competition at the next event in early August.
Per MLF policy, “If an eligible Bass Pro Tour angler withdraws, declines an invitation or retires, the invitation will revert back to the next eligible Bass Pro Tour angler based on career Angler of the Year (AOY) standings average or 2022 AOY standings, whichever is higher." Former Bass Pro Tour pro Clabion Johns was next in line, but declined the invitation. Former Bass Pro Tour pro Mike McClelland of Blue Eye, Mo., who is currently fishing the MLF Invitationals, was the next angler in line after Johns and has accepted the invitation to compete in the event.
“It’s great to have an opportunity to be back in the Bass Pro Tour for Stage Six,” said McClelland. “I’ve always loved going to Lake St. Clair, and I’m especially excited to fish the catch, weigh and release format while scoring five fish.”
Participants of the Phoenix Fantasy Fishing Presented by Bally’s who have already selected Kriet will be notified via email to make an alternative selection by 8 a.m. ET on Saturday. Should a participant continue to have Kriet on their team once the tournament begins, zero pounds will be assigned to their score.
