LIKBF Competition Rules and Standards
Effective April 01 - 2023
Last Updated: June 10th 2023
Each Long Island Kayak Bass Fishing (“LIKBF”) Challenge, Tournament or Event, (referred to herein as “Competition”) is a CPR (Catch-Photo-Release) contest in which each Competitor catches his own fish in places, during times, and by procedures permitted in all pertinent rules and regulations, digitally photographs them according to the standards described herein, and submits the lengths and photographs for verification. These Competitions are conducted according to LIKBF Competition Rules found in two documents:
- ​LIKBF Competition Rules Standard (this document) covers about 90% of the terms, conditions, and standards common to all LIKBF Events.
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Event-specific rules are located on the LIKBF event-specific page, which includes details such as dates, locations, times, eligible water boundaries, restrictions, and exceptions to the LIKBF Rules Standard. Any exceptions, amendments, exclusions or modifications to the rules for specific events will be detail exclusively in the event details page for that event.
Every LIKBF Competitive Event shares the same KBF Rules foundation, the KBF Competition Rules Standards.
As a condition for participation in a LIKBF/KBF Competitive Event, each Competitor is required to become familiar with all the applicable KBF Rules and voluntarily agrees to abide by them.
LIKBF Management and tournament directors make every effort to ensure the rules are complete, concise, and comprehensible. Our aims are to ensure that competitors understand LIKBF’s expectations and guidelines and that directors and judges will administer them objectively and impartially.
Rules are revised or supplemented from time to time for clarification or to cover issues not previously addressed. When these changes are made, a revision will be added to the section it applies to and highlighted in red, and posted on the LIKBF Members Only Facebook.
Table of Contents:
1. Participation and Eligibility
A. LIKBF Membership
i. Unless fishing as a guest with our club for the first time or otherwise exempted in an LIKBF Event Rules Addenda, to participate in LIKBF Tournaments, and Championships, each Competitor must be an active LIKBF Member by 11:59 p.m. on the day before start-of-competition. These do not include LIKBF Open Tournaments. Non-members or "Guests" who register and compete in LIKBF Member-only Events are eligible for prizes, ranking, and rewards as long as they intend to join the club and are voted in by active club members at the following meeting.
ii. If not specified as “LIKBF Member-only,” participation in any KBF Event is open to both KBF Members and non-members who meet all other eligibility requirements laid out on the Event Page.
iii. LIKBF offers KBF National Championship slots to the winners of our Elite Series Tournaments. You must be an active KBF member by 11:59 p.m. on the day before start-of-competition to be awarded these slots.
B. Professional Fishing Guides may register and compete in Events providing they do not guide-for-pay on Eligible Water within 30 days prior to the Event’s start-of-competition date.
C. Event Registration — All LIKBF Competitions are conducted using a Tournament Management System (“TMS”) called Fishing Chaos. Each angler who wishes to participate in such an Event must create a Fishing Chaos user account before the first day of competition and must sign up for the Event and pay the entry fee on the TMS, as specified on the Event Page.
D. Entry Fees
1. Entry fee amounts, administrative surcharges, convenience fees, registration deadlines, late fee exceptions, and refund or transfer restrictions are specified on the event-specific page for each competition.
2. No Satisfaction Guarantee – Competitor understands and agrees that payment for the event does not secure a guarantee or promise of satisfaction.
3. Competitor’s failure or inability, for any reason except as otherwise provided herein, to participate in any or all of the activities of the event does not relieve or suspend the Competitor’s obligation to make all payments required by KBF rules on a timely basis, nor entitle the competitor to a refund or credit, except as provided below.
E. Payment — Competitor agrees that once an Event Registration is submitted, the terms and conditions of the LIKBF Competition Rules constitute an Agreement that is a legally binding and enforceable obligation of Competitor.
F. Competitor’s Right to Cancel — Any competitor wishing to cancel an Event Registration may do so by contacting the tournament director and request a Withdraw & Refund Request as long as it is done prior to event start.
IE: If you for some reason cannot make the tournament, you must contact the Tournament Director for a refund. If the competitor fails to contact the TD prior to event start, you will not be issued a refund.
Once an Event has started, no cancellations will be accepted, and no refunds will be provided.
LIKBF is not responsible for any refunds of expenses related to travel or lodging reservations or other payments involving third parties.
G. Pre-Tournament Check-in — Each Tournament Competitor is responsible for reviewing the Schedule of Events on the Event Page for pre-event check-in times and location if there are any. This info can be found on the event page and in the Captains Meeting for each event. Each Competitor must check in on Fishing Chaos. Late check-in and registration process (if permitted), event-specific instructions, and Event schedule are specified on the Event Page.
H. Captains Meeting Participation — Tournament Competitors are required to attend an on-site Captains Meeting or view a recorded “Virtual” Captains Meeting Webcast, as stipulated on the Event Page. Failure to either view a Virtual Captains Meeting or attend an on-site Captains Meeting may result in a Competitor’s disqualification from the Event due to negligence of a specific rule for that event.
2. Fish Eligibility
A. Species — For “Bass” LIKBF Competitions, only “black bass” are eligible for scoring. That designation includes the three most common species (Largemouth Bass – Micropterus salmoides, Smallmouth Bass – Micropterus dolomineu, and Spotted or Kentucky Bass – Micropterus punctulatus) as well as other less well-known species or varieties:
i. Shoal Bass – Micropterus cataactae
ii. Redeye Bass – Micropterus coosae
iii. Suwannee Bass – Micropterus notius
iv. Guadalupe Bass- Micropterus treculi
v. Bartram’s Bass – Micropterus bartrami
vi. Alabama Spotted Bass – Micropterus punctulatus henshalli
vii. Mean Mouth Bass – hybrid offspring of M. dolomieau and M. punctulatus
B. Length — The minimum length of bass scored in competition is 12 inches. Photos of bass shorter than the minimum will be denied.
C. Condition — Fish must be hooked in the mouth or jaw. It may not appear to have snagged, snatched, or hooked only in the body or a fin. If hooked in the mouth, a second treble hook that snags a gill plate, fin, or body is considered incidental and does not eliminate that fish.
Fish must appear to be alive. If fish appears to be dead, mutilated, frozen, mangled, or otherwise damage, or it appears to have been mashed, mauled, or otherwise altered, the photo will be denied.
D. Caudal (Tail) Fin — The tip of at least one lobe of the caudal (tail) fin must be contact with the measuring board. (the Ketch cradle, is not considered to be part of the measuring board for measurement purposes) If the bass’ entire caudal (tail) fin is lifted away from the measuring board so that neither tip remains in contact with the board, the photo will be denied.
E. Eye — The fish’s left eye must be visible in photo. Violation will result in denial of the photo. If the fish's left eye is damaged and/or missing, the Tournament Directors will ask for photos of the other side and even a video release to ensure the fish was alive when caught.
3. Competition Period
A. Competition start and end dates and times are stated on the Event Page. Any Competitor who launches (i.e., places his watercraft on the water, occupies it, and goes under way) before the stated “Earliest Launch” time or begins fishing before the official Competition Start Time on any day of competition will be disqualified from the Event. When launch site congestion prevents others from launching safely, Competitors may place their watercraft in the water, occupy them, shove off and then stage (float, drift, or anchor) in the immediate area until the official “Earliest Launch,” at which time they may proceed under way. Under no circumstance will a fish photographed outside of the official Competition Start and End times be considered for scoring.
Tournament Off-limits period and restrictions will begin at 3:00pm 1 day before the event begins. LIKBF Officials reserve the right to adjust off-limits and practice period days. Official off-limits and practice period days will be published for each event on the event specific page. (In the event there is a conflict between the times stated here and the event specific rules, the event specific rule is the official time).
B. Check-in — Tournament competitors must check-in by complying with event-specific rules by the specified time. (Failure to comply will result in disqualification from the event and forfeiture of all entitlements of that event)
4. Pre-Fishing
Pre-fishing is considered to be any activity that takes place on eligible water defined in the event-specific rules. Activity would include fishing, scouting and graphing. At the end of the pre-fishing time the angler must be off the water. Pre-fishing in eligible water is permitted on the day prior to Tournament Competition until the time specified in event-specific rules on the Event Registration Page. For LIKBF Tournaments, Competitors may engage in pre-fishing up 3:00pm the day prior to Tournament start time. There are no restrictions regarding type of watercraft used in pre-fishing. (Refer to Rule 6 regarding pre-fishing with a professional fishing guide.)
5. Competition Area
A. Competitive fishing is allowed only on publicly accessible waters within the geographic area designated on the Event Page as “Eligible Water.” Photos of fish caught outside of eligible water boundaries will be denied.
1. Photos that competitors submit for scoring in every LIKBF Challenge or tournament must be of fish caught from Eligible Water. To be “Eligible,” the body of water must be inside the competition area boundary, during public-access hours, be accessible to the public, and be where fishing is permitted by regulations.
2. Resident only or community ponds are not eligible for LIKBF competition.
3. Any body of water that requires special permission is not eligible for LIKBF competition unless specifically permitted per LIKBF Rules (i.e. Military Establishments)
4. Community (neighborhood) lakes that provide public access are off-limits to LIKBF competition regardless of whether or not they allow public access.
5. If a lake has posted use times, it is eligible only during the hours permitted by the regulatory body. For example, if a park permits launching from daylight and closes at sunset, and that is the location used to access the lake, then the lake is off-limits outside of the permitted launch times.
6. Use of private access to fish in any public waters is not permitted. (Privately operated marinas, campgrounds and venues that allow paid public access are permitted provided that any member of the public can launch there, even if a fee is required).
7. A competitor must access the water from or across publicly accessible areas or rights-of-way. Additionally, anglers MAY NOT cast into or otherwise obtain access to off-limits areas from eligible water. (Example: Posted spawning areas or other refuges)
8. Clarification of eligible waters is the sole responsibility of the competitor prior to engaging in competition.
B. Competitors may launch from any public-access shore directly onto Eligible Water. Crossing restricted property to reach Eligible Water is not permitted. Tributaries, canals, sloughs or estuaries separated from the rest of eligible water by temporary obstructions (e.g., fallen trees, log jams, beaver dams) that, if removed, could be entered by floating/paddling are considered eligible waters in which competition is permitted, and competitors are permitted to drag or portage watercraft over or around such obstructions. Those separated by obstructions of a permanent nature across or through which one cannot paddle/float (e.g., levees, earthen or concrete dams, berms, elevated roadbeds, spillways, waterfalls) are ineligible water, and competition in such areas is prohibited. Violation will result in disqualification from the Event.
C. Competitors are not restricted to fishing where they start out each day but are permitted to relocate to other Eligible Water during tournament hours.
D. Watercraft must not be anchored in such a position as to prevent or block access for other watercraft or powerboats. Violation will result in disqualification from the Event.
E. . Unless posted otherwise, as it pertains to tributaries of the main body of water, competitors must be able to float in and out or through an area during tournament days for it to be considered legal waters to navigate. Anglers can use pedal/ paddle/acceptable motors (RULE 8. E) and/or push-pole to navigate. If an anglers’ kayak bottoms out and becomes completely or partially immobilized from the bottom while navigating, they are no longer considered floating. Anglers are responsible for verifying their launch is publicly accessible as well as paying any launch fee required to utilize the facility. If a ramp or launch site is not clearly designated a public launch or it isn’t easily determined as publicly accessible competitors may request launch site evaluation and approval no later than 30 days prior to the event start date.
Violation will result in those catches submitted be disqualified or competitor may result in disqualification from the event.
6. Cooperation and Assistance
A. Up until the end of the established pre-fishing period, competitors may fish with and receive direct assistance from other anglers and professional guides on the Eligible Water, except as restricted in Rule 6.B. and 6.C., below.
B. Within 30 days prior to the Event, a Competitor may not fish on Eligible Water with, nor receive expert advice from, a professional fishing guide who receives payment for those services. Violation will result in Competitor’s disqualification from the Event.
NOTE: Casual conversation with recreational anglers while on the water does not constitute cheating or violation of this rule. Competitors may not solicit information during these conversations or interactions.
C. Before and during the event, competitors may (i.) share gear, tackle and equipment, (ii.) assist in photographing a fish for submission, and (iii.) communicate with and fish in proximity to other people, including other Competitors (except Professional Fishing Guides, as stipulated in Rule 6.B., above); however, Competitors may not receive assistance in catching fish that are photographed and submitted for scoring, including boat positioning, casting, retrieving, hooking, playing, or landing a fish. Violation will result in Competitor’s disqualification from the Event.
D. Competitors may not submit photos of fish if, at any time from cast to landing of the fish, the competitor or watercraft was in physical contact with another watercraft or person, except an observer occupying the competitor’s boat. Violation will result in denial of the photo.
7. Fishing Tackle, Equipment, and Methods
A. All fish submitted for score must be caught live by the Competitor who submits them for scoring using only equipment and legal methods that comply with all sportfishing statutes and regulations of the states and body of water in which they are taken. Competitors are responsible for research of and compliance with all applicable fishing and boating regulations. Snatching or snagging fish is not permitted. When visually fishing a bed for spawning bass, to be admissible all bass must be hooked inside the mouth. Fish MAY NOT be retained while bed fishing to improve chances of catching another fish. Fish must be caught, photographed (and video where required) and released prior to resuming fishing. Violation will result in disqualification from the event.
B. All fish must be caught by the Competitor on rod, reel, line and hook with artificial lures only. No traps, snares, set lines or other methods of fishing other than rod, reel and line are permissible, even if legal under state game laws. Violation will result in disqualification from the Event.
C. Acceptable measuring boards for all KBF competitions are the aluminum Ketch Products Measuring Board, the Ketch Karbonate (plastic) and the Ketch X.
Note: KBF has removed the Hawg Trough as an acceptable measuring board starting in 2021. We will adopt this rule in 2022. If you havent purchased a board yet for 2022, you must purchase a Ketch Products Measuring Board. https://ketchproducts.com/
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Measuring boards may be shortened only by removing inches from the upper end (opposite the fence). For example, one may cut off the end of a measuring board at the 26-inch mark in order for it to fit crossways between a watercraft’s gunwales. However, it may not be broken, snapped, or cut apart and then reassembled at any point between the two ends. Violation will result, at minimum, in denial of the photo submission.
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A slight flex in a measuring board resulting from a fish’s weight is allowed; however, Competitors are prohibited from deliberately flexing or deforming a measuring board by exerting pressure or reshaping it. Any modification of a measuring board that results in a misrepresentation of a fish’s actual length is grounds for a competitor’s disqualification from the event and may result in subsequent sanctions and penalties as described in Rule 11.
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A clean measuring device is expected to ensure we can give you a proper score.
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Competitors may share measuring boards.
D. Technology – Each competitor is responsible for having the necessary technology with GPS, location, and capture capability. As technology changes and to protect the integrity of our sport, we may include an appendix to these rules.
- ​When a Competitor’s technology becomes inoperable or is lost, they may share with other Competitors, provided each Competitor logs into his own TMS account in order to submit photos of fish he caught. Competitors under the same circumstances may share technology, provided each Competitor can clearly and positively identify photos of the fish he caught. Violation will result in denial of photo submission.
E. Only artificial lures and biodegradable artificial lures may be used. No live bait, preserved bait, or prepared bait will be permitted during competition, with the exception of pork strips or rinds. Violation will result in disqualification from the event.
F. Only ONE casting, spin-casting, spinning, or fly rod and reel may be in use at any one time. A rod and reel are considered to be “in use” when a lure attached to it by a line is in or on the water. A hung lure (one snagged in an overhanging tree) that is not in or on the water is not considered in use and the attached rod and reel may be set aside while another is in use.
H. Nets and grippers (e.g., Fish Grip, Boga-Grip) may be used for landing fish during tournament competition, but grippers must not remain attached to the fish in photos. Violation will result in denial of the photo submission.
1. Fish may not be retained on stringers or in live wells, other than to momentarily revive the fish or to prepare for photographing the fish.
I. If a Competitor breaks his line while setting the hook or retrieving a fish, he is allowed to make an attempt with the rod being used or by hand to secure the line and land the fish to be counted as legal. He may NOT hook the line with another lure, rod and reel, or other devices. If a Competitor loses his rod and reel while landing a fish he MAY use another rod and reel to retrieve the lost outfit. If after retrieval, the fish is still hooked, it may be landed, photographed, and submitted as a legal fish. Violation will result in disqualification from the event.
8. Watercraft & Propulsion
A. Watercrafts acceptable for use in LIKBF Competition are those manufactured and marketed as canoes, kayaks, or SUPs for which paddling is the primary means of propulsion. Any other watercraft must be submitted to LIKBF Administration for review and approval prior to use in competition. Watercraft specifically approved as exceptions in advance of competition by KBF Management are:
• Blue Sky Boatworks 360 Angler
• Biyak
• Greentop Enterprise Creek Boats
• Solo Skiff
• Beavertail Stealth
Use of watercraft in competition other than those listed above as acceptable or exceptions will result in disqualification from the event.
B. Unless approved as exceptions by the KBF Director of Operations, the following watercraft may not be used in competition:
- Gas- or liquid-fueled motorized or hybrid fuel/electric powerboats or personal watercraft
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Sailboats
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Jon boats
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Pirogues, coracles and rowboats
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Dinghies and skiffs
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Float tubes, inflatable rafts, and rigid inflatable boats (e.g., Zodiac)
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Pontoon boats, pontoon-style pond boats, twin-hull watercraft, or similar.
C. Watercraft propulsion is restricted to paddle, pedal, pole, or electric motor (see E.ii).
D. Unless specifically prohibited on the event-specific page, use of a single electric propulsion unit per watercraft in KBF sanctioned competition is approved with the following restrictions: NOTE: No more than one electric motor may be installed on competitor’s watercraft at any time during official competition times.
E. Competitors must comply with all boating regulations pertaining to motorized kayak/electric propulsion watercraft registration, use, and operating restrictions for the designated fishing area. Violation will result in disqualification from the event.
Electric motor used to propel a watercraft:
- ​Must be attached to the kayak in a safe manner for operation, and
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​May not exceed the lesser of (i.) the manufacturer’s labeled Maximum HP/Thrust Capacity, (ii.) 3 HP, or (iii.) 155 foot-pound thrust. Violation of either condition will result in disqualification from the Event. (This does not pertain to wattage capacity.)
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​Competitors are required to meet all documentation and registration requirements for operating a motorized watercraft including all required safety equipment and lighting.
F. Towing, transport, or relocation assistance from another watercraft, including “mother shipping,” is NOT permitted except in cases of emergency, as when pulling a kayak from a danger zone or restricted area. Once the emergency has ended, the Competitor may resume fishing only if the watercraft was pulled no more than needed to be removed from the danger zone. Violation will result in disqualification from the event.
G. Trolling lure(s) attached to a single rod and towed behind a watercraft while underway is permitted in KBF Competition. Competitors must demonstrate sportsmanlike conduct and avoid impeding other competitors or recreational anglers while trolling.
NOTE: Multiple fish caught on the same lure, at the same time (topwater, A-Rig, etc.) may both be accepted for scoring provided all fish are caught, photographed (or video where required) and released prior to resuming fishing. For this allowance to exist, both (or more) fish must be caught legally within the eligible waters and during a single cast and/or retrieve. The additional fish may be retained by lip gripper, Donkey Leash or landing net while preparing for and taking photos of each fish.
9. Photo Standards
Digital photographs of each fish submitted to judges for scoring must meet these criteria:
A. Each digital photo submitted in each Event must be of a different fish. The Judge will deny subsequent digital photos of the same fish submitted by the Competitor in an Event. Possession of multiple fish is not permitted. All fish must be caught, photographed (video where required) and released prior to resuming fishing for subsequent fish.
​LIKBF Suggestion: A FIX TO THIS IS TO TAKE A PHOTO IN BETWEEN EACH CATCH (Empty Ketch Board or Scenery)
B. Position/Visible/Legible – Each photo must be in focus and clear enough for a judge to:
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- ​Fish must be positioned facing left, dorsal fin up (belly down), tail to the right. (see illustration in G.2 for clarification)
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​Verify the Official KBF Identifier Form and event ID code. The inability of the judge to verify will result in the denial of the photo submission.
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Verify the fish’s condition. Violation will result in denial of the photo submission.
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Verify the fish’s length. The judge will score fish at the greatest length of which he is certain.
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Verify whether the bass’ jaw or lip is in contact with the measuring board fence. The inability of the judge to verify will result in a minimum penalty of 1 inch and may result in denial of the photo submission at the judge’s discretion.
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The entire fish, from its mouth/jaw to the end of its caudal (tail) fin must be visible in photos (Except where allowed to be covered by hand). In addition, at least one visible one-inch increment of the measuring board must be clearly visible to make an accurate length determination (Example. If the fish is 17.75 and the 17 is covered, the 18′ mark must be clearly visible). If either end of the fish is covered or cropped off, the photo may be denied at the judge’s discretion.
LIKBF Suggestion: A FIX TO THIS IS REVIEW PHOTO TO ENSURE ALL IS CORRECT BEFORE RELEASING FISH
C. Centered - Camera lens positioned directly over the center of the fish’s body, which contributes to accurate measurement by judges. Photos taken at a low angle so as to obscure an open mouth may be denied or penalized at the Tournament Director’s discretion.
D. First-generation - Each digital photo must be a first-generation image (not a photo or screen-shot of another photo). Violation will result in denial of photo.
E. Identifiable - Official LIKBF/KBF Identifier Form above, below, or beside the fish (not laying on top of the fish), unless placed on the Competitor’s hand or arm).
NOTE: The LIKBF/KBF Identifier card, or index card may be used. No hand-drawn images, codes written on hands, or forms from other series are permitted. Other series identifiers may be used as long as the Official LIKBF/KBF identifier is also clearly visible. Violation will result in denial of the photo submission.
Photos submitted for scoring that, in judges’ opinions, contain evidence of a possible disqualifying infraction — including photos that appear to have been cropped or modified (e.g, image enhanced or filtered) in such a way as to obscure infractions—will be accepted with a score of 0.01″ and a note indicating the nature of the infraction is emailed to the Competitor. The Tournament Director will review all such photos and will make any disqualification ruling. The Tournament Director may also contact Competitors to request submission of original un-cropped, un-filtered photos for further review and verification. Failure by Competitors to respond or refusal to submit the original photo will result in denial of the photo.
F. Background - Competitors’ watercraft must be clearly visible in all eligible photographs. Violation will result in denial of the photo submission. Watercraft must have been launched and underway to be eligible for submission. Kayak may not be in or on competitor’s vehicle or trailer while photos are taken.
G. Hand Position - It is recommended to take the photo with hand as close to centered on the fish as possible. Hand placement must meet the following guidelines:
1. No portion of the hand may enter the gill plate. Violation will result in denial of the photo submission. (NOTE: incidental contact with the external portion of the gill plate will not result in photo denial)
2. The competitor’s hand must be placed to provide a clear view of the fish’s eye. Obstruction or coverage of any portion of the fish’s eye will result in the denial of the photo submission. Hand must be placed forward of the Caudal peduncle (fleshy, scaled part of the bass’ body at the base of the caudal fin). Competitor’s hand may not contact any portion of the Caudal Peduncle past the back edge of the fish’s dorsal or anal fin. Violation will result in denial of the photo submission. (See Photo Submission Guidelines).
NOTE: The photo below is for advisory purposes and indicates areas for competitors to avoid. Official scoring is based on Photo Submission Guidelines. Additionally, no portion of the prescribed no touch zone shall be covered by any other items. (arm, net, fish grips, etc…)
H. Mouth
1. Bass’ lip or jaw must be in contact with the measuring board fence (bump board, upright), and the fence must be visible in the photo. Violation will result in denial of the photo submission.
2. In bass fishing competition, a closed mouth is required for uniformity of measurement and to validate contact with the measuring board fence. If a judge considers the mouth to be open (even if it is structurally unable to close) a one-half inch penalty will be assessed. In addition, if the mouth is opened excessively in an attempt to make the fish appear longer, the entire fish may be denied.
NOTE: This determination will be made by the judge and will only be considered for review through submission of a formal dispute.
I. Not “In-possession.” In most states, though not all, unless a fish is secured by a restraint device or is placed in a holding container, state regulatory agencies do not consider it to be “in possession” by Competitors, so states’ minimum length regulations do not apply for photo submissions. If Event takes place in a state where photographing a fish constitutes “possession,” and a photo is submitted of a fish that does not comply with state size limits, the photo will be denied. (Refer to regulatory compliance, Rule 7.A.)
10. Scoring
A. A. Fish length is determined by its caudal fin (tail fin) touching or crossing the manufacturer’s quarter-inch mark (e.g., ridges, grooves) on the measuring board. If it falls short of a 1/4-inch factory mark, the length is rounded to the next lower 1/4-inch mark that the bass’ caudal fin touches or crosses. In reviewing photographs, judges will visualize as accurately as possible where a 1/4-inch factory mark would be if it extended the entire width of a board and use that imaginary line to determine a fish’s length. Entire caudal fin lifted away and out of contact with the board will result in denial of the photo submission.
B. If any portion of a bass’ caudal (tail) fin extends off the edge of a Measuring Board surface, the score will be determined by the highest 1/4-inch measurement reached or crossed by the portion of caudal fin on the measuring board. Any portion of the caudal fin extending off the edge of a Measuring Board is not considered in scoring. Alignment aids and attachments to a KBF-approved measuring board (e.g., a cradle attachment for the Ketch measuring board) will not be considered part of a measuring board surface when determining a fish’s length.
C. Tournament ranking, contingency awards, Angler of the Year Points, Challenge Points, and Championship qualification shall be determined by the aggregate length of each Competitor’s photos remaining on the leaderboard when judging has concluded and the dispute period has closed. Unless otherwise stipulated on the event-specific page.
D. If a judge denies a Competitor’s photo after the end-of-competition, it may be automatically replaced by a previously submitted and auto-culled photo; however, no Competitor may submit a replacement photo after the end-of-competition time.
Note: We understand that their are times and places where cell service prevents you from uploading your photo. Do not panic! First contact your Tournament Directors and let them know you are having a problem. When the tournament concludes we generally have the "weighin" 1 hour after the tournament has concluded to work this out and allow you to get service so you can submit your catch. This does not apply to a denied photo after the tournament has concluded.
E. In the event of a tie-in score, the tied competitors’ longest (highest-scored) fish are compared, and the tie breaks in favor of the competitor with the longest (highest-scoring) fish. If the longest fish are equal, the second-longest fish are compared and determine which competitor wins the tie. If the second-longest are identical, the process repeats for each remaining fish. If all of the tied competitors’ highest scoring fish are identical, the tie breaks in favor of the competitor whose last leaderboard photo was uploaded earliest.
F. LIKBF Tournament Board Judges apply the following scoring criteria to adjust measurements, approve or deny photos, and to penalize photos by deducting points (length) or disqualifying a Competitor.
Item - Photo Scoring Criteria - Penalty
a. Photo Blurry photo/length unclear: scored at the highest mark of which there is no doubt - N/A
b. Photo Blurry photo; completely unable to judge - Deny
c. Photo Appears to be second-generation (e,g, screen shot, photo of photo) - Deny
d. Photo EXIF data and other evidence substantiates photo taken outside of Eligible Water boundaries - Deny
e. Photo EXIF data, other evidence substantiates photo was taken outside of competition hours - Deny
f. Photo Multiple digital photos submitted of the same fish; unintentional violation - Deny
g. Photo Multiple digital photos submitted of the same fish; evidence indicates intentionally - Ban
h. Photo Competitor’s watercraft not visible in photo background - Deny
i. Photo Entire fish not in picture - Deny
j. Orientation Fish positioned with right side of body toward camera; head pointing right and caudal fin left - Deny
k. Orientation Fish positioned with dorsal fins at bottom of photo, pelvic and anal fins upward - Deny
l. Official identifier Form missing, counterfeit, or incorrect for event - Deny
m. Identifier Form is lying on or covering any portion of the fish - Deny
n. Identifier Incorrect Event ID Code for Event - Deny
o. Fish Secured by restraining device (e.g., stringer, tape, or clip attached to fish) - Deny
p. Fish Photo violates state regulations regarding possession - Deny
q. Species Photo of any species or variety of fish other than that approved for the Competition - Deny
r. Body Bass caudal fin (tail fin) tip fails to reach 12.00″ line on measuring board - Deny
u. Body Any portion of a hand or fingers under the fish’s operculum (hard gill flap) - Deny
v. Body Finger(s) or hand touching a bass’ caudal (tail) fin - 1.00″
x. Body Entire caudal (tail) fin entirely lifted away and out of contact with the measuring board - Deny
y. Body Left eye covered; not visible in photo - Deny
z. Body Fish appears to have been snagged, snatched, or hooked in the body rather than mouth - Deny
aa. Body Fish appears to be dead, mutilated, frozen, mangled, or otherwise damaged - Deny
ab. Body Fish appears to have been mashed, mauled, or otherwise altered to increase its length - Deny
ac. Mouth Bass lip or jaw clearly not touching measuring board fence (upright end plate) - Deny
ad. Mouth Unable to ascertain with certainty that bass lip or jaw is touching measuring board fence - Deny″
ae. Mouth open, even if it appears to be structurally unable to close completely. one-half inch deduction″
11. Penalties
A. In the event of a rule violation, the Tournament Director may impose such penalties as deemed appropriate, including without limitation, the following:
1. Reduction of score (length) as described above or determined by the Tournament Director
2. Loss of catch for the day or up until the violation has been remedied
3. Disqualification from the tournament in question
4. Any additional penalties determined by the Tournament Director and/or Director of Tournament Operations, including but not limited to monetary fines and/or reduction of Competitor’s Angler of the Year points.
Subject to the dispute and appeal processes set forth below, the Tournament Director’s decisions on violations are final.
B. Following a review of the evidence, a determination by the LIKBF Tournament Director and/or Directors of Tournament Operations of cheating or conviction of fraud will result in permanent revocation of LIKBF Membership, suspension from all Long Island Kayak Bass Fishing competition and LIKBF-affiliated events, and series, and revocation of all LIKBF Social Media privileges. In addition, the findings will be published on a password-protected LIKBF members-only web page.
12. Awarding of Prizes
A. Prizes and numbers of positions paid out are addressed on the Event Page. Amounts paid per rank are subject to change based on participation (lower value for fewer entries and higher value for more entries) and sponsor provision.
B. Prizes will be processed after all photos submitted for scoring have been judged, the results reviewed by a separate panel, and disputes have been resolved.
C. Product prizes (e.g. kayaks, paddles, propulsion units) may require additional processing or delivery time. This allows competitors some flexibility in selection of model, color or style. Product selection may be limited to specific features and models.
13. Taxes
Competitors are responsible for all applicable taxes on both cash and merchandise awards. Failure to meet those obligations may result in disqualification from all future KBF events. All prize recipients whose cumulative total for the year adds up to $600 or more must fill out and submit a substitute IRS Form W-9 including name, address, social security number, signature and date. These are used to prepare IRS 1099 forms for distribution in January.
14. Sale of Prizes
No prizes won participating in KBF Events may be advertised or promoted for sale on LIKBF or KBF Facebook pages for a period of one full year. Violation of this rule will result in ineligibility for all future events and forfeiture of qualification status.
15. Safety
A. During competition, every Competitor must have all required Coast Guard safety equipment, (e.g., light source, whistle or other audible signal device, Coast Guard-approved, chest-type life preserver [PFD]). See www.uscgboating.org/.
B. PFD Usage - At all times while actively engaged in competition, except as described below (Rule 15.C. PFD Wear Exceptions), Competitor must wear a fastened USCG-certified vest-style PFD (inherent flotation or inflatable) or float jacket. A belt-style PFD, even one that deploys as a vest, is not permitted during Competition. When an infraction, as described above, is verified by the Tournament Director, the Competitor is disqualified from participation in the Event.
C. PFD Wear Exceptions - Competitor assumes responsibility for all consequences of removing his PFD. Competitor may cease competition and remove the PFD while his watercraft is beached, anchored or adrift only if doing so creates no unsafe condition. Competitor must put on and securely fasten the PFD before going underway or resuming competition.
If all of the following conditions exist, Competitor may briefly remove his PFD while afloat (anchored or adrift) in order to change, add or remove articles of clothing:
i. No fishing lines are in the water; and
ii. The watercraft is not underway; and
iii. Weather and water conditions permit one to do so safely; and
iv. Competitor is over the age of 12.
When finished changing his attire, Competitor must immediately put the PFD back on before going underway, fishing, or engaging in any other competition-related activity.
D. The Tournament Director has the right to postpone or cancel the start of an official tournament day because of adverse weather conditions or other factors that would jeopardize Competitors’ safety. Tournament waters may also be restricted at any time because of bad weather.
E. In the event of weather emergencies that pose an imminent threat to Competitors, the Tournament Director may terminate Competition before the scheduled end-of-competition time. An Early Termination Announcement with an adjusted end-of-competition time will be broadcast to Competitors via email and group text messaging and will also be posted on the TMS site and social media sites. The Announcement will also specify an adjusted report-in time and location. If safe to do so, upon receiving the Announcement, Competitor should make his way to the specified location at that time.
Competitor is required to stop fishing as soon as he receives the Early Termination Announcement. No photos of fish caught after the adjusted end-of-competition time may be submitted for scoring; however, to accommodate those seeking shelter immediately, Competitor has up to 15 minutes after the Adjusted End Time to submit a photo of any bass caught before the adjusted end-of-competition time/photo submission deadline.
F. In the event of an emergency situation, Competitor should call 911 first and then notify tournament officials as soon as possible.
G. Use of alcohol or drugs (other than those purchased over the counter or prescribed by a licensed physician) by any Competitor during an Event will not be tolerated and will be cause for automatic disqualification from this and all future LIKBF tournaments. No alcoholic beverages or other non-prescription stimulants or depressants shall be allowed in watercraft during competition days. Chemical substance addiction or abuse, conviction of a felony or other crimes involving moral turpitude, or other conduct reflecting unfavorably upon efforts to promote safety, sportsmanship, fair competition and compliance with tournament rules, shall be grounds for rejecting any application for participation and/or for disqualification after circumstances are reviewed by LIKBF’s Tournament Board. Any disqualification, suspension from, or other disciplinary action regarding any tournament or fishing organization, shall be grounds for rejecting any application for participation in a LIKBF tournament, and/or disqualification from a LIKBF tournament, after circumstances are reviewed by the LIKBF Tournament Director.
H. Night Tournaments that take place between April 1 and September 30, in which boats leave or return after 10:30 P.M., must comply with the following six stipulations in order for the event(s) to be eligible for Event Liability Insurance coverage provided through the North American Tournament Association’s policy.
i. All participant boats must be equipped with working Coast Guard-approved running lights. Running lights must remain on in accordance with the governing state regulations. [Note: Kayaks are categorized by USCG as “oar-driving craft” and meet USCG requirements by having “at hand” an “electric torch” (a.k.a. flashlight) that can be used to signal other boaters. While anchored, all watercraft must display a 360-degree white light. Some states impose additional requirements.]
ii. The LIKBF Tournament Director shall have predetermined the availability of cell phone or radio coverage to assure reasonable communications in the event of an emergency. [Note: All competitors should make sure their cell phone numbers are entered in the TMS and the Tournament Director should have a list of all competitors with cell phone numbers for texting or calls.]
iii. The LIKBF Tournament Director shall have on hand the contact information for emergency rescue and medical services and must maintain the ability to make contact at all times during the tournament.
iv. The governing authority, as required by law or ordinance, shall be notified of the tournament date and hours.
v. Competitors are restricted to an on-the-water speed limit of not more than 35 miles per hour between sunset and sunrise.
vi. The Tournament Director shall have in place a system of accounting for the return of all participants. [Note: This includes not only an end-of-competition check-in but also a way for competitors who leave early to notify the LIKBF Tournament Director.]
16. Competitor Conduct - Competitors participating in any LIKBF sanctioned event must observe the applicable rules for the Competition and must conduct themselves at all times in a manner that reflects favorably on the sport of kayak bass fishing, LIKBF, its members, officers or representatives, tournaments or sponsors. Competitors are expected to follow high standards of sportsmanship, courtesy, integrity, safety and conservation in support of the sport of kayak bass fishing, especially when in the vicinity of non-Competitors who may be on or beside Eligible Water. Any Competitor who violates these principles, intentionally violates LIKBF Competition Rules or regulations (attempts to commit fraud) or behaves in ways the reflect unfavorably up LIKBF efforts to promote fisheries conservation, clean waters and courtesy, may forfeit tournament winnings, face suspension from future LIKBF sanctioned events, be permanently banned from competition, or any combination thereof deemed appropriate by LIKBF.
17. Disputes and Appeals
A. If a Competitor wishes to dispute a rules violation penalty, a judge’s scoring decision, a Tournament Director’s decision or other action that materially affected the Competitor’s ranking or prize eligibility, he must use the LIKBF Dispute & Appeal Form on the LIKBF Website https://www.likbf.com/likbf-dispute-appeal to submit a dispute within 48 hour (two full days) following completion of Event judging. The dispute must include the following:
i. Event title, location, and date
ii. Description or identification of penalty imposed, or condition being disputed
iii. Reference to pertinent rule
iv. Reason for dispute and requested action
Except for situations involving fraud or other law violation, any disputes submitted after the 48-hour dispute deadline will be reviewed without affecting the outcome of an event. No change in rank or reward will result from disputes submitted after the deadline. Only Competitors in the Event where the disputed action occurred may submit disputes. Disputes must be handled privately. All parties directly involved will be provided a copy of the dispute. The Tournament Director (for judge’s rulings) or Tournament Board Operating Officer (for Tournament Director rulings) will review the Competitor’s claims, thoroughly investigate the disputed decision, and issue a ruling.
B. The Competitor who filed the dispute may appeal the dispute results. Appeals of dispute results must be presented to the LIKBF Tournament Board Officers(for Tournament Director’s dispute rulings) using the LIKBF Dispute & Appeal Form within 48 hours from the time and date of ruling. If the Competitor does not agree with the Tournament Board's decision on the ruling, they can then file a second appeal to the Executive Board. Once reviewed and a decision is made by the Executive Board, that decision will stand and cannot be overturned.
18. Public Comments
A. The favorable public reputation of KBF as a sanctioning organization in the sport of kayak bass fishing, the integrity of its officials, and the reputation of its media channels are valuable assets and tangible benefits for KBF and LIKBF. Accordingly, it is an obligation of Competitors to refrain from comments in public forums and social media or to the news media that unreasonably attack or disparage the integrity of Kayak Bass Fishing tournaments, tournament officials, sponsors, fellow members, fellow Competitors or the KBF organization. Competitors are encouraged to express themselves and have the right to question the rules officials. Responsible expressions of legitimate disagreement with LIKBF/KBF policies are encouraged, as opposed to attacks upon the integrity of the rules or officials. However, public comments that a Competitor knows, or should reasonably know, will harm the reputation of Long Island Kayak Bass Fishing LLC, LIKBF officials, members or sponsors, may result in disciplinary action.
B. Sponsor contributions will not be devalued by disputes or disagreements in public forums or social media platforms.
C. Publicly disputing a judge’s ruling or any dispute or appeal decision by a LIKBF Tournament Director, Tournament Board Official or Executive Board Official, will result in participant receiving a warning for a first offense. A repeat of the offense will result in disciplinary action up to disqualification from the current Event and permanent termination of eligibility for future LIKBF Events, even if previously qualified. This provision is not intended to discourage legitimate disputes but to ensure that a fair and unbiased approach is used, and the approved challenge and appeals processes are followed in determining the best possible outcome.
19. Unavailability and Force Majeure
LIKBF will use reasonable efforts to hold the Event; however, under no circumstances will LIKBF be held responsible for unavailability caused by circumstances beyond LIKBF’s control, including flood, fire, hurricanes, earthquakes or other “acts of God,” acts of government, civil unrest, acts of terror, strikes or labor problems nor will any Event Registration be cancelled, altered or amended once the Event has commenced on the basis of circumstances beyond LIKBFs reasonable control.
20. Compliance with Laws
This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of New York. All rights and obligations of the LIKBF and the Competitor under this Agreement are subject to all applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations. These terms and conditions shall be deemed revised to conform to applicable statutes, rules and regulations. LIKBF may modify the terms and conditions stated herein at any time in its sole and absolute discretion. Competitor shall be bound by the modified Agreement and agree that no other modifications shall be enforceable. This Agreement constitutes the entire Agreement between the parties and supersedes all prior agreements between the parties, whether written or oral. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision hereof shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision. The waiver of any breach shall not constitute a waiver of any subsequent breach.
21. Waivers and Releases
A. Name and Likeness Release — By registering for a Long Island Kayak Bass Fishing Event, the Competitor grants to Long Island Kayak Bass Fishing, LLC the right to use all photographs, likenesses, stories, accounts, details of Competitor contributions, exploits, interviews, bloopers, and information pertinent to the Kayak Bass Fishing Event, as well as any video footage, photographs gathered at the Event, for marketing and promotional purposes. This release is granted without expectation for additional compensation upon submission of Event Registration.
B. Waiver and Release of Liability - As a condition of participation in a Competition, and by virtue of registering for the Competition, each Competitor agrees to accept the terms and condition of the Long Island Kayak Bass Fishing Waiver and Release of Liability Agreement (below). This Agreement absolves Long Island Kayak Bass Fishing, LLC, its officers, staff, and volunteers from responsibility and threat of litigation in the case of injury, loss, or death sustained by a Competitor in the Event. Registrants under the age of 18 must have their waiver/release form signed by the parent or adult guardian who will accompany them throughout competition. A printed copy of the Kayak Bass Fishing Waiver and Release Form (below) is available www.likbf.com and must be signed and on file with Kayak Bass Fishing, LLC before a registrant is eligible to compete.
LIKBF BY-LAWS
Article I – Name and Purpose
Section 1: Name
This club shall be called: (LIKBF) LONG ISLAND KAYAK BASS FISHING
Section 2: Purpose
To stimulate public awareness of kayak bass fishing as a major sport. To improve our skills as bass anglers through fellowship and the friendly exchange of bass-catching techniques and ideas. To organize and conduct select fishing events and to act as the caretakers of the environment.
Article II - Membership
Section 1: Number of Members
The club shall begin with and maintain at least 10 members.
Section 2: Requirements for Membership
To become a club member, a person shall:
(a) Voluntarily express a genuine interest in membership.
(b) Be recommended for membership by a member of the club (excepting charter members).
(c) Be voted on by membership in a regular meeting. Voting will NOT be held in the candidate’s presence and vote affirmation shall be unanimous.
(d) Be at least 18 years of age or have parental consent.
(e) All anglers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all events (Parent or Guardian must obtain club membership along with child)
(f) All future potential members must attend a minimum of 1 meeting and fish 1 event as a guest prior to obtaining club membership.
Section 3: Dues
The club membership dues shall be $100 annually and paid on or before April 1st annually, or on being voted into the club.
Section 4: Meetings of Members
The membership shall hold regular meetings at pre-established times.
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Article III – Officers, elections, Vacancies and Eligibility
Section 1: Officers and their Duties
The officers of this club shall consist of:
President: Presides over all regular club meetings and directs all official business. Supervises all club functions. Votes only as a tie-breaker.
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Vice President: Assists the president in his/her duties and presides in the absence of the president.
Secretary: Maintains accurate minutes of all regular and special meetings as called for by the chapter president. Maintains all member tournament results, rankings and essential data ( including records of apparel sales) Obtains all permits / or obtains permission to host all tournaments on the schedule. Communicates with other Clubs to prevent double-booked tournaments. Researches charities and locations for club events.
Treasurer: Collects and disburses all monies. Maintains accurate financial records and presents a current treasurer’s report at each regular meeting. Prepares an annual audit for review by the club Board of Directors.
Tournament Director: The tournament director shall plan, organize and be in charge of operating all club tournaments. Draft tournament schedules and rules, which must be approved by the general membership. Keep tournament records, enforce all tournament rules, investigate all protests concerning tournaments and make recommendations to the Board of Directors.
The above club officers shall constitute the Club Board of Directors.
Section 2: Elections
The election of officers shall be held annually at a regular meeting during the month of FEBRUARY. Election shall be by simple majority of members present. Election for each officer shall be held separately in order listed in ARTICLE III, Section 1.
Section 3: Eligibility of vote
Each member is entitled to one vote. Proxy votes are not permitted.
Section 4: Term of Office
The term of each office shall be one year, which shall begin on the first day of MARCH and end on the last day of OCTOBER or until the successor assumes office.
Section 5: Vacancies
In the event of an office becoming vacant, nominations shall be asked for and an election held to fill the unexpired term of the individual vacating the office.
Section 6: Eligibility for Holding Office
To be eligible for an office a member must:
(a) Have been a club member for six months (waived during the first 12 months of club existence) and,
(b) Have attended at least 70% of the club meetings and 70% of club functions during the current 12-mont period.
(c) Have shown an active interest in all chapter functions.
Section 7: Removal of membership
A member shall be removed from the club membership roll for any one of the following:
(a) Failure to pay dues.
(b) Any action which would reflect dishonor and disgrace on the club.
(c) Disqualification for use of drugs or alcohol, or continued unsafe boating practices.
Removal must be voted on and approved by a majority of the voting club members.
Article IV: Tournament Rules and Regulations
Section 1: Tournament Locations and Rules
Club tournament locations will be reviewed and amended (see Article V Section 1) as necessary by the Board of Directors. Club Rules will be reviewed and amended by KBF and LIKBF will follow all KBF rules at all times.The board will present the membership with tournament locations and rules prior to the first tournament each year and will attach a copy of these by-laws as an addendum.
ARTICLE V – Method of Amending the Bylaws
Section 1: Amending the Bylaws
These bylaws and tournament rules may be amended at any regular meeting by a two-third vote of the members present, provided written notice of the proposed amendment has been presented to the membership at least one regular meeting prior to the vote.
WE, THE UNDERSIGNED Board of Directors, do hereby certify the above bylaws and the continued commencement of the club on this the ______day of _____________, 20__.
PRESIDENT________________________________
VICE PRESIDENT________________________________
SECRETARY________________________________
TREASURER________________________________
TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR________________________________