Maybe folks did suck in and hold their collective breaths, but more out of fear than excitement. Such actions as jamming launch ramps and crowding parking lots have long been a public relations problem for tournament organizations. In the past, at Bassmaster Tournament Trail events, the pros have always been encouraged to be mindful of their high-profile reputations as bass tournament professionals, and to respect others on the water. Speed, for sure, thrills. But it also, kills.
Speed kills on the highways and it kills on the water.
With big money on the line, some anglers will indeed be willing to take the chance. But that's not the point of this letter of concern. The very image of the bass fisherman is at stake. Tournament bass fishermen have had to live down the stereotype of a rooster tail-sprouting speed racer. Tournament rules require the wearing of life jackets when the big outboard is in operation.