A lot of work goes into preparing for an Elite Series event. Tyler Rivet puts in more work than most in one regard in particular, fitness. Working out is one of Rivet’s favorite pastimes when he’s not on the water, and it’s paying off big this week on Lake Okeechobee.
Rivet has been looking down at his forward-facing sonar all week, and it’s wrecked his body. He’s made several comments on Bassmaster LIVE about the pain he’s feeling in his neck and back, and he’s arguably in the best shape of anyone on tour.
Forward-facing sonar has changed everything. The only phenomenon we’ve seen is fishing that has had a comparable impact on the sport in the last two decades, the umbrella rig, caused a similar amount of pain for many anglers. Just a few years ago, before the umbrella was outlawed in the majority of the bass fishing trails, anglers across the country were having to have shoulder and elbow surgery on account of slinging five (or more) baits around at the time.
Though forward-facing sonar has been the only real “game changer” we’ve seen in years, it’s not likely this technology will ever be outlawed. It’s too pivotal a product to too many companies that are pillars of the sport.
So hit the gym, embrace the tech and endure the pain… or get left behind. It’s that simple. Forward-facing sonar has been a major player on Okeechobee this week, the least likely of places. It will always play a role from now on.
