I am thinking about starting the American Fishing tour as a boater this year, but I don't have a new fast boat.  I was wondering if anyone has fished in this tourney and if anyone fishes in "older" boats.  I have a 17' 1990 Stratos 269V with a 100HP Motor.  I know it puts me at a disadvantage because of speed, but I fish lots of smaller tournaments and believe I could be competitive.  Let me know your thoughts please. 

I fish about 30 AFT tournaments a year. The boats come in all shape and sizes. You are hardly at a disadvantage over speed, I have been beat a many of times buy guy's that have a small boat and 25hp motor. Remember a positive attitude wins tournaments not speed.

No your boat is fine if you keep track of your time and know how long it will take you to get back to the check in you will do great.

Good luck with the tournaments be safe and have fun!!

Boats do not catch bass people do 

Yall are right!  I am going to fish some circuit next year, it will probably be this one.   I am not sure that I understand it 100 percent though.  Will somebody explain the "draw" system to me?

That's what I was wondering about too I am looking forward to some replies.

Go to American Bass Tournament Draw Trail ....everything you will need to know is there. If you still have any question just let ma know.

Great thanks!!

So basically for the American Fishing Tour....You draw a boater or a co angler which ever one.  If you draw a boater do you just agree on who's boat to use? 

At the Nationals you do. At the local tournaments most of the time we might have 3 or 4 no boaters. They put everyones number in a hat and the non boaters draws a number. If your number gets drawn then you have a partner for the day. If your number is not drawn then you fish by yourself. Some people think if they draw a partner that they are at a disadvantage and maybe they are but it has never bothered me. I have meet some good friends like this.

At the Nationals you are guaranteed  boat use for one day and the next day you might have to go as a non boater and believe me after the fourth day I don't mind at all. ABA as well as many other tournaments trials have their faults but it is a smoothed run trail. I have never seen anyone have any harsh words or animosity while fishing an ABA.

O ok...great.  Well it sounds like I will be fishing the American Fishing tour next year!  I am excited.  The season starts in October right?  I'll be the guy out there with the older stratos and 100 horse motor.  Ha