Dave Lefebre Makes the Jump to the Elite Series
There are no hard feelings, but everyone keeps assuming that there are? I’m not leaving FLW after 12 seasons because I’m mad, lol. I’m simply trying to compete in more “pro-level” tournaments and have a better opportunity to earn a living and support my family. With nine regular season events (still not nearly enough in my opinion), the Basmasters Classic, plus the AOY payout, it was a no-brainer to make the jump. And the only reason I’m not fishing both tours is because there are three scheduling conflicts, and FLW will not allow me to fish the three others, which do not conflict…understandably.
Unlike those who have recently preceded me in making the move, I do not think the competition level is any higher on the Elite Series, and I think the Elite guys would agree. I do believe KVD is the best that ever lived and they have a handful of super studs like my friend, A-Mart , but believe me…FLW’s top anglers could compete any day of the week, and we all know who they are.
I am super excited about a change. I love the new venues, four northern sites, fresh formats, and different rules.
I’m considered a veteran angler, but I don’t feel like such. I feel like I’m just getting started, I’ve never been more excited for the alarm clock to go off on tournament morning. I’ll be considered a “rookie” next year, and though that label is weird at this point in my career, I think I like it! They say you’re only a rookie once, but I guess THEY were mistaken.
Some things BASS does differently than FLW (I’ve been pushing them at FLW to make these changes for years) and I can’t lie, I’m excited about those things. For example, there are no co-anglers in the back of the boat so no outside influence of any kind. No advantages or disadvantages of someone I just met netting my fish, or my competitor’s fish for that matter. Some other things that fit me better…less practice time, longer off-limit periods, smaller fields, and more cash opportunities.
I’m not mad, quite the opposite really. I’m so thankful for the opportunity FLW gave me. I wouldn’t be who I am today without that organization. I was also blessed to meet so many awesome people who have become like family throughout the years. And in no way is this goodbye, who knows what will take place in the future, but I will fish their events every chance I get.
All I know for sure is that in 2016, I’m a Bassmaster Elite Series pro. That reminds me, I need to go shopping for some bright colored shoes and get some white sunglasses!
For more information on Dave Lefebre, please visit www.davelefebre.com
