Ultimate Match Fishing

The 2009 season of Ultimate Match Fishing (UMF) promises to be unlike any angling tournament ever to come before it! Exclusively on Outdoor Channel, UMF is a unique bass fishing tournament event that will pit 12 of the world’s best professional bass anglers against each other in head-to-head single elimination competition. The made-for-television event, produced in high definition video will be hosted again by veteran professional angler and Outdoor Channel favorite Joe Thomas.

For the uninitiated, UMF places two anglers in the same boat, with each getting the front of the boat for half of the fishing day. The back-of-the-boat angler will be prohibited from moving to or fishing in the front half of the boat and vice versa for the angler who has the bow. Anglers will switch positions every 90 minutes over four periods.

All other standard tournament rules will apply and be enforced by UMF Referee Mark Randolph, who is responsible for calling fouls, explaining rules and keeping order. “These guys are going to be fishing for more than money; they’re going to be fishing for pride and respect,” Randolph said. “Do I expect fireworks? You bet. Do I expect controversy? Absolutely. But I’m ready. It’s time to make fishing a contact sport! I’ve had the best in the business try to break me down and get inside my head but I don’t play favorites. The rules are the rules and I’m going to call ‘em like I see ‘em. Why? Because I’m the referee and I say so, that’s why.”