After investigation by BASS officials into Friday’s incident involving Elite Series Anglers Ish Monroe and Keith Poche,
Elite Series angler Keith Poche
BASS has ruled both anglers were disqualified from the Southern Open on Lake Toho, being found in violation of BASS Rules. Pending the outcome of additional ongoing investigations, both anglers could face additional penalties.
Tempers escalated during an on the water confrontation between Monroe and Poche, after Poche’s boat made contact with Monroe’s while waiting to lock through from Lake Toho to the lower lakes of the Kissimmee Chain.
It was reported that a heated verbal exchange between the two anglers led to Monroe attempting to board Poche’s boat. Both anglers ended up in the water as a result. Poche reported the incident, and filed charges with the Osceola County Police Department. Monroe was taken into custody on charges of Battery after the event.
Edit:
Monroe has issued a public statement in regards to the events that took place on Friday.
By now you’ve all heard about the regrettable situation that occurred between myself and fellow Elite Series competitor Keith Poche at the first Southern Open of 2015 at Lake Toho.
I wanted to take a moment to issue an apology to B.A.S.S., the fans of the sport, my sponsors and the industry that supports professional bass fishing and the sport as a whole. I want everyone to know that the last thing I intend to do at any time is shed a bad light on the industry that has afforded me the opportunity to do what I love.
I reacted poorly in the situation after the collision and the subsequent verbal altercation that ensued. Arguments happen on the water in our business a lot, but I took it a step too far in putting myself into my competitor’s boat when provoked. Although I did not strike him, I know that I stepped over the line with an unwanted touch, and regret doing so.
I am a passionate, competitive person, and that drive is what has helped me be successful on and off the water. But, as can happen, there are times that competitive nature can get carried away as it did on Friday. To make it perfectly clear, I am not making an excuse for the way I reacted, I just want everyone to know that I care deeply about the sport, and doing very well in tournaments.
I wish to offer my sincerest apologies to the organization that has provided me a venue to perform, the sponsors who have provided me the equipment and resources with which to pursue my career, and the fans of the sport who provide the audience for all of to perform for.
I will now begin to move forward, repair the damage to my boat, as well as apply my competitive nature to doing the best job I can on and off the water. I realize that this incident has put a bump on my career path, but with the ongoing support of my sponsors, my friends and family – and the fans of bass fishing – I will return to the path I have long hoped I would travel.
Thank you all for your time,
Sincerely,
Ish Monroe
