Rules

1.01     These Rules and Regulations are the Official Rules (“Rules”) of the YETI Open (“Event”).
 

1.02     Participant(s) acknowledge and agree that they have reviewed, understand, and will abide by the Rules as posted on our official website.  Participants willingly agree to comply with the Rules for participation in the Event.
 

1.03     All local, State & Federal laws shall apply at all times including, without limitation, the penal code.
 

1.04     All local, State, U.S. Coast Guard, Parks & Wildlife, and federal boating and fishing regulations or off limits, shall apply at all times. 
 

1.05     In the event of any discrepancy between printed and digital versions of these Rules, the version posted on the Event Organizer’s official website Rules page at the time of the Event shall prevail. The Rules posted there are the definitive guide for tournament conduct and procedures and take precedence over any verbal, email, chat, or other guidance. This includes responses from the AI Assistant, Website Chat, and Customer Service Staff, which are provided for general information only and are not binding. It is the responsibility of all Participants to review and understand the Rules prior to participation. All interpretations of these Rules and decisions regarding their enforcement are administered exclusively by the Event Director. Such decisions are final and binding for all Participants.

1.06 Participants are solely responsible for understanding and complying with all laws and regulations governing boating, fishing, and general conduct on the water. The Tournament operates under the principle that each participant bears full responsibility for their own legal compliance during the Event. Tournament Officials interpret and enforce these Rules based on credible information available, which may include reports or actions by law-enforcement agencies or other authoritative sources. The Tournament does not assume responsibility for verifying individual compliance with external laws but reserves the right to impose disciplinary action, including disqualification, for conduct determined to be in violation of such laws or these Rules. This policy ensures consistent fairness across all competitors while maintaining the integrity, safety, and reputation of the Event and its participants.
 

2.01     Each person in the boat must be a paid contestant of the Event and abide by the Rules. Maximum of three (3) anglers per boat
 

2.02     The Event is an “open” amateur event. (See 2.07 for Professional criteria)
 

2.03     Participants less than 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or adult with written parental permission. (Written parental permission must be provided to Event staff prior to the start of the Event) Participants under the age of 18 years may not fish alone in the Event.   *You do NOT have to notify us if you're fishing with your own parent/child.
 

2.04     Event Organizer reserves the right to refuse entry to anyone in its sole and exclusive discretion including after entry fees are paid and after registration for any Event.  Participants may be removed, disqualified, penalized, sanctioned, suspended, or refused entry to any Event at any time including at any time before, through, and/or after the given Event. 
 

2.05     Anyone who has failed a polygraph examination and/or been disqualified or removed in connection with any fishing tournament is not eligible to compete in the Event in the sole and exclusive discretion of Event Director. 
 

2.06     The Event is for amateur anglers only.  Professional anglers are not eligible to compete.  If you are unsure of your professional status, it is your responsibility to request a decision in writing from the Event Staff prior to entering an Event.  Any Participant who enters this Event and is determined to be a professional, will be removed from competition immediately and will forfeit the Entry Fee (or entry fees) (as defined below).
 

2.07     Any angler meeting any of the following criteria is considered a “professional” and is not eligible to compete in this Event:
 

Any angler meeting any of the following criteria is considered a “professional” and is not eligible to compete in this Event or future Events:

A. Guiding Restriction:

Anglers who have guided professionally for a fee (of any kind) on the host lake within the last twelve (12) months immediately preceding the Event. This includes any species of fish.

B. Professional Tournament Participation Restriction (24 months and current year):

Anglers who have competed or are currently registered to compete on the professional side in the B.A.S.S. Opens, the Toyota Series (MLF), or any other professional-level events within the last 24 months prior to the Event, or are registered to compete in any such events in the current year, are not eligible to compete. This restriction applies regardless of the entry fee amount.

 Note: Co-anglers (also referred to as "co's") who have competed in the B.A.S.S. Opens or Toyota Series (MLF) are not considered professionals and remain eligible to compete in the YETI Open unless their co-angler entry fee exceeded $1,500.00 per tournament. Participation on the Pro Side of the BFL (Bass Fishing League) is also not included under this restriction and are not considered professionals for our purposes.

C. Major Professional League Restriction:

Anglers who have competed professionally in the Bassmaster Classic, B.A.S.S. Elite Series, Forrest Wood Cup, Former FLW Tour, Major League Fishing Bass Pro Tour, Tackle Warehouse Series/Invitational, General Tire Team Series, or the National Professional Fishing League (NPFL) within the last five (5) years.

D. Career Earnings Restriction:

Anglers who have professional career fishing tournament earnings in the aggregate in excess of $250,000.00 with B.A.S.S., Big 5, FLW, MLF/BPT, the National Professional Fishing League (NPFL), the former PAA, or any other tournament organization are not eligible to compete.

 

E.         Anglers who are currently under a fishing Prostaff sponsorship agreement with YETI, this includes both paid or in-kind (product) sponsorships.

 

2.08     Any Participant desiring to inquire regarding the professional status of another Participant, must do so in accordance with the Protests and Dispute Article of these Rules.
 

3.01     Each participant shall pay an entry fee of $275 for a three-day entry, $175 for a two-day entry or $125.00 for a one-day entry, plus the processing fee. (hereinafter “Entry Fee”) per angler to participate in the Event.   We accept all major forms of credit card payments. If you need assistance by phone, it will be available. 
 

The Entry Fee shall be paid (in full) prior to participation in the Event. If you've signed up for a one-day or two-day entry and you want to add an additional day, you must do so on or before the first day of the Event. If you add it after the Event starts, you will have to pay the full daily entry fee. You must contact us for the special code to make the entry adjustment at info@yetiopen.com

3.02      Registration to fish all three days closes on Thursday, September 24th, at 9 pm CST.  You may register on Friday until 9 pm to fish on Saturday and Sunday.  You may register until 6 pm on Saturday to fish on Sunday.  You may also register in person at Long Creek on Thursday September 24th between 4 pm and 7 pm CST.  There will be no morning or late registration on any days of the Event.
 

3.03      Entry Fees are non-refundable except if an Event is permanently canceled without a rescheduled date. If an Event must be postponed or rescheduled due to floods, droughts, closures, force majeure, or other circumstances beyond the control of the Event Organizer, all entries will automatically transfer to the rescheduled date. Participants unable to attend a rescheduled Event may transfer their Entry Fee one time to another future Event. Requests for transfer must be submitted prior to the rescheduled Event start date. Subsequent withdrawals or no-shows will result in forfeiture of the Entry Fee. As a one-time courtesy, the Event Organizer permits substitution of another angler, subject to prior approval. The original registrant must submit a written request including the substitute angler’s full name and contact information. Both parties are responsible for ensuring compliance with all Rules. Transfers and substitutions expire twelve (12) months after original registration unless used. Participation by a substitute angler constitutes acceptance of these Rules and binds both the original registrant and substitute jointly and severally for any violations or damages arising from participation. No partial refunds or prorations are permitted under any circumstances. All entry transfers and substitutions are discretionary privileges, not rights, and may be denied at the Event Organizer’s sole and exclusive discretion.
 

3.04     If the Participant registered online and qualified to receive a Prize Package (please check Event details), you may pick up the Prize Package on Thursday September 24th between 4 pm and 7 pm at Long Creek Marina.
 

3.05     Payment of the Entry Fee constitutes a representation by each Participant that he/she has read and understands the Rules and the Participant will abide by such Rules and the decisions of the Event Director and/or Event Staff.
 

3.06    Chemical substance addiction or abuse, conviction of a felony or other crimes including those involving moral turpitude, or other conduct reflecting unfavorably upon efforts to promote safety, sportsmanship, fair competition and compliance with Event Rules, shall be grounds for rejecting any application for registration and/or for disqualification, suspension from the Event, and/or other disciplinary action.
 

4.01     Participants agree to abide by the Rules and any decisions of the Event Director and/or Event Staff.
 

4.02     Interpretation and enforcement of the Rules shall be left to the sole and exclusive discretion of the Event Director and/or his/her designee at the Event.  In the event a Participant(s) violates any rule set forth in the Rules or, at the discretion of the Event Director, other rule not specifically codified herein, the Event Director may impose a penalty and/or sanction on the Participant (including but not limited to any other participant competing from the same boat).  Such penalties and sanctions may include disqualification from the Event and future events. Penalties and sanctions for violation of any rule set forth in the Rules or, at the discretion of the Event Director, other rule not specifically codified herein may include, but are not limited to, 1) reduction of competition hours; 2) loss of one or more fish; 3) loss of catch for an hour or the day; 4) disqualification from the Event; 5) disqualification from future events which may include a specific number of events, a specific time period, or a lifetime disqualification; 6) loss of Entry Fee; 7) forfeiture of Event winnings and/or prizes; and 8) any other penalty determined by the Event Director or his/her designee and/or the Event Staff.
 

4.03     Each Participant agrees to report to the Event Director immediately any violation or infraction of the Rules.  Failure to report violations, suggestions that another Participant violated these Rules, or false verification of documents, may result in penalties or sanctions including and up to disqualification from the current Event and future Events. 
 

5.01     Participants are aware he/she/they are participating in a physical activity in the sport of fishing that may be dangerous and can cause injury.  These activities may involve severe cardiovascular stress and possible violent contact.  Participants understand and acknowledge the activities involve certain risks including, but not limited to, death, serious neck and spinal injuries resulting in complete or partial paralysis, brain damage, and/or serious injury to virtually all bones, joints, muscles and internal organs, and property damage. Although particular Rules, equipment, and personal discipline may reduce the risks associated with participating in the Event, the risk of serious injury does exist and cannot be completely eliminated.  
  

5.02     During Event hours no alcoholic beverages or drugs (other than those purchased over the counter or prescribed by a licensed physician) are to be consumed by Participants or allowed in Participants’ boat until the final hourly weigh-in is complete and/or polygraph examinations are complete.
  

5.03     All boats must be equipped with some type of emergency ignition cut-off device (kill switch) on any remote steered outboard while main engine is in use. Ignition cut-off device (kill switch) must operate properly, which means when the kill switch is activated the outboard main engine must stop running immediately. The ignition cut-off device (kill switch) must be attached to the boat operator at all times while the outboard main engine is in use.
 

5.04     U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets are required for each person on board a boat during competition. Life jackets must be worn and strapped, snapped, or zippered securely, and maintained in that condition until the combustion engine is out of gear or shut off.  Participants shall check inflatable life vest indicators daily during the Event.  
 

5.05     If Participants observe any significant hazard, condition or activity during his/her presence or participation in the Event, Participant reserves the right to remove himself/herself from participation and bring it to the attention of a representative of the Event immediately.
  

5.06     Safe boat conduct must be observed at all times by Participants. Prior to the official start of competition, Participants may launch and motor to their desired locations. Pre-competition vessel operation shall be conducted in a safe and responsible manner and in full compliance with all applicable laws and Tournament Rules. The Tournament Director retains sole discretion to require idle-only speed or impose other operational restrictions prior to the official “First Cast” notification when, in the Director’s judgment, environmental, navigational, traffic, visibility, or other safety-related conditions warrant such restrictions. Any such restriction may apply to the entire field, designated areas, or specific time periods and will be communicated through official Tournament channels.

Each Participant is solely responsible for adhering to these requirements and for the safe operation of their vessel in all conditions, regardless of Tournament instructions or lack thereof. Any activity or vessel operation that occurs before the official start of competition is undertaken entirely at the Participant’s own risk and is outside the scope of Tournament responsibility. Awareness by Tournament Officials of unsafe operation shall not create any duty or obligation to intervene. The Tournament may provide general guidance concerning safe operation but is under no obligation to monitor, control, or enforce the operation of any vessel. Compliance with these requirements is a condition of participation only and does not constitute supervision or assumption of risk by the Tournament. Each Participant expressly assumes all risk associated with vessel operation and navigation. 

The Tournament Director’s determinations regarding safe-boating conditions may be made at any time prior to or during the Event and shall be final. 

These requirements govern operational conduct only. For additional participant responsibilities and acknowledgment of risk, see Section 14.
 

5.07     No boat shall have a motor of higher horsepower than approved by the U.S. Coast Guard and/or the lake authority.
 

5.08     No firearms will be allowed in Participant’s boat during Event hours, unless you have an active licensed concealed carry permit or are a credentialed law enforcement officer.  Currently firearms are NOT allowed (even with concealed carry permit) on Corp of Engineers Lakes. It is the participants responsibility to follow all local, State and Federal laws applicable as referenced in Rule 1:03-04.
 

5.09     In the event of significant weather conditions during competition, the Event Director will advise via text message regarding any change, delay, suspension and/or cancellation of one or more hours or day(s). In such event, the total daily payouts will be allocated against all completed hours of competition and paid places for the day(s). In the event of an entire day cancellation, the payouts for that day will be evenly distributed against all completed hours of the event. No refunds will be provided in any of these scenarios. See Rule 3.03.

5.10     In the event of fog, low light, or other conditions that create reduced visibility or unsafe navigation, the Tournament Director may issue real-time instructions including, but not limited to, idle-only operation, mandatory trailering, or delayed competition start times. Such determinations may be made before or during the Event and shall be final.

All Participants must comply immediately with such instructions once issued, regardless of the time or method of communication. Failure to receive or acknowledge an advisory does not exempt any Participant from compliance. Each Participant remains solely responsible for the operation and safety of their vessel and for exercising sound judgment at all times, irrespective of Tournament advisories or directives. Compliance with any Tournament directive is a condition of participation only and does not constitute supervision or assumption of risk by the Tournament.
 

6.01     All fishing areas must consist of water that is naturally and continuously connected by a navigable waterway to the official designated Event waters and accessible by boat from the main body of water under normal, reasonably navigable conditions. Participants may not access or fish in any area separated by land, levees, dikes, or other natural or man-made barriers, nor may they jump, cross, or traverse such obstacles to enter an area. 

The use of specialized equipment or vessel modifications, including but not limited to jet-drive engines, airboats, or any equipment primarily designed to access otherwise inaccessible areas, is prohibited. Trailering is permitted only to locations within the official Event waters that remain connected to the main body of water under normal conditions. 

The Tournament Director may, at his or her discretion, declare specific areas off-limits at any time based on water levels, obstructions, or other environmental factors. Such determinations may be made before or during the Event and shall be final. The Tournament does not inspect or verify accessibility of water or navigation paths; compliance with these access requirements is the sole responsibility of each Participant. Participation in the Event constitutes acknowledgment and acceptance of all such determinations. 

6.02 - The Event off-limits time begins at 7 pm on Thursday September 24th. Participants must be off the water on or before 7:00 p.m. on the day prior to the Event and may not begin fishing until the official Event start time on the following day, which will be announced via text message the morning of the Event. The Event Lake is off-limits to fishing after 3:00 p.m. on each day of the Event. ALL participants must follow the off-limits rules for the previous day(s), even if you're not fishing all days of the event. Participants may return to their respective launch site by boat but are not allowed to fish or use electronics and/or other devices (including lights) or attempt to locate or mark, for the purposes of finding fish, after the off-limits time.
 

6.03     Launch Sites and Pre-Start Conduct

There is no formal launch site for the Event. Participants may leave from any launch site on the Event day at any time. Participants may not begin casting and are not allowed to fish or use electronics or other devices, including spotlights, underwater lights, or other illumination intended to locate or attract fish, until the Event has officially started. Official start times will be determined by the Event Director and Participants will be notified when to commence fishing via text message the morning of the Event. (In the event the Participant does not receive the official text message, the Participant may commence fishing at the official start time as verified by the official time of the Event as kept by the Event Director or his/her designee.)

Each Participant is responsible for complying with these requirements and ensuring that their activities conform to Tournament Rules. Tournament Officials may review reports or observations to confirm compliance but are not required to actively supervise or patrol launch sites. Awareness by Tournament Officials of any pre-start activity shall not constitute assumption of responsibility or liability.

Safe boat conduct must be observed at all times by Participants. Prior to the official start of competition, Participants may launch and motor to their desired locations. Pre-competition vessel operation shall be conducted in a safe and responsible manner and in full compliance with all applicable laws and Tournament Rules. The Tournament Director retains sole discretion to require idle-only speed or impose other operational restrictions prior to the official “First Cast” notification when, in the Director’s judgment, environmental, navigational, traffic, visibility, or other safety-related conditions warrant such restrictions. Any such restriction may apply to the entire field, designated areas, or specific time periods and will be communicated through official Tournament channels.

6.04     No fishing shall occur within fifty (50) yards of a marina gas pump.
  

6.05     No one may leave his or her boat to fish or land a fish.
  

6.06     Participants are limited to use of a primary motorized boat only with a fully operational livewell. No personal water craft, canoes, kayaks, rafts, or flotation apparatuses.
 

6.07     No fishing is allowed within twenty-five (25) yards of a non-anchored boat or fifty (50) yards of an anchored boat without that boat's permission.
 

6.08     Participants may not collude to buy, barter, block or hold a fishing location for any other Participants or non-participants for use during any Event day or during off-limits prior to start. This includes Participants or non-participants attempting to block access to Event water and/or a specific location or otherwise impede another Participants ability to compete. 
  

6.09     Participants must be in line at the bump tanks and "declared" before the end of the respective hour for their fish weight to be tallied and counted in the results of the Event.
 

6.10     From time to time, the immediate areas where the Event “live releases” fish daily may be made off-limits to fishing and Participants.  
 

7.01     All bass must be caught on artificial bait by casting only, no foul hooking of bedding fish. A foul hooked “bedding” fish is defined as a fish that does not have at least one hook in its mouth, and it must be released. Trolling as a method of fishing is prohibited. “Long-Lining” and/or “Strolling” (use of trolling motor or outboard motor to mechanically extend a cast) is NOT allowed. Participants may use only one rod at any one time. Other rods may be in the boat for substitute purposes.
 

7.02     Prohibited Electronic Devices. No electronic tracking devices (such as implanted microchips, GPS fish trackers, or other external tracking systems) may be used to locate fish for Event purposes. Devices that record, transmit, or share positional or sonar data between boats in real time are likewise prohibited. Forward-Facing Sonar (FFS), depth finders, sound-mimicking devices (e.g., Hydrowave), and graph charts are permitted only if operated in accordance with Rules 7.04 and 7.05 and all applicable laws. The Tournament reserves the right to amend or restrict use of emerging electronic technology at any time before or during the Event. 
 

7.03     Alabama (Umbrella) rigs are permissible and it is the responsibility of the Participant to abide by all local, state, and federal Rules for the Event lake(s).

7.04    Single Real-Time Sonar Transducer Per Boat. Only one real-time sonar transducer (such as Humminbird MEGA Live, Garmin LiveScope, or Lowrance ActiveTarget) may be in operation on a boat at any given time, regardless of the number of Participants. “In operation” means powered on and capable of transmitting or receiving sonar data. The transducer may be switched between modes or devices, but no more than one real-time transducer may be active simultaneously. Any backup or secondary units must remain powered off while the primary is in use. The Tournament Director or designee may inspect electronics to verify compliance at any time, and refusal of inspection constitutes grounds for disqualification. 

7.05    Collaboration Restriction on FFS Use. Participants may not collaborate with other boats in using Forward-Facing Sonar (FFS) to track or locate fish in the same area. This includes sharing live or recorded FFS data, coordinating to monitor, corral, or target the same individual fish or group of fish, or acting on another Participant’s real-time sonar information. The Tournament Director will determine whether conduct constitutes prohibited collaboration based on available evidence, including witness statements, electronic inspection, or observable behavior. Such determinations are final.

8.01     Sportsmanship, courtesy, safety and bass conservation are required from every Participant. Participants shall demonstrate professionalism and integrity in support of the sport of fishing. This includes any and all social media content that may be shared now or in the future and conduct at events operated by other event organizers and competitions. Any Participant found compromising the integrity of the sport of fishing and/or the Event may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including disqualification in the sole and absolute discretion of the Event Director. 
 

8.02     The favorable public reputation of the Event, the sport of fishing, the Event Director, the Event Staff, sponsors, partners and officials is of paramount importance. Accordingly, Participants shall refrain from making unreasonable attacks, accusations, and comments that disparage the integrity of the Event, the sport of fishing, the Event Director, the Event Staff, sponsors, partners and officials. This includes but is not limited to the Participants social media accounts and digital sites.
 

8.03     Participants shall act in a courteous manner at all times, especially with regard to boating and angling in the vicinity of non-participants who may be on Event waters.  Participants shall not use profanity in the direction of or to other Participants, non-participants, Event Director, and/or Event Staff. 
 

8.04     Any Participants attempting to manipulate the outcome of the Event or defraud the Event Organizer will be disqualified and may be subject to prosecution, as applicable. 

8.05     Participants shall not provide inaccurate, false, or misleading information to the Event Organizer, Event Director, and/or Event Staff.  Participants must provide requested information to Event Organizer, Event Director, and/or Event Staff as requested and shall not withhold information requested. 
 

9.01     All bass weighed-in will be released back into the lake alive, if possible by the Event Staff and/or fish care team. 
  

9.02     Trailering a bass to a weigh-in site during Event hours is permissible at all times and may be required by the Event Director based on adverse weather conditions. If trailering becomes mandatory, anglers will be notified via text message. Any Participant, whether trailering or not, shall be required to bring their boat and respective partner or partners, if any, with them to the official weigh-in site for a boat inspection when weighing bass in any respective hour. 
 

9.03     Hourly weigh-ins are held each day at 8:00-9:00a.m., 9:00-10:00 a.m., 10:00-11:00 a.m., 11:00 am -12:00 p.m., 12:00-1:00 p.m., 1:00-2:00 p.m, 2:00-3:00 p.m.

 

9.04     For reasons of conservation, all bass brought to the official weigh-in station must be in a weigh bag with adequate water. Anglers must bring their own weigh bags. Bass must be alive to be weighed-in. 

9.05     No Participant may weigh more than one (1) bass per official Event hour or a total of five (5) bass per day. Bass entered as a part of big bass of the hour does not carry forward from hour to hour. Participant’s biggest bass is registered into the final overall standings. Anglers must use their own weigh bag or purchase one of our bass sacks in advance or at the event.
 

9.06     Bass must be weighed-in by the Participant who originally caught the bass and it must be in said Participant's actual physical possession in the weigh-in line. (The only exception to this rule would be if one of the tournament participants is disabled, in this case we will allow another Participant to bring the fish to the scales for the disabled angler.)
 

9.07     Any artificially weighted bass will be disqualified and the Participants may be subject to prosecution and shall be disqualified from all future Event Organizer events. Any questionable fish may be subject to inspection by a marine biologist or similarly qualified expert. 
 

9.08     Only largemouth, smallmouth and Kentucky spotted bass will be weighed-in. Specific lake minimums and/or slot requirements must be followed and it is the responsibility of the Participant to abide by all local, state, and federal Rules for the Event lake.
 

9.09     No Participant may have more than three (3) bass (per Participant) in his/her possession at any time during official Event hours. When the Event officially concludes each day, all bass not weighed in shall be released back into the water and are not allowed to carry over to another day.

9.10     In the event of a tie for the overall big bass, the winner will be the Participant that weighed-in his/her fish first. 
 

9.11     Every effort must be made to keep bass alive including proper livewell aeration, treatment and temperature management. You may not weigh a dead fish.
 

9.12     Any alteration of length or weight of bass is prohibited and the Participant will be banned from any future Event Organizer events and may be subject to prosecution. 
 

10.01   Participant’s entry into an Event via mail, facsimile, online or onsite represents your express consent to receive email, phone, and text message communication from the Event Organizer and any of its successors, directors, members, officers, agents, contractors, affiliates, employees, sponsoring agencies, sponsors, and/or advertisers before, during, and after an Event. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Unless previously opted out, participants will remain in the Event Organizer database after an Event and understand and acknowledge that they will receive ongoing communication. To initiate communication with the YETI Open via text, you may text us at 281-656-5001 and we will communicate with you via text and answer any questions you may have. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply.

In order to discontinue communications, it is Participant’s responsibility to notify the Event Organizer in writing to opt out of the the YETI Open’s mail, email, text message, and other databases. You may opt out of certain communications directly in the communication itself. To opt out of marketing communications, click the “unsubscribe” link at the bottom of any marketing email.  Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions
 

10.02   Text message updates and Event communication is an added value service provided by the Event.  The Event and the Event Staff can NOT guarantee delivery of any text messages or communications. It is the Participant’s responsibility to manually enter themselves into the text system. Some carriers/providers block text messaging services and it is the Participant’s sole responsibility to check with his/her respective provider to determine text delivery services.  If Participant is unable to receive text messages, please contact your provider prior to the Event or you may utilize the Event Organizer live leaderboard. If you have ever opted out of our text system we can NOT put you back into our system and you will NOT receive text updates unless YOU put yourself back into the system with the keyword. If you have opted out previously some carriers will NOT allow you to re-enter yourself into the system and you will have to use the Live Leaderboard link on the website.
 

10.03   Cell phones and other communication devices may NOT be used for the purposes of locating or finding fish and/or communicating with other Participants or Non-Participants regarding such.
 

11.01   Participant agrees to submit for a third-party administered polygraph examination and agrees to provide truthful and honest responses as to be determined by the third-party polygraph examiner. 
 

11.02   Refusing to take a polygraph examination for any reason will result in immediate disqualification.
 

11.03   Any Participant taking medication should notify the polygraph examiner prior to examination.
 

11.04   Any Participant determined by the polygraph examination and/or other Event Officials to be intoxicated and/or under the influence of any type of illegal drug(s) at the time said Participant is required to take the polygraph examination or in violation of the Rules, will be disqualified from this Event and all future Event Organizer events.
 

11.05   Participants acknowledge and agree that Event may disclose the results of the polygraph exam.  Whether disclosure occurs is at the sole discretion of the Event Organizer.
 

11.06   By his/her signature on the Event entry form and/or other required documents or entering the Event online, each Participant agrees to submit for a third-party administered polygraph examination. Each Participant shall abide by the conclusion reached by the third-party administrator administering the polygraph examination and, specifically, whether the Participant provided honest and truthful responses. Participants must successfully pass the polygraph examination.  If a Participant is unable to pass a polygraph examination, as exclusively determined by a third-party polygraph examiner, Participant and his/her team or other occupants or participants competing with or along with Participant shall be disqualified and removed from the Event and may be disqualified from participating in future Events. 
 

11.07   At the sole discretion of the Event Director or his/her designee, random third-party administered polygraph examinations may be administered on site during the Event.
 

12.01   All Participants, by entering this Event, hereby agree to allow their boat to be boarded and inspected by Event Officials at any time prior to, during, or following the Event, to include, but not limited to, their boat registration, U.S. Coast Guard horsepower rating plate, live-well, rod boxes, closed storage compartments, tackle boxes, life jackets, personal floatation devices, and safety equipment.
 

12.02   The Event cooperates with local law enforcement, park rangers and fish/wildlife officers during the Event. If any Participant is found to be in violation of local, State or federal law during Event hours, he/she/they will immediately be disqualified and unable to compete in future tournaments.
 

13.01   All protests or disputes relating to any matter involving the Rules and/or the Event must be registered in writing with the Event Director within fifteen (15) minutes of the designated weigh-in and prior to delivery of any prizes or winnings. Protests made after the deadline will be disregarded and the protesting Participant may be subject to disqualification. Failed polygraph examinations are non-disputable and the results are final.

13.02    To maintain tournament integrity, all protests must be supported by verifiable evidence. Participants must provide credible proof (e.g., photos, video, witness statements) at the time of filing a protest. Unsupported claims may be deemed invalid. Repetitive filing of unsubstantiated claims may result in penalties, including suspension or disqualification. 

13.03    Any protest will be reviewed by a committee of Event Staff as determined by the Event Director. After review, the Event Director shall inform the protesting Participant of the committee’s decision. The decision is final and binding. 

13.04    Interpretation and enforcement of the Rules shall remain the sole and exclusive responsibility of the Event Director and, when applicable, the Event Staff committee.

Article XIV: Supplemental Provisions – Additional Participant Responsibilities and Clarifications

14.01 All participants are solely responsible for the safe operation of their vessels at all times. Participation in this tournament is voluntary, and each angler assumes full responsibility for complying with all applicable local, state, and federal boating laws and safety regulations. Tournament participation does not alter or supersede an angler’s legal obligations as an independent vessel operator. By participating in the tournament, each participant acknowledges that they are personally responsible for: • Maintaining a safe speed. • Keeping a proper lookout. • Navigating their boat according to prevailing weather, visibility, and water conditions. Each participant must comply with all laws regarding reckless and careless operation of a vessel, including adjusting speed and behavior based on environmental factors such as fog, wind, and congestion. The YETI Open assumes no responsibility for the conduct of participants on the water. Each angler is an independent vessel operator under applicable boating laws and assumes full legal responsibility for their own actions and decisions while navigating the water. See also Rule 5.06 regarding safe-boating conduct during tournament operation. 

14.02 Each participant is responsible for determining whether they can safely launch, navigate, and operate their vessel based on weather conditions, visibility, and other factors affecting safe boating. Environmental conditions such as fog, rain, or wind do not modify an angler’s duty to operate their vessel safely. The YETI Open does not mandate or enforce weather-related delays; participants must use their best judgment in deciding when, where, and how to operate their boats. In the event of extreme weather, the YETI Open may issue advisories or suspensions, but these do not relieve individual participants of their duty to assess and react to conditions independently. Any angler who proceeds onto the water does so at their own risk, assuming full responsibility for their safety, vessel, and actions. Nothing in this section limits the Tournament Director’s authority under Rule 5.10 to issue real-time safety directives or temporary restrictions. 

14.03 The YETI Open does not conduct a formal launch requiring participants to take off from a single location at a specific time. Participants may launch at any time after 12:00 AM and navigate freely, provided they do not begin fishing until the designated "First Cast" time announced by tournament officials via SMS notification. Participants may be on the water before the first cast, but no fishing is permitted before the official start time. The YETI Open allows trailering to the weigh-in at all times during the event. Anglers may load their boat onto a trailer and drive to the weigh-in location instead of boating there. This rule is a critical safety provision that allows anglers to avoid hazardous water conditions, mechanical failures, or other risks that may arise while navigating to weigh-in sites. The decision to trailer is at the discretion of each participant. The tournament does not require anglers to weigh in each hour. Participation in hourly weigh-ins is entirely optional, and participants must decide when and how they travel to weigh-in locations, whether by boat or trailer. The YETI Open does not direct vessel movement before, during, or after weigh-ins, and participants are solely responsible for their safe transit to and from weigh-in locations. 

14.04 Participants may use their boat’s electronics (including GPS, sonar, and mapping systems) for navigation purposes only prior to the official start of fishing. However, participants are strictly prohibited from using electronics to scan, locate, or mark fish before the designated "First Cast" time. Any angler found to be using electronics to identify or target fish before the start time will be subject to penalties, including disqualification. This rule ensures fair competition and prevents any advantage gained through the early use of technology. 

14.05 By participating in this event, anglers acknowledge and accept the inherent risks associated with boating, fishing, and tournament competition, including but not limited to: • Collisions with other vessels, docks, debris, or submerged objects. • Adverse weather conditions, including fog, high winds, or limited visibility. • Mechanical failures, capsizing, falling overboard, or other boating-related hazards. • Injury due to wave action, wake impact, or rough water conditions. The YETI Open assumes no responsibility for injuries, accidents, or property damage resulting from participant actions, environmental conditions, or third-party conduct. Participation in the event constitutes acceptance of these terms, and anglers agree not to hold the YETI Open, its officers, sponsors, directors, or affiliates liable for any incidents occurring before, during, or after tournament activities. 

14.06 Participants, their families, and any related parties agree to refrain from making false or misleading public statements, including on social media or other platforms, that negatively impact the YETI Open’s reputation or operations. Any participant, family member, or associate who knowingly spreads false or defamatory statements about the tournament, its officials, or its policies may be subject to disqualification and legal action. If a legal claim against the YETI Open is determined to be frivolous, meritless, or in bad faith, the YETI Open reserves the right to pursue recovery of attorney’s fees and costs against the claimant under applicable laws. 

14.07 All participants are required to comply with law-enforcement investigations, local and state wildlife-agency inquiries, and U.S. Coast Guard regulations. In the event of a boating accident, participants must immediately report the incident to the appropriate authorities in the jurisdiction where the event takes place and follow all accident-reporting requirements. Participants may be subject to investigation and enforcement for violations of state and federal boating laws, and the YETI Open will cooperate fully with authorities in such matters. Any angler found to have acted negligently or recklessly in violation of applicable laws may be subject to tournament disqualification and banned from future participation.

Article XV: Miscellaneous

 A. “Event” or “Events” shall mean any training, skill progression, competition, training, events, fishing tournament, fishing contest, fishing competition, activities, including travel to and from any such competition, tournament, contest, or event hosted, operated, offered, or overseen by Trifecta Fishing, LLC.

 B. “Event Director” shall mean the individual(s) who oversees the overall management of any specific Event or Events.

 C. “Event Organizer” shall mean Trifecta Fishing, LLC.

 D. “Event Staff” shall mean the individual and entities, including host committees and volunteers, who provide support for any given Event.

 E. “Participant” or “Participants” shall mean any individual, entity, or trust who enters, attempts to enter, registers, attempts to register, participates, attempts to participate, competes, and/or attempts to compete in an Event. Any reference to Participant includes Participant’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s) in the event Participant is a minor.

 F. “Related Parties” shall mean any accompanying individuals, entities, trust, trustees, parties, personal representatives, heirs, spouses, guardians, executors, successors, assigns, administrators, next of kin, parents, legal guardians, and any other persons, entity, or trust acting or purporting to act on a Participant’s behalf.

 G. “Rules” shall mean these official rules and regulations of the the YETI Open as amended from time-to-time and located at https://yetiopen.com/rules.

 
A. PARTICIPANT, FOR HIMSELF/HERSELF AND THE RELATED PARTIES, UNDERSTANDS THAT THESE RULES INTENDED TO BE AS BROAD AND INCLUSIVE AS PERMITTED BY THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF TEXAS. ANY DISPUTE RELATING TO THESE RULES AND/OR THE EVENT SHALL BE SUBMITTED TO BINDING ARBITRATION CONDUCTED BY THE AMERICAN ARBITRATION ASSOCIATION AND ITS NATIONAL SPORTS PANEL UNDER THE AMERICAN ARBITRATION ASSOCIATION COMMERCIAL RULES. ANY SUCH DISPUTE SHALL BE SUBMITTED TO A SINGLE ARBITRATOR. PARTICIPANT FURTHER AGREES THAT THE VENUE OF ANY ARBITRATION, DISPUTE, OR CLAIM CONCERNING, ARISING UNDER, IN FURTHERANCE OF, PURSUANT TO, IN RELATION TO, OR ARISING OUT OF THESE RULES AND/OR THE EVENT SHALL BE IN TARRANT COUNTY, TEXAS AND SHALL BE CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF TEXAS.

B. IF ANY PARTICIPANT AND/OR RELATED PARTIES COMMENCE LITIGATION IN A STATE OR FEDERAL COURT IN VIOLATION OF THE TERMS OF THESE RULES, THE PARTICIPANT AND RELATED PARTIES SHALL BE ORDERED TO PAY AND SHALL REIMBURSE THE EVENT ORGANIZER FOR ALL ATTORNEYS’ FEES, COSTS, AND EXPENSES INCURRED IN SEEKING ABATEMENT, STAY, OR DISMISSAL OF SUCH LITIGATION AND ENFORCEMENT OF THE ARBITRATION PROVISIONS OF THESE RULES. SUCH PAYMENT AND REIMBURSEMENT SHALL BE MADE WITHIN TEN (10) DAYS OF ANY SUCH ORDER.

C. THESE RULES SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF TEXAS IN ALL RESPECTS, INCLUDING MATTERS OF CONSTRUCTION, INTERPRETATION, VALIDITY, AND ENFORCEMENT. IF ANY PROVISION OF THESE RULES IS PROHIBITED BY LAW, SUCH PROHIBITION SHALL NOT AFFECT THE VALIDITY OF THE REMAINING PROVISIONS OF THESE RULES. VENUE FOR ANY LITIGATION, DISPUTE, OR CLAIM CONCERNING, ARISING UNDER, PURSUANT TO, OR IN RELATION TO, OR ARISING OUT OF THIS AGREEMENT SHALL BE IN TARRANT COUNTY, TEXAS.

D. PARTICIPANT AND RELATED PARTIES HEREBY IRREVOCABLY WAIVE ANY AND ALL RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY LEGAL PROCEEDING ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO THESE RULES OR THE EVENTS.

E. IF MINOR(S) AND/OR OTHER RELATED PARTIES ATTEND THE EVENT WITH PARTICIPANT, PARTICIPANT IS DEEMED TO HAVE AGREED TO THESE ARBITRATION PROVISIONS ON BEHALF OF: (A) SUCH MINOR(S) AS THEIR PARENT OR LEGAL GUARDIAN OR AS THE AUTHORIZED AGENT OF THEIR PARENT OR GUARDIAN; AND/OR (B) OTHER RELATED PARTIES, AS THEIR AUTHORIZED AGENT. IF PARTICIPANT DOES NOT WISH TO OR IS NOT AUTHORIZED TO MAKE SUCH AGREEMENT ON BEHALF OF: (I) ANY MINOR, PARTICIPANT SHOULD IMMEDIATELY LEAVE THE EVENT WITH THOSE MINOR(S); AND/OR (II) ANY OTHER RELATED PARTIES, SUCH RELATED PARTIES SHOULD IMMEDIATELY LEAVE THE EVENT.

15.10 To the extent a Participant receives a monetary award or prize (whether monetary, merchandise, or goods) at an Event, the Participant shall be responsible for any and all taxes, including local, state, and federal taxes, and agrees to execute any and all documents necessary to confirm information necessary to pay appropriate taxes. 

PARTICIPANT HEREBY AGREES TO INDEMNIFY, DEFEND, AND HOLD HARMLESS EVENT ORGANIZER FROM AND AGAINST ANY AND ALL CLAIMS, LOSSES, COSTS, FINES, ASSESSMENTS, FEES, LIABILITIES, DAMAGES OR INJURIES SUFFERED BY EVENT ORGANIZER ARISING OUT OF ANY BREACH BY PARTICIPANT OF THIS SECTION, AND PARTICIPANT FURTHER AGREES TO INDEMNIFY THE EVENT ORGANIZER AND HOLD IT HARMLESS TO THE EXTENT ANY OBLIGATION IMPOSED ON EVENT ORGANIZER TO PAY WITHHOLDING TAXES OR SIMILAR ITEMS.

15.11 These Rules, together with the Participant Agreement, Waiver, and Release, constitute the entire and exclusive agreement between the Participant and the Event Organizer regarding participation in the Event and supersede any prior or contemporaneous oral or written statements, representations, or understandings, including those provided by Event Staff, contractors, or digital systems. In the event of any conflict between these Rules and any other communication or publication, these Rules shall control. 

15.12 If any provision of these Rules is held to be invalid or unenforceable, such determination shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining provisions, which shall continue in full force and effect.