B.A.S.S. officials confirm that Elite Series angler David Mullins underwent a standard credibility assessment administered via polygraph following the recent Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway event. He was randomly selected for one of the five screening exams performed at each Elite event, which is determined by finishing place ahead of the competition to eliminate the perception of any bias.
During his initial examination he was unable to pass. In accordance with B.A.S.S. rules and established protocols, Mullins exercised his right to appeal, which was granted. As part of that process, he completed a subsequent examination, with an independent Bassmaster-approved examiner, which he passed. This outcome affirms the effectiveness and integrity of the B.A.S.S. credibility assessment process, which is designed to ensure fairness while providing anglers with a clear path for appeal. All polygraph examinations are performed in accordance with the Bassmaster Credibility Assessment Policy, are subject to a Quality Control review by an independent examiner and can be appealed.
B.A.S.S. does not comment on the outcome of polygraph examinations until all results are reviewed and final. Anglers that choose to go public with preliminary results are bringing the spotlight on themselves. Failure to pass an initial exam does not necessarily mean there is foul play. This is the reason why B.A.S.S. designed a process that has independent checks built in throughout as well as the ability to appeal. As a matter of policy, B.A.S.S. only makes public statements when a disqualification occurs after the credibility assessment process is complete and final.
B.A.S.S. remains committed to upholding the highest standards of competitive integrity across all events.
