Second-year pro Chad Grigsby from Maple Grove, Minn., has withdrawn from the Bassmaster Elite Series effective immediately.
“Competing on the Elite Series has been an awesome experience, and something I thoroughly enjoyed, Grigsby said. “After several difficult finishes and some self-reflection, I’ve decided to withdraw from the tour. It was a very difficult choice to make, but it’s the best decision for my family and I at this point in our lives.”
While you won’t see Grigsby fishing against the best in the world on the Elite Series at this point in his career, he still has plans to compete professionally and reevaluate his approach to the sport.
“I will continue to fish the Opens and hopefully re-qualify for the Elites down the road,” he said. “This is a very rewarding lifestyle, but it can be difficult at times. When the time comes to reconsider joining the tour, I want to be better prepared and have my priorities in order before taking the leap.”
Grigsby’s departure means at the Advanced Auto Parts Bassmaster Elite at St. Clair later this month, the field will have 108 anglers, and the cut will be top 50.