The Electronic Bass Anglers Society (EBASS) was established in response to recent developments within the realm of competitive bass fishing. The global competitive bass fishing community has never been more divided than it is today regarding the use of fishing electronics in tournaments.
In some major tournaments, the use of fishing electronics has been completely banned, while others permit their use only during certain portions of the event. Many competitive anglers have made significant investments in electronic fishing technologies. Recognizing the growing needs of a large segment of anglers and the strategic interests of major sponsors in the electronic fishing industry, EBASS has taken a pioneering role by organizing bass fishing tournaments where the use of fishing electronics is required.
Mind Sports South Africa (MSSA) is the officially recognized national governing body for mind sports within the Republic of South Africa. It is accredited by the South African government in accordance with the National Sport and Recreation Act (Act 110 of 1998, as amended), serving as the sole authority over the mind sports under its jurisdiction. MSSA is a founding member of the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) and maintains affiliations with various international federations.
The EBASS has been formally affiliated with MSSA and will operate within the federation’s Phygital Sports Discipline. This discipline encompasses competitive sports activities in which participants engage physically, with their performance and interaction augmented through digital technologies.
A National EBASS Committee has been established to oversee the management and governance of the Society in accordance with the constitution of the Mind Sports South Africa (MSSA). Each affiliated league is entitled to appoint one representative to the National Committee. All decisions and resolutions are made through a fully democratic process, with each league representative allocated one vote for every five anglers they represent.
The Society is committed to upholding the principles of good corporate governance at all times.
EBASS is firmly committed to providing fair and equal opportunities for all competitive South African bass anglers to participate in the SA National Championships. Our mission is to ensure that every angler has access to a transparent and equitable pathway to earn national Protea Colours, based on merit and current performance.
We strongly oppose systems that impose prolonged and costly commitments—spanning five to eight years—that effectively exclude the majority of talented anglers. EBASS stands for accessibility and inclusivity, not financial gatekeeping.
Affiliation to EBASS is open to all clubs, trails, and leagues across South Africa, provided that each has a minimum of four (4) participating teams.
