Deb Wilkinson, January 24, 2008 Womens Bassmaster
Tour Blog.
Where are you going?
WBT Tournament Manager Deb Wilkinson
When I sit down and try to prepare for questions which
might be asked either at a briefing, a tournament or in a simple face to face conversation, I can guarantee you that in those
situations there is one question that will not be asked.
That question is: How does a woman angler go to the restroom during a competition day?
I have been asked this question in e-mails and once in a great while over the phone, but never in person. Knowing that
if one person has this question milling around in his or her head there had to be more, and never being one to avoid a subject
simply because it was taboo I decided to address it.
Ready? Here we go.
Let's start with the rules. WBT Rule 14: Competitors Must Remain in the Boat, states: "In the event of a needed restroom
break, contestants are allowed to leave the boat, at which time all fishing must cease until partners are back together in
the boat."
Hopefully, during practice either you or your fishing partner identified some possible rest areas strategically located
around the tournament waters. If no modern conveniences are available and you have to make like a bear, here are some points
to ponder.
Choose a place that isn't too far from your fishing partner but provides some privacy. I try to pick a spot that either
has a tall bush or something else to hold onto which also gives me a way to keep my balance. Remember that feces should be
buried at least 200 feet from any water source and at least 6 inches deep in the soil. To do this, use a stick to dig a hole
and cover with dirt, leaves or whatever brush or debris is handy. Liquid waste should also be disposed of at least 200 feet
from a water source because it can contaminate water and affect wildlife.
Always pack out any non biodegradable toilet paper and sundries. A resealable plastic bag works perfectly for this task.
You want to be both eco friendly and courteous, leaving behind no surprises for those who may have scoped out your same spot.
Remember while you are out there that you are at the bottom of the food chain. If you hurriedly choose a spot which has
already been claimed by spiders, snakes or ants, you might become the missing link in that chain!
Imagine that you are together again in the boat with your fishing partner and you can once again begin fishing. Unfortunately,
your partner had to have that second cup of coffee this morning and did not take the opportunity to "go" while you were at
the bank. You are in the middle of the lake where several other competitors and locals are fishing — maybe there are
even some fans watching — and your partner has to go now! What will you do?
Throwing your fishing partner overboard is not an option. That would definitely be unsportsmanlike behavior. Luckily, the
old "coffee can poncho trick" may be your solution.
If your needed privacy is questionable, simply move as far as conveniently possible away from any other parties. Then slip
on a rain poncho and do your business in a large resealable can, like a coffee can. This method is simple, but effective.
As the WBT continues to gain popularity and more people start to follow our anglers' careers on the water, it is situations
like this that you will need to think through so you will be better prepared and present yourself as a professional.
Well, I need to go now.
No, not like that! I need to go put some final touches on plans for the 2007 WBT Championship.
Tight Lines! Deb
