Keith Poche Statement Regarding Lake Toho Incident

Keith Poche at the 2012 Bassmaster Classic – photo by Dan O’Sullivvan

The following is an official statement from Keith Poche regarding the Lake Toho Southern Open incident involving Ish Monroe that occurred Friday, January 16, 2015.

First, I would like to apologize to everyone that has been affected by this unfortunate circumstance, including family, friends, fans, my co-anger, competitors, sponsors and BASS. I am fortunate to be a member of the professional fishing community and I am very disheartened that this incident took place.

To clarify my account of the incident, I regrettably misjudged the weather environment and how it would affect the momentum of my vessel. Once I bump into the competitor’s boat I realized immediately I made a mistake. I expressed my apologizes to the competitor for the situation I caused. The next reaction I had was to protect myself from harm as the competitor entered my vessel and I was being pushed toward the water. Once I regained my poise I proceeded to tournament officials as required by the tournament rules. I am thankful that I didn’t get seriously hurt from my competitors actions.

Once the incident was reported to the tournament director I was advised to proceed with contacting and reporting the incident to local authorities and receive medical attention. I want to be clear to everyone that I did not press charges against Mr. Monroe but only provided details of the incident.

The sport of bass fishing doesn’t need this type of media but we must follow the same protocol we would with similar circumstances that occur in everyday life.

Again, my deepest regrets this occurred and I express my apologies to everyone involved including Ish Monroe.

Sincerely,

Keith Poche