A B.A.S.S. communication official confirmed today that Bassmaster Elite Series angler Kyle Fox will not be eligible to compete at the season-ending Oneida Lake event next month and will be barred from Elite Series competition in 2013.

While the official would not elaborate on the reason for Fox’s ban, it is believed to be related to an on-the-water altercation he had with fellow competitor Chris Zaldain during day 2 of the Lake Michigan Elite Series last month.

According to sources, the two had a verbal exchange and the incident was brought to the attention of B.A.S.S. tournament officials by the marshals who witnessed the conversation. B.A.S.S. will not be issuing a statement regarding the incident or to clarify Fox’s ban from competition.

The day-2 cut will remain at 49 boats for Oneida.