MIDDLE BAY OIL CO INC
S-4/A, 1998-07-14
OIL & GAS FIELD EXPLORATION SERVICES
Previous: ESENJAY EXPLORATION INC, 8-A12B/A, 1998-07-14
Next: JEFFBANKS INC, 11-K, 1998-07-14



<PAGE>   1
   
     As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 14, 1998

                                                      Registration No. 333-57185
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    

                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

   
                               AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO
                                    FORM S-4
    

                             REGISTRATION STATEMENT
                                      under
                           THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933


                          MIDDLE BAY OIL COMPANY, INC.
             (Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

<TABLE>
<S>                                <C>                            <C>       
            Alabama                             1311                  63-1081013
(State or other jurisdiction       (Primary Standard Industrial    (I.R.S. Employer
of incorporation or organization)   Classification Code Number)   Identification No.)
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
<S>                                                                 <C>                      
             1221 Lamar Street, Suite 1020                                               JOHN J. BASSETT
                 Houston, Texas 77010                                   1221 Lamar Street, Suite 1020, Houston, TX 77010
                    (713) 759-6808                                                       (713) 759-6808
       (Address, including zip code, and telephone number,          (Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, 
including area code, of Registrant's principal executive offices)         including area code, of agent for service)
</TABLE>

       Copies to:         H. Grady Thrasher, III, Esq.
                       Thrasher, Whitley, Hampton & Morgan
                       Five Concourse Parkway, Suite 2150
                             Atlanta, Georgia 30328

Approximate date of commencement of public trading of securities: As soon as
practicable after the effective date of this Registration Statement and upon
consummation of the meeting of stockholders of Enex Resources Corporation
described herein.

If the securities being registered on this Form are being offered in connection
with the formation of a holding company and there is compliance with General
Instruction G, check the following box: / /

If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant
to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, please check the following box and list
the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective
registration statement for the same offering. / /

If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c) under
the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act
registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement
for the same offering. / /

   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
====================================================================================================================================
                                                           PROPOSED MAXIMUM           PROPOSED MAXIMUM              AMOUNT OF
    TITLE OF SECURITIES           AMOUNT TO BE              OFFERING PRICE                AGGREGATE               REGISTRATION
     TO BE REGISTERED              REGISTERED(1)               PER UNIT(1)             OFFERING PRICE(2)              FEE(2)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                              <C>                        <C>                        <C>                        <C>       
       Common Stock              900,000 shares               $   (2)                    $   (2)                   $ 1,232.40(3)
====================================================================================================================================
</TABLE>
    

(1) Based upon the estimated number of Shares of the Registrant issuable upon
    consummation of the Merger described herein.
(2) Estimated in accordance with Rule 457(f)(2), solely for the purpose of
    calculating the registration fee. The proposed maximum aggregate offering
    price is $4,177,635.
   
(3) Previously paid.
    


<PAGE>   2



The statements contained herein that are not historical facts are
forward-looking statements and therefore involve a number of risks and
uncertainties. The actual results of future events described in such forward-
looking statements in this Prospectus/Proxy Statement, including those regarding
Middle Bay's and Enex's financial results, levels of oil and gas production or
reserve calculations, capital expenditures and capital resource activities,
could differ materially from those estimated, anticipated or projected. Among
the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially are: general
economic conditions, competition, government regulations, fluctuations in oil
and natural gas prices and the factors set forth in "Risk Factors" below, as
well as the risks and uncertainties set forth from time to time in the other
public reports filed with the SEC and incorporated by reference herein.




<PAGE>   3


                          MIDDLE BAY OIL COMPANY, INC.

                              CROSS REFERENCE SHEET




<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
     ITEM
    NUMBER                            FORM S-4 CAPTION                                  PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS CAPTION
    ------                            ----------------                                  ----------------------------------
<S> <C>           <C>                                                              <C>
A. Information About the Transaction:

       1.         Forepart of the Registration Statement and Outside Front
                  Cover Page of Prospectus......................................   Outside Front; Cover Page of Proxy 
                                                                                   Statement/Prospectus

       2.         Inside Front and Outside Back Cover Pages of Proxy 
                  Statement/Prospectus..........................................   Inside Front and Outside Back Cover Pages
                                                                                   of Proxy Statement/Prospectus

       3.         Risk Factors, Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges and Other
                  Information...................................................   Summary; Risk Factors; Summary Selected
                                                                                   Financial Information; Certain Considerations

       4.         Terms of the Transaction......................................   Summary; The Merger

       5.         Pro Forma Financial Information...............................   Comparative Per-Share Data; Unaudited
                                                                                   Selected Pro Forma Financial Information

       6.         Material Contacts with the Company Being Acquired.............   Summary; The Merger; Recent Developments

       7.         Additional Information Required for Reoffering by Persons
                  and Parties Deemed to be Underwriters.........................   Not applicable

       8.         Interests of Named Experts and Counsel........................   Certain Relationships and Related Transactions

       9.         Disclosure of Commission Position on Indemnification for
                  Securities Act Liabilities....................................   Not applicable

B. Information About the Registrant:

      10.         Information with Respect to S-3 Registrants...................   Incorporation of Certain Information by
                                                                                   Reference; Business of Middle Bay

      11.         Incorporation of Certain Information by Reference.............   Incorporation of Certain Documents by
                                                                                   Reference

      12.         Information with Respect to S-2 or S-3 Registrants............   Incorporation of Certain Documents by
                                                                                   Reference; Business of Middle Bay

      13.         Incorporation of Certain Information by Reference.............   Not applicable

      14.         Information with Respect to Registrants Other Than S-3 or S-2 
                  Registrants...................................................   Not applicable
</TABLE>



<PAGE>   4

<TABLE>
<S> <C>           <C>                                                              <C>

C. Information About the Company Being Acquired:

      15.         Information with Respect to S-3 Companies.....................   Incorporation of Certain Information by
                                                                                   Reference; Business of Enex

      16.         Information with Respect to S-2 or S-3 Companies..............   Incorporation of Certain Information by
                                                                                   Reference; Business of Enex

      17.         Information with Respect to Companies Other Than S-2 or S-3 
                  Companies.....................................................   Not applicable

D. Voting and Management Information:

      18.         Information if Proxies, Consents or Authorizations are to be
                  Solicited.....................................................   Cover Page of Prospectus; Summary; Introduction; 
                                                                                   The Reorganization; Description of
                                                                                   Securities

      19.         Information if Proxies, Consents or Authorizations are not to
                  be Solicited or in an Exchange Offer..........................   Not applicable
</TABLE>



<PAGE>   5
                                TABLE OF CONTENTS


   
<TABLE>
<S>                                                                                                              <C>    
AVAILABLE INFORMATION............................................................................................

INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE..................................................................

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS.......................................................................................

SUMMARY ......................................................................................................... 1
         Comparative Per-Share Data.............................................................................. 7

RISK FACTORS..................................................................................................... 9
         Integration of Middle Bay and Enex...................................................................... 9
         Competition, Markets and Regulation..................................................................... 9
         Dependence on Key Personnel............................................................................. 9
         Middle Bay Acquisition Growth Strategy, Integration of Acquired Companies and
                  Impact of Industry Consolidation on Growth Strategy............................................10
         Financial Constraints...................................................................................10
         Potential Federal Income Tax Consequences...............................................................11

THE ENEX SPECIAL MEETING.........................................................................................11
         Time, Date and Place....................................................................................11
         Matters to be Considered at the Special Meeting.........................................................11
         Voting and Record Date..................................................................................11
         Proxies  ...............................................................................................12

THE MERGER.......................................................................................................13
         General  ...............................................................................................13
         Effects of the Merger...................................................................................13
         Procedures for Exchange of Certificates.................................................................14
         Background and Reasons for the Merger...................................................................15
         The Board's Approval of the Merger and Recommendation
                  Regarding the Merger...........................................................................16
         Interests of Certain Persons in the Merger..............................................................16
         NASDAQ Stock Market Listing.............................................................................17
         Potential Delisting of Enex Common Stock from NASDAQ Stock Market.......................................17
         Resale of Middle Bay Common Stock by Affiliates.........................................................17
         Material Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Merger..................................................18
         Regulatory Approvals....................................................................................19
         Accounting Treatment....................................................................................19
         Appraisal Rights........................................................................................20
</TABLE>
    
<PAGE>   6
   
<TABLE>
<S>                                                                                                              <C>    
THE MERGER AGREEMENT.............................................................................................21
         General  ...............................................................................................21
         Closing; Effective Time.................................................................................22
         Merger Consideration....................................................................................22
         Representations and Warranties..........................................................................23
         Conduct of Business of Enex Prior to the Effective Time.................................................23
         Acquisition Proposals...................................................................................24
         Conditions to Consummation of the Merger................................................................24
         Termination.............................................................................................25
         Amendments and Waivers..................................................................................25
         Expenses ...............................................................................................25

BUSINESS OF MIDDLE BAY...........................................................................................25
         Business Development....................................................................................25
         Business Strategy.......................................................................................29
         Acquisition Policy......................................................................................30
         Drilling Activities.....................................................................................30
         Acquisitions and Mergers................................................................................32
         Company Financing.......................................................................................33
         Competition, Markets and Regulation.....................................................................33
         Employees...............................................................................................34
         Real Estate Properties..................................................................................34
         Oil and Gas Properties..................................................................................34
         Louisiana Fee Mineral Acreage...........................................................................36
         Productive Wells and Acreage............................................................................37
         Production, Prices and Costs............................................................................37
         Drilling Activities.....................................................................................38
         Reserves ...............................................................................................39
         Legal Proceedings.......................................................................................40

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS..............................................................................................40

BUSINESS OF ENEX.................................................................................................41
         General  ...............................................................................................41
         Competition.............................................................................................42
         Marketing and Prices....................................................................................42
         Environmental and Conservation Regulation...............................................................42
         Recent Tax Laws.........................................................................................43
         Oil and Gas Properties..................................................................................43
         Property Acquisitions...................................................................................44
         Net Oil and Gas Production..............................................................................45
         Oil and Gas Reserves....................................................................................47
         Drilling Activities.....................................................................................47
         Current Activities......................................................................................48
         Offices  ...............................................................................................48
</TABLE>
    
<PAGE>   7
   
<TABLE>
<S>                                                                                                              <C>    
         Legal Proceedings.......................................................................................48

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA..........................................................................................49

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
         CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.....................................................................51
         Results of Operations...................................................................................51
         Fiscal 1997.............................................................................................51
         Fiscal 1996.............................................................................................54
         Three Months Ended March 31, 1997 and 1998..............................................................55
         Effects of Oil and Gas Price Fluctuations...............................................................57
         Seasonality.............................................................................................57
         Inflation and Changing Prices...........................................................................58
         Capital Resources and Liquidity -- Fiscal 1997 and Fiscal 1996..........................................58
         Three Months Ended March 31, 1997 and 1998..............................................................59
         General  ...............................................................................................62
         Capital Expenditures -- Fiscal 1997 and Fiscal 1996.....................................................62

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA..........................................................................................64

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
         CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.....................................................................65
         Liquidity and Capital Resources.........................................................................65
         Results of Operations...................................................................................66
         Future Outlook..........................................................................................68

PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS OF MIDDLE BAY.............................................................................69
         Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners.........................................................69
         Security Ownership of Management........................................................................71

PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS OF ENEX...................................................................................73
         Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners.........................................................73
         Security Ownership of Management........................................................................73

MANAGEMENT OF MIDDLE BAY.........................................................................................73
         Executive Officers and Directors........................................................................73
         Audit and Compensation Committees.......................................................................75
         Executive Compensation..................................................................................76
         Option Grants in Last Fiscal Year.......................................................................76
         Aggregated Option Exercises in Last Fiscal Year and
                  Option Value Table as of December 31, 1997.....................................................78
         Other Compensation Under Plans..........................................................................78
         Long-Term Incentive Plan ("LTIP") Awards Table..........................................................79
         Directors' Fees.........................................................................................79
         Employment Contracts and Termination of Employment......................................................79
</TABLE>
    
<PAGE>   8


<TABLE>
<S>                                                                                                              <C>    
         Certain Relationships and Related Transactions..........................................................79

MANAGEMENT OF ENEX...............................................................................................80
         Executive Officers and Directors........................................................................80
         Executive Compensation..................................................................................81

COMPARATIVE RIGHTS OF STOCKHOLDERS OF
         MIDDLE BAY AND ENEX.....................................................................................81
         Special Vote Required for Certain Combinations..........................................................81
         Vote Required for Corporate Transactions and Other Matters..............................................83
         Disposition of Assets...................................................................................83
         Calling of Special Meetings.............................................................................83
         Election of Directors...................................................................................84
         Quorum Requirements for Directors' Meetings.............................................................84
         Enex Common Stock Purchase Rights.......................................................................84

SELECTED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
         INFORMATION (UNAUDITED).................................................................................85

LEGAL MATTERS....................................................................................................86

EXPERTS  ........................................................................................................86

ENEX STOCKHOLDERS' PROPOSALS.....................................................................................86

AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER.............................................................................Appendix I

DELAWARE GENERAL CORPORATION LAW
         SECTION 262, APPRAISAL RIGHTS..................................................................Appendix II
</TABLE>



<PAGE>   9


PRELIMINARY COPY

                           ENEX RESOURCES CORPORATION
                          1221 LAMAR STREET, SUITE 1020
                              HOUSTON, TEXAS 77010
                                 (713) 759-6808


   
                   NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
                         To Be Held on August 14, 1998


         Notice is hereby given that a special meeting of the stockholders (the
"Special Meeting") of Enex Resources Corporation, a Delaware corporation
("Enex") will be held on August 14, 1998 at 10:00 a.m. Central Daylight Time at
1221 Lamar Street, Suite 1020, Houston, Texas, 77010, for the purpose of
considering and voting upon the following matters:

         1)       A proposal to approve and adopt an Agreement and Plan of
                  Merger dated as of June 17, 1998 (the "Merger Agreement")
                  between Enex and Middle Bay Oil Company, Inc., an Alabama
                  corporation ("Middle Bay"), pursuant to which, among other
                  things, Enex will be merged with and into Middle Bay (the
                  "Merger"), and each share (other than shares held by Middle
                  Bay or shares as to which appraisal rights have been perfected
                  and not withdrawn) of the common stock of Enex (the "Enex
                  Common Stock") will be converted into the right to receive
                  shares of common stock of Middle Bay in accordance with the
                  Merger Agreement.
    

         2)       Such other business as may properly come before the Special
                  Meeting and any postponements or adjournments thereof.

         Holders of record of Enex Common Stock at the close of business on June
30, 1998 (the "Record Date") are entitled to notice of and to vote at the
Special Meeting and any adjournment thereof.

         If the Merger Agreement proposed herein is approved by the holders of
Enex Common Stock at the Special Meeting and the Merger is effected by Enex and
Middle Bay, any stockholder of Enex who (i) delivers to Enex, before the taking
of the vote on the approval of the Merger Agreement, written notice of his
intent to demand payment for his shares if the Merger is effectuated, (ii) does
not vote his shares in favor of the Merger and (iii) otherwise complies with
Section 262 of the Delaware General Corporation Law ("Delaware Law") has or may
have the right to demand in writing from Middle Bay payment for such
stockholder's shares and an appraisal of the value thereof. Middle Bay and any
such stockholder shall in such case have the rights and duties and shall follow
the procedure set forth in Section 262 of Delaware Law regarding appraisal
rights.

         Please fill in the appropriate blanks, sign, date and return the
enclosed proxy card, whether or not you plan to attend the Special Meeting. If
you attend the meeting and wish to vote in person, you may do so by withdrawing
your proxy prior to voting at the Special Meeting. Proxies may be revoked by (i)
filing with the Secretary of Enex at or before the taking of the vote at the
Special Meeting a written notice of revocation bearing a later date than the
proxy, (ii) duly executing a later-dated proxy relating to the same shares and
delivering it to the Secretary of Enex before the taking of the vote at the
Special Meeting or (iii) attending the Special Meeting and voting in person
(although attendance at the Special Meeting will not in and of itself constitute
a revocation of a proxy).

                           By Order of the Board of Directors


                           John J. Bassett, President
<PAGE>   10



PRELIMINARY COPY

                                [Enex Letterhead]



To Our Stockholders:

   
         You are cordially invited to attend a special meeting of the
stockholders (the "Special Meeting") of Enex Resources Corporation ("Enex") to
be held on August 14, 1998 at 10:00 a.m. Central Daylight Time at 1221 Lamar
Street, Suite 1020, Houston, Texas 77010.

         At the Special Meeting, you will be asked to consider and vote upon a
proposal to approve an Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of June 17, 1998
(the "Merger Agreement") between Enex and Middle Bay Oil Company, Inc., an
Alabama corporation ("Middle Bay"), pursuant to which Enex will be merged with
and into Middle Bay (the "Merger"), and each share of common stock of Enex (the
"Enex Common Stock") (other than shares held by Middle Bay or shares as to which
appraisal rights have been perfected and not withdrawn), will be converted into
the right to receive that number of shares of common stock of Middle Bay (the
"Middle Bay Common Stock") which have a total market value of $15.00, computed
in accordance with the Merger Agreement. The Merger Agreement is described more
thoroughly in the attached Proxy Statement, which stockholders are urged to read
carefully.
    

         Your Board of Directors believes that the Merger is in the best
interests of Enex and its stockholders. Accordingly, your Board of Directors has
unanimously approved the Merger Agreement and recommends that holders of Enex
Common Stock vote FOR approval of the Merger Agreement.

         All stockholders are invited to attend the meeting in person. The
affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the issued and outstanding
shares of Enex Common Stock will be necessary for approval and adoption of the
Merger Agreement. Middle Bay currently owns approximately 79.2% of the issued
and outstanding Enex Common Stock and intends to vote such stock in favor of the
Merger. Accordingly, approval of the Merger Agreement by the stockholders is
assured.

         Even if you plan to attend the Special Meeting in person, please
complete, sign and promptly return the enclosed proxy in the enclosed postage
pre-paid envelope. If you attend the Special Meeting, you may vote in person
whether or not you have previously returned your proxy.

                                Sincerely,


                                John J. Bassett
                                Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer

   
July 17, 1998
    
<PAGE>   11
PRELIMINARY COPY
                          MIDDLE BAY OIL COMPANY, INC.
                                   PROSPECTUS

                           ENEX RESOURCES CORPORATION
                                 PROXY STATEMENT


   
         This Proxy Statement/Prospectus is being furnished to the holders as of
June 30, 1998 (the "Record Date") of common stock, $0.05 par value per share
(the "Enex Common Stock"), of Enex Resources Corporation, a Delaware corporation
("Enex"), in connection with the solicitation of proxies by Enex's Board of
Directors (the "Enex Board"), for use at a special meeting of stockholders of
Enex (the "Special Meeting") to be held on August 14, 1998 at 10:00 a.m. Central
Daylight Time at 1221 Lamar Street, Suite 1020, Houston, Texas 77010, and at any
postponements or adjournments thereof. This Proxy Statement/Prospectus and the
accompanying Proxy Card are first being mailed to stockholders of Enex on or
about July 20, 1998.

         At the Special Meeting, holders of Enex Common Stock will be asked to
consider and vote upon a proposal to approve an Agreement and Plan of Merger
dated as of June 17, 1998 (the "Merger Agreement") between Enex and Middle Bay
Oil Company, Inc., an Alabama corporation ("Middle Bay") pursuant to which Enex
will be merged with and into Middle Bay (the "Merger"). Each share of Enex
Common Stock (other than shares held by Middle Bay and shares as to which
appraisal rights have been perfected and not waived) will be converted into the
right to receive that number of shares of common stock, $0.02 par value per
share, of Middle Bay (the "Middle Bay Common Stock") which, when multiplied by
the average of the closing bid prices per share as quoted by NASDAQ for the five
trading days immediately preceding August 14, 1998, equals $15.00. The Merger is
described more thoroughly in this Proxy Statement/Prospectus and in the
documents attached hereto which stockholders are urged to read carefully. The
stockholders of Enex will also consider and vote upon such other matters as may
properly come before the Special Meeting and any postponements or adjournments
thereof.
    

         See "Risk Factors" on page 9 for a discussion of certain considerations
in evaluating the Merger.

   
         The Merger is not expected to qualify as tax free under present federal
income tax law. See "Material Income Tax Consequences of the Merger" on page 17.
    

         Under Delaware law, stockholders of Enex will have appraisal rights in
connection with the Merger. See "The Merger Appraisal Rights" and Appendix II.
In order to exercise such appraisal rights properly, and in addition to other
requirements of Delaware Law, a dissenting stockholder must refrain from voting
in favor of the Merger.

   
         This Proxy Statement/Prospectus also constitutes a prospectus of Middle
Bay pursuant to the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act") with respect
to the issuance of up to 900,000 shares of Middle Bay Common Stock that may be
issued in consideration of the Merger to the holders of Enex Common Stock.
Middle Bay will not issue fractional shares of Middle Bay Common Stock, but
instead will pay cash to any stockholder otherwise entitled to receive a
fractional share. See "Summary - The Merger," "The Merger - Procedures for
Exchange of Certificates" and Appendix I.

         Middle Bay and Enex are both publicly traded on the NASDAQ Stock Market
("NASDAQ"). On July 14, 1998 the last reported bid price per share of Middle Bay
Common Stock was $4 7/8, and the last reported bid price for Enex Common Stock
was $12 1/2. See "Summary - Market Value of Middle Bay Common Stock."
    

     THE SECURITIES OF MIDDLE BAY OFFERED IN CONNECTION WITH THE MERGER HAVE
   NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
     OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION, NOR HAS THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE
          COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE
          ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS. ANY
              REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.

   
          The date of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus is July 17, 1998.
    
<PAGE>   12
                              AVAILABLE INFORMATION

         Middle Bay and Enex are subject to the informational requirements of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), and, in
accordance therewith, file reports, proxy statements and other information with
the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission"). Such reports, proxy
statements and other information filed by Middle Bay and Enex with the
Commission can be inspected at the Public Reference Section of the Commission at
Room 1024, Judiciary Plaza, 450 Fifth Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20549 and the
Regional Offices of the Commission at Citicorp Center, 500 West Madison Street,
Suite 1400, Chicago, Illinois 60621 and Seven World Trade Center, 13th Floor,
New York, New York 10048. Copies of such material of Middle Bay and Enex may be
obtained from the Public Reference Section of the Commission at Room 1024,
Judicial Plaza, 450 Fifth Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20549 at prescribed rates.
The Commission maintains an Internet Website at http://www.sec.gov that contains
reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding
registrants that file electronically with the Commission. Such reports, proxy
statements and other information filed by Middle Bay and Enex may also be
inspected and copied at the offices of the NASDAQ Stock Market, 1735 K Street
NW, Washington, D.C. 20006 on which the Middle Bay and Enex Common Stock is
listed.

         Middle Bay has filed with the Commission a registration statement on
Form S-4 under the Securities Act with respect to the securities offered hereby
(the "Registration Statement"). This Proxy Statement/Prospectus, which
constitutes a part of the Registration Statement, does not contain all of the
information contained in the Registration Statement, certain portions of which
are omitted as permitted by the rules and regulations of the Commission. For
further information with respect to Middle Bay and the securities offered
hereby, reference is made to the Registration Statement, including the exhibits
thereto, which may be inspected at the Commission's offices, without charge, or
copies of which may be obtained from the Commission upon payment of prescribed
fees. Statements contained in this Proxy Statement/Prospectus as to the contents
of any document filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement are not
necessarily complete, and in each instance, reference is hereby made to the copy
of such document filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement for a more
complete description of the matter involved, and each such statement is
qualified in its entirety by such reference. All information herein with respect
to Middle Bay and its affiliates has been furnished by Middle Bay, and all
information herein with respect to Enex and its affiliates has been furnished by
Enex.


                 INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE

   
         The following documents, heretofore filed by Middle Bay with the SEC
pursuant to the Exchange Act, are hereby incorporated by reference, except as
superseded or modified herein: (i) annual report on Form 10-KSB for the fiscal
year ended December 31, 1997, as amended on Form 10-KSB/A; (ii) quarterly report
on Form 10-QSB for the quarter ended March 31, 1998; (iii) current reports on
Forms 8-K filed on February 11, 1998 and May 6, 1998; (iv) amended current
reports on Form 8-K/A filed June 10, 1998 and July 6, 1998; (v) proxy statement
on Schedule 14A for the annual meeting of stockholders held June 18, 1998; and
(vi) the description of Common Stock set forth in Middle Bay's Registration
Statement pursuant to the Exchange Act, and any amendment or report filed for
the purpose of updating any such description.
    

         The following documents, heretofore filed by Enex with the SEC pursuant
to the Exchange Act, are hereby incorporated by reference, except as superseded
or modified herein: (i) annual report on Form 10-KSB
<PAGE>   13
for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997; (ii) quarterly report on Form
10-QSB for the quarter ended March 31, 1998; (iii) current reports on Forms 8-K
dated September 4, 1990 and April 12, 1994; and (iv) any amendment or report
filed for the purpose of updating any such reports.

         All documents and reports filed by Middle Bay or Enex with the SEC
pursuant to Section 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act after the date
of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus and prior to the date of consummation of the
transaction shall be deemed to be incorporated by reference in this Proxy
Statement/Prospectus and to be a part hereof from the dates of filing of such
document or reports. Any statement contained in a document incorporated or
deemed to be incorporated by reference herein shall be deemed to be modified or
superseded for purposes of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus to the extent that a
statement contained herein or in any other subsequently filed document which
also is or is deemed to be incorporated by reference herein modifies or
supersedes such statement. Any such statement so modified or superseded shall
not be deemed, except as so modified or superseded, to constitute a part of this
Proxy Statement/Prospectus.

   
         THIS PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS INCORPORATES DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE
WHICH ARE NOT PRESENTED HEREIN OR DELIVERED HEREWITH. SUCH DOCUMENTS (OTHER THAN
EXHIBITS TO SUCH DOCUMENTS, UNLESS SUCH EXHIBITS ARE SPECIFICALLY INCORPORATED
BY REFERENCE TO SUCH DOCUMENTS) ARE AVAILABLE, WITHOUT CHARGE, TO ANY PERSON TO
WHOM THIS PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS IS DELIVERED, ON WRITTEN OR ORAL REQUEST
TO: MIDDLE BAY OIL COMPANY, INC., 1221 LAMAR STREET, SUITE 1020, HOUSTON, TEXAS
77010, ATTENTION: CORPORATE SECRETARY; TELEPHONE (713) 759-6808. IN ORDER TO
ENSURE DELIVERY OF THE DOCUMENTS PRIOR TO THE MERGER, REQUESTS MUST BE RECEIVED
BY AUGUST 4, 1998.
    

         No person has been authorized to give any information or to make any
representations other than those contained in this Prospectus, and, if given or
made, such information or representations must not be relied upon as having been
authorized by Middle Bay or its affiliates. This Prospectus does not constitute
an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to purchase, the securities
offered by this Prospectus or the solicitation of a tender from any person in
any jurisdiction in which it is unlawful to make such offer, solicitation of an
offer or tender solicitation. Neither the delivery of this Prospectus nor any
distribution of the securities made under this Prospectus shall, under any
circumstances, create an implication that there has been no change in the
affairs of Middle Bay or the Partnership since the date of this Prospectus,
other than as set forth in the documents incorporated herein by reference.


                           FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

         This Proxy Statement/Prospectus contains certain forward-looking
statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of
1995 with respect to the financial condition, results of operations and
businesses of Middle Bay and Enex. Statements in this document which are not
historical facts are hereby identified as "forward-looking statements" for the
purpose of the safe harbor provided by Section 21E of the Exchange Act and
Section 27A of the Securities Act. Middle Bay cautions the reader that such
"forward-looking statements," including without limitation those relating to
Middle Bay's and Enex's future business prospects, revenues, working capital,
liquidity and capital needs and the possible impact of current
<PAGE>   14



and future claims against either company based on negligence and other theories
of liability, and regarding Middle Bay's cost controls and reductions,
resolution of billing delays and the possibility of making additional
acquisitions, wherever they occur in this document, are necessarily estimates
reflecting the best judgment of Middle Bay's and Enex's senior management and
involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to
differ materially from those suggested by the "forward-looking statements,"
including the possibilities that the demand for oil and gas may decline as a
result of possible changes in general and industry specific economic conditions
and the effect of competitive services and pricing, the risk that one or more
current or future claims made against either company could result in substantial
liabilities and the risk of failure of Middle Bay to integrate effectively the
businesses of Enex. Such "forward-looking statements" should, therefore, be
considered in light of various important factors, including those set forth in
this Proxy Statement/Prospectus.

         The words "estimate," "project," "intend," "expect" and similar
expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These
"forward-looking statements" are found at various places throughout this
document. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking
statements included herein and to read carefully the discussion of risks set
forth under the heading "Risk Factors" for an understanding of the types of
risks that may cause results to differ from those projected herein.

         No person has been authorized to give any information or to make any
representations other than those contained in this Proxy Statement/Prospectus,
and, if given or made, such information or representations must not be relied
upon as having been authorized by Middle Bay, Enex or their respective
affiliates. This Proxy Statement/Prospectus does not constitute an offer to
exchange or sell, or a solicitation of an offer to exchange or purchase, any
securities other than the Middle Bay Common Stock offered hereby, nor does it
constitute an offer to exchange or sell or a solicitation of an offer to
exchange or purchase such securities in any state or other jurisdiction to any
person to whom such an offer or solicitation would be unlawful.




<PAGE>   15
                                     SUMMARY

         The following is a brief summary of information contained elsewhere in
this Proxy Statement/Prospectus. This summary is not a complete statement of
all information, facts or materials relating to a stockholder's decision with
respect to the matters to be voted on at the Special Meeting. This summary
should only be read in conjunction with, and is qualified in its entirety by
reference to, the more detailed information contained in this Proxy
Statement/Prospectus and the Appendices hereto. Unless otherwise defined,
capitalized terms used in this summary have the respective meanings ascribed to
them elsewhere in this Proxy Statement/Prospectus. Stockholders are urged to
review carefully this Proxy Statement/Prospectus and the Appendices hereto in
their entirety.

     The Merger                     This Proxy Statement/Prospectus relates to a
                                    proposal to approve an Agreement and Plan of
                                    Merger dated as of June 17, 1998 (the
                                    "Merger Agreement") between Enex and Middle
                                    Bay pursuant to which Enex will be merged
                                    into Middle Bay. Upon consummation of the
                                    Merger, each outstanding share of Enex
                                    Common Stock (other than shares held by
                                    Middle Bay or shares as to which appraisal
                                    rights have been perfected and not
                                    withdrawn) will be converted into the right
                                    to receive shares of Middle Bay Common Stock
                                    having a total market value of $15.00. The
                                    Merger Agreement is attached to this Proxy
                                    Statement/Prospectus as Appendix I, and any
                                    summary contained herein of the terms of the
                                    Merger Agreement is qualified in its
                                    entirety by reference to the Merger
                                    Agreement.

   
     Enex                           Enex, a Delaware corporation, is engaged in
                                    the business of acquiring interests in
                                    producing oil and gas properties and
                                    managing oil and gas income limited
                                    partnerships. Enex operates wells in several
                                    states, with a major emphasis in Texas. In
                                    addition to the wells it operates for its
                                    own account, Enex manages interests in over
                                    12,000 oil and gas wells owned by a
                                    partnership in which Enex is general
                                    partner. Enex's principal executive offices
                                    are maintained at 800 Rockmead Drive, Three
                                    Kingwood Place, Suite 200, Kingwood, Texas
                                    77339. The telephone number at this office
                                    is (281) 358-8401.
    

     Middle Bay                     Middle Bay, an Alabama corporation, is an
                                    independent oil and gas company engaged in
                                    the exploration, development and production
                                    of oil and gas in the contiguous United
                                    States. Middle Bay's strategy focuses on
                                    increasing its reserves of crude oil and
                                    natural gas by the acquisition and
                                    development of proved oil and gas properties
                                    primarily in the Mid-Continent and Gulf
                                    Coast regions. Middle Bay believes the
                                    current period reflects



                                      - 1 -
<PAGE>   16



                                    historically low market prices for oil and
                                    gas and is focusing its efforts on
                                    increasing reserves so that it will be well
                                    positioned to benefit in the event of any
                                    future increases in demand for natural gas
                                    and oil. Consistent with these efforts,
                                    Middle Bay is participating on a limited
                                    basis in drilling and development activities
                                    in other geographic regions of the
                                    contiguous United States. Middle Bay's
                                    principal executive offices are located at
                                    1221 Lamar Street, Suite 1020, Houston,
                                    Texas 77010. The Company's mailing address
                                    is P.O. Box 53448, Houston, Texas
                                    77052-3448. Its telephone number is (713)
                                    759-6808. Middle Bay maintains a regional
                                    office at 9320 East Central, Wichita, Kansas
                                    67206, and its telephone number there is
                                    (316) 636-1801.

     Time, Date and Place of
     the Special Meeting            The Special Meeting will be held at the
                                    offices of Middle Bay located at 1221 Lamar
                                    Street, Suite 1020, Houston, Texas 77010, on
                                    August 14, 1998, commencing at 10:00 a.m.
                                    Central Daylight Time.

     Matters to be Considered
     at the Special Meeting         At the Special Meeting, the stockholders of
                                    Enex will be asked to consider and vote upon
                                    a proposal to approve the Merger Agreement
                                    and the transactions contemplated thereby
                                    and such other business as may properly come
                                    before the meeting and any postponements or
                                    adjournments thereof.

     Record Date                    Holders of record of shares of Enex Common
                                    Stock at the close of business on June 30,
                                    1998 are entitled to notice of, and to vote
                                    at, the Special Meeting.

     Voting                         Under the laws of the State of Delaware, the
                                    affirmative vote of the holders of a
                                    majority of the shares of Enex Common Stock
                                    issued and outstanding on the Record Date is
                                    required to authorize the Merger Agreement.
                                    See "The Enex Special Meeting - Voting and
                                    Record Date."

                                    Enex is seeking approval of the Merger
                                    Agreement under the laws of the State of
                                    Delaware. Under the laws of the State of
                                    Delaware, absent either failure of Enex to
                                    comply with procedural requirements of such
                                    law or its certificate of incorporation or
                                    bylaws or the obtaining of a vote in favor
                                    of the Merger Agreement by fraud or
                                    deceptive means (in which case other
                                    remedies are available), the exclusive
                                    remedy of any stockholder desiring to
                                    challenge the Merger Agreement is the
                                    exercise of appraisal rights. A stockholder
                                    may vote in favor of or against the



                                      - 2 -

<PAGE>   17



                                    Merger Agreement or abstain from voting. An
                                    abstention counts as a "no" vote with
                                    respect to approval of the Merger Agreement
                                    and does not prohibit a stockholder who
                                    otherwise complies with the applicable legal
                                    requirements from exercising appraisal
                                    rights. Enex intends to use this exclusive
                                    remedy defense against any challenges to the
                                    Merger Agreement or the corporate action
                                    giving rise to it.

                                    Middle Bay holds approximately 79.2% of the
                                    issued and outstanding Enex Common Stock and
                                    intends to vote such stock in favor of the
                                    Merger Agreement. Consequently, approval of
                                    the Merger Agreement is assured. See "The
                                    Merger Agreement Voting."

     Effects of the Merger          Upon consummation of the Merger, Enex will
                                    merge with and into Middle Bay, and the
                                    surviving corporation of such merger will be
                                    Middle Bay. Each share of Enex Common Stock
                                    outstanding immediately prior to the
                                    Effective Time (other than shares held by
                                    Middle Bay or shares as to which appraisal
                                    rights have been perfected and not
                                    withdrawn) will be converted into the right
                                    to receive shares of Middle Bay Common Stock
                                    which have a total market value of $15.00.
                                    See "The Merger - Effects of the Merger."

     Procedures for Exchange
     of Certificates                Promptly after the Effective Time as defined
                                    herein, a letter of transmittal and
                                    instructions for surrendering stock
                                    certificates evidencing shares of Enex
                                    Common Stock will be mailed to each holder
                                    of Enex Common Stock for use in exchanging
                                    such holder's stock certificates for the
                                    Middle Bay Common Stock and cash in lieu of
                                    fractional shares (the "Merger
                                    Consideration") to which each holder is
                                    entitled as a result of the Merger.
                                    STOCKHOLDERS SHOULD NOT SEND ANY STOCK
                                    CERTIFICATES WITH THEIR PROXY CARDS. See
                                    "The Merger - Procedures for Exchange of
                                    Certificates."

     Background and Reasons
     for the Merger                 On February 19, 1998, Middle Bay made a cash
                                    tender offer for all shares of Enex common
                                    stock outstanding at a net price of $15.00
                                    per share (the "Tender Offer"). The Tender
                                    Offer was successfully closed on March 20,
                                    1998, with 1,064,032 shares of Enex Common
                                    Stock (79.2% of the total outstanding shares
                                    of Enex Common Stock) having been tendered
                                    and accepted by Middle Bay. At the closing
                                    of the Tender Offer, the then members of the
                                    Board of Directors of Enex resigned and were
                                    replaced by



                                      - 3 -

<PAGE>   18



                                    persons who also comprise the Board of
                                    Directors of Middle Bay. The primary reasons
                                    for the Merger are to complete the
                                    acquisition of Enex by Middle Bay in order
                                    to fully integrate Enex's operations with
                                    Middle Bay's. Middle Bay management also
                                    believes that the Merger will simplify
                                    Middle Bay's corporate structure, promote
                                    operating efficiencies and reduce general
                                    and administrative expenses.

     Recommendation of the
     Board of Directors             The Board of Directors of Enex (the "Board")
                                    has unanimously approved the Merger
                                    Agreement and recommends to Enex's
                                    stockholders that they vote FOR its
                                    approval. The Board has determined that the
                                    Merger represents an attractive opportunity
                                    for the stockholders to exchange potentially
                                    illiquid shares of Enex Common Stock for
                                    freely tradeable shares of Middle Bay at a
                                    fair conversion value and to participate
                                    directly in the anticipated growth of Middle
                                    Bay as Middle Bay shareholders. See "The
                                    Merger - The Board's Approval of the Merger
                                    and Recommendation Regarding the Merger."

     Regulatory Approvals           No governmental approvals are required with
                                    respect to the Merger, except for the filing
                                    of the Certificate of Merger with the
                                    Delaware Secretary of State and the Alabama
                                    Secretary of State.

     Accounting Treatment           Middle Bay accounted for its acquisition of
                                    79.2% of the issued and outstanding Enex
                                    Common Stock under the purchase method of
                                    accounting. The Merger constitutes an
                                    acquisition of minority interests and will
                                    also be accounted for under the purchase
                                    method of accounting. As a result, the total
                                    consideration paid by Middle Bay for its
                                    interests in Enex will be allocated to the
                                    assets and liabilities of Enex based on the
                                    fair value of the assets and liabilities
                                    acquired.

     Material Income Tax
     Consequences                   If, as expected, the Merger does not qualify
                                    for tax-free reorganization status, Enex
                                    stockholders (other than Middle Bay) will
                                    recognize gain or loss upon the exchange of
                                    their Enex Common Stock for Middle Bay
                                    Common Stock. Further, the transaction may
                                    be taxable to Middle Bay and to Enex. In any
                                    case, the Merger is expected to be fully
                                    taxable to Enex stockholders, including
                                    those who exchange their Enex Common Stock
                                    for Middle Bay Common Stock, as well as
                                    those who perfect their appraisal rights and
                                    receive cash in exchange for their Enex
                                    Common Stock. See "The Merger - General" and
                                    "Material Federal Income Tax Consequences of
                                    the Merger."



                                      - 4 -

<PAGE>   19
     Appraisal Rights               All stockholders of Enex on the Record Date
                                    will be entitled to exercise appraisal
                                    rights in accordance with Delaware law with
                                    respect to the Merger. A stockholder wishing
                                    to exercise appraisal rights must file a
                                    notice with Enex before the taking of the
                                    vote on the approval of the Merger
                                    Agreement, must not vote in favor of the
                                    Merger (i.e., vote "no" or abstain from
                                    voting) and must comply with all other
                                    provisions of Delaware law necessary for the
                                    perfection of appraisal rights. See "The
                                    Merger - Appraisal Rights."

     The Merger Agreement -
     General                        Upon the terms and subject to the conditions
                                    of the Merger Agreement, Enex will merge
                                    with and into Middle Bay as of the Effective
                                    Time. The economic effective date for
                                    purposes of the Merger Agreement is July 1,
                                    1998. Upon consummation of the Merger,
                                    Middle Bay will be the surviving
                                    corporation, and the stockholders of Enex
                                    will receive the Merger Consideration
                                    described herein. See "The Merger - General"
                                    and "Material Federal Income Tax
                                    Consequences of the Merger."

     Effective Time                 The effective time of the Merger (the
                                    "Effective Time") will occur upon the filing
                                    of a Certificate of Merger with the
                                    Secretary of State of Delaware and the
                                    Secretary of State of Alabama and acceptance
                                    thereof by such Secretaries of State or such
                                    later date as may be specified in such
                                    certificate. It is anticipated that such
                                    certificate will be filed promptly after the
                                    Special Meeting. See "The Merger Agreement -
                                    Closing; Effective Time."

   
     Merger Consideration           In consideration for the Merger, Middle Bay
                                    will issue that number of shares of Middle
                                    Bay Common Stock in exchange for each share
                                    of Enex Common Stock (other than shares held
                                    by Middle Bay and shares as to which
                                    appraisal rights have been perfected and not
                                    withdrawn) which, when multiplied by the
                                    average of the closing bid prices per share
                                    as quoted by NASDAQ for the five trading
                                    days immediately prior to August 14, 1998,
                                    equals $15.00. In lieu of issuing fractional
                                    shares of Middle Bay Common Stock, Middle
                                    Bay will pay cash to any stockholder
                                    otherwise entitled to receive a fractional
                                    share, in an amount equal to the fair market
                                    value of such fractional share.
    

     Conditions to and Termination
     of the Merger                  The consummation of the Merger is subject to
                                    a number of conditions and the Merger
                                    Agreement may be terminated by either



                                      - 5 -

<PAGE>   20
                                    party upon the occurrence or failure to
                                    occur of certain events. See "The Merger
                                    Agreement - Conditions to Consummation of
                                    the Merger" and "Termination."

   
     Market Value of Middle Bay
     Common Stock                   Middle Bay Common Stock is traded on the
                                    NASDAQ Small Cap Stock Market under the
                                    symbol "MBOC." As of June 30, 1998, a total
                                    of 8,530,592 shares of Middle Bay Common
                                    Stock were issued and outstanding. The
                                    following table sets forth the actual high
                                    and low closing sale prices for the Middle
                                    Bay Common Stock for the periods indicated.
    

   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                            Middle Bay Common Stock
                                            -----------------------
Period                                      High               Low
- ------                                      ----               ---
<S>                                         <C>               <C>

Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 1998:
     First Quarter                          $10               $5 3/4
     Second Quarter                           8                5 1/16

Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 1997:
     Fourth Quarter                          11 1/8            9 3/4
     Third Quarter                           11 1/4            9
     Second Quarter                          12                7 3/4
     First Quarter                            9                5 1/2

Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 1996:
     Fourth Quarter                           5 3/4            3
     Third Quarter                            4                2 1/2
     Second Quarter                           3 3/8            2 1/2
     First Quarter                            3 1/4            2 3/4
</TABLE>
    

   
                                    On March 27, 1998, the last trading day
                                    prior to the announcement by Middle Bay that
                                    it had purchased a controlling interest in
                                    Enex, the closing sale price of Middle Bay
                                    Common Stock as reported on the NASDAQ Stock
                                    Market was $7.25 per share. On July 15,
                                    1998, the closing sale price of Middle Bay
                                    Common Stock as reported on the NASDAQ Stock
                                    Market was $______ per share. The number of
                                    holders of record of Middle Bay Common Stock
                                    as of June 30, 1998 was approximately 1,000.
    

     Market for Enex Common Stock   Enex is a reporting company under the
                                    Exchange Act, and its common stock is
                                    publicly traded on the NASDAQ Stock Market
                                    National Market System under the symbol
                                    "ENEX." There has not been an active public
                                    trading market for Enex Common Stock



                                      - 6 -

<PAGE>   21
                                    since the closing of the Tender Offer, and
                                    trades in the stock are sporadic,
                                    constituting on average fewer than four
                                    trades per week. Holders of record of Enex
                                    Common Stock as of May 31, 1998 was 596.
                                    Because of the small number of holders of
                                    record thereof and low number of
                                    publicly-held shares, Enex Common Stock may
                                    no longer be eligible for trading on the
                                    NASDAQ Stock Market.

     Dividends                      No cash dividends have been paid by Middle
                                    Bay on its common stock since it began
                                    public trading of its stock in 1995. The
                                    Board of Directors of Middle Bay presently
                                    intends to retain any future earnings for
                                    use in Middle Bay's business and does not
                                    anticipate paying cash dividends in the
                                    foreseeable future. Under the terms of
                                    Middle Bay's revolving line of credit,
                                    approval will be required from Middle Bay's
                                    primary bank for the payment of any
                                    dividends. Enex has paid dividends on its
                                    common stock of $.20 per share in 1994 and
                                    1995, $.25 in 1996 and $.40 in 1997. The
                                    present Enex Board of Directors intends to
                                    retain any future earnings and does not
                                    anticipate paying cash dividends in 1998.

     Risk Factors                   Ownership of Middle Bay Common Stock
                                    involves certain risks. In considering how
                                    to vote with respect to the Merger
                                    Agreement, holders of Enex Common Stock
                                    should carefully examine the "Risk Factors"
                                    section of this Proxy Statement/Prospectus,
                                    as well as other pertinent information set
                                    forth in this Proxy Statement/Prospectus.
                                    See "Risk Factors."

COMPARATIVE PER-SHARE DATA

         Set forth below are earnings and book value per share data of Middle
Bay on an historical and unaudited pro forma per share basis and of Enex on an
historical per-share basis. The Middle Bay unaudited pro forma combined data was
derived by combining financial information of Middle Bay and Enex after giving
effect to the Merger under the purchase method of accounting.

         The information set forth below should be read in conjunction with the
respective historical audited and unaudited financial statements of Middle Bay
and Enex and the respective notes thereto and with the unaudited pro forma
consolidated financial information and the related notes thereto, which appear
elsewhere in this Proxy Statement/Prospectus or are incorporated by reference
herein.

         The following information is not necessarily indicative of the combined
results of operations or combined financial position that would have resulted
had the Merger been consummated at the beginning of the periods indicated, nor
is it necessarily indicative of the future combined results of operations or
financial position.



                                      - 7 -

<PAGE>   22
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                        (Unaudited)
                                                                Fiscal Year            Three Months
                                                                   Ended                   Ended
                                                             December 31, 1997        March 31, 1998
                                                             -----------------        --------------
         <S>                                                 <C>                     <C>       
         Basic Earning (Loss) Per Share:

                  Middle Bay
                      Historical                              $   (4.76)              $   (0.22)
                      Unaudited Pro-Forma                         (2.65)                  (0.27)

                  Enex
                      Historical                                   1.45                   (0.32)

         Book Value Per Common Share:

                  Middle Bay
                      Historical                                   1.39                    1.89
                      Unaudited Pro-Forma                          2.58                    2.58

                  Enex
                      Historical                                  10.04                    9.71
</TABLE>
    






                                      - 8 -
<PAGE>   23



                                  RISK FACTORS

INTEGRATION OF MIDDLE BAY AND ENEX

         Although Middle Bay management has not encountered any and does not
foresee future material difficulties in assuming operational control of Enex's
business, there can be no assurance that Middle Bay will be able to integrate
fully and successfully the operations, facilities and management of Enex or
realize any benefits of the Merger. Additionally, there can be no assurance that
the Merger will not have an adverse effect on ongoing business relationships of
Enex. Failure to successfully integrate the businesses of Enex with Middle Bay
could have a material adverse effect on Middle Bay's results and operations and
financial condition.

COMPETITION, MARKETS AND REGULATION

         Competition in the oil and gas exploration and property acquisition
markets is intense. In seeking to obtain desirable leases and exploration
prospects, Middle Bay faces competition from both major and independent oil and
gas companies, as well as from numerous individuals. Many of these competitors
have substantial financial resources available to them, which may give such
competitors an advantage.

         The ability of Middle Bay to market oil and gas from its wells will
depend upon numerous factors beyond its control, including, but not limited to,
the extent of domestic production and imports of oil and gas, the proximity of
Middle Bay's production to existing pipelines, the availability of capacity in
such pipelines and state and federal regulation of oil and gas production. There
is no assurance that Middle Bay will be able to market all of the oil or gas
produced by it or that favorable prices can be obtained for the oil and gas it
produces. In view of the uncertainties affecting the supply and demand of oil
and gas, Middle Bay is unable to accurately predict future oil and gas prices
and demand, or the overall effect they will have on Middle Bay.

         Numerous federal and state laws and regulations affect Middle Bay's
operations. In particular, oil and gas production operations are affected by tax
and other laws relating to the petroleum industry and any changes in such laws
and regulations. Some of the rules and regulations carry substantial penalties
for failing to comply. The regulatory burden on the oil and gas industry
increases Middle Bay's cost of doing business. Middle Bay's activities are also
subject to numerous federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations
governing the discharge of materials. In most cases, the applicable regulatory
requirements relate to water and air pollution control or solid waste management
measures. Management believes the recent trend toward stricter standards in
environmental legislation, regulation and enforcement will continue. To date,
these laws have not had a significant impact on Middle Bay, but no assurance can
be given as to the effect of these laws on Middle Bay in the future.

DEPENDENCE ON KEY PERSONNEL

         Middle Bay's business is managed by a small number of management and
operating personnel, the loss of certain of whom could have a material adverse
effect on Middle Bay. Middle Bay believes that its ability to manage its planned
growth successfully will depend in large part on its continued ability to
attract and retain highly skilled and qualified personnel.



                                      - 9 -

<PAGE>   24



MIDDLE BAY ACQUISITION GROWTH STRATEGY, INTEGRATION OF ACQUIRED COMPANIES AND
IMPACT OF INDUSTRY CONSOLIDATION ON GROWTH STRATEGY

         A significant component of Middle Bay's growth strategy is the
expansion of Middle Bay through acquisitions, such as the acquisition of Enex
described herein. Middle Bay believes that its current financial resources and
the availability of Middle Bay's Common Stock and the authorized, but unissued
preferred stock of Middle Bay will enable it to consider additional
acquisitions, some of which may be larger than the currently proposed
acquisition. Although additional acquisitions may enhance the opportunity of
Middle Bay to increase cash flow and net income over time, such acquisitions
will present greater administrative burdens, increased exposure to uncertainties
inherent in acquisitions, the financial risks of additional operating costs and
potential additional interest costs. Middle Bay may also need to obtain
additional equity or debt financing in order to complete such acquisitions.
There can be no assurance that Middle Bay will be able to conclude any
acquisitions in the future on terms favorable to it or that, once consummated,
such acquisitions will be advantageous to Middle Bay.

         Middle Bay's future success is dependent upon its ability to
effectively integrate acquired businesses into Middle Bay, including its ability
to implement potentially available cost-saving opportunities. The financial
performance of Middle Bay is and will be subject to various risks associated
with the acquisition of businesses, if additional acquisitions are completed,
including the financial impact of expenses and potential disruptions associated
with the integration of businesses. In addition, the diversion of senior
management's attention during the integration process could have an adverse
effect on Middle Bay's operations. There can be no assurance that future
acquisitions will not have an adverse effect upon Middle Bay's operating
results, particularly during the periods in which the operations of acquired
businesses are being integrated into Middle Bay's operations.

         The oil and gas industry is currently experiencing a trend of
consolidation. As a result, Middle Bay expects to face increasing competition in
bidding for future acquisition targets, including increased competition from
companies with larger resources available to complete such acquisitions than are
available to Middle Bay. As a result, Middle Bay's strategy of growth through
acquisitions may be more difficult to achieve as consolidation continues. As a
result, the diversion of senior management's attention to Middle Bay's
acquisition strategy may increase as competition for additional acquisitions
increases. There can be no assurance that Middle Bay will be successful in
future bids for acquisition targets.

FINANCIAL CONSTRAINTS

         In 1998, Middle Bay increased its outstanding debt but currently has
limited additional borrowing capacity under its revolving line of credit with
Compass Bank and Bank of Oklahoma, N.A. due to recent acquisitions. Many of the
companies with which Middle Bay competes for customers and for acquisition
opportunities are larger and have greater resources than Middle Bay and, in
particular, have greater amounts of cash and greater borrowing capacity. Should
Middle Bay be unable to access additional capital, its growth strategy could be
adversely impacted by restrictions in its ability to complete additional
acquisitions.




                                     - 10 -

<PAGE>   25
POTENTIAL FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES

         The Merger is not expected to qualify as a tax-free reorganization. The
Enex stockholders are, therefore, expected to recognize a gain or loss upon the
exchange of their Enex Common Stock for Middle Bay Common Stock for federal
income tax purposes. In addition, as described more fully under "The Merger -
General" and "Material Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Merger," the
transaction is expected to be taxable to Middle Bay and to Enex. Further,
regardless of whether the Merger were to qualify for tax-free reorganization
status, Enex stockholders who perfect appraisal rights will recognize gain or
loss for federal income tax purposes upon exchange of their Enex Common Stock
for cash. Enex shareholders are urged to consult with their own respective tax
advisors in light of their particular circumstances regarding the potential
income tax consequences of the Merger.


                            THE ENEX SPECIAL MEETING

TIME, DATE AND PLACE

   
         This Proxy Statement/Prospectus is being furnished to the holders of
Enex Common Stock as of the Record Date in connection with the solicitation of
proxies by the Enex Board for use at the Special Meeting to be held on August
14, 1998 at 10:00 a.m. Central Daylight Time and at 1221 Lamar Street, Suite
1020, Houston, Texas 77010, and at any postponements or adjournments thereof.
    

MATTERS TO BE CONSIDERED AT THE SPECIAL MEETING

         At the Special Meeting, the holders of Enex Common Stock will be asked
to consider and vote upon (i) the Merger Agreement and the transactions
contemplated thereby, and (ii) such other business as may properly come before
the Special Meeting and any postponements or adjournments thereof.

VOTING AND RECORD DATE

   
         The Board has fixed June 30, 1998 (the "Record Date") as the Record
Date for determining holders of Enex Common Stock of record entitled to receive
notice of and to vote at the Special Meeting. Accordingly, only holders of
record of Enex Common Stock who are holders as of the Record Date will be
entitled to notice of and to vote at the Special Meeting. As of the Record Date,
there were 1,342,672 shares of Enex Common Stock outstanding and entitled to
vote.

         Each holder of record of Enex Common Stock on the Record Date is
entitled to cast one vote per share, exercisable in person or by a properly
executed proxy, with respect to the approval of the Merger Agreement and any
other matters to be submitted to a vote of stockholders at the Special Meeting.
Middle Bay, as the holder of 1,064,032 shares of Enex Common Stock, is entitled
to 1,064,032 votes out of 1,3423,672, or 79.2% of the voting power of Enex
Common Stock.
    




                                     - 11 -
<PAGE>   26
         The presence at the Special Meeting, in person or by a proxy, of the
holders of a majority of the shares of Enex Common Stock outstanding on the
Record Date will constitute a quorum at the Special Meeting. Votes cast by proxy
or in person at the Special Meeting will be counted by the persons appointed by
Enex to act as the inspectors for the meeting. Shares represented by proxies
that reflect abstentions or include "broker non-votes" will be treated as
shares that are present and entitled to vote for purposes of determining the
presence of a quorum. Under the laws of the State of Delaware, the affirmative
vote of a majority of the shares of Enex Common Stock issued and outstanding on
the Record Date is required to authorize the Merger. Abstentions and "broker
non-votes" will be included in the calculation for purposes of determining
whether the Merger Agreement has been approved and will be treated as "no"
votes.

         The Board has unanimously approved the Merger Agreement and recommends
a vote FOR the approval of the Merger Agreement. Enex is seeking stockholder
approval of the Merger Agreement. Middle Bay owns approximately 79.2% of the
outstanding Enex Common Stock and intends to vote such stock in favor of the
Merger Agreement. Therefore, approval of the Merger Agreement by the
stockholders of Enex is assured. See "Principal Stockholders of Enex."

PROXIES

         All shares of Enex Common Stock which are represented at the Special
Meeting by properly executed proxies received prior to or at the Special Meeting
and not duly and timely revoked will be voted at the Special Meeting in
accordance with the choices marked thereon by the stockholders. If no choice is
marked, the shares will be voted FOR approval of the Merger Agreement.

         At the time this Proxy Statement/Prospectus was filed with the
Commission, the Board was not aware of any other matters not referred to herein
that would be presented for action at the Special Meeting. If any other matters
properly come before the Special Meeting, the persons designated in the proxy
will vote the shares represented thereby in accordance with their best judgment.

   
         Any proxy given pursuant to this solicitation may be revoked by the
person giving it at any time before it is voted. Proxies may be revoked by (i)
filing with the Secretary of Enex at or before the taking of the vote at the
Special Meeting a written notice of revocation bearing a later date than the
proxy, (ii) duly executing a later-dated proxy relating to the same shares and
delivering it to the Secretary of Enex before the taking of the vote at the
Special Meeting or (iii) attending the Special Meeting and voting in person
(although attendance at the Special Meeting will not in and of itself constitute
a revocation of a proxy). Any proxy revoked in writing should be addressed to:
Kelly Green, Assistant Secretary, Enex Resources Corporation, 1221 Lamar
Street, Suite 1020, Houston, Texas 77010.
    

         All expenses of this solicitation, including the cost of preparing and
mailing this Proxy Statement/Prospectus, will be borne by Enex and Middle Bay
jointly. In addition to solicitation by mail, arrangements will be made with
brokers and other custodians, nominees and fiduciaries to forward proxy
solicitation materials to beneficial owners of shares of Enex Common Stock held
of record by such brokers, custodians, nominees and fiduciaries, and Enex may
reimburse such brokers, custodians, nominees and fiduciaries for their
reasonable expenses incurred in connection therewith. Directors and employees of
Enex



                                     - 12 -

<PAGE>   27
may also solicit proxies in person or by telephone without receiving any
compensation in addition to their regular compensation as directors and
employees.


                                   THE MERGER

GENERAL

         The following information sets forth the material terms of the Merger
and is qualified in its entirety by reference to more detailed information
contained elsewhere in this Proxy Statement/Prospectus, including the Appendices
hereto. A copy of the Merger Agreement is included as Appendix I and is
incorporated herein by reference. The stockholders of Enex are urged to read the
Merger Agreement carefully.

EFFECTS OF THE MERGER

   
         At the Effective Time, Enex will be merged with and into Middle Bay,
and the separate existence of Enex will cease. Middle Bay will be the surviving
corporation (the "Surviving Corporation") in the Merger and will continue to
exist as Middle Bay Oil Company, Inc. At the Effective Time, each share of Enex
Common Stock then issued and outstanding (other than shares held by Middle Bay
and shares as to which the holder perfects appraisal rights in accordance with
Delaware law) will be converted into the right to receive that number of shares
of Middle Bay Common Stock which, when multiplied by the average of the closing
bid prices per share as quoted by NASDAQ for the five trading days immediately
prior to August 14, 1998, equals $15.00. As of the Record Date, there were
1,342,672 shares of Enex Common Stock outstanding, of which 1,064,032 shares
were held by Middle Bay. Enex has no other class of stock currently issued or
outstanding. See "Background and Reasons for the Merger." Based upon the average
closing bid prices per share for Middle Bay Common Stock for the five trading
days through July 10, 1998, holders of Enex Common Stock, excluding Middle Bay,
would be entitled to receive, in the aggregate, approximately 836,000 shares
of Middle Bay Common Stock.
    

         Each certificate representing Enex Common Stock prior to the Merger
(other than certificates held by Middle Bay and certificates representing shares
as to which the holder has perfected appraisal rights) will thereafter represent
only the right to receive the Merger Consideration. For a description of the
procedures for exchanging certificates representing Enex Common Stock, see
"Procedures for Exchange of Certificates." Each share of Enex Common Stock held
by Middle Bay prior to the Merger will be canceled, and no payment will be made
with respect thereto in connection with the Merger.

         Pursuant to the Merger, at the Effective Time, all the properties,
rights, privileges, powers and franchises of Enex shall vest in Middle Bay, and
all debts, liabilities and duties of Enex shall become the debts, liabilities
and duties of Middle Bay.




                                     - 13 -
<PAGE>   28



PROCEDURES FOR EXCHANGE OF CERTIFICATES

         As of the Effective Time, a bank or trust company designated by Middle
Bay shall act as exchange agent (the "Exchange Agent") in effecting the exchange
for the Merger Consideration of certificates that, immediately prior to the
Effective Time, represented shares of Enex Common Stock entitled to payment
pursuant to the Merger Agreement.

         Promptly after the Effective Time, the Exchange Agent will mail to each
holder of record (other than Middle Bay and holders of Enex Common Stock who
have properly demanded and perfected appraisal rights under Delaware General
Corporation Law) of a certificate which immediately prior to the Effective Time
represented outstanding Enex Common Stock, a notice advising the holder of the
effectiveness of the Merger accompanied by a letter of transmittal in customary
form (the "Letter of Transmittal"). The Letter of Transmittal will contain
instructions with respect to the surrender of certificates representing Enex
Common Stock for Merger Consideration in connection with the Merger and will
specify that delivery will be effected, and risk of loss and title to such
certificates will pass, only upon delivery of the certificates to the Exchange
Agent.

         Upon surrender to the Exchange Agent of certificates representing Enex
Common Stock in accordance with the instructions contained in the Letter of
Transmittal, the holder thereof will be entitled to receive in exchange therefor
shares of Middle Bay Common Stock and cash in lieu of fractional shares to which
such holder is entitled pursuant to the Merger Agreement. The stock certificates
so surrendered will forthwith be canceled. In the event of a transfer of
ownership of Enex Common Stock which is not registered in the stock transfer
records of Enex, it shall be a condition to such exchange that a certificate
representing the proper number of shares of Enex Common Stock be presented by
the transferee to the Exchange Agent, accompanied by all documents required to
evidence and effect such transfer and by evidence that any applicable stock
transfer taxes have been paid. Until surrendered, each certificate shall be
deemed at any time after the Effective Time to represent only the right to
receive the Merger Consideration upon surrender of the certificate. Enex
stockholders should not submit their certificates evidencing shares of Enex
Common Stock for exchange unless and until the transmittal instructions and a
Letter of Transmittal are received or obtained from the Exchange Agent.

         Any Enex stockholder who has lost or misplaced a certificate
representing shares of Enex Common Stock must deliver to the Exchange Agent an
affidavit of that fact and, if required by Middle Bay, post a bond in such
reasonable amount as Middle Bay may direct as indemnity against any claim that
may be made against Enex or Middle Bay with respect to such certificate, in
order to receive the Merger Consideration to which such holder is entitled.

         Any portion of the aggregate Merger Consideration remaining
undistributed three months after the Effective Time will be returned to Middle
Bay, and any holders of theretofore unsurrendered Enex Common Stock will
thereafter be able to look only to Middle Bay for any portion of such Merger
Consideration to which they are entitled. Neither Middle Bay nor Enex will be
liable to any holder of Enex Common Stock for any amount properly delivered to a
public official pursuant to applicable abandoned property, escheat or similar
laws.



                                     - 14 -

<PAGE>   29



BACKGROUND AND REASONS FOR THE MERGER

         On February 19, 1998, Middle Bay made a cash Tender Offer for all
shares of Enex common stock outstanding at a net price of $15.00 per share. The
Tender Offer was successfully closed on March 20, 1998, with 1,064,032 shares of
Enex Common Stock (79.2% of the total outstanding shares of Enex Common Stock)
having been tendered and accepted by Middle Bay. At the closing of the Tender
Offer, the then members of the Board of Directors of Enex resigned and were
replaced by persons who also comprise the Board of Directors of Middle Bay. The
primary reason for the Merger is to complete the acquisition of Enex by Middle
Bay in order to fully integrate Enex's operations with Middle Bay's.

         The terms of the Merger Agreement are the result of representations
made by Middle Bay in connection with consummation of the Tender Offer. The
following is a brief discussion of the background of these representations and
agreements leading to the Tender Offer, the Merger and related transactions:

         (1)      On January 29, 1998, Middle Bay and Enex entered into a letter
                  of intent (the "Letter of Intent") with respect to a proposed
                  cash tender offer by Middle Bay for all of the outstanding
                  capital stock of Enex. The Letter of Intent provided that,
                  subject to satisfactory completion of its due diligence review
                  of Enex and its properties, Middle Bay would (i) commence a
                  cash tender offer for all of the outstanding capital stock of
                  Enex on or before February 20, 1998; (ii) offer Mr. Gerald B.
                  Eckley, President of Enex, whose employment agreement with
                  Enex had more than four years left on its term, a severance
                  arrangement under which Middle Bay would pay an aggregate
                  amount equal to Mr. Eckley's current salary for four years in
                  exchange for consulting services and a first-right-of-refusal
                  on all prospects and potential acquisitions that he has the
                  opportunity to acquire over the four-year period; and (iii)
                  offer to the holders of outstanding options to purchase Enex
                  Common Stock the difference between the exercise price and
                  $15.00 per share, with such to be paid in either cash or
                  shares of Middle Bay Common Stock issued on a private
                  placement basis. The stock price was determined by taking the
                  previous ten days' average of the means of the closing bid and
                  asked prices of Middle Bay's shares immediately prior to
                  closing on the Tender Offer. In consideration of the foregoing
                  agreements of Middle Bay, Enex agreed it would not directly or
                  indirectly solicit or encourage inquiries for proposals to
                  enter into an agreement with regards to the sale of Enex or
                  its assets until February 20, 1998, except for such actions as
                  may be required to enable Enex and its officers and directors
                  to comply with their fiduciary duties to the Enex
                  shareholders.

         (2)      The Enex Board of Directors unanimously approved the Tender
                  Offer as being in the best interests of the stockholders of
                  Enex and recommended that the stockholders tender their shares
                  to Middle Bay pursuant to the Tender Offer. The Enex Board of
                  Directors based its determination to approve and recommend the
                  Tender Offer on its consideration of the following factors:




                                     - 15 -

<PAGE>   30



                  (a)      the 30% premium represented by the difference between
                           the price-per-share offered by Middle Bay and the
                           market price of Enex Common Stock immediately prior
                           to the execution of the Letter of Intent;

                  (b)      the fact that the consideration offered by Middle Bay
                           was all cash;

                  (c)      the fact that the Tender Offer was being made for all
                           of the currently outstanding Enex Common Stock; and

                  (d)      the lack of material contingent conditions to the
                           Tender Offer (other than due diligence, absence of
                           material adverse change and certain other conditions
                           typically imposed in tender offer transactions).

         (3)      Enex did not seek a fairness opinion from any third party, nor
                  does it propose to do so in connection with the Merger.

THE BOARD'S APPROVAL OF THE MERGER AND RECOMMENDATION REGARDING THE MERGER

         At a meeting held on June 17, 1998, the new Enex Board unanimously
approved the Merger and the Merger Agreement.

         For all of the reasons set forth above, the Enex Board believes that
the Merger is fair to, and in the best interests of, Enex and its stockholders.
The Board has determined that the Merger represents an attractive opportunity
for the stockholders to exchange for fair value their potentially illiquid
shares of Enex Common Stock for freely tradeable shares of Middle Bay. Also, by
becoming Middle Bay stockholders, Enex stockholders would have the opportunity
to participate in the ownership of the combined Middle Bay/Enex business as an
integrated operation. The Enex Board, therefore, recommends to Enex's
stockholders that they vote FOR the approval of the Merger Agreement and the
Merger contemplated thereby.

INTERESTS OF CERTAIN PERSONS IN THE MERGER

         In considering the recommendation of the Enex Board with respect to the
Merger Agreement, Enex stockholders should be aware that the executive officers
and directors of Enex and Middle Bay are substantially identical and have
interests in the Merger that are in addition to or different from the interests
of stockholders of Enex generally, as described below.

         As disclosed under "The Merger and Recommendation to the Board," each
member of the Enex Board of Directors is a director and shareholder of Middle
Bay and, therefore, has an interest in the Merger. In the case of three of the
directors, this interest results also from being an officer of Middle Bay.




                                     - 16 -

<PAGE>   31



NASDAQ STOCK MARKET LISTING

         Middle Bay's Common Stock is currently listed for trading on the NASDAQ
Small Cap Stock Market. A subsequent listing application will be filed with the
NASDAQ Stock Market to list the shares of Middle Bay Common Stock to be issued
to Enex stockholders in connection with the Merger. Although no assurance can be
given that the shares of Middle Bay Common Stock so issued will be accepted for
listing, Middle Bay anticipates that these shares will qualify for listing on
the NASDAQ Small Cap Stock Market, upon official notice of issuance thereof.

POTENTIAL DELISTING OF ENEX COMMON STOCK FROM NASDAQ STOCK MARKET

   
         As of May 31, 1998, Enex had 596 shareholders of record and
approximately 278,640 publicly-held shares outstanding. The NASDAQ Stock Market
criteria for continued inclusion of a security for trading include the
requirements that there be at least 300 record holders and not less than 500,000
publicly-held shares. Since Enex does not meet the latter of the two criteria,
the delisting of Enex Common Stock from the NASDAQ Stock Market is likely to
occur in 1998.
    

RESALE OF MIDDLE BAY COMMON STOCK BY AFFILIATES

         Middle Bay Common Stock to be issued to Enex stockholders in connection
with the Merger has been registered under the Securities Act and, upon
consummation of the Merger, will be freely transferable under the Securities
Act, except for shares issued to any person who may be deemed an "Affiliate" (as
defined below) of Enex or Middle Bay within the meaning of Rule 145 under the
Securities Act. "Affiliates" are generally defined as persons who control, are
controlled by, or are under common control with Enex or Middle Bay at the time
of the Special Meeting (generally, directors and certain executive officers of
Enex or Middle Bay and major stockholders of Enex or Middle Bay).

         Affiliates of Enex or Middle Bay may not sell their shares of Middle
Bay Common Stock acquired in connection with the Merger except pursuant to an
effective registration statement under the Securities Act covering such shares
or in compliance with Rule 145 or another applicable exemption from the
registration requirements of the Securities Act. In general, under Rule 145, for
one year following the Effective Time (the "Restricted Period"), an Affiliate
(together with certain related persons) is entitled to sell shares of Middle Bay
Common Stock acquired in connection with the Merger only through unsolicited
"broker transactions" or in transactions directly with a "market maker," as such
terms are defined in Rule 144 under the Securities Act. Additionally, the number
of shares that may be sold by an Affiliate (together with certain related
persons and certain persons acting in concert) within any three-month period
during the Restricted Period for purposes of Rule 145 may not exceed the greater
of (i) 1% of the outstanding shares of Middle Bay Common Stock or (ii) the
average weekly trading volume of such stock during the four calendar weeks
preceding such sale. Rule 145 is available to Affiliates only if Middle Bay
remains current with its information filings with the Commission under the
Exchange Act. Following the Restricted Period, an Affiliate may sell such Middle
Bay Common Stock free of such manner of sale or volume limitations, provided
that Middle Bay is current with its Exchange Act information filings and such
Affiliate is not then an Affiliate of Middle Bay. At any time following two
years after the Effective Time, an Affiliate may sell such shares of Middle Bay
Common Stock without any



                                     - 17 -

<PAGE>   32
restrictions, so long as such Affiliate is not then, and has not been for at
least three months prior thereto, an Affiliate of Middle Bay.

MATERIAL FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER

         Set forth below is Thrasher, Whitley, Hampton & Morgan's opinion
regarding the material federal income tax aspects of the Merger to holders of
Enex Common Stock deemed converted in the Merger into shares of Middle Bay
Common Stock under current law and regulations. Thrasher, Whitley, Hampton &
Morgan, counsel to Middle Bay, has issued to Middle Bay and filed as an exhibit
to the Registration Statement, of which this Proxy Statement/Prospectus is a
part, a tax opinion indicating that discussions of the tax consequences and
legal conclusions set forth herein are accurate and complete in all material
respects and constitute its opinion as stated above. The discussion is based on
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the "Code"), as amended. Neither Enex nor
Middle Bay will seek any rulings from the Internal Revenue Service with respect
to the transactions contemplated hereby.

         It is currently expected that the Merger will not qualify either as a
tax-free liquidation of a controlled subsidiary corporation or as a tax-free
reorganization. One of the prerequisites for treatment as a tax-free
liquidation, under Code Section 332, is that Middle Bay own at least 80% of the
Enex Common Stock when the plan of liquidation is adopted. Currently, Middle Bay
owns 79.2% of the Enex Common Stock.

         In the opinion of counsel to Middle Bay, the Merger is not likely to
qualify as a tax-free reorganization, even as to the Enex stockholders other
than Middle Bay and even as to Enex stockholders who receive only Middle Bay
Common Stock in exchange for their Enex Common Stock, because continuity of
interest is not sufficient. Since the Merger is not expected to be tax-free, all
Enex stockholders (even those who approve the Merger) are expected to recognize
gain or loss for federal income tax purposes as a result of the Merger. Enex
stockholders should consult their own tax advisors, however, in determining
which position to take as they file their income tax returns.

   
         Assuming (as expected) that the Merger does not qualify as a tax-free
reorganization, the amount of gain or loss recognized by an Enex stockholder who
approves the Merger will be calculated by comparing, as of the date of the
Merger, the value of the Middle Bay Common Stock received by the Enex
stockholder with the Enex stockholder's tax basis in the Enex Common Stock
surrendered pursuant to the Merger. Any gain or loss recognized by an Enex
stockholder will generally be long-term capital gain or loss if the Enex
stockholder has held his or her Enex Common Stock as a capital asset for more
than one year as of the Effective Date of the Merger. Under current law, as
amended by the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997, the federal income tax rate
applicable to long-term capital gains is generally lower if such holding period
exceeds 18 months. Pending legislation with reasonable prospects for enactment
will extend the same lower rate to all long-term capital gains (even when the
holding period does not exceed 18 months). An Enex stockholder's tax basis in
the Middle Bay Common Stock received in the exchange will be its fair market
value as of the Effective Date of the Merger, and a new holding period will
start as of the Effective Date of the Merger. Therefore, a former Enex
stockholder must hold the Middle Bay Common Stock for more than one year after
the Effective Date to qualify for long-term capital gain treatment (and more
than 18 months to qualify for the lower rate,
    



                                     - 18 -

<PAGE>   33
   
unless the pending legislation is enacted) on any appreciation in the value of
the Middle Bay Common Stock after the Merger.

         Regardless of whether or not the Merger qualifies as a tax-free
reorganization, the amount of gain or loss recognized by an Enex stockholder who
perfects his or her appraisal rights will be calculated by comparing the amount
of cash received by the Enex stockholder with the Enex stockholder's tax basis
in the Enex Common Stock redeemed by Enex. Any gain or loss recognized will
generally be long-term capital gain or loss if the Enex stockholder has held his
or her Enex Common Stock as a capital asset for more than one year as of the
date the stock is redeemed. As explained above subject to enactment of pending
legislation, the federal income tax rate applicable to long-term capital gains
is generally lower if such holding period exceeds 18 months.
    

         The foregoing discussion is limited to the material federal income tax
aspects of the Merger for a holder of Enex Common Stock who is a citizen or
resident of the United States and who, on the date of conversion of such
holder's shares of Enex Common Stock, holds such shares as capital assets. All
holders are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding the federal,
foreign, state and local tax consequences of disposition of Enex Common Stock in
the Merger. The foregoing discussion does not address potential foreign, state,
local and other nonfederal tax consequences, nor does it address taxpayers
subject to special treatment under the federal income tax laws, such as life
insurance companies, tax-exempt organizations, Subchapter S corporations and
taxpayers subject to alternative minimum tax.

         THE FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES SET FORTH ABOVE ARE FOR GENERAL
INFORMATION ONLY. EACH HOLDER OF ENEX COMMON STOCK IS URGED TO CONSULT HIS OR
HER OWN TAX ADVISOR TO DETERMINE THE PARTICULAR TAX CONSEQUENCES TO SUCH
STOCKHOLDER OF THE MERGER (INCLUDING THE APPLICABILITY AND EFFECT OF FOREIGN,
STATE, LOCAL AND OTHER TAX LAWS).

REGULATORY APPROVALS

         No governmental approvals or filings, state or federal, are required
with respect to the Merger (other than routine change of operator filings with
respect to certain of Enex's oil and gas properties) except for the filing of
the Certificate of Merger by Enex with the Delaware Secretary of State and the
filing of Articles of Merger by Middle Bay with the Alabama Secretary of State.

ACCOUNTING TREATMENT

         Middle Bay accounted for its acquisition of 79.2% of the issued and
outstanding Enex Common Stock under the purchase method of accounting. The
Merger constitutes an acquisition of minority interests and will also be
accounted for under the purchase method of accounting. As a result, the total
consideration paid by Middle Bay for its interests in Enex will be allocated to
the assets and liabilities of Enex based on the fair value of the assets and
liabilities acquired.




                                     - 19 -
<PAGE>   34
         At the 1998 Annual Meeting of Shareholders held June 18, 1998,
directors nominated and shareholders approved the appointment of KPMG Peat
Marwick LLP as Middle Bay's independent public accountants, replacing Schultz,
Watkins & Company. Representatives of both firms will be present at the Special
Meeting, will be given the opportunity to make a statement if they desire to do
so and will be available to respond to reasonable and appropriate questions.

APPRAISAL RIGHTS

         The following discussion is a complete summary in all material respects
of the law pertaining to dissenters' rights under Delaware General Corporation
Law ("DGCL"). However, such summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to
the full text of Section 262 of the DGCL setting forth the rights of
stockholders who object to the Merger Agreement and the Merger. Stockholders
wishing to exercise such appraisal rights or to preserve their rights to do so
("Dissenting Stockholders") should review the following discussion and the
provisions of Section 262 of the DGCL with counsel. A copy of Section 262 of the
DGCL is attached to this Proxy Statement/Prospectus as Appendix II. The failure
of Dissenting Stockholders to comply in a timely and proper manner with the
procedures set forth in the DGCL will result in the loss of appraisal rights
with respect to the Merger.

         Section 262 of the DGCL sets forth the rights of stockholders of Enex
who object to the Merger. In general, as described in greater detail below, a
stockholder objecting to the Merger who wishes to dissent must file a written
notice of dissent prior to the vote on the Merger Agreement, and, after such
vote is taken, comply with Section 262 to seek appraisal of the value of Enex
Common Stock.

         Any holder of Common Stock who does not vote in favor of the Merger
Agreement (including any such holder who abstains from voting), or who duly
revokes a vote in favor of such transaction, and (in either case) who objects to
the Merger, may, if the Merger is consummated, obtain payment, in cash, for the
appraised fair market value of such stockholder's shares of Enex immediately
prior to the Merger by complying with the requirements of the DGCL. Holders of
Enex Common Stock are ineligible to exercise their appraisal rights unless they
are stockholders on the Record Date, continue to hold such shares through the
Effective Time and have not voted in favor of the Merger Agreement.

   
         Before the taking of the vote on the Merger Agreement at the Special
Meeting, each Dissenting Stockholder must file with Enex a written demand for
appraisal of the value of his/her shares of Enex Common Stock if the Merger is
consummated. A written demand must be filed with Enex by holders of Enex Common
Stock who wish to demand appraisal even if they vote against the Merger. Such
written demand should be addressed to: Corporate Secretary, Enex Resources
Corporation, 1221 Lamar Street, Suite 1020, Houston, Texas 77010.
    

         If the Merger Agreement is approved, within ten days after the
Effective Time, Middle Bay must provide written notice to each Dissenting
Stockholder of the Effective Time and that appraisal rights are available for
any or all of the shares of Enex. If the Dissenting Stockholders and Middle Bay
cannot reach agreement as to the appraisal value of the Enex Common Stock,
Middle Bay or any Dissenting Stockholder, within 120 days after the Effective
Time of the Merger, may file a petition in the Court of Chancery in



                                     - 20 -
<PAGE>   35



Delaware demanding a determination of the value of the Enex Common Stock. Within
such 120-day period, any Dissenting Stockholder is entitled to receive upon
request from Middle Bay a statement setting forth the aggregate number of shares
not voted in favor of the Merger and with respect to which demands for appraisal
have been received and the aggregate number of holders of such shares. This
written statement must be mailed to the Dissenting Stockholder within ten days
after written request is received by Middle Bay. Further, at any time within 60
days after the Effective Time of the Merger, any Dissenting Stockholder has the
right to withdraw his demand for appraisal and accept the terms offered upon the
Merger.

         Following the filing of a petition in the Court of Chancery for an
appraisal of the value of the Enex Common Stock, the Court shall determine the
stockholders who have complied with Section 262 and are entitled to appraisal
rights. The Court may demand that Dissenting Stockholders submit their
certificates of stock to the Registry in Chancery for notation thereon of the
pendency of the appraisal proceedings and may dismiss the proceedings as to any
Dissenting Stockholder failing to comply with such request. The Court will then
appraise the Enex Common Stock, determining the fair value thereof immediately
prior to the Merger exclusive of any element of value arising from the
accomplishment or expectation of the Merger, together with a fair rate of
interest, if any, to be paid upon the amount determined to be the fair value.
The Court is authorized by the DGCL to take into account all relevant factors.
Upon determination of the fair value, the Court shall then direct Middle Bay to
pay the Dissenting Stockholders the fair value so determined. Interest may be
simple or compound, as the Court may direct.

         Enex will accept a Dissenting Stockholder's objection to the Merger and
demand for payment of its shares by facsimile transmission, provided such
facsimile is confirmed, in writing, sent by certified or registered mail to Enex
at the address specified above within 24 hours after transmission of the
facsimile. The facsimile communication should be addressed to: Corporate
Secretary, Enex Resources Corporation, facsimile number:
(713) 650-0352.

         A vote against the Merger does not constitute a "written demand" filed
by a Dissenting Stockholder. A Dissenting Stockholder's abstention from voting
on the Merger or failure to specify any vote on the accompanying proxy will not
constitute a waiver of such stockholder's rights under the DGCL, provided that a
written demand has been properly filed. A vote in favor of the Merger will
constitute a waiver of such stockholder's appraisal rights, however, even if a
written demand has been filed.


                              THE MERGER AGREEMENT

         The following discussion of the Merger Agreement is qualified in its
entirety by reference to the complete text of the Merger Agreement, which is
included in this Proxy Statement/Prospectus as Appendix I (exclusive of certain
exhibits) and is incorporated herein by reference.

GENERAL

         The Merger Agreement provides for the merger of Enex into Middle Bay.
Middle Bay will be the Surviving Corporation of the Merger and shall succeed to
and assume all rights and obligations of Enex. In



                                     - 21 -

<PAGE>   36
connection with the Merger, the stockholders of Enex (other than Middle Bay and
those stockholders who perfect appraisal rights in accordance with the DGCL)
will receive the Merger Consideration described below.

CLOSING; EFFECTIVE TIME

         The closing of the Merger will take place as soon as practicable after
the day upon which all conditions to consummation of the Merger are satisfied or
waived. The Effective Time of the Merger will occur upon the filing of a
Certificate of Merger with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware and
acceptance thereof by such Secretary of State as required by the DGCL or at such
later date as may be specified in the Certificate of Merger and the filing with
and acceptance of Articles of Merger by the Alabama Secretary of State. It is
anticipated that such Certificates will be filed promptly after the approval and
adoption of the Merger Agreement by the stockholders of Enex at the Special
Meeting. Such filings will be made, however, only upon satisfaction or waiver of
all conditions to the Merger contained in the Merger Agreement. The economic
effective date for purposes of the Merger Agreement is July 1, 1998.

MERGER CONSIDERATION

   
         In connection with the Merger, each outstanding share of Enex Common
Stock at the Effective Time (except those shares held by Middle Bay and shares
for which appraisal rights have been perfected and not withdrawn) will be
converted into the right to receive that number of shares of Middle Bay Common
Stock which, when multiplied by the average of the closing bid prices per share
as quoted by NASDAQ for the five trading days immediately prior to August 14,
1998, equals $15.00. Each share of Enex Common Stock owned by Middle Bay or held
by Enex as treasury shares will be canceled without consideration. Instructions
with regard to the surrender of certificates formerly representing shares of
Enex Common Stock will be delivered to the holders thereof as described under
the heading "The Merger - Procedures for Exchange of Certificates."
    

         No fractional share of Middle Bay Common Stock will be issued to any
holder of Enex Common Stock, but in lieu thereof, each such stockholder who
otherwise would be entitled to receive a fraction of a share of Middle Bay
Common Stock (after aggregating all fractional shares of Middle Bay Common Stock
which would be received by such stockholder) shall receive cash from Middle Bay
in an amount equal to $15.00 divided by the Conversion Ratio and multiplied by
such fraction.

         After the Effective Time, the holder of a certificate formerly
representing shares of Enex Common Stock shall cease to have any rights as a
stockholder of Enex, and such holder's sole right will be to receive the Merger
Consideration with respect to such shares. No transfer of shares outstanding
immediately prior to the Effective Time will be made on the stock transfer books
of Middle Bay after the Effective Time. Certificates formerly representing
shares of Enex Common Stock presented to Middle Bay after the Effective Time
will be canceled in exchange for the aggregate Merger Consideration to which the
holder of such certificates is entitled.

         In no event will holders of Enex Common Stock be entitled to receive
any interest on the aggregate Merger Consideration to be distributed to them in
connection with the Merger.




                                     - 22 -
<PAGE>   37



REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

         The Merger Agreement contains various customary representations and
warranties of Enex relating to, among other things: (i) Enex's organization and
similar corporate matters; (ii) the execution, delivery and performance of the
Merger Agreement by Enex, the legality, validity and enforceability thereof
against Enex, and the noncontravention of, and lack of conflict with, the
Certificate of Incorporation or Bylaws of Enex, the terms of any note, bond,
mortgage, deed of trust, security interest, indenture, license, contract,
agreement, plan or other obligation of Enex, or any provision of any statute,
law, ordinance or administrative or arbitration order, award, judgment, writ,
injunction or decree applicable to Enex or any of its properties or assets;
(iii) the financial statements of Enex and the accuracy of the information
contained therein; (iv) subject to certain exceptions, absence of certain
specified material changes or events; (v) the absence of undisclosed litigation
and other legal proceedings; (vi) the absence of undisclosed liabilities; (vii)
the absence of defaults under or breaches of Enex's Certificate of Incorporation
and Bylaws, agreements and obligations to which Enex is subject, or orders,
writs, injunctions, decrees, statutes, rules or regulations applicable to Enex
or its properties or assets; (viii) the absence of any violations of applicable
law; and (ix) entitlement to brokers and finders fees.

         The Merger Agreement also contains certain customary representations
and warranties of Middle Bay relating to, among other things: (i) its
organization and similar corporate matters; (ii) the execution, delivery and
performance of the Merger Agreement by Middle Bay, the legality, validity and
enforceability thereof against Middle Bay, and the noncontravention of, and lack
of conflict with, the Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws of Middle Bay, the
terms of any note, bond, mortgage, deed of trust, security interest, indenture,
license, contract, agreement, plan or other obligation of Middle Bay, or any
provision of any statute, law, ordinance or administrative or arbitration order,
award, judgment, writ, injunction or decree applicable to Middle Bay or any of
its properties or assets; (iii) documents filed by Middle Bay with the
Commission and the accuracy of the information contained therein; (iv) subject
to certain exceptions, absence of certain specified material changes or events;
(v) the absence of undisclosed liabilities; and (vi) entitlement to brokers and
finders fees.

         None of the representations and warranties described above or contained
in the Merger Agreement survive the Effective Time of the Merger.

CONDUCT OF BUSINESS OF ENEX PRIOR TO THE EFFECTIVE TIME

         Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, Enex has agreed that, among other
things, prior to the Effective Time, it will conduct its business in the
ordinary course consistent with past practice and it will not, without the prior
written consent of Middle Bay: (i) amend its Certificate of Incorporation or
Bylaws; (ii) issue or otherwise dispose of any securities of Enex; (iii) split,
combine or reclassify any shares of its capital stock, declare, set aside or pay
any dividend or other distribution in respect of its capital stock or redeem or
otherwise acquire any of its securities or authorize, adopt or otherwise
participate in a plan of liquidation or other corporate reorganization; (iv)
except for borrowings under Enex's existing credit facilities, incur any
indebtedness other than routine trade payables, make any loans or investments in
any other person, or pledge or otherwise encumber any of its shares of capital
stock or assets; (v) enter into, amend or terminate any employee benefit
agreement, trust or other arrangement for the benefit or welfare of any
director, officer or



                                     - 23 -

<PAGE>   38



employee, or increase the compensation or fringe benefits of any director,
officer or employee or pay any benefit not required by any current plan or
arrangement; (vi) acquire, sell, lease or dispose of any assets other than in
the ordinary course of business consistent with past practices; (vii) except as
required by generally accepted accounting principles, change any accounting
principle or practice used by it; (viii) make any tax selection or settle or
compromise any tax liability; (ix) pay or discharge any claims, obligations or
liabilities, other than those reflected or reserved against in the financial
statements of Enex or incurred in the ordinary course of business consistent
with past practices; (x) acquire any corporation, partnership or other business
organization or division thereof, enter into any contract or agreement other
than in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice with
executory obligations not to exceed $50,000 in each case or authorize any
capital expenditures in excess of $20,000; or (xi) commit or agree in writing or
otherwise to take any of the actions described above.

ACQUISITION PROPOSALS

         From the date of the Merger Agreement until termination thereof, Enex
has agreed and has agreed to cause its officers, directors, employees or other
agents not to, directly or indirectly, (i) take any action to solicit, initiate
or encourage any Acquisition Proposal, as defined below, or (ii) engage in
negotiations with or disclose any nonpublic information relating to Enex or
afford access to its properties, books or records to any person that may be
considering making or has made, an Acquisition Proposal. An "Acquisition
Proposal" is defined as any offer or proposal for, or any indication of interest
in, a merger or other business combination involving Enex or the acquisition of
any equity interest in, or a substantial portion of the assets of Enex other
than the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement.

CONDITIONS TO CONSUMMATION OF THE MERGER

         The respective obligations of Enex and Middle Bay to consummate the
Merger are subject to the satisfaction (or waiver) at or prior to the Effective
Time of the following conditions: (i) no statute, rule, regulation, executive
order, decree, ruling or preliminary or permanent injunction existing which
prohibits, restrains, enjoins or restricts the consummation of the Merger; (ii)
the effectiveness of this Registration Statement, no stop order suspending the
effectiveness of this Registration Statement being in effect and no proceedings
for such purpose being threatened by the Commission or initiated by the
Commission and not concluded or withdrawn; (iii) the approval for listing on the
NASDAQ Stock Market of the Middle Bay Common Stock to be issued in connection
with the Merger; and (iv) the approval by the stockholders of Enex of the Merger
Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby.

         The obligation of Enex to consummate the Merger is subject to the
satisfaction (or waiver) of the following conditions: (i) Middle Bay shall have
performed in all material respects its obligations under the Merger Agreement;
and (ii) the representations and warranties of Middle Bay contained in the
Merger Agreement shall be true and correct in all material respects.

         The obligations of Middle Bay to consummate the Merger are subject to
the satisfaction (or waiver) of the following conditions: (i) Enex shall have
performed in all material respects its obligations under the



                                     - 24 -

<PAGE>   39



Merger Agreement; (ii) the representations and warranties of Enex shall be true
and correct in all material respects; and (iii) Enex shall have secured all
consents required for its consummation of the Merger.

TERMINATION

         The Merger Agreement may be terminated (i) at any time prior to the
Effective Time by mutual consent of the parties; (ii) by Middle Bay or Enex if
the Merger has not been consummated on or before September 30, 1998, or a United
States federal or state court or federal or state governmental, regulatory or
administrative agency or commission issues an order, decree or ruling or takes
other action permanently restraining, enjoining or otherwise prohibiting the
Merger and such order, decree, ruling or other action is final and
nonappealable; (iii) by Enex prior to the Effective Time if there has been a
material breach by Middle Bay of any obligation or any representation or
warranty, which is not cured within 20 days of notice thereof; or (iv) by Middle
Bay prior to the Effective Time if there has been a material breach by Enex of
any obligation or any representation or warranty contained in the Agreement,
which is not cured within 20 days of notice thereof.

AMENDMENTS AND WAIVERS

         The Merger Agreement may not be amended except by an instrument in
writing signed on behalf of the parties thereto. The Merger Agreement provides
that at any time before the closing of the Merger, either Enex or Middle Bay may
waive any inaccuracies in the representations and warranties of any other party
contained in the Merger Agreement and waive compliance by any other party with
any of the agreements or conditions contained in the Merger Agreement.

EXPENSES

         If the Merger is consummated, all costs and expenses incurred in
connection with the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby
shall be paid by Middle Bay; however, if the Merger is not consummated, all
expenses of this solicitation, including the cost of preparing and mailing this
Proxy Statement/Prospectus, will be shared equally by Enex and Middle Bay.


                             BUSINESS OF MIDDLE BAY

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

         Middle Bay is an independent oil and gas company engaged in the
exploration, development and production of oil and gas in the contiguous United
States. Middle Bay's strategy focuses on increasing its reserves of crude oil
and natural gas by the acquisition and development of proved oil and gas
properties primarily in the Mid-Continent and Gulf Coast regions. Middle Bay
believes the current period reflects historically low market prices for oil and
gas and is focusing its efforts on increasing reserves so that it will be well
positioned to benefit in the event of any future increases in demand for natural
gas and oil. Consistent with these efforts, Middle Bay is participating on a
limited basis in drilling and development activities in other geographic regions
of the contiguous United States. In November, 1997, Middle Bay relocated its
principal



                                     - 25 -

<PAGE>   40



executive offices to 1221 Lamar Street, Suite 1020, Houston, Texas 77010. Middle
Bay's mailing address is P.O. Box 53448, Houston, Texas 77052-3448. Its
telephone number is (713) 759-6808.

         Middle Bay was incorporated under the Alabama Business Corporation Code
on November 30, 1992. Effective December 31, 1992, all of the assets of Bay City
Consolidated Partners, L.P., an Alabama limited partnership, were transferred to
Middle Bay in exchange for common stock of Middle Bay. The limited partnership
was then dissolved under the Alabama Uniform Limited Partnership Act. The shares
of common stock of Middle Bay then owned by the limited partnership were
distributed to the general partner and the limited partners prorata in
accordance with their respective interests in the limited partnership.

         On April 3, 1996, Middle Bay entered into a Joint Expense and
Participation Agreement (the "Brigham Agreement") with Brigham Oil and Gas,
L.P., now Brigham Exploration Company ("Brigham"). The Brigham Agreement allowed
Middle Bay to participate in all of the wells that Brigham drilled over the
12-month period beginning April 1, 1996. Middle Bay advanced Brigham a total of
$1,945,000 to drill 61 wells, of which 43 were successfully completed.

         On September 4, 1996, Middle Bay entered into a stock purchase
agreement (the "Preferred Stock Agreement") with Kaiser Francis Oil Company
("Kaiser-Francis") whereby Kaiser-Francis agreed to purchase 1,666,667 shares of
Series A Preferred Stock (the "Series A") at $6.00 per share, for a total
investment of $10,000,000. The Series A shares had all been issued as of
December 31, 1997. On January 31, 1998, Kaiser-Francis converted 100% of the
Series A shares into 3,333,334 common shares of Middle Bay. Prior to their
conversion to common stock, the Series A were nonvoting and accrued dividends at
8% per annum, payable quarterly in cash, and were convertible at any time into
two shares of common stock for each Series A share held prior to January 1,
1998. Gary R. Christopher, a director of Middle Bay, serves as Acquisitions
Coordinator for Kaiser-Francis.

         On December 17, 1996, Middle Bay entered into an Agreement and Plan of
Merger (the "NPC Merger") with NPC Energy Corporation ("NPC"), whereby NPC would
be merged into Middle Bay in exchange for Company common stock and cash. The NPC
Merger was approved by NPC's shareholders and closed on December 31, 1996. NPC
was a privately-owned domestic exploration and production company with assets
located in Kansas, Michigan, Oklahoma, Texas and Wyoming. Pursuant to the NPC
Merger, Middle Bay issued 562,000 shares of its common stock and paid $1,226,400
to NPC in exchange for all of the stock of NPC. The cash funding for the NPC
Merger was financed through the issuance of 166,667 shares of Series A for $1.0
million. The NPC Merger added approximately 503 thousand barrels of oil and
3,139 million cubic feet of gas, for a total proved reserve value of $6.0
million (PV 10%) as of December 31, 1996, using December 31, 1996 prices.

         On February 10, 1997, Middle Bay entered into an Agreement and Plan of
Merger (the "Bison Merger") with Bison Energy Corporation ("Bison"), whereby
Bison was merged with a wholly-owned subsidiary of Middle Bay in exchange for
Company common stock and cash. The Bison Merger was approved by Bison's sole
shareholder and closed on February 28, 1997. Bison was a privately-held,
domestic exploration and production company with assets located in Kansas and
Oklahoma. Pursuant to the Bison Merger, Middle Bay issued 1,167,556 shares of
its common stock and net cash consideration of $5,900,000



                                     - 26 -

<PAGE>   41



to Bison in exchange for all of the stock of Bison. 562,000 shares of Company
common stock owned by Bison (as a result of the NPC Merger) were canceled at
closing. The cash portion of the Bison Merger was financed through the issuance
of 1,000,000 shares of Series A for $6.0 million. The Bison Merger added
approximately 951 thousand barrels of oil and 7,791 million cubic feet of gas,
for a total proved reserve value of $8.94 million (PV 10%) as of February 28,
1997, using December 31, 1997 prices.

         On June 20, 1997, Middle Bay entered into an Agreement and Plan of
Merger (the "Shore Merger") with Shore Oil Company ("Shore"), whereby Shore was
merged with a wholly-owned subsidiary of Middle Bay in exchange for Company
common stock, Series B preferred stock (the "Series B"), cash and the assumption
of Shore bank debt. The Shore Merger was approved by Shore's shareholders and
closed on June 30, 1997. Shore was a privately-held, domestic exploration and
production company with oil and gas properties located primarily in Alabama,
Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas, as well as approximately 42,000 net mineral
acres in LaFourche, Terrebonne and St. Mary Parishes, Louisiana. Pursuant to the
Shore Merger, Middle Bay issued 1,883,333 shares of its common stock, paid
Shore's indebtedness to its shareholders of $2,333,303 and assumed bank debt of
$2,105,000. In addition, Middle Bay paid $200,000 in cash and issued 266,667
shares of Series B which are convertible into as many as 1,333,333 shares of
common stock over the next five years, contingent upon the results of drilling
and leasing activity on Shore's Louisiana mineral acreage. The cash funding for
the Shore Merger was financed through the issuance of 500,000 shares of Series A
for $3.0 million. The Shore Merger added approximately 965 thousand barrels of
oil and 1,364 million cubic feet of gas, for a total proved reserve value of
$6.0 million (PV 10%) as of July 1, 1997, using December 31, 1997 prices. The
Shore Merger also added approximately 42,000 net acres of fee minerals situated
in Lafourche, Terrebonne and St. Mary Parishes in Louisiana that were valued at
approximately $3.6 million at June 30, 1997. In connection with the Shore
Merger, Alvin V. Shoemaker and Stephen W. Herod were appointed directors of
Middle Bay, replacing Frank C. Turner, II and C. Noell Rather.

         Middle Bay acquired on March 27, 1998 1,064,032 shares of the common
stock of Enex for $15 cash per share pursuant to the Tender Offer which began on
February 19, 1998. The Enex shares acquired by Middle Bay represent 79.2% of the
total outstanding Enex Common Stock. The purchase price per share was derived by
Middle Bay by estimating the discounted reserve value of Enex's properties and
through negotiation with Enex management, who recommended acceptance of the
Tender Offer to Enex shareholders. The purchase price of $15,960,480 was
financed through Middle Bay's new credit facility with Compass Bank and Bank of
Oklahoma, as described under "Company Financing," below. Concurrent with the
completion of the Tender Offer, Middle Bay negotiated the termination of all
outstanding Enex stock option rights held by certain former officers and
employees of Enex so that none of such options are currently outstanding. The
options, in the aggregate, represented rights to purchase up to 143,000 shares
of Enex Common Stock at an average price of $9.22 per share. The total amount
paid by Middle Bay to holders of such options was $826,250. In addition, Middle
Bay entered into a consulting agreement with Gerald B. Eckley, former President,
Chief Executive Officer and a director of Enex, whereby Mr. Eckley shall be paid
on a monthly basis an aggregate of $960,000 over a four-year period beginning
April 15, 1998 in consideration of his services as consultant and acquisitions
advisor and the termination of his employment contract with Enex. Concurrent
with the closing of the Tender Offer, the Enex Board of Directors and executive
officers resigned and were replaced by the persons who constitute Middle Bay's
Board of Directors and corresponding executive officers.




                                     - 27 -

<PAGE>   42



         On April 16, 1998, Middle Bay entered into and closed an Asset Purchase
Agreement (the "Agreement") with Service Drilling Co., L.L.C. ("Service
Drilling") and certain of its affiliates whereby Middle Bay acquired
substantially all of the assets of Service Drilling and its affiliates in
exchange for Middle Bay Common Stock and cash. Service Drilling and its
affiliates are privately-owned domestic oil and gas development and production
companies with assets located primarily in Oklahoma and the Texas Panhandle.
Pursuant to the Agreement, Middle Bay issued 666,000 shares of its common stock
and paid an aggregate cash consideration of $6,500,000, subject to post-closing
adjustments, in exchange for the assets. The economic effective date of this
transaction was March 1, 1998. Asset values were determined by estimating the
discounted reserve value of the acquired properties and through negotiation. The
cash portion of the consideration was financed through Middle Bay's bank credit
facility and cash on hand.

         Middle Bay has financed the cash requirements of its acquisitions
through a convertible credit facility, initially with Bank of Oklahoma, N.A.
and, since March, 1998, with Compass Bank as lead lender and Bank of Oklahoma,
N.A. as a participating lender (the "Banks"). The borrowing base for the $100
million facility was set at $32.6 million concurrent with the closing of the
Service Drilling acquisition. The borrowing base is required to be reduced by
$330,000 per month beginning May 1, 1998 and ending October 1, 1998. The
borrowing base and the scheduled reduction amount shall be redetermined
semi-annually by unanimous consent of the lenders beginning October 1, 1998. The
principal is due at maturity--April 1, 2001. Monthly principal payments are made
as required in order that the outstanding principal balance does not exceed the
borrowing base. Interest is payable monthly and is calculated at the prime rate.
Middle Bay may also elect to calculate interest under the Libor rate, as defined
in the loan agreement. The Libor rate increases by (a) 2.00% if the outstanding
loan balance and letters of credit are equal to or greater than 75% of the
borrowing base, (b) 1.75% if the outstanding loan balance and letters of credit
are less than 75% or greater than 50% of the borrowing base, and (c) 1.50% if
the outstanding loan balance and letters of credit are equal to or less than 50%
of the borrowing base. Libor interest is payable at maturity of the Libor loan,
which cannot be less than thirty days.

         At May 31, 1998, Middle Bay had borrowed $30,918,605 and had $1,350,432
of outstanding letters of credit. As of May 31, 1998, Middle Bay is paying Libor
plus 2.00% on a thirty-day Libor loan for $29,969,605 and prime on $949,000.

         Middle Bay paid a facility fee equal to 3/8% of the initial borrowing
base and is required to pay 3/8% on any future increase in the borrowing base
within five days of written notice. Middle Bay is required to pay a quarterly
commitment fee on the unused portion of the borrowing base of one-half percent
if the outstanding loan balance plus letters of credit are greater than 50% of
the borrowing base or three-eighths percent if the outstanding loan balance plus
letters of credit are less than or equal to 50% of the borrowing base. Middle
Bay is required to pay a letter of credit fee on the date of issuance or renewal
of each letter of credit equal to the greater of $500 or one and one-half
percent of the face amount of the letter of credit.

         Middle Bay has granted to the Banks liens on substantially all of
Middle Bay's oil and natural gas properties, whether currently owned or
hereafter acquired, and a negative pledge on all other oil and gas properties.
The $100 million facility requires, among other things, a cash flow coverage
ratio of 1.25 to 1.00 and a current ratio of 0.9 to 1.00, determined on a
quarterly basis.




                                     - 28 -

<PAGE>   43



BUSINESS STRATEGY

         Middle Bay's oil and gas reserves are principally in long-lived fields
with well-established production histories. Middle Bay's net Proved Reserves,
estimated as of December 31, 1997 by applying S.E.C. assumptions, consisted of
approximately 18,419 million cubic feet of gas and 2.9 million barrels of oil,
with an aggregate present value before income taxes, at a 10% discount, of
$30,179,000. Approximately 80% of the reserves are classified as proved
developed producing, 7% are proved developed non-producing and 13% are proved
undeveloped. On an equivalent barrel basis, the proved reserves are 55% gas.
Recoverable volumes of gas increased 105% and recoverable volumes of oil
increased 111% over 1996 volumes. The PV 10% of the oil and gas reserves
increased 34% over the 1996 amount of $22,465,000. The reserves are located
primarily in Alabama, Kansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas. A substantial
portion of Middle Bay's natural gas production and Proved Reserves consist of
high BTU gas which, because of its rich liquid content and its proximity to
processing and transmission facilities, is generally sold at a premium to Gulf
Coast and Mid-Continent spot market prices. Substantially all of Middle Bay's
oil production is sold at market responsive prices. All of Middle Bay's gas
production, except for the gas sold in the Spivey Field, is sold at market
responsive prices.

         Middle Bay's present business strategy is to concentrate on expanding
its asset base and cash flow primarily through emphasis on the following
activities:

                  -        Increasing production, cash flow and asset value by
                           acquiring Producing Properties with stable production
                           rates, long reserve lives and potential for
                           exploitation and development;

                  -        Building on Middle Bay's existing base of operations
                           by concentrating its development activities in its
                           primary operating areas in the Gulf Coast and the
                           Mid-continent Regions;

                  -        Acquiring additional properties with potential for
                           developmental drilling to maintain a significant
                           inventory of undeveloped Prospects and to enhance
                           Middle Bay's foundation for future growth;

                  -        Serving as operator of its wells to ensure technical
                           performance and reduce costs;

                  -        Expanding its relationships with major and large
                           independent oil and gas companies to access their
                           undeveloped properties, seismic data and financial
                           resources;

                  -        Managing financial risk and mitigating technical risk
                           by:

                           -        drilling in known productive trends with
                                    multi-horizon geologic potential;

                           -        diversifying investment over a large number
                                    of wells in Middle Bay's primary operating
                                    areas;



                                     - 29 -

<PAGE>   44



                           -        developing properties that provide a balance
                                    between short and long reserve lives; and

                           -        keeping a balanced reserve profile between
                                    oil and gas; and

                  -        Maintaining low general and administrative expenses
                           and increasing economies of scale to reduce per unit
                           operating costs and reserve acquisition costs.

ACQUISITION POLICY

         Middle Bay continues to pursue a program of actively acquiring
producing oil and gas properties, with the goal of increasing cash flow,
reserves and value for the long-term benefit of its stockholders.

         Middle Bay utilizes an acquisitions' screening approach with its
experienced management and technical staff which reviews potential property
against multiple criteria, both quantitative and subjective. Middle Bay
generally seeks Producing Properties with established production histories.
Middle Bay may operate the property acquired; however, Middle Bay also considers
nonoperated property acquisitions.

         In evaluating Producing Properties for potential acquisition,
production history, reservoir characteristics and available geologic data and
interpretations are analyzed to determine estimates of proved and other reserves
and cash flows expected to be recovered. Also evaluated are specific risks and
economic considerations associated with the property, including environmental
liabilities, risks of curtailment, condition of equipment and potential for
additional development opportunities. Sales contracts, operating agreements and
other contractual commitments, including take-or-pay clauses, market-out
clauses, gas balancing agreements, transportation agreements and reversionary
interests that may affect the cash flows from the property are also reviewed.

DRILLING ACTIVITIES

         Middle Bay has participated in drilling operations primarily in Texas,
Louisiana and Kansas. Middle Bay's drilling activity increased significantly in
1996 when Middle Bay executed the Brigham Agreement. The Company's drilling is
funded principally from cash flow and is highly dependent on the price of oil
and gas. If the price of oil continues to remain at or near the March 1998
levels, the amount of funds available for drilling could be reduced.

         For the twelve months ended December 31, 1997, Middle Bay drilled 42
gross wells; 23 Development Wells and 19 Exploratory Wells. Seventeen of the
Development Wells and 8 of the Exploratory Wells were successful. Middle Bay's
drilling was concentrated in Kansas, Louisiana and Texas, where 14, 12 and 7
wells were drilled, respectively. The majority of the Kansas wells were
Development Wells drilled in the Spivey Field (the "Spivey Field"). Two
unsuccessful Exploratory Wells were drilled in the Reflection Ridge Prospect in
Stanton County, Kansas. No further exploration is anticipated on the Reflection
Ridge Prospect. For the three months ended March 31, 1997, Middle Bay
participated in the drilling of 12 Exploratory Wells through the Brigham
Agreement. The Brigham Agreement ended March 31, 1997.




                                     - 30 -

<PAGE>   45



         Shore Oil Company #1, an Exploratory Well being drilled as of December
31, 1997, was found to be unsuccessful in February, 1998. This Exploratory Well
was drilled on the Raceland Prospect in Lafourche Parish, Louisiana which is
located on the fee mineral acreage acquired in the Shore Merger. Middle Bay had
prepaid approximately $300,000 in drilling cost as of December 31, 1997 and
expensed the costs in the fourth quarter when it was determined that the well
was abandoned.

         For the twelve months ended December 31, 1996, Middle Bay drilled 54
wells, 5 Developmental Wells and 49 Exploratory Wells. Four of the Developmental
Wells and 31 of the Exploratory Wells were successful. For the nine months ended
December 31, 1996, Middle Bay participated in the drilling of 49 Exploratory
Wells through the Brigham Agreement. Forty wells were drilled in Texas, seven in
Oklahoma, one in Kansas and one in New Mexico. Middle Bay also participated in
the drilling of four Developmental Wells in the Frymire Waterflood Unit in Nolan
County, Texas, three of which were successful and one of which was a dry hole.
One successful Developmental Well was drilled in the Campbell Field in Major
County, Oklahoma.

         Drilling activities during 1997 added 22 thousand barrels of oil and
705 million cubic feet of gas with estimated future net revenues, discounted at
10%, of $851,000. Drilling activities during 1996 added 76 thousand barrels of
oil and 392 million cubic feet of gas with estimated future net revenues,
discounted at 10%, of $1,966,000. For the years 1996 and 1997, oil and gas
reserves discovered through current year drilling accounted for 11% and 3%,
respectively, of the year-end reserve value.

         In 1995, Middle Bay entered into a joint development agreement, the
Quarry Prospect, with Chesapeake Operating, Inc. ("COI"). The agreement covers a
600-acre block of leases in Lea County, New Mexico assembled by Middle Bay and
COI. The Quarry Prospect is believed to be a large strawn algal mound that was
initially identified through 2-D seismic and further defined using 3-D seismic
testing. In 1997, Middle Bay acquired additional leases in the prospect and sold
50% of the Quarry Prospect. Middle Bay and COI together retained 50% of the
Quarry Prospect. If COI elects not to participate, Middle Bay's interest will be
increased to 50%. The first well on the Quarry Prospect is expected to spud in
the second quarter of 1998 and will cost Middle Bay approximately $141,000 to
drill and $66,000 to complete (assuming a 25% working interest).

         In July 1997, Middle Bay executed an exploration agreement with Brigham
Exploration Company ("Brigham") for a 3-D seismic exploration project on the
Hawkins Ranch (the "Ranch") in Matagorda County, Texas. The Ranch has been lease
optioned for a 54 square mile 3-D seismic survey. Middle Bay purchased a 25%
working interest through the lease selection phase of the project for $225,000.

         Middle Bay purchased a 12.5% working interest in the Sherburne Prospect
in Point Coupee Parish, Louisiana, in October, 1997 (the "Sherburne Prospect").
The Sherburne Prospect consists of approximately 10,000 acres that are
prospective in the Frio, Cockfield, Sparta and Wilcox formations. The acreage is
located in Southwest Point Coupee Parish between Krotz Springs Field and the
Fordoche Field. Production is at depths from 6,500' to 15,500'. Swift Energy
Company has a 62.5% working interest and will be the operator. A private company
holds the remaining 25%. The exploratory well reached total depth on April 20,
1998 and was completed in the Sparta formation during June, 1998.




                                     - 31 -

<PAGE>   46



         During May, 1998, two developmental wells and one exploratory well were
drilled. The developmental wells are in the Frymire Waterflood in the Lake
Trammel Field in Nolan County, Texas and were successfully completed as
producers. The exploratory well was the Shore Oil Co. #1 in Terrebonne Parish,
Louisiana which was abandoned as a dry hole. All three wells were spudded in
April, 1998.

         In the foreseeable future, Middle Bay's primary drilling focus will be
its participation in the Sherburne Prospect, the Ranch Prospect, the Quarry
Prospect and the development of the Spivey Field. Middle Bay expects to drill
several Development Wells in the Spivey Field in Kansas in 1998. Middle Bay also
expects several wells to be drilled on the Shore mineral acreage in South
Louisiana in 1998. In addition, Middle Bay is continually evaluating Prospects
originated by its staff, other independent geologists or other oil and gas
companies. If review of a certain Prospect indicates that it may be geologically
and economically attractive, then Middle Bay will attempt to obtain a Lease on
the applicable acreage or commit to a Working Interest in the drilling Prospect.
When Middle Bay does participate in a Prospect, it will typically acquire a
fractional Working Interest in the Prospect, which may range from small
percentage interests in more expensive exploratory Prospects to a majority
interest in a lower cost or development Prospect. Middle Bay believes that such
participation, which is common practice in the oil and gas industry, allows for
further diversification and reduction of risk.

ACQUISITIONS AND MERGERS

         Since its formation, Middle Bay has grown primarily through
acquisitions of proven oil and gas reserves. For the years 1993 through 1997,
acquisitions of reserves accounted for 64%, 5%, 35%, 34% and 80% of the year-end
discounted reserve value, respectively. Middle Bay has financed its acquisitions
primarily by utilizing its credit facility with the Bank and issuing common and
preferred stock. See "Company Financing," below.

         In August 1997, Middle Bay acquired a 5.74% working interest in proved
reserves in the Riceville Field in Vermilion Parish, Louisiana for approximately
$3.5 million. The acquisition was financed with $3 million in loan proceeds and
the remainder from cash on hand. The Riceville Acquisition added approximately
63 thousand barrels of oil and 2,955 million cubic feet of gas to Middle Bay's
proved reserves. A portion of the reserves are proved undeveloped. The Riceville
Acquisition had a PV 10% of approximately $5.3 million, using December 31, 1997
prices.

         The Shore Merger in June, 1997 added approximately 965 thousand barrels
of oil and 1,364 million cubic feet of gas to Middle Bay's proved reserves. A
portion of the reserves consists of proven behind pipe and proven undeveloped
reserves. The Shore Merger had a PV 10% of approximately $6.0 million, using
December 31, 1997 prices. The Shore Merger also added approximately 42,000 net
acres of minerals located in South Louisiana, which were valued at $3.6 million
at June 30, 1997.

         The Bison Merger in February, 1997 added approximately 951 thousand
barrels of oil and 7,791 million cubic feet of gas to Middle Bay's proved
reserves. A portion of the reserves consists of proven behind pipe and proven
undeveloped reserves. The Bison Merger had a PV 10% of approximately $8.9
million, using December 31, 1997 prices.



                                     - 32 -

<PAGE>   47



         The NPC Merger in December, 1996 added approximately 503 thousand
barrels of oil and 3,139 million cubic feet of gas to Middle Bay's proved
reserves. A portion of the reserves consists of proven behind pipe and proven
undeveloped reserves. The NPC Merger had a PV 10% of approximately $6.0 million,
using December 31, 1996 prices.

         Middle Bay is currently in the process of evaluating various corporate
acquisitions and potential mergers in exchange for common stock of Middle Bay.
Management believes that corporate acquisitions and mergers are the fastest way
to achieve Middle Bay's growth goals. In addition to achieving what management
perceives to be a proper critical mass, potential corporate acquisitions or
mergers are also considered as opportunities to build a more diverse oil and gas
property base for further development and exploration.

         The price of oil has declined significantly since December 31, 1997
and, in June, 1998, reached the lowest level in ten years. The posted price of
WTI crude declined from approximately $15 per barrel on December 31, 1997 to
approximately $9.00 per barrel on June 15, 1998. If oil prices remain at or near
these levels, the funds available for acquisitions could be reduced.

COMPANY FINANCING

         Middle Bay has financed its acquisitions with debt proceeds from the
Banks, issuance of convertible preferred stock and issuance of common stock.
Middle Bay currently has approximately $30.6 million borrowed and $1.4 million
of outstanding letters of credit under its current credit facility with the
Banks described under "Business Development," above. In 1997, Middle Bay issued
the remaining $9.0 million in Series A Preferred Stock through its $10.0 million
Preferred Stock Agreement to finance portions of the Bison and Shore mergers.
This completed the funding of the $10.0 million Preferred Stock Agreement with
Kaiser-Francis, which was signed in September, 1996. In 1997, Middle Bay issued
$3.627 million of Series B Preferred Stock to finance a portion of the Shore
Merger. Middle Bay also issued its common stock in connection with the Bison and
Shore Mergers. On January 31, 1998, Kaiser-Francis converted 100% of the Series
A shares into 3,333,334 shares of Middle Bay Common Stock. Middle Bay's drilling
activities have been financed primarily through Middle Bay's cash flow.

         Subject to availability of bank financing, Middle Bay will continue to
consider debt-financed acquisition opportunities presented to it. Middle Bay
intends to finance acquisitions by issuing common stock and/or preferred stock
when possible.

COMPETITION, MARKETS AND REGULATION

         Competition in the exploration and property acquisition markets is
intense. In seeking to obtain desirable Leases and exploration Prospects, Middle
Bay faces competition from both major and independent oil and gas companies, as
well as from numerous individuals. Many of these competitors have substantial
financial resources available to them, which makes for increased competition.

         The ability of Middle Bay to market oil and gas from its wells will
depend upon numerous factors beyond its control, including, but not limited to,
the extent of domestic production and imports of oil and gas,



                                     - 33 -

<PAGE>   48



the proximity of Middle Bay's production to existing pipelines, the availability
of capacity in such pipelines and state and federal regulation of oil and gas
production. There is no assurance that Middle Bay will be able to market all of
the oil or gas produced by it or that favorable prices can be obtained for the
oil and gas it produces. In view of the uncertainties affecting the supply and
demand of oil and gas, Middle Bay is unable to accurately predict future oil and
gas prices and demand, or the overall effect they will have on Middle Bay.

         Numerous federal and state laws and regulations affect Middle Bay's
operations. In particular, oil and gas production operations are affected by tax
and other laws relating to the petroleum industry and any changes in such laws
and regulations. Some of the rules and regulations carry substantial penalties
for failing to comply. The regulatory burden on the oil and gas industry
increases Middle Bay's cost of doing business. Middle Bay's activities are also
subject to numerous federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations
governing the discharge of materials. In most cases, the applicable regulatory
requirements relate to water and air pollution control or solid waste management
measures. Middle Bay believes the recent trend toward stricter standards in
environmental legislation, regulation and enforcement will continue. To date,
these laws have not had a significant impact on Middle Bay but no assurance can
be given as to the effect of these laws on Middle Bay in the future.

EMPLOYEES

         As of May 31, 1998, Middle Bay employed 21 full-time persons. Middle
Bay employs 14 full-time persons in its Houston, Texas office, including four
executive officers, whose functions are associated with management, engineering,
geology, land and legal, accounting, financial planning and administration.
Middle Bay employs five full-time persons in its Wichita, Kansas office,
including one executive officer, a geologist, an engineer and an administrative
assistant. Middle Bay also employs one full-time supervisor for well operations
in Oklahoma and one full-time accountant in Mobile, Alabama.

REAL ESTATE PROPERTIES

         Middle Bay owns a historic home in Mobile, Alabama which previously
served as its corporate office before Middle Bay's relocation to Houston, Texas
in November, 1997. Middle Bay has listed the property for sale.

OIL AND GAS PROPERTIES

         All of Middle Bay's oil and gas properties, reserves and activities are
located onshore in the continental United States, primarily in Alabama, Kansas,
Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas. Estimates of total proved net oil or gas reserves
have not been filed with or included in reports to any federal authority or
agency. There are no quantities of oil or gas subject to long-term supply or
similar agreements with foreign governmental authorities.

         Middle Bay's largest oil and gas property, in terms of dollar value, is
the Spivey Field acquired in the Bison Merger. The Spivey Field, located in
Kingman and Harper Counties, South Central Kansas, was discovered in 1949.
Development of oil and gas reserves from the Mississippian Chert Formation, at
an



                                     - 34 -

<PAGE>   49



average drilling depth of 4,250 feet, has been continual since discovery.
Currently, approximately 585 active wells produce in the field. Great lateral
extent, thick pay sections and long-lived production characterize the reservoir.

         The Spivey Field has cumulative gas production of over 75,000 million
cubic feet. Gas is marketed to spot markets and to the Spivey Gas Plant (the
"Plant"). Over 95% of Company gas is sold to the Plant under a life of the lease
casinghead tailgate gas contract. Middle Bay owns approximately 11.5% ownership
in the Plant and related gathering system. Warren Petroleum Company, L.P. and
NGC Corporation jointly operate the Plant. Ownership in the Plant is
redetermined annually, based on owner's throughput relative to total throughput.
Plant liquids (propane, butane and natural gas) are marketed from the Plant to
Murphy Energy. Residue gas is sold to KGE (f/k/a Kansas Power and Light) for a
tailgate price of $2.91 per Mcf. The tailgate contract calls for an annual
escalation of $0.02 per Mcf. The Btu factor for residue gas is 1.042. Plant
owners also receive the benefit of buying, stripping and reselling "non-owner"
field gas. The Spivey Field has cumulative oil production of over 66.6 million
barrels of oil. Lease oil is marketed to Koch Oil Company, via truck, and a
bonus above posted prices is received.

         Middle Bay operates approximately 80 wells in the Spivey Field from a
field office in Attica, Kansas, staffed by one foreman and two Company pumpers.
All oilfield services are present in the field. Exploration, engineering and
land functions are directed from the division office located in Wichita, Kansas.
Middle Bay is continually developing its acreage position of approximately 8,500
gross acres.

         As of December 31, 1997, Middle Bay has identified and independent
engineers have evaluated 22 proven undeveloped locations in the Spivey Field
with a PV 10% value of approximately $2.4 million. At December 31, 1997, the
Plant was valued by independent engineers at $2.9 million PV 10%.

         The following table shows proved oil and gas reserves by major field
for Middle Bay's largest producing fields at December 31, 1997. The values
represent the present value of estimated future net cash flows before income
taxes, discounted at 10%, assuming unescalated expenses and prices of $16.18/Bbl
and $2.54/MMBtu attributable to proved reserves at December 31, 1997, as
determined by several independent reserve engineers:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  Discounted          Percentage           Oil              Gas
        Field Name/               Primary           Present            of Total         Reserves         Reserves
       County/State              Operator            Value           Present Value       (Bbls)            (Mcf)
       ------------              --------            -----           -------------       ------            -----
                                         (Dollars/quantities in thousands)
<S>                               <C>             <C>                 <C>               <C>              <C>   
Spivey                            Company           $9,329               30.9%             993           11,415
Harper/Kingman, KS

Riceville Field                   Murphy             4,958               16.4%              50            2,244
Vermillion, LA

Hatters Pond                      Texaco             1,019                3.4%              71              187
Mobile, AL
</TABLE>




                                     - 35 -

<PAGE>   50


<TABLE>
<S>                              <C>              <C>                 <C>               <C>              <C>   

Wright Field                     Hilcorp               735                2.4%              96              150
Vermilion, LA

Murphy Lake                    Amerada Hess            587                1.9%              99               --
St. Martin, LA

Lockhart Crossing                  Amoco               488                1.6%              10              270
Livingston, LA

Polo Field                        Lu-Ray               481                1.6%             141                5
Noble, OK

Abbeville                         Company              473                1.6%               3              279
Vermilion, LA

Okeene N.W.                     Ricks Expl.            443                1.5%              11              507
Major, OK

N. Frisco City                Torch Energy             443                1.5%              33               32
Monroe, AL

Others                            Various           11,223               37.2%           1,426            3,330
                                                  --------              -----           ------           ------

Total                                             $ 30,179              100.0%           2,933           18,419
                                                  ========              =====            =====           ======
</TABLE>


         December 31, 1997, the Banks held a first mortgage on all of the fields
listed in the above table. The Banks also have a first mortgage on additional
fields not individually listed above which in total gives the Banks a first
mortgage on substantially all of Middle Bay's and Enex's total Proved Reserves.

LOUISIANA FEE MINERAL ACREAGE

         In the Shore Merger, Middle Bay acquired approximately 42,000 net
mineral acres, situated in Terrebonne, Lafourche and St. Mary Parishes in
Louisiana. Of the total acreage, 39,769 acres are non-producing and the
remainder is held by production under existing leases. The nonproducing acreage
is located in the following parishes: 20,587 in Terrebonne (Montegut and Houma
areas), 11,128 acres in Lafourche (Raceland and Valentine areas) and 8,054 acres
in St. Mary Parish (Charenton area). The nonproducing acreage currently under
lease and/or option has expiration dates as follows: 17,835 acres in 1998 and
5,722 acres in 2000. As of December 31, 1997, 16,212 acres were not under lease.
Royalty interest in the leases covering the nonproducing minerals ranges from
20% to 25%. The mineral servitude prescription dates are estimated by Middle Bay
to be as follows: 620 acres prescribed in 1997, 6,226 acres in 1999, 5,286 acres
in 2002, 4,145 acres in 2004, 1,121 acres in 2005, 1,145 acres held in
perpetuity and the remaining acreage has prescription interrupted by production.
Effective April 1, 1992, Shore Oil Company sold the production rights under
tracts producing at that time and does not receive royalty income from the sale
of oil or gas on those tracts. Over 80% of the nonproducing minerals have been
covered by 3-D seismic shot by third parties and provided to Middle Bay at no
cost. During the period July 1, 1997 through December 31, 1997, Middle Bay



                                     - 36 -

<PAGE>   51



received approximately $975,000 in lease bonus, delay rental and seismic option
income on the acreage. An independent oil and gas engineering firm valued the
acreage as of June 30, 1997 at $3,627,000. One unsuccessful exploratory well in
Lafourche Parish, the Shore Oil Company #1, was drilled on the fee mineral
acreage in 1997 and abandoned in February, 1998. In Terrebonne Parish, two
unsuccessful exploratory wells, the Middle Bay Oil Co. #1 and Shore Oil Co. #1,
were abandoned in February and May, 1998, respectively.

PRODUCTIVE WELLS AND ACREAGE

         The following table depicts the number of gross and net producing wells
and related Developed and Undeveloped Acreage in which Middle Bay owned an
interest for the period ended December 31, 1997 Undeveloped Acreage is oil and
gas acreage (including, in certain instances, rights in one or more horizons
which may be penetrated by existing well bores, but which have not been tested)
to which Proved Reserves have not been assigned by independent petroleum
engineers.

         Middle Bay's net Developed Acreage is located primarily in Oklahoma,
Texas, Alabama, New Mexico and Kansas. Middle Bay's net Undeveloped Acreage is
located primarily in Kansas.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                Acreage
                                                  ------------------------------------
                                                  Developed                Undeveloped
                                                  ---------                -----------
                  <S>                             <C>                      <C>  

                  Gross Acres                      239,646                     9,758
                  Net Acres                         20,337                     8,643

                                                           Productive Wells
                                                  ------------------------------------
                                                     Oil                        Gas
                                                  --------                   ---------

                  Gross Wells                      797.00                    184.00
                  Net Wells                         68.67                     30.13
</TABLE>

         Excluded from the acreage data are approximately 44,041 net mineral
acres owned by Middle Bay, all of which are considered to have potential for oil
and gas exploration.

PRODUCTION, PRICES AND COSTS

         Below is a summary of the net production of oil and gas, average sales
prices and average production costs during each of the last three fiscal years.
Middle Bay is not obligated to provide a fixed and determined quantity of oil
and gas in the future under existing contracts or agreements. During the last
three fiscal years, Middle Bay has not had, nor does it now have, any long-term
supply or similar agreements with governments or authorities.




                                     - 37 -

<PAGE>   52



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  Fiscal Years Ended December 31,
                                                             ----------------------------------------
                                                             1995              1996              1997
                                                             ----              ----              ----
          <S>                                               <C>               <C>              <C>    
          Crude Oil and Natural Gas Production:
              Oil (Bbls)                                    107,025           108,626           253,849
              Gas (Mcf)                                     916,954           982,709         1,929,298

          Average Sales Prices:
              Oil (per Bbl)                                  $16.17            $20.26            $18.38
              Gas (per Mcf)                                   $1.52             $2.28             $2.39

          Average Production Costs Per BOE(1)                 $5.25             $5.36             $6.69
</TABLE>

(1)     The components of production costs may vary substantially among wells,
        depending on the methods of recovery employed and other factors, but
        generally include severance taxes, administrative overhead, maintenance
        and repair, labor and utilities.

DRILLING ACTIVITIES

        During the periods indicated, Middle Bay drilled or participated in the
drilling of the following productive and nonproductive Exploratory and
Development Wells. All of Middle Bay's drilling and production activities are
conducted with independent contractors.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      Year Ended December 31,
                                                           --------------------------------------------
          Exploratory Wells:                                 1995             1996               1997
                                                           --------         --------           --------
          <S>                                              <C>             <C>                <C>
            Productive
                Gross                                       0               31                 8
                Net                                         0                0.987             0.452
            Dry
                Gross                                       0               18                11
                Net                                         0                0.675             1.280
          Development Wells:
            Productive
                Gross                                       0                4                17
                Net                                         0                0.866             5.627
            Dry
                Gross                                       2                1                 6
                Net                                         0.418            0.250             4.150
          Total Wells:
            Productive
                Gross                                       0               35                25
                Net                                         0                1.853             6.079
            Dry
                Gross                                       2               19                17
                Net                                         0.418            0.925             5.430
</TABLE>




                                     - 38 -

<PAGE>   53



During June, 1998, two developmental wells and one exploratory well were
drilled. The developmental wells are in the Frymire Waterflood in the Lake
Trammel Field in Nolan County, Texas and were successfully completed as
producers. The exploratory well was the Shore Oil Co. #1 in Terrebonne Parish,
Louisiana which was abandoned as a dry hole. All three wells were spudded in
April, 1998.

         The exploratory well (PMMI #1) on the Sherburne Prospect, Point Coupee
Parish, Louisiana, reached total depth on April 20, 1998 and was completed in
the Sparta formation in June, 1998. Middle Bay has a 12.5% working interest in
the well.

RESERVES

         Note 11 to Middle Bay's financial statements presents, among other
disclosures prepared pursuant to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No.
69, the estimated net quantities of Middle Bay's proved oil and gas reserves and
the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows attributable to
such reserves as of December 31, 1997. At December 31, 1997, Middle Bay's net
Proved Reserves consisted of 2,933 thousand barrels of oil and 18,419 million
cubic feet of gas, and net Proved Developed Reserves consisted of 2,580 thousand
barrels of oil and 14,251 million cubic feet of gas. At December 31, 1997, the
present value discounted at 10% for Middle Bay's Proved oil and gas reserves,
before income taxes, was approximately $30,179,000. (See Note 11 to Middle Bay's
financial statements for additional detail on Middle Bay's oil and gas
reserves.) Management of Middle Bay, however, cautions against using this data
to determine the fair value of Middle Bay's oil and gas properties or for any
other purpose because the price of oil and gas can be volatile. The present
value was computed using December 31, 1997 base oil prices of $16.18 per Bbl and
base gas prices of $2.54 per MMBtu. Base prices were adjusted for certain
properties that either received a price above or below the base price. There
were no estimates or reserve reports of Middle Bay's proved oil and gas reserves
filed with any governmental authority or agency during the year ended December
31, 1997.

         The following table sets forth the standardized measure (in thousands
of dollars) of future net cash flows of Proved Reserves and total recoverable
volumes of oil and gas from Proved Reserves attributable to Middle Bay's
interest in oil and gas wells for the years ended December 31, 1997 through
1995:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        Recoverable Volumes
                                                                     -------------------------
                                             Standardized              Oil                Gas
               Year Ended                       Measure              (MBbls)            (MMcf)
               ----------                       -------              -------            ------
           <S>                               <C>                     <C>                <C>   

           December 31, 1997                    $24,493               2,933              18,419

           December 31, 1996                    $17,863               1,389               8,964

           December 31, 1995                     $9,250                 778               6,371
</TABLE>

         The increases in the standardized measure from 1995 to 1996 and 1996 to
1997 are due primarily to the NPC Merger in 1996 and the Bison and Shore Mergers
and Riceville Acquisition in 1997. For a detail of changes in oil and gas
reserves for the year, refer to Note 11 to Middle Bay's financial statements.




                                     - 39 -

<PAGE>   54



         The reserve data set forth in this Proxy Statement/Prospectus
represents only estimates. Reserve engineering is a subjective process of
estimating underground accumulations of crude oil and natural gas that cannot be
measured in an exact manner. The accuracy of any reserve estimate is a function
of the quality of available data and of engineering and geological
interpretation and adjustment. As a result, estimates of different engineers
often vary. In addition, results of drilling, testing and production subsequent
to the date of an estimate may justify revisions of such estimates. Accordingly,
reserve estimates often differ from the quantities of crude oil and natural gas
that are ultimately recovered. Estimates of economically recoverable oil and
natural gas reserves and of future net revenues are based upon a number of
variables and assumptions, including future prices of oil and gas, all of which
may vary considerably from actual results. The reliability of such estimates is
highly dependent upon the accuracy of the assumptions from which they were
based.

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

         Middle Bay is a defendant in various legal proceedings which are
considered routine litigation incidental to Middle Bay's business, the
disposition of which management believes will not have a material effect on the
financial position or result of operations of Middle Bay.


                               RECENT DEVELOPMENTS

         On March 27, 1998, in connection with the closing of the Tender Offer,
Middle Bay and Enex entered into a Credit Agreement with Compass Bank and Bank
of Oklahoma, N.A. for a new revolving line of credit. The borrowing base for the
$100 million facility was set at $32.6 million concurrent with the closing of
the Service Drilling acquisition. The borrowing base is required to be reduced
by $330,000 per month beginning May 1, 1998 and ending October 1, 1998. The
borrowing base and the scheduled reduction amount shall be redetermined
semi-annually by unanimous consent of the lenders beginning October 1, 1998. The
principal is due at maturity--April 1, 2001. Monthly principal payments are made
as required in order that the outstanding principal balance does not exceed the
borrowing base. Interest is payable monthly and is calculated at the prime rate.
Middle Bay may also elect to calculate interest under the Libor rate, as defined
in the loan agreement. The Libor rate increases by (a) 2.00% if the outstanding
loan balance and letters of credit are equal to or greater than 75% of the
borrowing base, (b) 1.75% if the outstanding loan balance and letters of credit
are less than 75% or greater than 50% of the borrowing base, and (c) 1.50% if
the outstanding loan balance and letters of credit are equal to or less than 50%
of the borrowing base. Libor interest is payable at maturity of the Libor loan,
which cannot be less than thirty days.

         At May 31, 1998, Middle Bay had borrowed $30,918,605 and had $1,350,432
of outstanding letters of credit. As of May 31, 1998, Middle Bay is paying Libor
plus 2.00% on a sixty-day Libor loan for $29,969,605 and prime on $949,000.

         On April 16, 1998, Middle Bay closed an Asset Purchase Agreement with
Service Drilling Company, L.L.C. ("Service Drilling") and certain of its
affiliates whereby Middle Bay acquired substantially all of the assets of
Service Drilling and its affiliates in exchange for Middle Bay Common Stock and
cash. Service Drilling and its affiliates are privately-owned domestic oil and
gas development and production companies with



                                     - 40 -

<PAGE>   55



oil and gas properties located primarily in Oklahoma and the Texas Panhandle.
Pursuant to the Asset Purchase Agreement, Middle Bay issued 666,000 shares of
its common stock and paid an aggregate cash consideration of $6,500,000, subject
to post-closing adjustments, in exchange for the assets. The economic effective
date of this transaction was March 1, 1998. Asset values were determined by
estimating the discounted reserve value of the acquired properties and through
negotiation. The cash portion of the consideration was financed through Middle
Bay's bank credit facility and cash on hand.


                                BUSINESS OF ENEX

GENERAL

         Enex was incorporated on August 17, 1979 in Colorado. On June 30, 1992,
Enex reincorporated in Delaware. Enex is engaged in the business of acquiring
interests in producing oil and gas properties and managing oil and gas income
limited partnerships. Enex's operations are concentrated in a single industry
segment.

         Enex's principal executive offices are maintained at 800 Rockmead
Drive, Three Kingwood Place, Kingwood, Suite 200, Texas 77339. The telephone
number at these offices is (281) 358-8401. Enex has no regional offices.

         As of March 1, 1998, Enex and one of its subsidiaries, Enex Securities
Corporation, employed 18 persons. All employees are engaged on a full-time
basis.

         Since 1982, Enex has financed most of its oil and gas activities
through the public sale of interests in limited partnerships formed to purchase
and hold working interests and other operating and nonoperating interests in
producing oil and gas properties (the "Partnerships"). Until 1986, most of
Enex's ownership of proved reserves was derived through the purchase of
producing properties by the Partnerships. Effective June 30, 1997, thirty-four
of the limited partnerships ("Predecessor Partnerships") were consolidated to
form the Enex Consolidated Partners, L.P. (the "Consolidated Partnership"). Enex
acts as general partner in and contributed capital to Enex Consolidated
Partners, L.P. As general partner, Enex has a 4.1% interest in the net revenues
and gains generated by properties owned by Enex Consolidated Partners, L.P. As
general partner, Enex is obligated to periodically offer to repurchase the
interests of those limited partners electing to present their interests to Enex.

          Prior to 1995, fifty-six Partnerships commenced operations with
aggregate investor subscriptions of $223.5 million received from 69,139
investors, including reinvestors. Producing property acquisitions for those
Partnerships totaled approximately $200.7 million.

         During 1995, four partnerships, with aggregate investor subscriptions
totaling $33.0 million, were liquidated. During 1996, two additional
partnerships, with aggregate investor subscriptions totaling $11.8 million, were
liquidated. And during 1997, five additional partnerships were liquidated with
investor subscriptions totaling $9.3 million. Effective June 30, 1997, the
remaining thirty-four partnerships were



                                     - 41 -

<PAGE>   56



consolidated into Enex Consolidated Partners, L.P. Enex's receivables from the
Predecessor Partnerships and its general partner capital balances in the
Predecessor Partnerships were converted into limited partnership interests in
the Consolidated Partnership. These interests, combined with Enex's limited
partnership interests in the Predecessor Partnerships, gave Enex a 55.5% limited
partner interest in the new Consolidated Partnership, together with a 4.1%
carried revenue interest as the general partner of the Consolidated Partnership.

         Approximately 73% of Enex's estimated future net revenues from proved
reserves at December 31, 1997 is attributable to its interests in the
Consolidated Partnership, and approximately 27% is attributable to the
properties owned directly by Enex after deducting the minority interest share of
the Consolidated Partnership.

         In acquiring properties for its own account, Enex is required to avoid
conflicts of interest with the Partnerships for which it acts as general
partner. Such requirements may restrict Enex's operations for its own account.
Enex is also contingently liable for partnership obligations.

         Due to the consolidation of the thirty-four Predecessor Partnerships,
which resulted in Enex obtaining a 56.2% limited partnership interest in the
Consolidated Partnership, the results of operations and financial condition of
the Consolidated Partnership are reflected in the accompanying financial
statements on a fully consolidated basis with Enex subsequent to June 30, 1997.

COMPETITION

         The business of exploring for, developing and producing oil and gas is
intensely competitive. Enex competes with companies which have greater financial
resources, larger staffs and labor forces, more equipment for exploration and
longer operating experience than Enex. The oil and gas industry is dominated by
a number of companies with greater assets and resources than Enex.

MARKETING AND PRICES

         The marketing and prices of oil and gas found and produced by Enex are
affected by a number of factors which are beyond Enex's control, the exact
nature of which cannot be accurately predicted. These factors include the
quantity and price of crude oil imports, fluctuating supply and demand, the
availability of adequate pipeline and other transportation facilities, the
marketing of competitive fuels, state and federal regulation of oil and gas
production, and distribution and other matters affecting the availability of a
ready market. All of these factors are extremely volatile. In addition, in
recent years there have been surpluses in crude oil and natural gas supplies
which have caused a decline in oil and gas prices.

ENVIRONMENTAL AND CONSERVATION REGULATION

         State regulatory authorities in the states in which Enex owns producing
properties are empowered to make and enforce regulations to prevent waste of oil
and gas and to protect correlative rights and opportunities to produce oil and
gas between owners of a common reservoir. Each of such regulatory authorities
also regulates the amount of oil and gas produced by assigning allowable rates
of production, which may be



                                     - 42 -

<PAGE>   57



increased or decreased in accordance with supply and demand. Requirements
regarding the prevention and clean-up of pollution and similar environmental
matters are also generally applicable.

         The existence of such regulations has had no material adverse effect on
Enex's operations to date, and the cost of compliance has not yet been material.
There are no material administrative or judicial proceedings arising under such
laws or regulations pending against Enex. Enex is unable to assess or predict
the impact that compliance with environmental and pollution control laws and
regulations may have on its future operation, capital expenditures, earnings or
competitive position.

RECENT TAX LAWS

         The operations of Enex are affected by federal income tax laws,
particularly those provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended,
which provide certain tax benefits to owners of economic interests in oil and
gas properties. In general, the major sources of federal income tax deduction
available to Enex are the deductions for the greater of cost depletion or
percentage depletion, if available, depreciation of tangible lease and well
equipment and the deduction for intangible drilling and development costs.

         Enex is subject to regular income tax at graduated rates up to a
maximum 34% rate. Additionally, Enex may also be subject to the corporate
alternative minimum tax which is imposed at a rate of 20%. Tax preference items
which may cause Enex to incur the alternative minimum tax include the following:

         (1)      excess of accelerated depreciation over depreciation using the
                  alternative minimum tax lives and method;

         (2)      the limitation on the deduction of net operating losses to 90%
                  of Enex's alternative minimum taxable income (with the
                  disallowed portion of the net operating loss carried over to
                  other years); and

         (3)      75% of the excess of Enex's adjusted current earnings over its
                  alternative minimum taxable income (determined without regard
                  to such adjustment and prior to reduction by operating
                  losses).

OIL AND GAS PROPERTIES

         Until 1986, Enex had acquired most of its interests in producing oil
and gas properties through purchases made by the Partnerships. Prior to 1995,
the Partnerships acquired approximately $200.7 million of producing oil and gas
properties. Effective June 30, 1997, thirty-four limited partnerships
consolidated to form Enex Consolidated Partners, L.P. in which Enex, as general
partner, owns a 4.1% interest in net revenues and gains generated by properties
owned by the Consolidated Partnership in addition to a 56.2% limited partnership
interest.




                                     - 43 -

<PAGE>   58
         In addition to Partnership activities, Enex owns interests in 220 oil
and gas productive properties for its own account and is the operator of 98
properties. The total properties for its own account and the Consolidated
Partnership include interests in more than 11,000 producing wells in 15 states.

         As general partner, Enex has a 4.1% interest in the net revenues and
gains generated by the Partnerships' properties in addition to its 56.2% limited
partnership interest in the Consolidated Partnership. Unless otherwise
indicated, quantitative information contained in this report regarding Enex's
oil and gas properties, the production therefrom and related data includes
Enex's indirect interest in the properties owned by the Partnership.

         The producing oil and gas properties in which Enex owns interests are
all located within the United States. Enex's interests in these properties
(including properties in which Enex's interest is derived through the
Consolidated Partnership for which it acts as general partner) at December 31,
1997 are summarized below:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           Developed Acres                 Undeveloped Acres
                                           ---------------                 -----------------
                                         Gross           Net               Gross         Net
                                         -----           ---               -----         ---
         <S>                            <C>            <C>                 <C>          <C>
         Working Interests              350,685        15,028               6,329       3,607

         Royalty Interests              553,988         2,594              11,949       2,423
</TABLE>

         "Developed acres" are acres spaced or assigned to productive wells.

         "Undeveloped acres" are those leased acres on which wells have not been
drilled or completed to a point that permits the production of commercial
quantities of oil and gas, regardless of whether such acreage contains proved
reserves.

         A "gross acre" is an acre in which an interest is owned. The number of
gross acres is the total number of acres in which such interest is owned.

         A "net working interest acre" is deemed to exist when the sum of
fractional working interests owned in gross acres equals one. The number of net
working interest acres is the sum of fractional working interests owned in gross
acres expressed as a whole number.

         A "net royalty acre" is deemed to exist when the sum of fractional
royalty interests owned in gross acres equals one. The number of net royalty
acres is the sum of fractional royalty interests owned in gross acres expressed
as a whole number.

PROPERTY ACQUISITIONS

         The following acquisitions were made by Enex during 1995:


                                     - 44 -
<PAGE>   59
East Seven Sisters Acquisition:     Royalty interests in the Gorman Gas Unit in
                                    Duval County, Texas were purchased from four
                                    managed limited partnerships effective
                                    December 1, 1995 for $660,290.

Blair Acquisition:                  Working interests in nine wells located in
                                    WWW Field, Ward County, Texas were purchased
                                    from two managed limited partnerships
                                    effective December 1, 1995 for $18,450. This
                                    acquisition was sold in 1996.

Comite Acquisition:                 Overriding royalty interests in four gas
                                    wells located in East Baton Rouge Parish,
                                    Louisiana, were purchased from four managed
                                    limited partnerships for $89,880 effective
                                    December 1, 1995. This acquisition was sold
                                    in 1996.

         No acquisitions were made by Enex during 1996. The following
acquisitions were made by Enex during 1997.

Corinne Acquisition:                Royalty and mineral interest in 16 wells in
                                    Corinne Field, Monroe County, Mississippi,
                                    were purchased from one managed limited
                                    partnership for $78,750, effective December
                                    1, 1997.

Byrum B Acquisition:                An overriding royalty interest in the Byrum
                                    1-28 well located in Ononadago Field, Ingham
                                    County, Michigan was purchased for $15,000
                                    from one of the managed limited
                                    partnerships, effective December 1, 1997.

Brighton Acquisition:               Working interests in two oil wells located
                                    in Brighton Field, Livingston County,
                                    Michigan were purchased for $23,520 from one
                                    of the managed limited partnerships.

Elmac Acquisition:                  A working interest in three wells in Otsego
                                    County, Michigan was purchased from three
                                    managed limited partnerships for $67,314,
                                    effective December 1, 1997.

Speary Acquisition:                 A working interest in seven wells located in
                                    Karnes County, Texas were purchased from one
                                    of the managed limited partnerships for
                                    $55,000, effective December 1,1997.

NET OIL AND GAS PRODUCTION

         The following table shows for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996
and 1995, the approximate production attributable to Enex's oil and gas
interests, including interests derived through Enex's interests in the
Partnerships. The figures in the table represent "net production"; i.e.,
production owned by Enex or the Partnerships and produced to Enex's interest
after deducting royalty and other similar interests. All production occurred in
the United States.


                                     - 45 -
<PAGE>   60
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           1995               1996              1997(3)
                                                           ----               ----              ----
<S>                                                     <C>                 <C>               <C>      
Crude oil and condensate (Bbls)                           200,778             177,793           277,229
Natural gas - leasehold or royalty (Mcf)                1,671,517           1,649,530         1,735,704
Natural gas liquids (Bbls)(1)                              35,388              34,316            33,019
Natural gas - gas plant sales (Mcf)(1)                     30,899             232,778           220,193
</TABLE>


         The following table sets forth Enex's average sales price per barrel of
oil, per Mcf of gas, per barrel of natural gas liquids ("NGL"), per Mcf of gas
plant gas sales and average production cost per unit produced for the years
ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            1995                1996              1997
                                                            ----                ----              ----
<S>                                                        <C>                 <C>               <C>   
Average sales price per Bbl of crude oil
  and condensate                                           $15.82              $19.42            $17.20
Average sales price per Mcf of natural gas                   1.64                2.32              2.49
Average production cost per equivalent
  barrel of production                                       5.49                6.19              6.93
Average sales price per Bbl of NGL(1)                        9.07               13.34             12.16
Average sales price per Mcf of gas plant gas(1)              1.51                1.96              2.73
Average production cost per equivalent Bbl of
  NGL production(1)(2)                                       6.89                9.10             11.35
</TABLE>

(1)      Natural gas liquids production and gas plant gas sales were obtained
         through gas processing plant ownership rather than through leasehold
         ownership.

(2)      Includes cost of gas purchased at plants for processing.

(3)      The 1997 results include the recognition of minority interest in Enex
         Consolidated Partners, L.P. on a fully consolidated basis after June
         30, 1997.

         The following table shows, as of December 31, 1997, the approximate
number of gross and net producing oil and gas wells in which Enex own interests,
including wells in which Enex's interest is derived through its interests in the
Consolidated Partnership:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                     Productive Oil Wells                                 Productive Gas Wells
                     --------------------                                 --------------------
                          Net Working           Net                            Net Working         Net
            Gross          Interest           Royalty            Gross          Interest         Royalty
            Wells            Wells             Wells             Wells            Wells           Wells
            -----            -----             -----             -----            -----           -----
           <S>            <C>                 <C>                <C>           <C>               <C>   
           11,145           80.180             4.723             1,147           53.657          15.573
</TABLE>




                                     - 46 -
<PAGE>   61
         "Productive wells" are producing wells and wells capable of production,
including shut-in wells.

         A "gross well" is a well in which an interest is held. The number of
gross wells is the total number of wells in which an interest is owned.

         A "net working interest ('W.I.') well" is deemed to exist when the sum
of fractional interests owned in gross W.I. wells equals one. The number of net
W.I. wells is the sum of the fractional interests owned in gross W.I. wells,
expressed as whole numbers and fractions thereof.

         A "net royalty well" is deemed to exist when the sum of fractional
interests owned in gross royalty wells equals one. The number of net royalty
wells is the sum of the fractional interests owned in gross royalty wells,
expressed as whole numbers and fractions thereof.

OIL AND GAS RESERVES

         Proved oil and gas reserves reported herein for Enex are based
primarily on engineering studies performed by Enex's engineering staff. Proved
oil and gas reserves reported herein for the Partnerships and for Enex's share
of such Partnership reserves are based primarily on engineering studies
performed by the petroleum engineering consulting firm of H. J. Gruy and
Associates, Inc. The reserves included in this report are estimates only and
should not be construed as exact quantities. Future conditions may affect
recovery of estimated reserves and revenues, and all reserves may be subject to
revision as more performance data becomes available. The proved reserves used in
this report conform to the applicable definitions promulgated by the Securities
and Exchange Commission. No major discovery or other favorable or adverse event
that is believed to have caused a significant change in the estimated proved
reserves has occurred since December 31, 1997.

DRILLING ACTIVITIES

         In 1997, Enex did not participate in any significant developmental
drilling for its own account or as an operator of Partnership properties.

         In 1996, Enex and its affiliated Limited Partnerships participated in
the drilling of twelve oil wells and six gas wells, all of which were
successful. Enex owns a direct interest in two of the oil wells drilled - at SW
Muldoon field, Fayette County, Texas and North Buck Draw field, Campbell County,
Wyoming. In conjunction with the Partnerships, three gas wells and one oil well
were drilled at Sibley field, Webster Parish, Louisiana. Two oil wells were
drilled in Oklahoma, and the remainder of the wells drilled were located in
various fields in Texas.

         In 1995, Enex did not participate in any significant developmental
drilling for its own account or as an operator of Partnership properties.




                                     - 47 -
<PAGE>   62
CURRENT ACTIVITIES

         Enex is continuing to acquire interests in producing oil and gas
properties and to operate properties, both for its own account and for its
managed limited partnerships. In February 1998, Enex received a tender offer
from Middle Bay for all of Enex's outstanding shares at $15 cash per share. This
tender offer expired on March 20, 1998 and was accepted by approximately 79% of
the common shareholders. As such, the control of Enex was assumed by Middle Bay
at the closing of the tender offer on March 27, 1998.

OFFICES

         Enex's corporate headquarters are at 800 Rockmead Drive, Three Kingwood
Place, Kingwood, Texas, where it leases 10,219 square feet of office space.

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

         Enex and one of its managed limited predecessor partnerships in which
Enex owned general and limited partnership interests were named as parties to a
lawsuit filed by Texas Crude, Inc. ("Texas Crude"). Texas Crude sought to
recover legal and other fees totaling $600,000. In August 1993, a judgement was
granted in favor of Texas Crude for $414,203, plus interest by the 101st
Judicial District Court of Texas. Enex appealed the verdict and filed a
counterclaim for funds that were wrongfully withheld by Texas Crude. In December
1994, the Fifth District Court of Appeals reversed the judgement of the trial
court and rendered judgement in favor of Enex and the Partnership. Accordingly,
a receivable was established. In 1997, Enex recognized $58,810 of interest from
the outstanding judgement which totaled $338,860 at December 31, 1997.

         There are no other material pending legal proceedings to which Enex or
any of its subsidiaries are a party or to which any of their properties are
subject.






                                     - 48 -
<PAGE>   63
                             SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

         The following selected financial data for Middle Bay for the years
ended December 31, 1996 and 1997 and the three months ended March 31, 1997 and
1998 are derived from Middle Bay's audited and unaudited Financial Statements,
respectively. Operating results for the three months ended March 31, 1997 and
1998 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the
entire fiscal year ended December 31, 1998. The selected financial data below
should be read in conjunction with Middle Bay's audited and unaudited Financial
Statements and related Notes thereto and "Management's Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" contained elsewhere in this
Proxy Statement/Prospectus.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                   (Unaudited)
                                                        Years Ended December 31,          Three Months Ended March 31,
                                                        ------------------------          ----------------------------
                                                        1997               1996              1998               1997
                                                        ----               ----              ----               ----
<S>                                                 <C>                <C>               <C>                <C>         
Revenue
- -------
      Oil and gas sales                             $ 10,213,047       $  4,474,786      $  2,632,248       $  1,875,847
      Delay rental and lease bonus income                975,347                 --                --                 --
      Other                                              244,601            411,635           124,642             25,531
                                                    ------------       ------------      ------------       ------------
      Total Revenue                                   11,432,995          4,886,421         2,756,890          1,901,378

Costs and Expenses
- ------------------
      Operating expenses, including production
        taxes                                          3,848,627          1,516,011         1,184,048            642,847
      Exploration costs                                  222,608                 --           745,713                 --
      Impairment expense                              21,147,823            277,483                --                 --
      Dryhole costs                                    1,118,838            428,598           468,951            181,338
      Depletion, depreciation and amortization         4,567,063          1,184,713         1,118,136            479,045
      Interest                                           671,081            504,945           255,453            135,875
      Stock compensation expense                         202,500                 --            33,750                 --
      General and administrative                       2,361,124            662,288         1,093,403            421,854
      Other                                              317,469             32,012                --                 --
                                                    ------------       ------------      ------------       ------------
      Total Expenses                                  34,457,133          4,606,050         4,899,454          1,860,959

Income (loss) before income taxes                    (23,024,138)           280,371        (2,142,564)            40,419
Income tax expense (credit)                           (7,444,798)            74,871          (728,472)                --
                                                    ------------       ------------      ------------       ------------
Net income (loss)                                    (15,579,340)           205,500        (1,414,092)            40,419
Dividends to preferred stockholders                      604,712                 --            67,945             62,889
                                                    ------------       ------------      ------------       ------------

Net income (loss) available to stockholders         $(16,184,052)      $    205,500      $ (1,482,037)      $    (22,470)
                                                    ============       ============      ============       ============

Net income (loss) per common share
      Basic                                                (4.76)              0.15             (0.22)             (0.01)
      Diluted                                              (4.76)              0.14             (0.22)             (0.01)

Total assets                                          37,252,572         13,184,980        61,737,748         25,355,156

Long-term debt                                         9,714,713          5,158,477        24,499,568          5,289,586
Redeemable common stock                                       --            421,179                --            421,179
Dividends per share                                           --                 --                --                 --
</TABLE>




                                     - 49 -
<PAGE>   64
   
<TABLE>
<S>                                                 <C>                                  <C>
Pro-Forma Operating Statement Information
- -----------------------------------------
   (Reflecting the Merger)

Pro-forma income (loss) before minority
    interest and income taxes                       $(20,986,680)                        $ (2,911,961)
Pro-forma minority interest                           (1,012,449)                            (348,190)
Pro-forma provision for income taxes
    (benefit)                                         (7,096,295)                          (1,108,452)
                                                    ------------                         ------------
Pro-forma net income (loss)                          (14,902,834)                          (2,151,699)
Pro-forma preferred dividends                            778,044                               67,945
                                                    ------------                         ------------

Pro-forma net income (loss) available to
    stockholders                                    $(15,680,878)                        $ (2,219,644)
                                                    ============                         ============

Pro-forma net income (loss) per common
    share
      Basic                                         $      (2.65)                        $      (0.27)
      Diluted                                       $      (3.65)                        $      (0.27)

Pro-forma average common shares
      Basic                                            5,906,304                            8,221,576
      Diluted                                          5,906,304                            8,221,576
</TABLE>
    



                                     - 50 -
<PAGE>   65
                MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
                       CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

         The following discussion should be read in conjunction with Middle
Bay's Financial Statements and Notes thereto set forth herein.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

         The factors that most significantly affect Middle Bay's results of
operations are (i) the sales price of crude oil and natural gas, (ii) the level
of production volumes, (iii) the level of lease operating expenses, and (iv) the
level of interest rates. Sales of production and level of borrowing are
significantly impacted by Middle Bay's ability to maintain or increase its
production from existing oil and gas properties or through its exploration and
development activities. Sales prices received by Middle Bay for oil and gas have
fluctuated significantly from period to period. The fluctuations in oil prices
during these periods reflect market uncertainty regarding the inability of OPEC
to control the production of its member countries, production from Iraq, as well
as concerns related to the global supply and demand for crude oil. Gas prices
received by Middle Bay fluctuate generally with changes in the spot market price
for gas. Relatively modest changes in either oil or gas prices significantly
impact Middle Bay's results of operations and cash flow and could significantly
impact Middle Bay's borrowing capacity.

         The table below details the changes in oil and gas revenues, excluding
plant and other revenues, caused by price and volume changes for the years
ending December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                         1997              1996             1995
                                                         ----              ----             ----
                  <S>                                <C>                <C>              <C>
                  Oil Revenues
                    Change due to volume             $ 2,942,138        $  32,436        $ 576,865
                    Change due to price                 (478,122)         437,285          102,558
                    Total change                       2,464,016          469,271          679,423

                  Gas Revenues
                    Change due to volume             $ 2,161,383        $ 149,921        $ 277,755
                    Change due to price                  201,483          708,386         (182,391)
                    Total change                       2,362,866          858,307           95,364
</TABLE>

FISCAL 1997

         Total revenues for the twelve months ended December 31, 1997, of
$11,433,000, were $6,546,000 higher than the same period in 1996. The increase
in total revenues was due primarily to higher oil and gas revenues of
$4,827,000, consisting primarily of a $2,464,000 increase in oil revenues and a
$2,363,000 increase in gas revenues. Also contributing to the revenue increase
was $920,000 in revenue from gas processing at the gas plant located at the
Spivey Field and $975,000 in lease bonus and delay rental income on the fee
mineral acreage in Louisiana. The gas processing plant was acquired in the
February 28, 1997 Bison




                                     - 51 -
<PAGE>   66
Merger. The increase in oil and gas revenues from 1996 to 1997 was primarily the
result of increases in production which resulted from the Bison and Shore
Mergers. Production from the Bison and Shore Mergers is included from March 1
and July 1, 1997, respectively. Production of oil and gas for the twelve months
ended December 31, 1997, increased 133% and 96%, respectively, over the
comparable period. During the twelve-month period ended December 31, 1997,
Middle Bay sold 254,000 barrels of oil and 1,929,000 Mcf of gas, as compared to
109,000 barrels of oil and 983,000 Mcf of gas for the comparable period. Oil
production for 1997 was 145,000 barrels higher due primarily to a 58,000 barrel
increase from the Bison Merger and a 76,000 barrel increase from the Shore
Merger. Gas production in 1997 was 946,000 Mcf higher due primarily to a 521,000
Mcf increase from the Bison Merger, a 335,000 Mcf increase from the Shore Merger
and a 188,000 Mcf increase from the Riceville Acquisition. The price received on
the gas sold in 1997 of $2.39 per Mcf was slightly higher than the $2.28 per Mcf
received in the comparable period. Oil prices in 1997 of $18.38 per barrel were
9% lower than the $20.26 per barrel received in the comparable period.

         Middle Bay received approximately $975,000 in lease bonus and delay
rental income on the fee mineral acreage acquired in the Shore Merger over the
six-month period ending December 31, 1997.

         The increase in total revenues of $6,546,000 was less than the increase
in total expenses, before income taxes, of $29,851,000. The principal reasons
for the increase in the overall level of expenses are (1) increased oil and gas
property impairment charge of $20,870,000; (2) increased lease operating and
depletion expenses of $5,715,000 from properties acquired in the Bison and Shore
Mergers which are included with Middle Bay's expenses from March 1 and July 1,
respectively; and (3) increased G&A expenses of $1,699,000 due to increased
number of employees from the Bison and Shore Mergers and higher overall
administrative expenses due to the increased level of activity.

         In the fourth quarter of 1997, Middle Bay charged to impairment expense
$21,148,000 versus $278,000 in the comparable period. The impairment expense was
computed applying the guidelines of FAS #121 "Accounting for the Impairment of
Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of." This statement
requires that long-lived assets be reviewed for impairment when events or
changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of such assets may not
be recoverable. This review consists of a comparison of the carrying value of
the asset with the asset's expected future undiscounted cash flows without
interest costs. Expected undiscounted future cash flow is defined as "the future
cash inflows expected to be generated by an asset less the future cash outflows
expected to be necessary to obtain those inflows (undiscounted and without
interest charges)." Independent oil and gas engineers determine the expected
future undiscounted cash flows. To determine the expected future undiscounted
cash flows of each property, the engineers estimated each property's oil and gas
reserves, relied on certain information supplied by Middle Bay regarding the oil
and gas reserves, applied certain assumptions regarding price and cost
escalations, and applied certain discount factors for risk, location, type of
ownership interest, category of reserves, operational characteristics and other
factors. Estimates of expected future undiscounted cash flows are to represent
management's best estimate based on reasonable and supportable assumptions and
projections. If the expected future undiscounted cash flows exceed the carrying
value of the asset, no impairment is recognized. If the carrying value of the
asset exceeds the expected future undiscounted cash flows, impairment exists and
is measured by the excess of the carrying value over the estimated fair value of
the asset. Fair value is defined



                                     - 52 -
<PAGE>   67
in the statement as the "amount at which the asset could be bought or sold in a
current transaction between willing parties."

         The impairment expense in the current period of $21,148,000 was
primarily attributable to impairments on three fields -- the Esther Field,
Spivey Field and Wellman Field -- amounting to $8,394,000, $6,127,000 and
$2,257,000, respectively. The Esther and Wellman Fields were acquired in the
Shore Merger, and the Spivey Field was acquired in the Bison Merger. The
impairment on the Esther Field in Vermilion Parish, Louisiana was due primarily
to a change in the category of reserves from Proved Undeveloped to Probable
Undeveloped and changes in the economics of the development of the reserves. The
category of the reserves was changed due to an abandoned sidetrack attempt in
February, 1998 by the operator on the Proved Undeveloped Reserves. The
impairment on the Spivey Field was due primarily to a decrease in the level of
oil prices and changes in the economics of the Proved Undeveloped Reserves due
to information obtained from the wells drilled in 1997. The impairment on the
Wellman Field in Terry County, Texas was due primarily to decreases in oil
prices. Since July 1, 1997, the posted price of WTI crude oil has fallen from
approximately $18.00 per barrel to $15.00 per barrel at December 31, 1997 or
17%. The total oil equivalent reserves of the Wellman Field are 95% oil. The
remaining impairment expense of approximately $4,370,000 is attributable to
several fields. The principal reasons for the impairment on these fields are the
decrease in oil prices and the decrease or cessation of oil and gas production.

         Lease operating expenses of $3,849,000 increased by $2,333,000. The
increase was due primarily to the Bison and Shore Mergers which increased lease
operating expenses $1,067,000 and $915,000, respectively. Depletion expense of
$4,567,000 increased by $3,382,000. Depletion increased primarily due to the
Bison and Shore Mergers which increased depletion by $1,279,000 and $1,270,000,
respectively. Interest expense of $671,000 increased by $166,000 due to a higher
loan balance. Dry-hole expense of $1,119,000 increased by $690,000 due primarily
to abandonment costs on three unsuccessful Exploratory Wells drilled in
Louisiana -- the Shore Oil Company #1, the Sabine #1 and the Middle Bay Oil
Company #1 -- with dry-hole costs of $311,000, $177,000 and $168,000,
respectively. General and administrative expense of $2,361,000 increased by
$1,699,000, due primarily to higher salary expense of $724,000, higher
professional fees of $347,000, higher office expenses of $128,000, and higher
IRA/SEP/Other Bonus expenses of $123,000. The remaining increase in general and
administrative expenses was over several expense categories and was due
primarily to an increase in the overall level of activity at Middle Bay as a
result of the Bison and Shore Mergers. The increase in salary expense is due to
increases in salaries of existing employees and salaries associated with
employees added in the Bison and Shore Mergers. At the time of the Bison Merger,
seven employees occupied the Wichita, Kansas office. Effective August 1, 1997,
only four employees will be occupying the Wichita, Kansas office -- the
President of Bison, an engineer, geologist and secretary. The President of
Shore, an engineer and a secretary were added in the Shore Merger. In addition,
Middle Bay hired a land manager in July to manage Middle Bay's land and mineral
records and an accounting supervisor in October to assist with the increased
accounting workload. Stock compensation expense of $202,000 increased by
$202,000 due to the vesting of 50% of the restricted stock granted to certain
Company employees in February, 1997. The remaining 50% will fully vest on June
30, 1998. Other expenses of $317,000 increased $285,000 over the comparable
period. The primary reason for the increase was expenses associated with the
Bison and Shore Mergers.


                                     - 53 -
<PAGE>   68
         Middle Bay reported an operating loss of $23,024,000 for the year ended
December 31, 1997, as compared to an operating profit of $280,000 in the
comparable period.

         Middle Bay reported a deferred tax benefit of $7,451,249 for the year
ended 1997 versus a deferred tax expense of $70,000 in the comparable period.
The primary reason for the deferred tax benefit in 1997 was the oil and gas
reserve impairment on the properties acquired in the Bison and Shore Mergers in
1997 and the NPC Merger in 1996. These three mergers were tax-free mergers, and
the tax basis of the oil and gas properties acquired were carried over on Middle
Bay's books at the merger dates. For accounting purposes, the three mergers were
purchases and the oil and gas properties were recorded on Middle Bay's books at
fair market value on the merger dates. The fair market value was much higher
than the carryover tax basis and a deferred tax liability at the prevailing tax
rate was recorded for the difference. The total deferred tax liability that was
recorded on Middle Bay's books for the Bison, Shore and NPC Mergers was
approximately $12 million. When the impairment reduced the carrying amount of
the oil and gas properties for accounting purposes but not for tax purposes, the
difference between the accounting and tax basis of the properties was reduced
and the deferred tax liability was reduced accordingly, resulting in a deferred
tax benefit.

         Middle Bay reported a net loss of $15,579,340 versus net income of
$205,500 for the comparable period. Middle Bay paid preferred dividends of
$605,000 in the current period and reported a net loss to common stockholders of
$16,184,052 versus net income available to common stockholders of $205,000 for
the comparable period. No preferred dividends were paid in 1996.

FISCAL 1996

         Total revenues for the twelve months ended December 31, 1996, of
$4,886,000, were $1,348,000 higher than the comparable period. The increase in
total revenues was due primarily to higher oil and gas revenues of $1,236,000,
consisting primarily of a $469,000 increase in oil revenues and a $858,000
increase in gas revenues. Total revenues also increased due to higher other
income of $199,000, due primarily to a gas contract settlement of $263,000. The
increase in oil and gas revenues from 1996 to 1995 was primarily the result of
higher oil and gas prices. Production of oil and gas for the twelve months ended
December 31, 1996, increased 1% and 7%, respectively, over the comparable
period. During the twelve-month period ended December 31, 1996, Middle Bay sold
109,000 barrels of oil and 983,000 Mcf of gas, as compared to 107,000 barrels of
oil and 917,000 Mcf of gas for the comparable period. Oil production for 1996
was 1,600 barrels higher due to a 4,300 barrel increase from the successful
wells in the Brigham Agreement, a 500 barrel increase in existing properties,
and a decrease of 3,200 barrels from properties sold in 1996. Gas production in
1996 was 66,000 Mcf higher due to a 25,000 Mcf increase from the successful
wells in the Brigham Agreement and a 78,000 Mcf increase in existing properties
offset by a decrease of 37,000 Mcf from properties sold in 1996. The price
received on the gas sold in 1996 of $2.28 per Mcf was higher than the $1.52 per
Mcf received in the comparable period. Oil prices in 1996 of $20.26 per barrel
were 25% higher than the $16.17 per barrel received in the comparable period.

         The increase in total revenues of $1,348,000 was more than the increase
in total expenses of $646,000. Increases in dry-hole costs and depreciation and
depletion expense accounted for approximately 91% of the total expense increase.



                                     - 54 -
<PAGE>   69
         Lease operating expenses of $1,516,000 increased by $79,000 as a result
of higher expenses on existing properties of $138,000 and expenses on successful
wells in the Brigham Agreement of $4,300 offset by reductions due to properties
sold in 1996 of $63,000. Interest expense of $505,000 decreased by $15,000 due
to lower interest rates and payments on principal in 1996. Dry-hole expense
increased by $346,000 due primarily to abandonment costs of $421,000 associated
with the unsuccessful wells drilled in the Brigham Agreement. Depletion expense
of $1,397,000 increased by $256,000. Regular depletion of $1,119,000 increased
by $134,000 due primarily to higher depletion on existing properties. Write-offs
of proven properties in accordance with SFAS #121 of $277,000 increased by
$121,000. Of the total writedown, 75% is from three single well fields in
Louisiana. One of the fields was the Lake Decade Field which was a major
property in 1995. It contributed $91,000 to cash flow in 1996 before it ceased
producing in December 1996, resulting in an impairment expense of $59,000. The
other two fields, which produced very little in 1996, were minor properties
contributing less than $20,000 to cash flow in 1995, and producing impairment
losses of $95,000 and $55,000. The remaining impairment expense resulted from
several properties, none of which were significant properties in terms of
discounted present value and were primarily mature, small properties that did
not contribute significantly to Middle Bay's cash flow in 1996 and 1995.
Depreciation expense of $60,000 decreased $15,000 due to lower depreciation on
lease and well equipment and corporate office furniture and fixtures which are
depreciated on an accelerated method which declines over the useful life of the
asset. General and administrative expenses decreased by $3,900, due primarily to
Middle Bay's lower 1996 SEP/IRA and 1% NPI contributions of $12,000 compared to
the $60,000 in contributions in 1995, lower accounting expenses of $14,000 and
lower miscellaneous expenses of $18,000 which were partially offset by higher
travel and entertainment expenses of $47,000 and higher legal expenses of
$12,000.

   
         Middle Bay reported an operating profit of $280,000 for the year ended
December 31, 1996 as compared to an operating loss of $421,000 in 1995. If the
1996 nonrecurring credits of $303,000 consisting of the gas contract settlement
of $263,000 and lease operating expense credit of $40,000, were offset against
the 1995 nonrecurring expenses of $62,000, the operating loss would have
decreased by $336,000.
    

         Middle Bay reported net income of $205,000 for the year ended December
31, 1996, versus a net loss of $331,000 for the comparable period.

THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 1997 AND 1998

         Total revenues for the three months ended March 31, 1998 of $2,757,000
were $856,000 higher than the comparable period. The increase in total revenues
was due principally to higher oil and gas revenues of $756,000.

         The increase in oil and gas revenues consisted primarily of a $364,000
increase in oil revenues and a $349,000 increase in gas revenues. The increase
in oil and gas revenues was the result of higher oil and gas production.
Production of oil increased 116% and production of gas increased 72% over the
comparable period. The oil production increase of 50,141 barrels and the gas
production increase of 219,034 Mcf were due primarily to the Shore Merger and
the Riceville Acquisition. During the three-month period ended March 31, 1998,
Middle Bay sold 93,260 barrels of oil and 521,556 Mcf of gas, as compared to
43,119 barrels and 302,522 Mcf for the comparable period. The average price
received on the gas sold in 1998 of $2.28 per Mcf



                                     - 55 -
<PAGE>   70
was 18% lower than the $2.77 per Mcf received in the comparable period. The
average price received on the oil sold in 1998 of $13.94 per barrel was 36%
lower than the $21.71 per barrel received in the comparable period.

         Total expenses increased by $3,038,000 over the comparable period. Due
to the growth of Middle Bay over the last twelve months, all categories of
expenses increased. Lease operating expenses increased $541,000. The increase
was due principally to the additional expenses on the properties acquired in the
Bison and Shore Mergers. Depletion and depreciation expense increased by
$639,000. Depletion was higher due to depletion on properties acquired in the
Bison and Shore Mergers and the Riceville Acquisition.

         General and administrative expenses ("G&A") increased by $671,000. The
increase in G&A consists primarily of a $236,000 increase in salaries, $132,000
in performance bonuses for the previous year and an increase of $247,000 in
engineering, accounting and legal expenses. The increase in salary expense was
due to increases in salaries of existing employees, salaries of new employees
and salaries associated with employees added in the Bison and Shore Mergers. For
the current period, Middle Bay had 17 full-time employees; eight employees were
added through the Bison and Shore Mergers, and the Company hired a land manager
and accountant and lost one employee. In addition, during the comparable period
before the Bison Merger, Middle Bay had eight full-time employees. The
performance bonus was paid to certain key employees upon recommendation by the
Compensation Committee after an appraisal of Middle Bay's performance for the
year ended 1997.

         Dryhole expenses increased by $288,000. In the current period, the
dryhole expense of $469,000 consisted principally of $199,000 for the dryhole on
the South Highbaugh Prospect. Additional dryhole expenses of $102,000 on two
dryholes on the Reflection Ridge Prospect and $130,000 on the Middle Bay Oil Co.
#1 were expensed in the current period. The Reflection Ridge wells and the
Middle Bay Oil Co. #1 were drilled and abandoned in the fourth quarter of 1997.
Dryhole expenses in the comparable period consisted principally of costs through
the Brigham Agreement.

         Geological and geophysical expenses ("G&G") increased by $746,000. In
the current period, Middle Bay spent approximately $740,000 in G&G expenses on
the Hawkins Ranch Prospect in Matagorda County, Texas. No G&G expenses were
incurred in the comparable period. Stock compensation expense increased by
$33,700 due to the vesting of the restricted stock granted to certain Middle Bay
employees in February, 1997. All of the stock will be vested by June 30, 1998.
Interest expense increased by $120,000, due primarily to a higher loan balance.

         Middle Bay reported an operating loss of $2,143,000 for the three
months ended March 31, 1998, versus operating income of $40,000 for the
comparable period. Middle Bay reported a deferred income tax benefit of $728,000
in the current period. No deferred taxes were recorded in the comparable period.
Middle Bay reported a net loss of $1,414,000 for the three months ended March
31, 1998, versus net income of $40,000 for the comparable period. After
considering the preferred stock dividend requirement of $68,000 in the current
period and $63,000 in the comparable period, Middle Bay reported a net loss
available to common shareholders in the current and comparable periods of
$1,482,000 and $22,000, respectively.




                                     - 56 -
<PAGE>   71
EFFECTS OF OIL AND GAS PRICE FLUCTUATIONS

         Fluctuations in the price of crude oil and natural gas significantly
affect Middle Bay's operations and the value of its assets. As a result of the
instability and volatility of crude oil and natural gas prices, financial
institutions have become more selective in the energy lending area and have
reduced the percentage of existing reserves that may qualify for the borrowing
base to support energy loans.

         Middle Bay's principal source of cash flow is the production and sale
of its crude oil and natural gas reserves which are depleting assets. Cash flow
from oil and gas production sales depends upon the quantity of production and
the price obtained for that production. An increase in prices permits Middle Bay
to finance its operations to a greater extent with internally-generated funds,
allow Middle Bay to obtain equity financing more easily and lessens the
difficulty of attracting financing alternatives available to Middle Bay from
industry partners and nonindustry investors. However, price increases heighten
the competition for Leases and Prospects, increase the costs of exploration and
development activities and increase the risks associated with the purchase of
Producing Properties.

         A decline in oil and gas prices (i) reduces the cash flow internally
generated by Middle Bay, which in turn reduces the funds available for servicing
debt and exploring for and replacing oil and gas reserves, (ii) increases the
difficulty of obtaining equity financing, (iii) reduces the number of Leases and
Prospects available to Middle Bay on reasonable economic terms and (iv)
increases the difficulty of attracting financing alternatives available to
Middle Bay from industry partners and nonindustry investors. However, price
declines reduce the competition for Leases and Prospects and correspondingly
reduce the prices paid for Leases and Prospects. Furthermore, exploration and
production costs generally decline, although the decline may not be at the same
rate of decline of oil and gas prices.

         Since September, 1997, the price of oil has declined dramatically. The
posted price of WTI crude oil has declined from a high of approximately $20.00
per barrel in October, 1997 to lows in June, 1998 of approximately $9.00 per
barrel. The average posted price of WTI crude oil for the year 1997 was
approximately $18 per barrel. As of May 31, 1998, approximately 40% of Middle
Bay's proved developed producing oil and gas reserves, on a BOE basis, are oil.
If oil prices remain at or near the June, 1998 levels, Middle Bay's revenue and
cash flow will decrease relative to the year ended 1997. Gas prices peaked in
November, 1997, but have declined approximately 20% since December, 1997.

SEASONALITY

         The results of operations of Middle Bay are somewhat seasonal due to
seasonal fluctuations in the price for natural gas. Generally, natural gas
prices are higher in the first and fourth quarter of the year due to colder
winter weather and resulting higher demand for natural gas during these months.
Due to these seasonal fluctuations, results of operations for individual
quarterly periods may not be indicative of results on an annual basis.




                                     - 57 -
<PAGE>   72
INFLATION AND CHANGING PRICES

         Inflation principally affects the costs required to drill, complete and
operate oil and gas wells. In recent years, inflation has had a minimal effect
on the operations of Middle Bay. Costs have generally declined over the near
future due to the decrease in drilling activity in the United States. Unless
increasing oil and gas prices spur large increases in industry activities,
management believes costs will remain relatively stable over the next year.

CAPITAL RESOURCES AND LIQUIDITY -- FISCAL 1997 AND FISCAL 1996

   
         Cash flow from operations before working capital changes of $2,925,000
increased $1,225,000 over the comparable period. This increase was due to a
$3,184,000 increase in oil and gas cash flow, an increase of $554,000 in other
income offset by increases in general and administrative costs of $1,654,000,
dry-hole costs of $691,000, interest expense of $166,000 and $1,000 in current
income taxes. Increased oil and gas operations cash flow before working capital
changes was principally the result of increases in oil and gas production. The
other income increase was due primarily to lease bonus and delay rental income
on the minerals acquired in the Shore Merger.
    

         Cash flow from operating activities for the year ending December 31,
1997, of $2,582,000 increased $1,193,000 over the comparable period. Changes in
working capital reduced cash flow by $32,000 over the comparable period.
Differences in the amount and timing of accrual and payment of payables and the
accrual and receipt of revenues account for the changes in working capital.

         Additions to oil and gas properties were higher than the comparable
period due to the Bison and Shore Mergers and increased acquisitions and
drilling in the current period. The increase in the amount of cash used for debt
payments was due primarily to the $2,105,000 refinancing of the term note
assumed in the Shore Merger and the $385,000 of payments and refinancing on the
note assumed in the NPC Merger. No principal payments have been required over
the period April 1, 1996 to December 31, 1997 on Middle Bay's $6 million, $15
million and $50 million convertible loans. The increase in the proceeds from
debt issued was due to the refinancing of the notes assumed in the Shore and NPC
Mergers, $3,000,000 issued in the Riceville Acquisition and the financing of the
leasehold and seismic costs in the amount of $385,000 associated with the
Reflection Ridge Prospect. The increase in proceeds from issuance of preferred
stock was due to the preferred stock issued to finance portions of the Bison and
Shore Mergers.

         Middle Bay's operating activities provided net cash of $2,582,000 for
the year ending December 31, 1997. During this period, net cash from operations
and cash on hand was used principally for exploratory and developmental drilling
of $2,004,000, workovers of $431,000, exploration prospects of $415,000 and
proved property acquisitions of $921,000. Debt proceeds were used to finance
$3,000,000 of proved property acquisition and $285,000 of prospects. Common
stock was issued for $260,000 of proved property acquisitions, excluding
mergers. Of the $2,004,000 spent on exploratory and developmental drilling,
approximately $420,000 was spent in the Brigham Agreement, $880,000 in the
Spivey Field in Kansas, $100,000 in the Wellman Unit in Texas, and the remainder
was spent on several wells in Louisiana, Mississippi and Oklahoma. Of the
$431,000 spent on workovers, approximately $80,000 was spent at Wild Fork Creek



                                     - 58 -
<PAGE>   73
Field in Alabama, $44,000 at the Wright Field in Louisiana, $30,000 at Magnolia
in Arkansas and $25,000 at Lake Trammel Field in Texas. The remaining amount was
spent on several different properties. The $700,000 total amount spent on
prospects consisted primarily of $286,000 on Reflection Ridge in Kansas,
$232,000 on Hawkins Ranch in Texas, $67,000 on the Sherburne Prospect in
Louisiana, $31,000 on the Quarry Prospect in New Mexico and $55,000 on S.
Highbaugh in Texas. Middle Bay spent $7,140,000 on the Bison Merger. This
includes the $1,446,000 in non-oil and gas assets, which were subsequently sold
for the amount paid. Middle Bay spent $514,000 on the Shore Merger. Amounts
spent on debt retirement consisted principally of the payment in full of the
note assumed in the Shore Merger of $2,105,000, monthly principal payments on
the $385,000 term note assumed in the NPC Merger and the refinancing of the NPC
term note of $274,000. The principal payments on the $6 million convertible loan
were suspended when Middle Bay converted the $5.6 million term note to a $6
million convertible loan on April 3, 1996.

         Middle Bay incurred $1,119,000 in dry hole costs consisting principally
of three wells drilled in Louisiana and one well drilled in Oklahoma. The
Louisiana wells were the Shore Oil Company #1, the Sabine #1 and the Middle Bay
Oil Company #1 with dry-hole costs of $311,000, $177,000 and $168,000,
respectively. The Oklahoma well was the Hannah #1 with a dry hole cost of
$301,000.

         Middle Bay incurred $223,000 in geological and geophysical costs ("G&G
Costs") which consisted primarily of $130,000 in geological and geophysical
costs on the Reflection Ridge Prospect and $62,000 on the Hawkins Ranch
Prospect. The above discussion of capital costs does not include amounts
expensed as dry hole and geological and geophysical costs.

         Middle Bay had current assets of $4,223,000 and current liabilities of
$2,891,000, which resulted in working capital of $1,332,000 at December 31,
1997. This was an increase of $546,000 from working capital of $786,000 at
December 31, 1996. Working capital increased primarily due to increased cash
flow from operations, cash proceeds from stock option exercises, and no monthly
principal payments on the Convertible Loan, offset partially by increased
amounts spent on exploratory and developmental drilling and working capital
changes. The current maturity of long-term debt was higher in 1997 because of
the larger principal balance requiring payment in the following year. In 1997,
the $50 million Convertible Loan requires principal payments beginning April 1,
1998 versus the $6 million Convertible Loan requiring principal payments
beginning October 1, 1997 in the comparable period. Middle Bay's current ratio
of 2.78, calculated under the terms of the Convertible Loan which excludes
stockholder receivables and debt due under the $50 million Convertible Loan, is
in excess of the 0.90 to 1.00 required.

THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 1997 AND 1998

         Cash flow from operating activities for the three months ended March
31, 1998 of $1,564,000 increased $868,000 over the comparable period. The
increase was due primarily to working capital changes offset by a decrease in
cash flow from higher geological and geophysical expenses, higher dry-hole
expenses and higher general and administrative expenses. Cash flow from oil and
gas properties increased $216,000 over the comparable period. Oil and gas prices
decreased 36% and 18%, respectively, while oil and gas production increased 116%
and 72%, respectively. The change in working capital increased cash flow by
$2,091,000 over the comparable period. The change in working capital was caused
principally by timing



                                     - 59 -
<PAGE>   74
differences in the payment of expenses and receipt of revenues. The cash flow to
debt coverage ratio of 203.62 is greater than the 1.25 required under the $100
million credit facility. There were no required principal payments under the
$100 million credit facility in the current period.

         Additions to oil and gas properties were higher than the comparable
period due primarily to the increased drilling activity. The amount spent on
acquisitions is higher due to the Enex acquisition (the "Enex Acquisition")
which closed March 27, 1998. Middle Bay acquired approximately 79% of Enex
common stock for cash in a tender offer that expired March 27, 1998. The
increase in the amount of cash used for debt payments was due to replacement of
the $50 million Convertible Loan, with a principal balance of $10,956,000, with
the $100 million credit facility. No monthly principal payments have been
required over the period April 1, 1997 to March 31, 1998 on Middle Bay's $6
million, $15 million and $50 million Convertible Loans. The increase in the
proceeds from debt issued was due to the proceeds from the $100 million credit
facility which were used to replace the $50 million Convertible Loan and to
finance the Enex Acquisition. No preferred stock was issued in the current
period versus the $6 million issued under the Preferred Stock Agreement with
Kaiser-Francis in the comparable period. Kaiser-Francis converted all of the
Series A Preferred Stock on January 31, 1998.

         Middle Bay's operating activities provided net cash of $1,564,000 for
the three-month period ended March 31, 1998. During this period, net cash from
operations and cash on hand was used principally for acquisitions and
exploratory and developmental drilling. Approximately $149,000 was spent to
acquire a well in the Spivey Field. Approximately $650,000 was spent on
exploratory drilling. The principal exploratory wells in the current period were
the S. Highbaugh Prospect well ($199,000), the Sherburne Prospect well
($219,000) and the Middle Bay Oil Co. #1 well ($130,000). Approximately $900,000
was spent on developmental drilling. The principal developmental well drilled in
the current period was the Kuehling #1 sidetrack ($529,000) which was
unsuccessful. Additional developmental drilling was done in the Convis, Custer
City, Lake Trammel, Spivey and Wellman Fields. Middle Bay spent approximately
$15,966,000 on the Enex Acquisition which was financed entirely with debt
proceeds from the $100 million credit facility. Amounts spent on debt retirement
consisted principally of the replacement of the $50 million convertible loan.

         Middle Bay had current assets of $9,575,000 and current liabilities of
$7,100,000, which resulted in working capital of $2,475,000 as of March 31,
1998. This was an increase of $1,162,000 from the working capital of $1,313,000
as of December 31, 1997. Working capital increased primarily due to working
capital acquired in the Enex Acquisition. Middle Bay's working capital at March
31, 1998, before the Enex transaction, was $132,000. Middle Bay's current ratio
of 2.07, calculated under the terms of the $100 million credit facility, which
excludes stockholder receivables and debt due under the $100 million credit
facility, was in excess of the 0.90 to 1.00 required.

         In general, because natural gas and oil reserves are depleted by
production, Middle Bay's success is dependent upon the results of its
acquisition, development and exploration activities. Middle Bay's strategy is to
acquire and develop proved producing and proved undeveloped properties, enhance
and exploit its existing properties for reserves and to invest in a limited
amount of exploratory and developmental drilling projects. Middle Bay expects to
incur a minimum of $2,300,000 in capital expenditures over the next twelve
months for exploratory and developmental activities. The capital expenditures
for drilling are expected to be allocated to



                                     - 60 -
<PAGE>   75
recomplete a well in the Esther Field for $400,000, drill a well on the
Sherburne Prospect for $288,000, on the S. Highbaugh Prospect for $150,000, on
the Quarry Prospect for $140,000 and shoot, process and interpret seismic and
acquire leases on the Hawkins Ranch Prospect for $1,300,000. The developmental
and exploratory drilling activities will be funded by internally generated cash
flows. Capital expenditures above $2.3 million will be contingent on a number of
factors including current and expected prices of oil and gas, timing of
completion of 3-D seismic data acquisition on the Hawkins Ranch Prospect,
results of exploration and development drilling and potential additional mergers
and acquisitions Middle Bay is currently evaluating.

         As of March 16, 1998, Middle Bay had funded the sidetracking of the
Kuehling #1 well in the Esther Field for $400,000 and a well in the S. Highbaugh
Prospect in Tyler County, Texas for $150,000. The operator abandoned the
recompletion attempt after encountering a split casing, and the well in S.
Highbaugh was a dry hole. In addition, Middle Bay purchased additional interest
and seismic on the Hawkins Ranch Prospect for approximately $250,000.

         Under the terms of the Janex Acquisition, Middle Bay has a contingent
obligation to repurchase 142,107 common shares issued in the Janex Acquisition,
upon written notice delivered to Middle Bay, beginning five years after the
closing date and continuing for thirty days thereafter, at a price of $6.00 per
share. This obligation shall terminate if Middle Bay's stock trades at a share
price of $8.00 or greater for twenty consecutive trading days during the
thirty-six month period ending November 1, 1998. At the close of trading on
April 7, 1997, Middle Bay's common stock had traded at an ask price that was
equal to, or exceeded, $8.00 per share for twenty consecutive trading days.
Therefore, the contingent obligation represented by the redeemable common stock
balance on Middle Bay's balance sheet in the amount of $421,179 was reclassified
to additional paid-in capital effective April 7, 1997.

         On April 3, 1996, the Bank converted its $5.6 million term note into a
$6.0 million, one-year, revolving line-of-credit (the "$6 million Convertible
Loan"), effective April 1, 1996. The $6 million Convertible Loan required
monthly payments of interest only at prime plus 1.5% and converted into a term
note payable in seventy-one consecutive equal monthly principal and interest
payments at prime plus 1.5%, with the remaining principal and interest payment
due on March 31, 2003. Effective, March 31, 1997, Middle Bay refinanced the $6
million Convertible Loan at its current principal balance of $5,186,596 with a
$15 million Convertible Loan. The $15 million Convertible Loan required monthly
payments of interest only at prime for one year and converts into a term note
payable in seventy-one consecutive equal monthly principal and interest payments
at prime, with the remaining principal and interest payment due on March 31,
2004. The $15 million Convertible Loan also required payment of a commitment fee
equal to an annual rate of three-eighths percent of the excess of the borrowing
base over the principal balance of the convertible note. Effective September 1,
1997, Middle Bay refinanced the $15 million Convertible Loan at its current
principal balance of $5,851,298 with a $50 million Convertible Loan. The $50
million Convertible Loan requires monthly payments of interest only at a fixed
rate of Libor plus 1.75% as long as the principal amount of the loan is less
than 75% of the current borrowing base of $15 million. If the principal amount
of the loan is greater than or equal to 75% of the borrowing base, the rate
increases to Libor plus 2.75%. Middle Bay has the option of switching to a
floating prime rate. The $50 million Convertible Loan converts into a term note
payable in seventy-one consecutive equal monthly principal and interest payments
at prime, with the remaining principal and interest payment due on March 31,
2004. The $50 million Convertible Loan also requires payment of a commitment



                                     - 61 -
<PAGE>   76
fee equal to an annual rate of three-eighths percent of the excess of the
borrowing base over the principal balance of the convertible note. The principal
balance of the $50 million Convertible Loan at December 31, 1997 was
$10,956,298. The $50 million Convertible Loan was refinanced with the previously
discussed $100 million credit facility.

GENERAL

         On September 4, 1996, Middle Bay signed a Preferred Stock Agreement
with Kaiser-Francis. The Preferred Stock Agreement provides for the purchase of
1,666,667 shares of Series A by Kaiser-Francis over a five-year period,
beginning September 4, 1996, with minimum incremental investments of $500,000
each. Each issuance is subject to approval by Kaiser-Francis of the use of
proceeds. The Series A was nonvoting and accrued dividends at 8% per annum,
payable quarterly in cash. At December 31, 1997, 100% of the Series A had been
issued to partially finance the NPC, Bison and Shore Mergers, and in January,
1998, Kaiser-Francis converted 100% of the Series A into 3,333,334 shares of
Middle Bay Common Stock.

         In connection with the merger with Shore Oil Company effective June 30,
1997, Middle Bay issued 266,667 shares of Series B Preferred Stock ("Series B").
The Series B is nonvoting and pays no dividends. The Series B has a liquidation
value of $7.50 per share and is junior to the Series A Preferred. For a period
of sixty-six months subsequent to June 30, 1997, any holder of the Series B may
convert all or any portion of Series B shares into Middle Bay Common Stock at a
ratio of one share of Common Stock for each Series B share, or at any time on or
after January 1, 1998, the holders may convert a portion of their Series B
shares based on a conversion method whereby a number of convertible Series B
shares are exchanged using the Alternative Conversion Factor, which is
calculated as the increase in value of approximately 40,000 net mineral acres in
South Louisiana owned by Middle Bay at the end of the year divided by $8
million.

         The Alternative Conversion Factor is then multiplied by 1,066,000 to
arrive at the potential converted number of common shares received. Upon
expiration of the conversion period, unless Middle Bay has given notice to
redeem the Series B, all of the shares of Series B shall be automatically
converted. In no event shall the aggregate total number of shares of Common
Stock into which the Series B are converted be less than 266,667 shares or
exceed 1,333,333 shares, unless further increased for any anti-dilution
provisions.

         Middle Bay's liquidity position and current and anticipated cash flows
from operations remain adequate for its general requirements. However, because
future cash flows and the availability of financing are subject to a number of
variables, such as the level of production and prices received for gas and oil,
there can be no assurance that Middle Bay's capital resources will be sufficient
to maintain planned levels of capital expenditures.

CAPITAL EXPENDITURES -- FISCAL 1997 AND FISCAL 1996

         Total capital expenditures, excluding mergers, for oil and gas
properties in fiscal 1997 and 1996 were $7,316,000 and $1,597,000, respectively.
Total capital expenditures for mergers in 1997 and 1996 were $27,586,000 and
$2,618,000, respectively. Total capital expenditures for dry holes and G&G in
1997 and 1996 were $1,341,000 and $429,000, respectively.



                                     - 62 -
<PAGE>   77
         Middle Bay has made and will continue to make substantial capital
expenditures for acquisition, development and exploration of oil and natural gas
reserves. In fact, because Middle Bay's principal natural gas and oil reserves
are depleted by production, its success is dependent upon the results of its
acquisition, development and exploration activities.

         Middle Bay, excluding Enex and Service Drilling, expects to incur a
minimum of approximately $1,400,000 in capital expenditures over the next twelve
months. Middle Bay expects that available cash, cash flows from operations and
cash proceeds from asset sales of certain noncore properties will be sufficient
to fund the planned capital expenditures through 1998, in addition to funding
interest and principal requirements on the $100 million credit facility.
However, Middle Bay may require additional borrowings under the $100 million
credit facility or additional equity funding to raise additional capital to fund
any acquisitions.

         Because future cash flows and the availability of financing are subject
to a number of variable, such as the level of production and prices received for
gas and oil, there can be no assurance the Middle Bay's capital resources will
be sufficient to maintain planned levels of capital expenditures.

         Middle Bay does not anticipate that it will incur any significant
expenditures to address year 2000 issues, nor do year 2000 issues represent a
known material event or uncertainty to Middle Bay. To the extent that Middle Bay
may be adversely affected by year 2000 issues of its suppliers, customers and
other entities, Middle Bay does not believe it will be more adversely affected
than other companies in its industry with similar operations.






                                     - 63 -
<PAGE>   78
                             SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

         The following selected financial data for Enex for the years ended
December 31, 1996 and 1997 and the three months ended March 31, 1997 and 1998
are derived from Enex's audited and unaudited Financial Statements. Operating
results for the three months ended March 31, 1997 and 1998 are not necessarily
indicative of the results that may be expected for the entire fiscal year ended
December 31, 1998. The selected financial data below should be read in
conjunction with Enex's audited and unaudited Financial Statements and related
Notes thereto and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations" contained elsewhere in this Proxy
Statement/Prospectus.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                      (Unaudited)
                                                         Years Ended December 31,            Three Months Ended March 31,
                                                         ------------------------            ----------------------------
                                                         1997               1996               1998               1997
                                                         ----               ----               ----               ----
<S>                                                 <C>                <C>                <C>                <C>         
Revenue
- -------
      Oil and gas sales                             $  9,093,316       $  7,286,738       $  2,104,602       $  1,699,330
      Gas plant sales                                  1,002,326            915,593             17,733            347,786
      Gain on sale of property                           923,654            258,786            671,923            237,518
      Other                                              444,303            135,727              9,999             25,508
                                                    ------------       ------------       ------------       ------------
      Total Revenue                                   11,463,599          8,596,844          2,804,257          2,310,142

Costs and Expenses
- ------------------
      Operating expenses, including production
        taxes                                          4,774,532          3,582,422          1,002,651            953,652
      Impairment expense                                      --          3,908,370                 --                 --
      Depletion, depreciation and amortization         1,633,771          1,338,602            548,028            235,893
      Interest                                                --             12,429                 --                 --
      General and administrative                       2,061,090          1,826,762          1,416,407            416,780
                                                    ------------       ------------       ------------       ------------
      Total Expenses                                   8,469,393         10,668,585          2,967,086          1,606,325

Income (loss) before minority interest and
   income taxes                                        2,994,206         (2,071,741)          (162,829)           703,817
Minority interest                                     (1,012,449)          (342,761)          (348,190)          (184,144)
                                                    ------------       ------------       ------------       ------------
Income (loss) before income tax                        1,981,757         (2,414,502)          (511,019)           519,673
Income tax expense (credit)                               16,082            (92,981)           (86,700)            18,021
                                                    ------------       ------------       ------------       ------------

Net Income (Loss)                                   $  1,965,675       $ (2,321,521)      $   (424,319)      $    501,652
                                                    ============       ============       ============       ============

Net income (loss) per common share
      Basic                                         $       1.45       $      (1.70)      $      (0.32)      $       0.37
      Diluted                                               1.37              (1.70)             (0.32)              0.35

Total assets                                        $ 20,001,802       $ 15,075,378       $ 19,282,544       $ 15,284,086
Long-term debt                                                --                 --                 --                 --

Dividends per Share                                         0.40               0.25                 --                 --
</TABLE>




                                     - 64 -
<PAGE>   79
                MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
                       CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

         The forward-looking statements contained herein are based on various
assumptions, many of which are based, in turn, upon further assumptions. Enex's
expectations, beliefs and projections are expressed in good faith and are
believed by Enex to have a reasonable basis, including without limitation
management's examination of historical operating trends, data contained in
Enex's records and other data available from third parties, but there can be no
assurance that management's expectations, beliefs or projections will result or
be achieved or accomplished.

         In 1997, Enex recognized an increase in revenues and cash flows mainly
due to increased interest in Enex Consolidated Partners L.P. Net gains from the
sales of properties, together with relatively lower operating expenses, allowed
Enex to increase net income by 24% from 1996, absent a $3.9 million impairment
in 1996. Effective June 30, 1997, thirty-four of Enex's managed limited
partnerships (the "Predecessor Partnerships") were consolidated to form Enex
Consolidated Partners, L.P. (the "Consolidated Partnership"). In conjunction
with the Consolidation, Enex converted its receivables from the limited
partnerships and its capital interests in the Predecessor Partnerships into
limited partner units in the Consolidated Partnership. As a result, Enex owns a
55.5% limited partnership interest in the Consolidated Partnership. As such, the
results of operations and financial condition subsequent to June 30, 1997 have
been fully consolidated in the attached financial statements and minority
interest recognized. At December 31, 1997, Enex had a current ratio of 7.37 with
no long-term debt.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

         Operating activities provided cash flow of $2,519,016 in 1997, as
compared to $3,020,581 in 1996 and $2,541,845 in 1995. The lower cash flow in
1997, as compared to 1996, was primarily the result of an $860,422 decrease in
accounts receivable in 1996, as compared to a similar decrease of $180,213 in
1995. The higher cash flows in 1996 as compared to 1995 were primarily the
result of higher revenues.

         In 1997, Enex had no long-term debt. In May 1996, Enex fully repaid its
long-term debt with repayments of $850,000 in the first five months of 1996.
Enex repaid a net of $1,074,000 of its long-term debt in 1995.

         In 1997, proceeds from the sales of property added $1,639,855 to Enex's
cash flow. In 1996 and 1995, proceeds from the sale of property added $555,557
and $991,632, respectively. Receipts collected on notes receivable from managed
limited partnerships added $16,902 and $49,816 in 1996 and 1995, respectively.

         A significant portion of Enex's cash flow has continued to be
reinvested in oil and gas properties. A total of $758,585, $1,333,111 and
$1,927,925 was used for the acquisition and development of oil and gas
properties during 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. In 1997, $466,188 was used
for the acquisition of oil and gas properties through the purchase of additional
interests in the partnership. In 1997, Enex purchased royalty interests in 16
wells in Corinne Field, Monroe County, Mississippi for $78,750, an overriding
royalty interest for $15,000 in the Byrum 1-28 well in Ononadago Field, Ingham
County, Michigan and working


                                     - 65 -
<PAGE>   80
interests in 2 wells in Brighton Field, Livingston County, Michigan for $23,520,
3 wells in Otsego County, Michigan for $67,314, and 7 wells in Karnes County,
Texas for $55,000, all from managed limited partnerships. In 1996, Enex drilled
eighteen developmental oil and gas wells, including, wells in the Sibley Field,
Webster Parish, Louisiana, which added 750,000 MCF of gas equivalent to
reserves. In 1995, Enex acquired royalty interests in the Gorman gas unit in
Duval County, Texas, overriding royalty interests in four gas wells located in
East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana and working interests in nine wells located
in WWW Field, Ward County, Texas from managed limited partnerships for $660,290,
$89,880 and $18,450, respectively.

         Enex increased its semi-annual dividend to its shareholders in December
1997 from $.15 per share to $.25 per share with the payment of a $.10 per-share
special dividend. Enex utilized $530,652 of cash flow to pay $.40 per share of
dividends in 1997. In 1996 and 1995, Enex utilized $345,542 and $268,200,
respectively, to pay dividends of $.25 and $.20 per share, respectively.

         In 1997, Enex continued its stock repurchase program, utilizing
$1,375,637 to purchase 131,500 shares of its common stock. In 1996, Enex
utilized $333,250 to purchase 34,494 shares of its common stock.

         As a result of the higher net income in 1997 and the recognition of
minority interest in the Consolidated Partnership, working capital increased to
$5,595,347 at December 31, 1997, from $3,969,402 at December 31, 1996. At
December 31, 1997, Enex's current ratio was 7.37, and it had no long-term debt.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

         In 1997, Enex recorded net income of $1,965,675 or $1.45 per share.
This compares to a loss of $2,321,521 or $1.70 per share in 1996, and net income
of $1,269,400 or $.96 in 1995. The loss in 1996 was a result of a $3,908,370
nonrecurring impairment of property. Absent this impairment, Enex earned
$1,586,849 in 1996. The increase in net income from 1996 to 1997 was primarily
the result of increased revenues resulting form the conversion of receivable and
capital balances into limited partnership interest in the Consolidated
Partnership, coupled with relatively lower operating costs. Revenues and
expenses shown in the accompanying financial statements record Enex and Enex
Consolidated Partners, L.P. on a fully Consolidated basis subsequent to June 30,
1997.

         Oil, natural gas and gas plant sales were $10,095,642 in 1997,
$8,202,331 in 1996 and $6,594,438 in 1995. Sales increased by $1,893,311 or 23%
in 1997 from 1996. Oil sales increased by $1,316,289 or 38% in 1997 from 1996. A
56% increase in oil production increased oil sales by $1,931,047. This increase
was partially offset by a 12% decrease the average oil sales price. Gas sales
increased by $490,289 or 13%. A 5% increase in gas production increased sales by
$199,924. A 7% increase in the average gas sales price increased gas sales an
additional $290,365. Gas plant sales increased by $86,733 or 9%. A 15% increase
in the average sales price of gas plant products increased sales by $128,976.
This increase was partially offset by a 5% decrease in the production of gas
plant products. The increases in oil and gas production were primarily the
result of the recognition of the Consolidated Partnership on a fully
Consolidated basis after June 30, 1997. The decrease in gas plant production was
primarily due to natural production decline. The decrease in average oil sales
prices corresponds with lower prices in the overall market for the sale of oil.
The increases



                                     - 66 -
<PAGE>   81
in the average gas and gas plant products sales prices correspond with higher
prices in the overall markets for the sale of gas and gas plant products.

         Oil, natural gas and gas plant gas sales increased by $1,607,893 or 24%
from 1995 to 1996. Oil sales increased $277,366 or 9% in 1996 from 1995. A 23%
increase in the average oil sales price increased oil sales by $640,966. This
increase was partially offset by an 11% decrease in oil production. Gas sales
increased by $1,084,708 or 39% in 1996 from 1995. A 41% increase in the average
gas sales price increased sales by $1,120,862. This increase was partially
offset by a 1% decrease in gas production. Gas plant sales increased by 37% or
$245,819. A 38% increase in the average sales price of gas plant products
increased sales by $252,701. This increase was partially offset by a 1% decrease
in the production of gas plant products. The decreases in production were
primarily the result of natural production declines, partially offset by the
development of eighteen oil and gas wells in 1996. The increases in average
sales prices corresponded with higher prices in the overall market for the sale
of oil, gas and gas plant products.

         Other revenues were a net $226,658 in 1997 as compared with $88,259 in
1996 and $687,401 in 1995. Such revenues included rig rental revenues of
$83,239, $153,346 and $106,144 in 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. Also
included in the 1997 amount were $50,000 for the sale of a drilling rig, and
$20,000 from a lawsuit settlement on the Dover Hennessey gas plant. Also
included in 1996 and 1995 amounts were a net loss of $125,015 on the liquidation
of managed partnerships and a $393,980 gain recognized from the early receipt of
notes receivable in 1996 and 1995, respectively. The increase in other revenues
in 1997 was primarily the result of the sale of the drilling rig. The decrease
in other revenues in 1996 from 1995 was primarily due to the loss arising from
the liquidation of managed limited partnerships in 1996 and the $393,390 gain
recognized in 1995 on the collection of notes receivable. The receipt of
unrecognized noted receivable was accelerated in 1995 as a result of the
liquidation of four managed limited partnerships.

         General and administrative expenses increased to $2,061,090 in 1997
from $1,826,762 in 1996. In 1995, such expenses were $1,689,742. This represents
an increase of $234,328 from 1996 to 1997. This increase was primarily the
result of the recognition of minority interest in the Consolidated Partnership.
The increase of $137,020 from 1995 to 1996 was primarily the result of the
additional interests acquired in managed limited partnerships in 1996.

         Lease operating expenses were $3,455,717 in 1997 as compared to
$2,490,701 in 1996 and $2,322,509 in 1995. Lease operating expenses increased by
$965,016 or 39% from 1996 to 1997. The increase was primarily a result of the
increased production, as noted above, resulting from the recognition of minority
interest in the Consolidated Partnership. The increase of $168,192 or 7% from
1995 to 1996 was primarily the result of the increased production noted above.

         Depletion, depreciation and amortization expense ("DD&A") was
$1,633,771 in 1997, $1,338,602 in 1996 and $1,909,857 in 1995. DD&A increased by
$295,169 or 22% from 1996 to 1997. The changes in production noted above
increased DD&A by $281,530. A 1% increase in the depletion rate increased DD&A
by an additional $13,639. The increase in the DD&A rate in 1997 was primarily
the result of a downward revision of the gas reserves during December 1997,
partially offset by an upward revision of the oil reserves. DD&A decreased by
$571,255 or 30% from 1995 to 1996. A 26% decrease in the depletion rate



                                     - 67 -
<PAGE>   82
reduced DD&A by $476,636. The changes in production noted above reduced DD&A by
an additional $94,619. The decrease in the depletion rate was primarily the
result of the recognition of a nonrecurring impairment of $3,908,370 in the
first quarter of 1996, coupled with upward revisions of the oil and gas reserves
during December 1996.

         In 1997, Enex earned $217,645 of net interest income as compared to
$35,039 in 1996. Enex incurred $117,062 of net interest expense in 1995. Net
interest income increased in 1997 from 1996 due to the return on investment of
excess cash during 1997. The higher interest expense in 1995 was due to the
outstanding debt during 1995.

         Enex recognized deferred income tax expense of $16,082 in 1997. This
compares to the recognition of deferred income tax credits of $92,981 and
$399,658 in 1996 and 1995, respectively. The income tax expense represents the
utilization of Enex's deferred tax asset in 1997. The income tax credits
represent the recognition of a portion of Enex's deferred tax asset that is
expected to be realized in future years. At December 31, 1997, Enex had a
substantial deferred tax asset of $6,105,148. Due to uncertainties inherent in
the oil and gas market, a valuation allowance reserved all but $725,328 of the
asset.

FUTURE OUTLOOK

         Enex does not anticipate that it will incur any significant
expenditures to address year 2000 issues, nor do year 2000 issues represent a
known material event or uncertainty to Enex. To the extent that Enex may be
adversely affected by year 2000 issues of its suppliers, customers and other
entities, Enex does not believe that it will be more adversely affected than
other companies in its industry with similar operations.

         In 1997, Enex generated higher revenues and cash flows as result of
obtaining a greater interest in the Consolidated Partnership. This allowed Enex
to increase its cash position and working capital. During 1997, five
partnerships were liquidated and the remaining thirty-four managed limited
partnerships were combined to form one partnership, Enex Consolidated Partners,
L.P. This restructuring allowed a revamping of administrative processes,
yielding further reductions in general and administrative expenses.

         In February 1998, Middle Bay, an independent oil and gas producer,
issued a tender offer to purchase all of Enex's outstanding common stock at $15
cash per share. The tender offer expired on March 20, 1998, with approximately
79.2% of the outstanding shares of common stock of Enex tendered to Middle Bay.
The aggregate amount to be paid by Middle Bay was $15,960,480 in cash, plus
payments totaling $826,250 to holders of options to purchase 143,000 shares of
Enex stock. As a result, Enex became a subsidiary of Middle Bay upon the closing
of the tender offer on March 27, 1998.

         On March 17, 1998, the Enex Board of Directors took the following steps
in order to facilitate Middle Bay's tender offer:

         (1)      Added three (3) Middle Bay nominees to the Enex Board of
                  Directors to facilitate the transfer of control of Enex to
                  Middle Bay. The three new directors, whose appointment
                  increased total board membership from six to nine members, are
                  Middle Bay's President, John J. Bassett, its



                                     - 68 -
<PAGE>   83
                  Vice President for Corporate Development, Stephen W. Herod,
                  and one of its nonemployee directors, Gary R. Christopher;

         (2)      Approved the acquisition of the tendered shares of Enex common
                  stock by Middle Bay pursuant to Section 203 of the Delaware
                  General Corporation Law; and

         (3)      Amended the Rights Agreement between Enex and its transfer
                  agent, American Stock Transfer, Incorporated, dated September
                  4, 1990, as amended through April 12, 1994, to make the stock
                  purchase rights created by the agreement inapplicable to
                  transactions which are approved by Enex's Board of Directors
                  and to increase the rights exercise price to $33.00 to
                  reinstate the approximate ratio between the exercise price and
                  the market price of Enex common stock, prior to Middle Bay's
                  tender offer, to that which was in effect (approximately 3 to
                  1) when the rights were created.

         In addition, Gerald B. Eckley and the five other Enex directors elected
by Enex's stockholders -- Robert D. Carl, III, William C. Hooper, Jr., Martin J.
Freedman, James T. Shorney and Stuart Strasner (collectively, the "Incumbent
Enex Directors") -- tendered their resignations effective upon the successful
completion of the tender offer. The Incumbent Enex Directors were replaced by
the four persons constituting Middle Bay's Board of Directors, in addition to
Messrs. Bassett, Herod and Christopher.

         Reference is made to Middle Bay's Offer to Purchase dated February 19,
1998 (the "Offer to Purchase") and the related Letter of Transmittal, which was
provided to all Enex stockholders in February for additional information
concerning Middle Bay, an oil and gas company engaged in the exploration for oil
and gas in the United States, its tender offer, the letter of intent entered
into between Enex and Middle Bay on January 29, 1998, and the "Board Action
Condition," the steps taken by the Enex Board of Directors on March 17, 1998 was
intended to satisfy.


                      PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS OF MIDDLE BAY

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS

         The following table sets forth the shares of Middle Bay's common and
preferred stock beneficially owned by those persons known by Middle Bay to be
the beneficial owner of more than five percent of Middle Bay's issued and
outstanding common and preferred stock as of December 31, 1997:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
              Title of         Name and Address of              Amount and Nature of          Percent of
              Class(6)           Beneficial Owner               Beneficial Ownership             Class
              --------           ----------------               --------------------             -----
              <S>             <C>                               <C>                           <C>
              Common          C. J. Lett, III(1)(4)                   1,197,556                   13.8%
                              9320 East Central
                              Wichita, Kansas 67206
</TABLE>




                                     - 69 -
<PAGE>   84
<TABLE>
              <S>             <C>                                     <C>                         <C>  
              Common          Kaiser-Francis Oil Company(4)           3,333,334                   38.3%
                              6733 South Yale
                              Tulsa, Oklahoma 74136

              Common          Weskids, L.P.(2)(5)                       843,687                   10.0%
                              310 South Street
                              Morristown, NJ 07960

              Common          Weskids, Inc.                             843,687                   10.0%
                              310 South Street
                              Morristown, NJ 07960

              Common          Alvin V. Shoemaker(3)(4)                  661,222                    8.9%
                              8800 First Avenue
                              Stone Harbor,NJ 08247

             Preferred        Weskids, L.P.(5)                          117,467                   44.1%
             Series B         310 South Street
                              Morristown, NJ 07960

             Preferred        Weskids, Inc.                             117,467                   44.1%
             Series B         310 South Street
                              Morristown, NJ 07960

             Preferred        Alvin V. Shoemaker(4)                     117,466                   44.1%
             Series B         8800 First Avenue
                              Stone Harbor, NJ 08247

             Preferred        Stephen W. Herod(4)                        15,867                    5.9%
             Series B         1110 Briar Ridge Drive
                              Houston, TX 77057

             Preferred        W. Tim Sexton(4)                           15,867                    5.9%
             Series B         12010 Winwood
                              Houston, TX 77024
</TABLE>

(1)      Mr. Lett has agreed that, for a period of one year from February 28,
         1997, his voting power will be restricted to not more than votes
         representing 20% of the total number of shares of Middle Bay's common
         stock issued and outstanding and eligible to vote at the time in
         connection with any vote taken or consent, waiver or ratification given
         in connection with the election or removal of directors of Middle Bay.

(2)      Weskids, L.P. has agreed that, for a period of one year from June 30,
         1997, its voting power will be restricted to not more than votes
         representing 20% of the total number of shares of Middle Bay's common
         stock issued and outstanding and eligible to vote at the time in
         connection with any vote taken



                                     - 70 -
<PAGE>   85
         or consent, waiver or ratification given in connection with the
         election or removal of directors of Middle Bay.

(3)      Mr. Shoemaker has agreed that, for a period of one year from June 30,
         1997, his voting power will be restricted to not more than votes
         representing 20% of the total number of shares of Middle Bay's common
         stock issued and outstanding and eligible to vote at the time in
         connection with any vote taken or consent, waiver or ratification given
         in connection with the election or removal of directors of Middle Bay.

(4)      The nature of the beneficial ownership is sole voting and investment
         power.

(5)      Weskids, L.P. is presently the beneficial owner and has sole voting and
         disposition power of 843,687 shares of common stock and 117,467 shares
         of Series B preferred stock immediately convertible into not less than
         117,467 shares of Middle Bay's common stock. The exact conversion ratio
         is determined by the terms of the merger. Weskids, Inc. is the general
         partner of Weskids, L.P. and effectively controls Weskids, L.P. The
         officers and directors of Weskids, Inc. are as follows: J. Peter Simon,
         director; William Edward Simon, Jr., director; Michael B. Lenard,
         President; Mark J. Butler, Vice President/Treasurer; and Christine W.
         Jenkins, Secretary.

(6)      Series B preferred stock is convertible into common stock at a variable
         ratio of not less than one-to-one.

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF MANAGEMENT

         The following table sets forth the shares of Middle Bay's common stock
beneficially owned by each director and executive officer and all directors and
executive officers as a group, all as of February 28, 1998:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
    Conv. Preferred                         Name and Address of            Amount and Nature of         Percent of
       & Options              Stock          Beneficial Owner             Beneficial Ownership(6)         Class
       ---------              -----          ----------------             -----------------------         -----
    <S>                       <C>           <C>                           <C>                           <C>
        152,000               24,711        John J. Bassett                       176,711                  2.0%
                                            4326 Noble Oak Trail
                                            Houston, TX 77059

         94,500               25,796        Frank C. Turner, II                   120,296                  1.4%
                                            1406 Tallow Court
                                            Seabrook, TX 77586

        114,500                6,996        Robert W. Hammons                     121,496                  1.4%
                                            915 Kentbury Court
                                            Katy, TX 77450

          8,000                5,000        Lynn M. Davis                          13,000                  0.1%
                                            121 Donna Circle
                                            Daphne, AL 36526
</TABLE>



                                     - 71 -
<PAGE>   86
<TABLE>
        <S>                <C>              <C>                                 <C>                       <C>
         34,734              376,241        Edward P. Turner, Jr.(1)              410,975                  4.7%
                                            100 Central Avenue
                                            Chatom, AL 36518

         15,000            1,182,556        C. J. Lett, III(2)                  1,197,556                 13.8%
                                            9320 East Central
                                            Wichita, KS 67206

         34,734                   --        Frank E. Bolling, Jr.                  34,734                  0.4%
                                            3830 Kendale Drive
                                            Gautier, MS 39553

             --               12,000        Gary R Christopher(3)                  12,000                  0.1%
                                            6733 South Yale
                                            Tulsa, OK 74136

        117,466              661,222        Alvin V. Shoemaker(4)                 778,688                  8.9%
                                            8800 First Avenue
                                            Stone Harbor, NJ 08247

         15,867              109,816        Stephen W. Herod(5)                   125,683                  1.4%
                                            1110 Briar Ridge Drive
                                            Houston, TX 77057

                                            All executive officers and
                                            directors as a group
                                            (10 persons)                        2,991,139                 34.3%
</TABLE>

(1)      Includes 362,803 shares owned by Bay City Energy Group, Inc. in which
         Mr. Turner has indirect voting control but not a direct beneficial
         interest, and 13,438 shares over which Mr. Turner has sole voting and
         dispositive power.

(2)      Mr. Lett was named Executive Vice President of Middle Bay on February
         28, 1997 in connection with the Bison Merger (see "Business
         Development"). Mr. Lett's voting rights are restricted until February
         28, 1998.

(3)      Mr. Christopher is an officer of Kaiser-Francis Oil Company which is
         the beneficial owner of 3,333,334 of Middle Bay's common shares.

(4)      Consists of 117,466 shares of Series B preferred stock convertible into
         117,466 common shares of Middle Bay. Mr. Shoemaker's voting rights are
         restricted until June 30, 1998.

(5)      Consists of 15,867 shares of Series B preferred stock convertible into
         15,867 common shares of Middle Bay. Mr. Herod's voting rights are
         restricted in the same manner as Weskids, L.P. and Mr. Shoemaker.




                                     - 72 -
<PAGE>   87
(6)      The nature of beneficial ownership for all shares is sole voting and
         investment power.


                         PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS OF ENEX

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS

         The following table sets forth the shares of Enex's common beneficially
owned by those persons known by Enex to be the beneficial owner of more than
five percent of Enex's issued and outstanding common as of March 31, 1998:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
              Title of          Name and Address of              Amount and Nature of          Percent of
               Class              Beneficial Owner               Beneficial Ownership             Class
               -----              ----------------               --------------------             -----
              <S>             <C>                                <C>                           <C>
              Common          Middle Bay Oil Company, Inc.             1,064,032                   79.2%
                              1221 Lamar, Suite 1020
                              Houston, Texas 77010
</TABLE>


SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF MANAGEMENT

         No director or officer of Enex is the beneficial owner of any
securities of Enex.


                            MANAGEMENT OF MIDDLE BAY

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS

         The following table sets forth the executive officers and directors of
Middle Bay as of March 31, 1998. All directors serve for a one-year term or
until the next Annual Meeting of Shareholders of Middle Bay. The Board of
Directors held three meetings during the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997.
Each director attended all meetings of the Board. Executive officers serve at
the pleasure of the Board of Directors.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                             Director
                  Name                       Age              Position(s) Held                 Since
                  ----                       ---              ----------------                 -----
          <S>                                <C>          <C>                                <C>
          John J. Bassett(1)                  39          Chairman, President and               1989
                                                          Chief Executive Officer

          C. J. Lett, III                     40          Executive Vice President              1997

          Frank C. Turner, II(2)(3)           37          Vice President and Chief               N/A
                                                              Financial Officer

          Stephen W. Herod (3)                38               Vice President                   1997
</TABLE>




                                     - 73 -
<PAGE>   88
<TABLE>
          <S>                                 <C>          <C>                                  <C>
          Robert W. Hammons                   44               Vice President                    N/A

          Lynn M. Davis                       49           Secretary and Treasurer               N/A

          Edward P. Turner, Jr.(1)(2)         68                  Director                      1989

          Frank E. Bolling, Jr.               38                  Director                      1992

          Alvin V. Shoemaker (4)              59                  Director                      1997

          Gary R. Christopher                 48                  Director                      1997
</TABLE>


(1)      John J. Bassett and Edward P. Turner, Jr. were elected upon the
         organization of Middle Bay Oil Company as a corporation in November,
         1992. Previously they served as directors of Bay City Minerals, Inc.,
         the general partner of the Predecessor Partnership.

(2)      Edward P. Turner, Jr. and Frank C. Turner, II, are father and son.

(3)      Mr. Herod replaced Frank C. Turner, II effective July 3, 1997.

(4)      Mr. Shoemaker replaced C. Noell Rather effective July 28, 1997.

                  John J. Bassett has served as President and a director of
Middle Bay since 1992 and was elected Chairman of the Board of Directors in
1992. He served as President of the general partner of the Predecessor
Partnership from 1987 to 1992. He also serves as a director and President of Bay
City Energy Group, Inc., a principal shareholder of Middle Bay.

                  Stephen W. Herod has served as Vice President - Corporate
Development and a director of Middle Bay since July 1, 1997. Mr. Herod served as
President and a director of Shore Oil Company from April, 1992 until the merger
of Shore and Middle Bay on June 30, 1997. He joined Shore's predecessor as
Controller in February, 1991. In addition, Mr. Herod was employed by Conquest
Exploration Company from 1984 until 1991 in various financial management
positions, including Operations Accounting Manager. From 1981 to 1984, Mr. Herod
was employed by Superior Oil Company as a financial analyst.

                  Frank C. Turner, II has served as Vice President and Chief
Financial Officer for Middle Bay since its organization as a corporation in
1992. He had previously served as Vice President of Finance for the general
partner of the Predecessor Partnership since 1990. From 1987 to 1990, Mr. Turner
was employed by Sonat, Inc. as a financial analyst. He also serves as a director
and Vice President of Bay City Energy Group, Inc.

                  Robert W. Hammons was hired by Middle Bay in April, 1992 as a
reservoir engineer. Mr. Hammons was appointed Vice President of Engineering of
Middle Bay in 1993. Prior to his employment with Middle Bay, he had worked with
Bay City Minerals, Inc. as an independent petroleum engineering consultant



                                     - 74 -
<PAGE>   89
since 1987. Prior to 1987, Mr. Hammons was employed as manager of reservoir
engineering for Marion Corporation.

                  Lynn M. Davis has been Secretary and Treasurer for Middle Bay
since 1992. She has served as Secretary-Treasurer of the general partner of the
Predecessor Partnership since 1984 and as a director since 1988. Ms. Davis also
serves as a director and Secretary-Treasurer for Bay City Energy Group, Inc.

                  Edward P. Turner, Jr. served as President of Bay City
Minerals, Inc. from 1975 to 1987. He is a member of the Alabama State Bar and a
managing partner of the law firm of Turner, Onderdonk, Kimbrough & Howell, P.A.,
in Chatom, Alabama. A substantial amount of his practice is devoted to oil and
gas law. Mr. Turner also serves as a director of Bay City Energy Group, Inc.

                  Frank E. Bolling, Jr. has been employed by Midstream Fuel
Services, Inc. as Vice President of Retail Operations since February, 1995.
Prior to his employment with Midstream, Mr. Bolling served as Vice President and
General Manager of Dantzler Bulk Plant, Inc., a distributor for Chevron U.S.A.,
Inc. with annual sales in excess of $25 million. Mr. Bolling served as sales
manager for Dantzler from 1987 to 1989. Prior to 1987, Mr. Bolling was employed
by Bay City Minerals, Inc.

                  Alvin V. Shoemaker is a former Chairman of the Board of First
Boston Corporation and former President of Blyth Eastman Paine Webber. He has
also worked for the U.S. Treasury. He has been Chairman of the Board of Trustees
of the University of Pennsylvania, Vice Chairman of the Securities Industry
Association and a director of Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Royal Insurance of
America, the Council on Foreign Relations and the Wharton School of Finance
Board. Mr. Shoemaker is also a director of Hanover Compressor Company.

                  Gary R. Christopher is Acquisitions Coordinator of
Kaiser-Francis Oil Company, a position he has held since February, 1996. From
1991 to 1996, Mr. Christopher served as Senior Vice President and Manager of
Energy Lending for the Bank of Oklahoma. He continues to serve as a consultant
to the Bank of Oklahoma. Kaiser-Francis Oil Company owns 1,166,667 shares of
Middle Bay's Series A Preferred stock; each such preferred share is convertible
into two shares of common stock.

                  C. J. Lett, III has served as Executive Vice President for
Middle Bay since February 28, 1997. Mr. Lett is also President and a director of
Bison Energy Corporation, a position he has held since 1981.

AUDIT AND COMPENSATION COMMITTEES

         The members of the Audit Committee are Gary R. Christopher, Frank E.
Bolling, Jr. and Alvin V. Shoemaker. The functions of the Audit Committee
include recommending to the Board of Directors the independent auditors;
reviewing and approving the planned scope of the annual audit; proposing fee
arrangements; reviewing the results of the annual audit; reviewing the adequacy
of the accounting and financial controls; reviewing the independence of the
independent auditors; approving all assignments to be performed by the
independent auditors; and instructing the independent auditors, as deemed
appropriate, to undertake special assignments.



                                     - 75 -
<PAGE>   90
         The members of the Compensation Committee are John J. Bassett, Edward
P. Turner, Jr. and Frank E. Bolling, Jr. The functions of the Compensation
Committee are to approve or recommend for approval to the Board of Directors,
the compensation and remuneration arrangements for directors and senior
management.

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

         The following table sets forth the aggregate cash compensation earned
by and paid to Middle Bay's executive officers for the periods ended December
31, 1995 through December 31, 1997:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           Annual Compensation                       Long-Term Compensation
                                           -------------------                       ----------------------
                                                                                       Awards        Payouts
                                                                                       ------        -------
                                                                                     Securities
                                                                                     Underlying
                                                                           Restr.     Options/                    All Other
     Name and                                             Other Annual      Stock       SARs          LTIP      Compensation
 Principal Position      Year    Salary ($)   Bonus ($)   Compensation    Awards($)      (#)       Payouts ($)       ($)
 ------------------      ----    ----------   ---------   ------------    ---------      ---       -----------       ---
<S>                      <C>     <C>          <C>         <C>             <C>        <C>           <C>          <C>
John J. Bassett          1997      95,521       6,001          --          129,545      132,000        --          13,032
President &              1996      58,075          --          --               --       20,000        --           2,271
Chief Executive          1995      56,250          --          --               --           --        --          11,371
Officer

Frank C. Turner, II      1997      85,729       6,000          --           57,960       94,500        --          16,250
Vice President &         1996      54,458          --          --               --       20,000        --           2,174
CFO                      1995      50,083          --          --               --           --        --          10,775

Robert W. Hammons        1997      85,729       6,000          --           57,960       94,500        --          12,500
Vice President -         1996      58,075          --          --               --       20,000        --           2,271
 Engineering             1995      56,250          --          --               --           --        --          11,360
</TABLE>


OPTION GRANTS IN LAST FISCAL YEAR

         The 1995 Stock Option and Stock Appreciation Rights Plan (the "Plan")
is administered by the Compensation Committee (the "Committee") of the Board of
Directors. At least two members of the Committee must be disinterested
nonemployee directors. The Committee is authorized to determine the employees,
including officers, to whom options or rights are granted. Each option or right
granted shall be on such terms and conditions consistent with the Plan as the
Committee may determine, but the duration of any option or right shall be not
greater than ten years or less than five years from the date of grant.

         Options or rights grants shall be made under the Plan only to persons
who are officers or salaried employees of Middle Bay or are nonemployee
directors. The aggregate number of shares of common stock of Middle Bay which
could be subject to options or rights under the Plan during 1997 was 500,000.
During the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997, options covering 295,000 shares
were issued under the Plan.

         The option price of shares covered by options granted under the Plan
may not be less than the fair market value at the time the option is granted.
The option price must be paid in full in cash or cash equivalent at the time of
purchase or prior to delivery of the shares in accordance with cash payment
arrangements



                                     - 76 -
<PAGE>   91
acceptable to the Committee. If the Committee so determines, the option price
may also be paid in shares of Middle Bay's common stock already owned by the
optionee. The Committee has discretion to determine the time or times when
options become exercisable, within the limits set forth in the Plan. All options
and rights granted under the Plan will, however, become fully exercisable if
there is a change in control (as defined in the Plan) of Middle Bay.

         The following table provides certain information with respect to all
options granted during the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997 to any executive
officer or director of Middle Bay; 295,000 options were granted under the Plan
and 225,000 were granted outside of the Plan:

                                Individual Grants

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                     Number of
                                    Securities            % of Total
                                    Underlying           Options/SARs
                                     Options/             Granted to
                                       SARS              Employees in         Exercise or Base        Expiration
            Name                    Granted (#)           Fiscal Year           Price ($/Sh)             Date
            ----                    -----------           -----------           ------------             ----
     <S>                            <C>                  <C>                  <C>                     <C>
     John J. Bassett                 100,000                 19.0%                  5.50               2/13/2007
                                      32,000                  6.0%                  6.00               2/6/2007

     Frank C. Turner, II              62,500                 12.0%                  5.50               2/13/2007
                                      32,000                  6.0%                  6.00               2/6/2007

     Robert W. Hammons                62,500                 12.0%                  5.50               2/13/2007
                                      32,000                  6.0%                  6.00               2/6/2007

     Lynn M. Davis                     8,000                  2.0%                  6.00               2/6/2007

     Edward P. Turner, Jr.*           21,400                  4.0%                  6.00               2/6/2007

     Frank E. Bolling, Jr.*           21,400                  4.0%                  6.00               2/6/2007

     C. Noell Rather**                21,200                  4.0%                  6.00               2/6/2007
</TABLE>

*Nonemployee director
**Former nonemployee director




                                     - 77 -
<PAGE>   92
AGGREGATED OPTION EXERCISES IN LAST FISCAL YEAR AND
OPTION VALUE TABLE AS OF DECEMBER 31, 1997

         The following table sets forth certain information concerning each
exercise of stock options during the year ended December 31, 1997, by each of
the named executive officers and directors and the aggregated fiscal year-end
value of the unexercised options of each such named executive officer and
director:

                                Individual Grants

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    Number of Securities          Value of Unexercised
                                                                   Underlying Unexercised             In-the-Money
                                                                       Options/SARs at               Options/SARs at
                                Shares                                   FY End (#)                     FY End ($)
                               Acquired            Value            --------------------             ---------------
        Name                on Exercise (#)    Realized ($)         Exer.          Unexer.       Exer.           Unexer.
        ----                ---------------    ------------         -----          -------       -----           -------
<S>                         <C>                <C>                 <C>             <C>          <C>              <C>
John J. Bassett                     --                 --               --         152,000           --          728,000

Frank C. Turner, II             20,000            115,000           20,000          94,500      150,000          409,250

Robert W. Hammons                   --                 --               --         114,500           --          559,250

Lynn M. Davis                    5,000             38,750               --           8,000       37,500           32,000

Edward P. Turner, Jr.*              --                 --               --          34,734           --          185,600

Frank E. Bolling, Jr.*              --                 --               --          34,733           --          185,600

*Nonemployee director
</TABLE>


OTHER COMPENSATION UNDER PLANS

         Middle Bay established a SEP/IRA retirement plan (the "SEP Plan") in
1993 which allows for a maximum discretionary Company contribution of 15% of
total wages paid to employees for the year. For the years ended December 31,
1997, 1996 and 1995, Middle Bay contributed a total of $51,500, $5,000 and
$30,000 to the SEP Plan, respectively, including $32,064, $3,068 and $18,505,
respectively, for all executive officers as a group.

         Middle Bay established a 401-K Plan in October, 1997 which allows for
voluntary contributions by the employees and the employer. No Company
contributions were made in 1997.

         Middle Bay has no other retirement, pension/profit sharing or other
deferred compensation plan for its employees.




                                     - 78 -
<PAGE>   93
LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN ("LTIP") AWARDS TABLE

         In March, 1995, the Board of Directors adopted an employee incentive
compensation plan whereby the proceeds equivalent to 1% net profits interest
(the "net profits interest") in all oil and gas properties, drilling prospects
and divestitures acquired or made after January 1, 1994 are paid into a fund for
incentive compensation awards to employees. For the years ended December 31,
1996 and 1995, Middle Bay paid $6,916 and $30,000, respectively, to employees
through the employee incentive plan, including $4,897 and $21,245 for all
executive officers as a group. No amount was paid into the plan in 1997.

DIRECTORS' FEES

         Directors of Middle Bay receive a fee of $500 per meeting and are
reimbursed for documented travel expenses. Certain nonemployee directors have
received stock options for their services as directors (see "Option Grants in
Last Fiscal Year," above).

EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS AND TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT

         Mr. Bassett and Mr. Hammons in January, 1997, signed employment
agreements with Middle Bay which extend through January 31, 2002 and January 31,
2000, respectively, with automatic one-year extensions upon each anniversary
date of the employment agreement thereafter unless either party gives at least
30 days' notice of termination. Each employment agreement is terminable by
Middle Bay before expiration of the term if such termination is for cause (as
specified in the employment agreement). The executive employment agreements
provide for an annual salary of not less than the base salaries of $95,000 and
$85,000, respectively, which amounts may be adjusted from time to time by the
Board of Directors upon the recommendation of the Compensation Committee. They
also provide for fringe benefits in accordance with Middle Bay's policies
adopted from time to time for salaried executive employees holding comparable
positions.

         Mr. Herod executed an employment agreement with Middle Bay with an
effective date of July 1, 1997 and extending through June 30, 1999, with
automatic one-year extensions upon each anniversary date of the employment
agreement thereafter unless either party gives at least 30 days' notice of
termination. The employment agreement is terminable by Middle Bay before
expiration of the term if such termination is for cause (as specified in the
employment agreement). The executive employment agreement provides for an annual
salary of not less than the base salary of $100,000, which amount may be
adjusted from time to time by the Board of Directors upon the recommendation of
the Compensation Committee. It also provides for fringe benefits in accordance
with Middle Bay's policies adopted from time to time for salaried executive
employees holding comparable positions.

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

         Edward P. Turner, Jr., a director of Middle Bay, is managing partner of
the law firm of Turner, Onderdonk, Kimbrough & Howell, P.A., Middle Bay's
general counsel for certain corporate and oil and gas matters. For the years
ended December 31, 1995 through 1997, Middle Bay paid legal fees to Mr. Turner's
firm of $787, $1,560 and $2,874, respectively, for legal services. For the
period ended March 31, 1998, $915



                                     - 79 -
<PAGE>   94
in legal fees were paid to Mr. Turner's firm. Mr. Turner's firm charges Middle
Bay for its services on the same basis as it charges other business clients for
similar services rendered. Middle Bay intends to continue to use Mr. Turner's
firm as its primary local counsel in Alabama and will pay reasonable fees for
such future services.

         Bay City Energy Group, Inc., at March 31, 1998, is presently indebted
to Middle Bay in the amount of $167,902 ($139,005 of principal and $28,897 of
accrued interest). The note payable was renegotiated on December 31, 1995 and is
due in full on January 1, 2001, plus interest at an annual fixed rate of 5%. The
note payable is secured by 75,000 shares of Middle Bay's common stock. Edward P.
Turner, Jr., a director of Middle Bay, has indirect voting control but not a
beneficial interest in Bay City Energy Group, Inc.

         On December 31, 1996, NPC Energy Corp., then a company indirectly
controlled by C. J. Lett, III through Bison Energy Corporation ("Bison"), merged
with Middle Bay in exchange for 562,000 shares of common stock of Middle Bay and
$1,226,400 cash. Subsequently, in February, 1997, Middle Bay acquired Bison as a
wholly-owned subsidiary pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Merger whereby Mr.
Lett received net cash consideration of $5.9 million plus 1,167,556 shares of
Middle Bay's common stock, and the 562,000 shares held by Bison (as a result of
the NPC Merger) were canceled (see "Business Development").

         Gary R. Christopher, a director of Middle Bay, is employed by
Kaiser-Francis Oil Company which directly owns 3,333,334 common shares or 39.1%
of Middle Bay Common Stock outstanding as of May 31, 1998.


                               MANAGEMENT OF ENEX

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS

         Effective with the closing of the Tender Offer, the then officers and
directors of Enex resigned and were replaced by the officers and directors of
Middle Bay (see "Management of Middle Bay"). Accordingly, the following table
sets forth the executive officers and directors of Enex as of May 31, 1998. All
directors serve for a one-year term or until the next Annual Meeting of
Shareholders of Enex. The officers serve at the pleasure of the Board of
Directors.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                         Director
                  Name                    Age             Position(s) Held                 Since
                  ----                    ---             ----------------                 -----
          <S>                             <C>          <C>                               <C>
          John J. Bassett                  39          Chairman, President and              1998
                                                       Chief Executive Officer

          C. J. Lett, III                  40          Executive Vice President             1998

          Frank C. Turner, II              37          Vice President and Chief              N/A
                                                           Financial Officer

          Stephen W. Herod                 38               Vice President                  1998
</TABLE>




                                     - 80 -
<PAGE>   95
<TABLE>
          <S>                                 <C>          <C>                                  <C>
          Robert W. Hammons                   44               Vice President                    N/A

          Lynn M. Davis                       49           Secretary and Treasurer               N/A

          Edward P. Turner, Jr.               68                  Director                      1998

          Frank E. Bolling, Jr.               38                  Director                      1998

          Alvin V. Shoemaker                  59                  Director                      1998

          Gary R. Christopher                 48                  Director                      1998
</TABLE>


EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

         The officers and directors of Enex are compensated by Middle Bay, as
set forth under "Management of Middle Bay - Executive Compensation," and are not
paid separately for their services to Enex. There are no options presently
outstanding to purchase any Enex securities, nor are there any employment
contracts or retirement, pension, profit-sharing or other deferred compensation
plans presently in force.


                     COMPARATIVE RIGHTS OF STOCKHOLDERS OF
                              MIDDLE BAY AND ENEX

         The rights of holders of Enex Common Stock are currently governed by
Delaware law, Enex's Certificate of Incorporation and Enex's Bylaws. Upon
consummation of the Merger, holders of Enex Common Stock will become holders of
Middle Bay Common Stock, and their rights as holders of Middle Bay Common Stock
will be governed by Alabama law and Middle Bay's Articles of Incorporation and
Bylaws. Set forth below is an explanation of material differences between the
rights of holders of Enex Common Stock and the rights of the holders of Middle
Bay Common Stock.

SPECIAL VOTE REQUIRED FOR CERTAIN COMBINATIONS

         Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law ("DGCL") prohibits
a corporation from engaging in a "business combination" (as hereinafter defined)
with an "interested stockholder" (defined generally to mean a person who,
together with his affiliates, owns or, if the person is an affiliate of the
corporation, did own within the last three years 15% or more of the outstanding
voting stock of the corporation) for a period of three years after the time of
the transaction in which the person became an interested stockholder, unless

         (i)      prior to the time of the business combination, the Board of
                  Directors of the corporation approved the business combination
                  or the transaction in which the stockholder became an
                  interested stockholder,




                                     - 81 -
<PAGE>   96
         (ii)     as a result of the business combination, the interested
                  stockholder owned at least 85% of the voting stock of the
                  corporation outstanding at the time the transaction commenced,
                  or

         (iii)    on or subsequent to the date of the business combination, the
                  Board of Directors and the holders of at least 66-2/3% of the
                  outstanding voting stock not owned by the interested
                  stockholder approve the business combination.

The DGCL defines a "business combination" generally as: (a) a merger or
consolidation with the interested stockholder or with any other corporation if
the merger or consolidation is caused by the interested stockholder; (b) a sale
or other disposition to or with an interested stockholder of assets with an
aggregate market value greater than or equal to 10% or more of either the
aggregate market value of all assets of the corporation or the aggregate market
value of all of the outstanding stock of the corporation; (c) with certain
exceptions, any transaction resulting in the issuance or transfer by the
corporation or any majority-owned subsidiary of any stock of the corporation or
such subsidiary to the interested stockholder; (d) any transaction involving the
corporation or a majority-owned subsidiary that has the effect of increasing the
proportionate share of the stock of the corporation or any such subsidiary owned
by the interested stockholder; or (e) any receipt of the interested stockholder
of the benefit of any loans or other financial benefits provided by the
corporation or any majority-owned subsidiary.

         Provisions similar to Section 203 are contained in Enex' Certificate of
Incorporation. Enex' provisions differ from the DGCL by requiring a higher
percentage of all stockholders' voting as a class to approve a Business
Combination (as hereinafter defined) with an Interested Stockholder (as
hereinafter defined). Pursuant to these provisions, an "Interested Stockholder"
is defined generally to mean a corporation, person or entity who, together with
his affiliates and associates, beneficially owns or has the right to acquire 20%
or more of the outstanding voting stock of Enex. A Business Combination
involving Enex may only be consummated if

         (i)      the Business Combination has been approved by the affirmative
                  vote of a majority of the then outstanding shares of Enex
                  Common Stock, excluding from the number of shares deemed to be
                  outstanding at the time of such vote and from such vote on the
                  Business Combination all shares of Enex Common Stock
                  beneficially owned by the Interested Stockholder,

         (ii)     the Business Combination has been approved by a majority of
                  the Continuing Directors (as defined below), or

         (iii)    the consideration paid in the Business Combination satisfies
                  certain fair price provisions.

         The foregoing provisions relating to transactions with Interested
Stockholders may not be amended except with the affirmative vote of the holders
of at least 80% of the voting stock of Enex, unless such amendment has been
recommended to the stockholders of Enex by a majority of the Continuing
Directors at a meeting at which at least three-quarters of the Continuing
Directors are present.

         Middle Bay's Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation do not
contain a similar provision.




                                     - 82 -
<PAGE>   97
VOTE REQUIRED FOR CORPORATE TRANSACTIONS AND OTHER MATTERS

         Under the DGCL, an amendment to the corporation's certificate of
incorporation requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the
outstanding stock of the corporation entitled to vote thereon and a majority of
the outstanding stock of each class entitled to vote thereon as a class, unless
the corporation's certificate of incorporation provides for a higher percentage.
The DGCL also provides that the holders of a majority of the outstanding stock
of the corporation entitled to vote thereon may approve an agreement of merger
or consolidation or the dissolution of a corporation.

         Enex's Certificate of Incorporation includes provisions that set a
higher voting requirement for certain Business Combinations, as well as
amendments to Enex's Certificate of Incorporation dealing with Business
Combinations. Enex's Certificate of Incorporation also requires the affirmative
vote of the holders of 66-2/3% or more of the combined voting power of the then
outstanding shares of voting stock of Enex to amend, alter or repeal or adopt
any provision inconsistent with the provisions in its Certificate of
Incorporation relating to the election, removal, rights or duties of its Board
of Directors, the prohibition of action by stockholders by written consent, the
calling of special meetings of stockholders and the limitation of liability of
directors of Enex to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law.

         Middle Bay's Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation do not
contain such provisions. Alabama law generally requires that a merger or
business combination be approved by the affirmative vote of holders of 66-2/3%
or more of the outstanding shares entitled to vote thereon. Other matters
requiring the vote of stockholders are approved by the affirmative vote of
holders of a majority of the outstanding shares entitled to vote.

DISPOSITION OF ASSETS

         Under the DGCL, all sales, leases or exchanges of all, or substantially
all, of the assets of a corporation must be authorized by a resolution adopted
by the holders of a majority of the outstanding stock of the corporation
entitled to vote thereon. Enex's Certificate of Incorporation includes
provisions that set higher voting requirements for asset sales and leases
involving Business Combinations. See "Special Vote Required for Certain Business
Combinations" for a description of the higher voting requirements.

         Under Alabama law, the vote or consent of a majority of the outstanding
stock of Middle Bay entitled to vote thereon is required to authorize such
transactions. Middle Bay has no special voting requirements in its Articles of
Incorporation.

CALLING OF SPECIAL MEETINGS

         Under the DGCL, special meetings of stockholders may be called only by
the Board of Directors.

         Alabama law provides that special meetings may be called by the Board
of Directors or upon demand by holders of shares representing at least 10% of
all votes entitled to be cast on any issue proposed to be considered at the
special meeting.



                                     - 83 -
<PAGE>   98
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

         The Certificate of Incorporation of Enex provides that the number of
directors of Enex shall be not less than six nor more than 15. The Certificate
of Incorporation provides that the Board shall be divided into three classes of
directors, with the classes to be as nearly equal in number of directors as
possible. One class of directors is elected each year for a three-year term by
the stockholders representing a plurality of the total shares voting in the
election of directors. The Certificate of Incorporation and Enex's Bylaws
provide that no director shall be removed from office by vote or other action of
the stockholders except for cause and only upon the vote of two-thirds of the
shares then entitled to vote at an election of directors. Enex's Certificate of
Incorporation also provides that no action required or permitted to be taken at
any annual or special meeting of stockholders of Enex may be taken without a
meeting, and the power of stockholders to act by written consent is specifically
denied. Enex's Bylaws provide that special meetings of stockholders may be
called only by the Enex Board of Directors or the President of Enex.

         Middle Bay's Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws
contain no provision requiring classification of directors, and directors may be
elected or removed by majority vote of the shareholders.

QUORUM REQUIREMENTS FOR DIRECTORS' MEETINGS

         Under the DGCL and Alabama law, a majority of the total number of
directors then in office constitutes a quorum for the transaction of business.
The vote of a majority of the directors at a meeting at which a quorum is
present shall be the act of the Board of Directors under both Delaware and
Alabama law.

ENEX COMMON STOCK PURCHASE RIGHTS

         A Rights Agreement was entered into between Enex and American
Securities Transfer, Incorporated on September 4, 1990, as amended April 12,
1994 and March 17, 1998, and the Rights Agreement was filed with and the rights
are described in Enex's current report on Form 8-K dated September 4, 1990 and
Form 8-K dated April 12, 1994. The Rights Agreement provided for a potential
dividend of one common stock purchase right ("Right") for each outstanding share
of common stock of Enex held of record as of September 18, 1990 (the "Record
Date"). Rights also attached to shares of Enex Common Stock issued after the
Record Date, but before the date the Rights are to be distributed. The Rights
have not been distributed to Enex shareholders and are to be distributed only in
certain circumstances involving an attempted hostile takeover of Enex. On March
17, 1998, Enex amended the Rights Agreement to make it inapplicable to the
Tender Offer by Middle Bay. If the Merger is consummated, the Rights Agreement
will be terminated.



                                     - 84 -
<PAGE>   99
                    SELECTED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
                             INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)

   
         The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements have been
prepared to give effect to the Merger as if it had taken place on March 31, 1998
with respect to the unaudited pro forma consolidated balance sheet, and as of
January 1, 1997 with respect to the unaudited pro forma consolidated statements
of operations for the year ended December 31, 1997 and the three months ended
March 31, 1998. The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements have
also been prepared to give effect to the merger of Bison Energy Corporation and
Shore Oil Company with Middle Bay during 1997 and the acquisition of the assets
of Service Drilling Co., L.L.C. in April, 1998.
    

         The unaudited pro forma adjustments are based upon available financial
information and assumptions that the management of Middle Bay believe are
reasonable. The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements included
herein do not purport to represent the financial position or results of
operations which would have occurred had such transactions been consummated on
the dates indicated or Middle Bay's financial position or results of operations
for any future date or period.

         The following unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements and
notes thereto should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial
statements and related notes of Middle Bay and Enex included elsewhere in this
Proxy Statement/Prospectus and incorporated by reference herein.

                                     - 85 -


<PAGE>   100
                          MIDDLE BAY OIL COMPANY, INC.
                 UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
                                  MARCH 31,1998

   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                                 PRO FORMA
                                                                                                 COMBINED              PRO FORMA
                                                                          MIDDLE BAY            ADJUSTMENTS            COMBINED
                                                                        --------------------------------------------------------
                               ASSETS
<S>                                                                     <C>                     <C>                  <C>
Current Assets:
    Cash and cash equivalents                                            $  5,947,033           (1,000,000)(1)         4,947,033
    Notes and Accounts receivable - Trade                                   2,949,999                    0             2,949,999
    Other current assets                                                      471,317                    0               471,317
    Assets held for resale                                                    206,466                    0               206,466
                                                                        --------------------------------------------------------
         Total current assets                                               9,574,815           (1,000,000)            8,574,815

    Notes receivable - Stockholder                                            167,902                    0               167,902
    Property, plant and equipment, at cost
    Oil and gas properties (successful efforts method)                     82,707,910           10,228,282 (1)        92,936,192
    Furniture, fixtures and other                                             834,745                    0               834,745
                                                                        --------------------------------------------------------
                                                                           83,542,655           10,228,282            93,770,937
    Accumulated depreciation and depletion                                (31,754,337)                               (31,754,337)
                                                                        --------------------------------------------------------
                                                                           51,788,318           10,228,282            62,016,600
    Other assets                                                              206,713                    0               206,713
                                                                        --------------------------------------------------------
                                                                           61,737,748            9,228,282            70,966,030
                                                                        ========================================================

                LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
    Current maturity of long-term debt                                      2,602,888                    0             2,602,888
    Accounts payable and accrued expenses                                   3,392,307                    0             3,392,307
    Oil and gas revenue payable                                               196,370                    0               196,370
    Other current liabilities                                                 908,055                    0               908,055
                                                                        --------------------------------------------------------
         Total current liabilities                                          7,099,620                    0             7,099,620

    Long-term debt                                                         24,499,568            5,500,000 (1)        29,999,568
    Deferred income taxes                                                   4,052,056           (3,405,379)(1)           646,677
    Minority Interest                                                       7,668,395           (2,124,189)(1)         5,544,206
                                                                        --------------------------------------------------------
         Total liabilities                                                 43,319,639              (29,568)           43,290,071
Stockholders' equity:
    Preferred stock                                                         3,627,000                    0             3,627,000
    Common stock                                                              157,059               30,038 (1)           187,097
    Additional paid-in capital                                             32,962,632            9,227,812 (1)        42,190,444
    Unearned stock compensation                                               (33,750)                   0               (33,750)
    Accumulated deficit                                                   (18,226,792)                   0           (18,226,792)
    Less cost of treasury stock; 21,773 shares                                (68,040)                   0               (68,040)
                                                                        --------------------------------------------------------
         Total stockholders' equity                                        18,418,109            9,257,850            27,675,959
                                                                        --------------------------------------------------------
                                                                           61,737,748            9,228,282            70,966,030
                                                                        ========================================================
</TABLE>
    

See accompanying notes to unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements.


                                    - 85 A -
<PAGE>   101
                          MIDDLE BAY OIL COMPANY, INC.
            UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
                          YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997



   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           BISON &     PRO FORMA                   PRO FORMA
                                                            SHORE      COMBINED                    COMBINED        PRO FORMA
                                            MIDDLE BAY   ACQUISITIONS ADJUSTMENTS        ENEX     ADJUSTMENTS      COMBINED
                                           ------------  ------------ -----------     ----------  -----------    ------------
<S>                                        <C>           <C>          <C>             <C>         <C>            <C>
Revenues:
      Oil and gas sales                    $ 10,213,047    2,519,599           0       9,093,316   3,173,563 (2) $ 24,999,525
      Gain on sale of properties                  7,018       38,241           0       1,925,980           0        1,971,239
      Overhead income                                 0       93,083           0               0           0           93,083
      Management income                               0       25,778     (25,778)(9)           0           0                0
      Lease bonus and delay rental income       975,347      585,630           0               0           0        1,560,977
      Other income                              237,583       83,303           0         444,303           0          765,189
                                           ------------    ---------  ----------      ----------  ----------     ------------
                                             11,432,995    3,345,634     (25,778)     11,463,599   3,173,563       29,390,013

Expenses:
      Lease operating and production taxes    3,848,627      932,767           0       3,983,129   1,242,373 (2)   10,006,896
      Geological and geophysical costs          222,608            0           0               0           0          222,608
      Gas purchases and operating expenses            0            0           0         791,403           0          791,403
      Depletion, depreciation and 
      amortization                            4,567,063      581,614   1,163,001 (5)   1,633,771   1,434,976 (3)    9,380,425
      Impairments                            21,147,823            0           0               0           0       21,147,823
      Abandonment expense                     1,118,838        1,805           0               0           0        1,120,643
      Interest expense                          671,081      160,275     (69,999)(10)          0   1,420,956 (4)    2,182,313
      Stock compensation expense                202,500            0           0               0           0          202,500
      General, administrative and others      2,678,593      603,399     (21,000)(9)   2,061,090           0        5,322,082
                                           ------------    ---------  ----------      ----------  ----------     ------------
                                             34,457,133    2,279,860   1,072,002       8,469,393   4,098,305       50,376,693

      Income (loss) before minority 
      interest, income taxes and 
      investee earnings                     (23,024,138)   1,065,774  (1,097,780)      2,994,206    (924,742)     (20,986,680)

      Minority interest                               0            0           0      (1,012,449)          0       (1,012,449)

      Provision for income taxes (benefit)   (7,444,798)     302,114    (312,996)(7)      16,082     343,303 (5)   (7,096,295)

      Equity in net earnings of equity
      investees                                       0       36,564     (36,564)(8)           0           0                0

                                           ------------    ---------  ----------      ----------  ----------     ------------
      Net income (loss)                     (15,579,340)     800,224    (821,348)      1,965,675  (1,268,045)     (14,902,834)
      Preferred stock dividend                  604,712            0     173,332(6)            0           0          778,044

      Net income (loss) applicable to 
      common stock                          (16,184,052)     800,224    (994,680)      1,965,675  (1,268,045)     (15,680,878)
                                           ============    =========  ==========      ==========  ==========     ============

      Income (loss) per share-Basic        $      (4.76)                                                         $      (2.65)(13)
      Income (loss) per share-Diluted      $      (4.76)                                                         $      (2.65)(13)

      Weighted average common shares
      outstanding
      Basic                                   3,397,117                                                             5,906,304 (12)
      Diluted                                 3,397,117                                                             5,906,304 (12)
</TABLE>
    


See accompanying notes to unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements.

                                    - 85 B -
<PAGE>   102
                          MIDDLE BAY OIL COMPANY, INC.
            UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
                        THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 1998


   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>


                                                                                              PRO FORMA
                                                                                              COMBINED          PRO FORMA
                                                          MIDDLE BAY             ENEX        ADJUSTMENTS        COMBINED
                                                         -----------          ----------     -----------       -----------
<S>                                                      <C>                  <C>            <C>               <C>    
Revenues:
     Oil and gas sales                                   $ 2,632,248           2,122,335        515,620 (2)    $ 5,270,203
     Gain on sale of properties                                    0             671,923              0            671,923
     Other income                                            124,642               9,999              0            134,641
                                                         -----------          ----------      ---------        -----------
                                                           2,756,890           2,804,257        515,620          6,076,767

Expenses:
     Lease operating and production taxes                  1,184,048             998,654        322,670 (2)      2,505,372
     Geological and geophysical costs                        745,713                   0              0            745,713
     Gas purchases and operating expenses                          0               3,997              0              3,997
     Depletion, depreciation and amortization              1,118,136             548,028        483,982 (3)      2,150,146
     Impairments                                             468,951                   0              0            468,951
     Interest expense                                        255,453                   0        315,536 (4)        570,989
     Stock compensation expense                               33,750                   0              0             33,750
     General, administrative and others                    1,093,403           1,416,407              0          2,509,810
                                                         -----------          ----------      ---------        -----------
                                                           4,899,454           2,967,086      1,122,188          8,988,728

     Income (loss) before minority interest,
     income taxes and investee earnings                   (2,142,564)           (162,829)      (606,568)        (2,911,961)

     Minority interest                                             0            (348,190)             0           (348,190)

     Provision for income taxes (benefit)                   (728,472)            (86,700)      (293,280)(5)     (1,108,452)

                                                         -----------          ----------      ---------        -----------
     Net income (loss)                                    (1,414,092)           (424,319)      (313,288)        (2,151,699)
     Preferred stock dividend                                 67,945                   0              0             67,945

     Net income (loss) applicable to 
     common stock                                         (1,482,037)           (424,319)      (313,288)        (2,219,644)
                                                         ===========          ==========      =========        ===========

     Income (loss) per share-Basic                       $     (0.22)                                          $     (0.27)(13)
     Income (loss) per share-Diluted                     $     (0.22)                                          $     (0.27)(13)

     Weighted average common shares outstanding
     Basic                                                 6,719,656                                             8,221,576 (12)
     Diluted                                               6,719,656                                             8,221,576 (12)
</TABLE>
    

See accompanying notes to unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements.

                                    - 85 C -
<PAGE>   103

                          MIDDLE BAY OIL COMPANY, INC.
         NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                      DECEMBER 31, 1997 AND MARCH 31, 1998


NOTE 1.  BASIS OF PRESENTATION

         The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements reflect the
effect of the proposed acquisition of the approximately 278,640 outstanding
shares of Enex Resources Corporation (Enex) not currently owned by Middle Bay
Oil Company, Inc. (Middle Bay). Middle Bay previously acquired 79.2% of Enex on
March 20, 1998. The unaudited pro forma consolidated statement of operations for
the year ended December 31, 1997 also reflects the effect of the February 28,
1997 merger of Bison Energy Corporation (Bison), the June 30, 1997 merger of
Shore Oil Company (Shore) with Middle Bay, and the April 16, 1998 acquisition of
the assets of Service Drilling Company, L.L.C. (Service Drilling). The unaudited
pro forma consolidated statement of operations for the three-month period ended
March 31, 1998 also reflects the effect of the Service Drilling acquisition. The
unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements have been prepared to give
effect of the Enex, Bison and Shore mergers and the Service Drilling acquisition
as if they had taken place on March 31, 1998 with respect to the unaudited pro
forma consolidated balance sheet and as of January 1, 1997 with respect to the
unaudited pro forma consolidated statements of operations for the year ended
December 31, 1997 and the three-month period ended March 31, 1998. Each merger
or acquisition was recorded using the purchase method of accounting.


NOTE 2.  PRO FORMA ENTRIES

Pro Forma Adjustments for the Enex Merger and the Service Drilling Acquisition

         It is anticipated that during August 1998 Middle Bay and Enex will
close a Merger Agreement executed June 17, 1998 whereby Middle Bay will purchase
20.8% of Enex, thus increasing its ownership percentage of Enex to 100% from
79.2%. In completing the merger, it is anticipated that Middle Bay will exchange
835,920 shares of Middle Bay Oil Company common stock for the remaining
outstanding shares of Enex.

         On March 27, 1998, in exchange for 79.2% ownership, Middle Bay acquired
1,064,032 shares of the common stock of Enex for $15,960,480 or $15 per share
pursuant to Middle Bay's tender offer (the "tender offer") which began on
February 19, 1998.

         On April 16, 1998, the Company closed an Asset Purchase Agreement with
Service Drilling and certain affiliates, whereby the Company acquired the assets
of Service Drilling and its affiliate in exchange for the Company's common stock
and cash. Pursuant to the Agreement, the Company issued 666,000 shares of its
common stock and paid aggregate cash consideration of $6,500,000, $5,500,000 of
which was funded through borrowings on Middle Bay's revolving line of credit.

                                    - 85 D -
<PAGE>   104



         The accompanying unaudited pro forma combined financial statements
reflect the following adjustments:

         (1) To record the acquisitions of Enex and Service Drilling using the
purchase method of accounting. The allocation of the purchase price to the
acquired assets and liabilities is preliminary and, therefore, subject to
change. Any future adjustments to the allocation of the purchase price are not
anticipated to be material to the unaudited pro forma financial statements.

         (2) To record the operating income and expenses related to the oil and
gas properties purchased from Service Drilling.

         (3) To adjust depletion, depreciation and amortization to reflect
Middle Bay's purchase price allocated to the property and equipment using the
unit of production method utilized by Middle Bay.

         (4) To record interest expense on the debt incurred as a result of the
Merger and acquisition. 

         (5) To adjust the provision for income taxes for the change in taxable
income as a result of the merger and acquisition.

Pro Forma Adjustments for the Bison and Shore Mergers

         Middle Bay and Bison entered into the Merger Agreement whereby Bison
was merged into and continues to exist as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Middle
Bay, effective February 28, 1997.

         On June 20, 1997, Middle Bay and Shore entered into the Merger
Agreement whereby Shore was merged into and continues to exist as a wholly-owned
subsidiary of Middle Bay, effective June 30, 1997.

         The mergers were accounted for as purchases of Bison and Shore by
Middle Bay and as a result of the purchase method of accounting, Middle Bay's
cost of acquiring Bison and Shore was allocated to the assets and liabilities
acquired based on estimated fair values.

         The accompanying Pro Forma Consolidated Statements of Operations for
the year ended December 31, 1997 has been prepared as if the Bison and Shore
mergers had occurred on January 1, 1997 and reflect the following adjustments:

         (6) To adjust depletion, depreciation and amortization to reflect
Middle Bay's purchase price allocated to the property and equipment using the
unit of production method utilized by Middle Bay.

         (7) To record the preferred stock dividends paid on the preferred stock
issued for the cash portion of the Bison merger and issued in the Shore merger.

         (8) To adjust the provision for income taxes for the change in taxable
income as a result of the mergers.

         (9) To remove equity in net earnings of equity investees that were not
purchased. 

         (10) To remove management income for accounting and administrative
functions performed by Bison for other entities. Subsequent to the merger, Bison
no longer performed such accounting and administrative functions.

         (11) To record the reduction in interest expense on the debt retired in
the Shore merger.

                                    - 85 E -
<PAGE>   105


         (12) To reflect the impact on the weighted average common shares
outstanding for the 2,488,889 shares of Middle Bay common stock issued in
conjunction with the Bison and Shore mergers as well as 835,920 shares of Middle
Bay common stock issued to Enex common stockholders in conjunction with the
proposed acquisition and the 666,000 shares issued in conjunction with the
Service Drilling acquisition.

         (13) To reflect the issuance of 1,500,000 shares of Series A Preferred
Stock, 266,667 shares of Series B and 2,488,889 shares of Middle Bay common
stock in conjunction with the Bison and Shore mergers in addition to 835,920
shares of Middle Bay common stock in conjunction with the purchase of 100% of
Enex and 666,000 shares issued in conjunction with the Service Drilling
acquisition. Pro forma basic net income (loss) per common share information is
computed by dividing net income (loss), applicable to common stock by the pro
forma weighted average common shares outstanding. Shares issuable upon exercise
of options and upon the conversion of preferred stock are included in the
computations of the pro forma dilutive income per common and common equivalent
share if the effect is dilutive.


                                    - 85 F -
<PAGE>   106


                                  LEGAL MATTERS

         The validity of the shares of Middle Bay Common Stock to be issued in
connection with the Merger will be passed upon by Thrasher, Whitley, Hampton &
Morgan, Five Concourse Parkway, Suite 2150, Atlanta, Georgia 30328. Certain tax
consequences of the Merger will be passed upon for Middle Bay and Enex by
Thrasher, Whitley, Hampton & Morgan.

                                     EXPERTS

         Middle Bay's consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 1997
and 1996 and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1997
incorporated by reference in this Proxy Statement/Prospectus and the
Registration Statement, have been audited by Schultz, Watkins & Company,
independent public accountants, as indicated in their report with respect
thereto and included herein in reliance upon the authority of said firm as
experts in auditing and accounting in giving said report.

         Enex's consolidated financial statements, incorporated by reference in
this Proxy Statement/Prospectus and the Registration Statement from Enex's
Annual Report on Form 10-KSB for the year ended December 31, 1997, have been
audited by Deloitte & Touche, LLP, independent auditors, as stated in their
report, which is incorporated herein by reference, and have been so incorporated
in reliance upon the report of such firm given upon their authority as experts
in auditing and accounting.


                          ENEX STOCKHOLDERS' PROPOSALS

         If the Merger is not consummated, any proposals of stockholders of Enex
intended to be presented at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Enex to be
held in 1998 must be received by Enex, addressed to the Secretary at 800
Rockmead Drive, Three Kingwood Place, Kingwood, Texas 77339, no later than
August 31, 1998, to be considered for inclusion in the proxy statement and form
of proxy relating to that meeting.

                                     - 86 -
<PAGE>   107
                                   APPENDIX I

                          AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER


         THIS AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER (this "Agreement"), dated as of June
17, 1998, is by and between MIDDLE BAY OIL COMPANY, INC., an Alabama corporation
("Middle Bay"), and ENEX RESOURCES CORPORATION, a Delaware corporation ("Enex").

                              W I T N E S S E T H :

         WHEREAS, Middle Bay currently owns 1,064,032 shares (approximately
79.2%) of the issued and outstanding common stock of Enex;

         WHEREAS, this Agreement sets forth the terms and conditions under which
Enex shall merge with Middle Bay (the "Merger"), and in connection therewith the
Enex Stockholders, as defined below, shall receive shares of Middle Bay Common
Stock, as defined below, upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth
herein; and

         WHEREAS, the parties intend that, upon completion of the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement, Enex will be dissolved and Middle Bay will be
the surviving corporation of the Merger;

         NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and the mutual
covenants and agreements herein contained, and intending to be legally bound
hereby, Middle Bay and Enex hereby agree as follows:

                                    ARTICLE I
                                   DEFINITIONS

         For convenience, certain terms used in more than one part of this
Agreement are listed in alphabetical order and defined or referred to below
(such terms as well as any other terms defined elsewhere in this Agreement shall
be equally applicable to both the singular and plural forms of the terms
defined).

         "AGREEMENT"shall mean this Agreement and Plan of Merger and the
Exhibits hereto.

         "ALABAMA LAW" means the Alabama Business Corporation Act, as amended.

         "CERTIFICATE" shall mean a certificate representing Enex Common Stock.

         "CLOSING" is defined in Section 3.1 hereof.

         "CLOSING DATE" is defined in Section 3.1 hereof.


                                      - 1 -


<PAGE>   108



         "CONSTITUENT CORPORATIONS" means Enex and Middle Bay.

         "CONVERTED SHARES" means the shares of Enex Common Stock that are
issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time (other than
Dissenting Shares and shares held by Middle Bay).

         "DELAWARE LAW" means the Delaware General Corporation Law, as amended.

         "DISSENTING SHARES" is defined in Section 4.1 hereof.

         "EFFECTIVE TIME" is defined in Section 2.2 hereof.

         "ENEX" is defined above in the preamble.

         "ENEX COMMON STOCK" means the common stock, $.05 par value per share,
of Enex.

         "ENEX FINANCIAL STATEMENTS" is defined in Section 5.8.

         "ENEX HOLDER" means each record holder of an outstanding Certificate
that immediately prior to the Effective Time represents Converted Shares.

         "ENEX MATERIAL ADVERSE EFFECT" means a material adverse effect on the
business, assets, liabilities, results of operations or financial condition of
Enex and its Subsidiaries, taken as a whole.

         "ENEX PREFERRED STOCK" means the preferred stock, $.01 par value per
share, of Enex.

         "ENEX REQUIRED CONSENTS" is defined in Section 5.6 hereof.

         "ENEX SPECIAL STOCKHOLDERS' MEETING" is defined in Section 2.8 hereof.

         "ENEX STOCKHOLDER" means an owner of any Enex Common Stock.

         "EXCHANGE ACT" means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

         "EXCHANGE AGENT" is defined in Section 4.1 hereof.

         "FAIR MARKET VALUE" of a share of Middle Bay Common Stock means the
average of the closing sale price of the Middle Bay Common Stock as reported by
the NASDAQ Stock Market for the five-day trading period ending two days prior to
the Closing Date.

         "FORM S-4" is defined in Section 8.3 hereof.

         "GAAP" means generally accepted accounting principles.



                                      - 2 -


<PAGE>   109



         "KNOWLEDGE"of any Person means actual knowledge, after reasonable
investigation, of such Person or the officers and directors of such Person.

         "LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL" means a letter of transmittal in the form
attached hereto as Exhibit "A".

         "LIEN" means any claim, mortgage, deed of trust, pledge, lien, security
interest, charge, encumbrance or similar agreement of any kind or nature
whatsoever.

         "MERGER CONSIDERATION" means the Middle Bay Common Stock to be issued
and any cash to be paid in lieu of fractional shares pursuant to Section 2.7
hereof.

         "MIDDLE BAY" is defined above in the preamble.

         "MIDDLE BAY COMMON STOCK" means the common stock, $0.01 par value per
share, of Middle Bay issued and outstanding at any designated time.

         "MIDDLE BAY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS" is defined in Section 6.5 hereof.

         "MIDDLE BAY MATERIAL ADVERSE EFFECT" means a material adverse effect on
the business, assets, liabilities, results of operations or financial condition
of Middle Bay and its Subsidiaries, taken as a whole.

         "PERSON" means any natural person, corporation, partnership, limited
liability company, proprietorship, association, trust or other legal entity.

         "SEC" means the Securities and Exchange Commission.

         "SECURITIES ACT" means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

         "SUBSIDIARY" means as to any Person, (i) a corporation of which more
than 50% of the outstanding capital stock having full voting power is at the
time, directly or indirectly, owned by such Person or by one or more
Subsidiaries of such Person or by such Person and one or more Subsidiaries
thereof or (ii) any other Person (other than a corporation) in which such
Person, or one or more Subsidiaries of such Person or such Person and one or
more Subsidiaries thereof, directly or indirectly, has at least a majority
ownership interest and power to direct the policies, management and affairs
thereof.

         "SURVIVING CORPORATION" is defined in Section 2.1 hereof.

         "TERMINATION DATE" is defined in Section 11.1 hereof.



                                      - 3 -


<PAGE>   110



                                   ARTICLE II
                                 PLAN OF MERGER

         2.1 THE MERGER. Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth
herein and in compliance with the requirements of Delaware Law and Alabama Law,
at the Effective Time Enex shall be merged with and into Middle Bay pursuant to
Section 252 of Delaware Law and Section 10-2B-11.01, et.seq, of Alabama Law.
Upon consummation of the Merger, the separate corporate existence of Enex shall
cease. Middle Bay shall continue as the surviving corporation (the "Surviving
Corporation") and shall succeed to and assume all the rights and obligations of
Enex existing prior to the Merger.

         2.2 EFFECTIVE TIME. The Surviving Corporation shall cause the Merger to
be consummated by filing with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware
and the Secretary of the State of Alabama certificates of merger (the
"Certificates" or "Certificate of Merger") that sets forth the Plan of Merger
contained in this Article II and is otherwise in such form as may be required
under, and is executed in accordance with, the relevant provisions of Delaware
Law and Alabama Law, respectively. The Merger shall become effective at such
time as the Certificates of Merger are duly filed with and accepted by the
Secretary of State of Delaware and the Secretary of State of Alabama or at such
other time as is stated therein (the "Effective Time").

         2.3 EFFECTS OF THE MERGER. The Merger shall have the effects set forth
in Sections 259 and 261 of Delaware Law and Section 10-2B-11.06 of Alabama Law.
Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, and subject thereto, at the
Effective Time, all the properties, rights, privileges, immunities, powers and
franchises of each Constituent Corporation shall vest in the Surviving
Corporation, and all debts, liabilities, obligations and duties of each
Constituent Corporation shall become the debts, liabilities, obligations and
duties of the Surviving Corporation. The economic effective date for purposes of
the Merger is July 1, 1998.

         2.4 CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION AND BYLAWS.

                  (a) The Certificate of Incorporation of the Surviving
         Corporation in effect from and after the Effective Time, until amended
         in accordance with applicable law, shall be the Certificate of
         Incorporation of Middle Bay as in effect immediately prior to the
         Effective Time.

                  (b) The Bylaws of the Surviving Corporation in effect from and
         after the Effective Time, until amended in accordance with applicable
         law, shall be the Bylaws of Middle Bay as in effect immediately prior
         to the Effective Time.

         2.5 DIRECTORS. The directors of Middle Bay who are directors of Middle
Bay immediately prior to the Effective Time shall remain the directors of the
Surviving Corporation, each to hold office from the Effective Time in accordance
with the Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws of Middle Bay and until his or
her successor is duly elected and qualified.

         2.6 OFFICERS. The officers of Middle Bay immediately prior to the
Effective Time shall remain the officers of the Surviving Corporation, each to
hold office from the Effective Time in accordance with the


                                      - 4 -


<PAGE>   111



Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws of Middle Bay and until his or her
successor is duly appointed and qualified.

         2.7 CONVERSION OF SECURITIES. At the Effective Time, by virtue of the
Merger and without any action on the part of Middle Bay, Enex or the holder of
any shares of Enex Common Stock:

   
                  (a) Each share of Enex Common Stock issued and outstanding
         immediately prior to the Effective Time (other than shares of Enex
         Common Stock held by Middle Bay or Dissenting Shares) shall be
         converted into the right to receive that number of shares of Middle Bay
         Common Stock which, when multiplied by the average of the closing bid
         prices per share as quoted by NASDAQ for the five trading days
         immediately prior to August 14, 1998, equals $15.00 (the "Conversion
         Ratio"). Any shares of Enex Common Stock held in the treasury of Enex
         shall be canceled.
    

                  (b) No fractional share of Middle Bay Common Stock shall be
         issued to any Enex Holder, but in lieu thereof each Enex Holder who
         otherwise would be entitled to receive a fraction of a share of Middle
         Bay Common Stock (after aggregating all fractional shares of Middle Bay
         Common Stock which would be received by such Enex Holder) shall receive
         cash from Middle Bay in an amount equal to $15.00 divided by the
         Conversion Ration and multiplied by such fraction.

                  (c) All Enex Common Stock held by Middle Bay immediately prior
         to the Effective Time shall not be converted or exchanged by virtue of
         the Merger, and each such share shall be canceled and retired as of the
         Effective Time.

         2.8 APPROVAL BY ENEX STOCKHOLDERS. Consistent with Delaware Law, as
soon as reasonably practicable following the date hereof, Enex shall cause a
special meeting of the Enex Stockholders (the "Enex Special Stockholders'
Meeting") to be duly called and held for the purpose of considering and taking
action upon the adoption of this Agreement and approval of the Merger in
accordance with Delaware Law. The Board of Directors of Enex shall recommend
that the Enex Stockholders approve the Agreement and Merger.

                                   ARTICLE III
                                     CLOSING

         3.1 LOCATION; DATE. The closing of the Merger (the "Merger") shall be
held at the offices of Middle Bay Oil Company, Inc., 1221 Lamar Street, Suite
1020, Houston, Texas 77010, as promptly as practicable (and in any event within
three business days) after satisfaction or waiver of the conditions to the
consummation of the Merger set forth in Article X hereof, unless the parties
hereto agree in writing to another date or place. The date on which the Closing
occurs is referred to herein as the "Closing Date."

         3.2 DELIVERIES. At the Closing,

                  (a) The Surviving Corporation shall deliver to the Secretaries
         of State of the States of Alabama and Delaware duly executed and
         verified copies of the Certificate of Merger, as required by Alabama
         and Delaware Law;


                                      - 5 -


<PAGE>   112



                  (b) The parties hereto shall deliver to each other the
         respective agreements and other documents and instruments specified
         with respect to them in Article X hereof and such other items as may be
         reasonably requested; and

                  (c) The parties shall take all such other and further actions
         as may be required by Alabama and Delaware Law and other applicable law
         to make the Merger effective upon the terms and subject to the
         conditions set forth herein.


                                   ARTICLE IV
                      DISSENTING SHARES; EXCHANGE OF SHARES

         4.1 DISSENTING SHARES. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to
the contrary, shares of Enex Common Stock that are issued and outstanding
immediately prior to the Effective Time and are held by an Enex Stockholder who
has not voted in favor of the Merger and who has demanded dissenters' rights for
such shares of Enex Common Stock in accordance with Section 262 of Delaware Law
("Dissenting Shares") shall not be converted into the right to receive Merger
Consideration unless and until such Enex Stockholder fails to perfect or
withdraws or otherwise loses such Stockholder's right to dissenters' rights
under Delaware Law. If, after the Effective Time, such Stockholder fails to
perfect or withdraws or loses such Stockholder's dissenters' rights, such
Stockholder's Dissenting Shares shall thereupon be deemed to have been converted
into and to have become exchangeable, as of the Effective Time, for the right to
receive the Merger Consideration without any interest thereon, pursuant to
Section 2.7 hereof.

         4.2 EXCHANGE OF CERTIFICATES.

                  (a) From and after the Effective Time, a bank or trust company
         to be designated by Middle Bay which shall be reasonably acceptable to
         Enex (the "Exchange Agent") shall act as Exchange Agent in effecting
         the exchange for the Merger Consideration of the Certificates
         representing Enex Common Stock entitled to payment pursuant to Section
         2.7 hereof. As soon as practicable after the Effective Time, the
         Surviving Corporation shall cause the Exchange Agent to mail to each
         record holder of an outstanding Certificate or Certificates, which
         immediately prior to the Effective Time represented Enex Common Stock,
         a Letter of Transmittal and instructions for use in effecting the
         surrender of the Certificates for payment thereof. Upon the surrender
         of each such Certificate, together with such duly executed Letter of
         Transmittal, the Exchange Agent shall promptly pay the holder of such
         Certificate the Merger Consideration in exchange therefore, and such
         Certificate shall forthwith be canceled. Until so surrendered and
         exchanged, each such Certificate (other than Certificates representing
         Dissenting Shares or shares of Enex Common Stock held by Middle Bay)
         shall represent solely the right to receive the Merger Consideration.
         No interest shall be paid or accrue on the Merger Consideration. If the
         Merger Consideration (or any portion thereof) is to be delivered to any
         person other than the person in whose name the Certificate representing
         Enex Common Stock surrendered in exchange therefore is registered, it
         shall be a condition to such exchange that the Certificate so
         surrendered shall be properly endorsed (with signature(s) guaranteed by
         a national bank or a broker/dealer member of the National Association
         of Securities Dealers, Inc.) or otherwise be in proper form for
         transfer and that the person requesting such exchange shall pay to the
         Exchange Agent



                                      - 6 -


<PAGE>   113



         any transfer or other taxes required by reason of the payment of the
         Merger Consideration to a person other than the registered holder of
         the Certificate surrendered, or shall establish to the satisfaction of
         the Exchange Agent that such tax has been paid or is not applicable.
         From and after the Effective Time, the holders of Certificates shall
         cease to have any rights with respect to shares of Enex Common Stock,
         except as otherwise provided herein or by law.

                  (b) At or before the Effective Time, Middle Bay shall instruct
         OTC Stock Transfer, Inc., as its transfer agent, to issue upon
         instruction from the Exchange Agent, the shares of Middle Bay Common
         Stock to which holders of shares of Enex Common Stock shall be entitled
         at the Effective Time pursuant to Section 2.8 hereof in such names and
         such denominations as the Exchange Agent shall direct and shall deposit
         with the Exchange Agent funds sufficient to pay holders of Enex Common
         Stock any cash to which they may be entitled in lieu of fractional
         shares.

                  (c) In the event any Certificate shall have been lost, stolen
         or destroyed, upon the making and delivery of an affidavit (containing
         a guaranteed signature in the form required by Middle Bay) of that fact
         by the Person claiming such Certificate to have been lost, stolen or
         destroyed and, if required by Middle Bay, the posting by such Person of
         a bond in such reasonable amount as Middle Bay may direct as indemnity
         against any claim that would be made against Enex or Middle Bay with
         respect to such Certificate, the Exchange Agent will issue in exchange
         for such lost, stolen or destroyed Certificate the Merger Consideration
         deliverable in respect thereof pursuant to this Agreement.

                  (d) After the Effective Time, there shall be no transfer of
         Converted Shares that were outstanding immediately prior to the
         Effective Time on the stock transfer books of Enex. If, after the
         Effective Time, Certificates are presented to the Surviving Corporation
         for transfer, they shall be canceled and exchanged for Merger
         Consideration. At the Effective Time, the stock ledger of Enex shall be
         closed.

                  (e) At and after the Effective Time, the Enex Holders shall
         cease to have any rights as stockholders of Enex, except for the right
         to surrender Certificates to be converted pursuant to Section 4.2(a).
         All shares of Middle Bay Common Stock issued (and cash paid in lieu of
         fractional shares) upon conversion of the Enex Common Stock in
         accordance with the terms of this Agreement shall be deemed to have
         been issued and paid in full satisfaction of all rights pertaining to
         such shares of Enex Common Stock.

                  (f) Promptly following the date which is three months after
         the Effective Time, the Exchange Agent shall deliver to the Surviving
         Corporation all cash and shares of Middle Bay Common Stock in its
         possession relating to the transactions described in this Agreement,
         and the Exchange Agent's duties shall terminate. Thereafter, each
         holder of a Certificate formerly representing Converted Shares may
         surrender such Certificate to the Surviving Corporation, and (subject
         to applicable abandoned property, escheat and similar laws) the
         Surviving Corporation shall pay to such holder in exchange therefore
         its Merger Consideration, without any interest thereon. None of Middle
         Bay, the Surviving Corporation, the Exchange Agent or any other person
         will be liable to any former


                                      - 7 -


<PAGE>   114



         holder of Converted Shares for any amount properly delivered to a
         public office pursuant to applicable abandoned property, escheat or
         similar laws.

                                    ARTICLE V
                     REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF ENEX

         Enex represents and warrants to Middle Bay as follows:

         5.1 ORGANIZATION. Enex is a corporation duly organized, validly
existing and in good standing under the laws of the State of Delaware and has
all requisite corporate power to own, lease and operate its properties and to
carry on its business as it is now being conducted or presently proposed to be
conducted. Enex is duly qualified as a foreign corporation to do business, and
is in good standing, in each jurisdiction where the character of its properties
owned or held under lease or the nature of its activities makes such
qualification necessary, except where the failure to be so qualified would not
individually or in the aggregate have an Enex Material Adverse Effect.

         5.2 ORGANIZATIONAL DOCUMENTS. Enex has furnished to Middle Bay complete
and correct copies of the organizational documents of Enex and each Subsidiary
of Enex, as amended or restated, and as currently in effect. Neither Enex nor
any of its Subsidiaries is in violation of any of the provisions of its
organizational documents, as amended or restated.

         5.3 CAPITALIZATION. The authorized capital stock of Enex consists of
10,000,000 shares of Enex Common Stock and 5,000,000 shares of Enex Preferred
Stock. As of May 31, 1998, 1,343,352 shares of Enex Common Stock are issued and
outstanding and are held of record by 596 persons. There are no shares of Enex
Preferred Stock issued and outstanding. All of the issued and outstanding Enex
Common Stock is validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable and has not been
issued in violation of, and is not currently subject to, any preemptive rights.
Except as set forth above, as of the date of this Agreement there are no shares
of capital stock of Enex issued or outstanding or any options, warrants,
subscriptions, calls, rights, convertible securities or other agreements or
commitments obligating Enex to issue, transfer, sell, redeem, repurchase or
otherwise acquire any shares of its capital stock or securities.

         5.4 SUBSIDIARIES AND MATERIAL INVESTMENTS. Enex serves as the managing
general partner for one limited partnership--Enex Consolidated Partners, L.P.
Except as set forth on Exhibit "B," (i) there are no Subsidiaries of Enex and
(ii) Enex does not directly or indirectly own any equity or similar interest in,
or interest convertible into or exchangeable for any equity or similar interest
in, any corporation, partnership, joint venture or other business association or
entity.

         5.5 AUTHORITY RELATIVE TO THIS AGREEMENT. Enex has the power to enter
into this Agreement and to carry out its obligations hereunder. The execution,
delivery and performance of this Agreement by Enex and the consummation by Enex
of the transactions contemplated hereby have been duly authorized by the Enex
Board of Directors and, except for notification and recommendation by the Enex
Board of Directors to, and approval of the Merger by, the Enex Stockholders in
accordance with Delaware Law, no other corporate proceedings on the part of Enex
re necessary to authorize this Agreement or the transactions contemplated


                                      - 8 -


<PAGE>   115



hereby. Subject to the foregoing, this Agreement has been duly and validly
executed and delivered by Enex and constitutes a valid and binding agreement of
Enex, enforceable against Enex in accordance with its terms, subject to the
effects of bankruptcy, insolvency, fraudulent conveyance, moratorium,
reorganization or similar laws affecting creditors' rights and to equitable
principles.

         5.6 CONSENTS AND APPROVALS; NO VIOLATIONS. Except for the filing of the
Certificate of Merger as required by Delaware Law and the filing of the Form S-4
with the SEC, no filing with, and no permit, authorization, consent or approval
of, any court or tribunal or administrative, governmental or regulatory body,
agency, public body or authority is necessary for the execution and delivery of
this Agreement and performance of the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement by Enex. Neither the execution, delivery and performance of this
Agreement by Enex nor the consummation by Enex of the transactions contemplated
hereby, nor compliance by Enex with any of the provisions hereof, will (i)
conflict with or result in any breach of any provision of the Certificate of
Incorporation or Bylaws of Enex or organizational documents of any Enex
Subsidiary, (ii) result in a violation or breach of or constitute (with or
without due notice or lapse of time or both) a default (or give rise to any
right of termination, cancellation, vesting, payment, exercise, acceleration,
suspension or revocation) under any of the terms conditions or provisions of any
material note, bond, mortgage, deed of trust, security interest, indenture,
license, contract, agreement, plan or other instrument or obligation, including
the Bankruptcy Plan, to which Enex or any Enex Subsidiary is a party or by which
Enex or any Enex Subsidiary or any of their respective properties or assets may
be bound or affected, except as listed on Exhibit "C" hereto ("Enex Required
Consents"), (iii) violate any order, writ, injunction, decree, statute, rule or
regulation applicable to Enex or any Enex Subsidiary or any of their respective
properties or assets, (iv) result in the creation or imposition of any Lien on
any material asset of Enex or any Enex Subsidiary or (v) cause the suspension or
revocation of any registrations, licenses, permits and other consents or
approvals of any governmental agency held by Enex or any Enex Subsidiary,
except, in the case of clauses (ii), (iii), (iv), and (v) for violations,
breaches, defaults, terminations, cancellations, accelerations, creations,
impositions, suspensions or revocations which would not individually or in the
aggregate have an Enex Material Adverse Effect and provided that, in the case of
clauses (ii) and (iv), no representation or warranty is hereby made with respect
to the lease agreements of Enex and its Subsidiaries, which agreements were
previously delivered to Middle Bay.

         5.7 LITIGATION. There is no suit, action or proceeding (whether at law
or equity, before or by any federal, state or foreign commission, court,
tribunal, board, agency or instrumentality, or before any arbitrator) pending
or, to the Knowledge of Enex, threatened against or affecting Enex or any of its
Subsidiaries, the outcome of which could, individually or in the aggregate, have
an Enex Material Adverse Effect, nor is there any judgment, decree, injunction,
rule or order of any court, governmental department, commission, agency,
instrumentality or arbitrator outstanding against Enex or any of its
Subsidiaries having, or which, insofar as can reasonably be foreseen, in the
future may have, any such effect.

         5.8 FINANCIAL REPORTS. Enex has previously furnished to Middle Bay
unaudited financial statements for the three-month period ended March 31, 1998
and in connection with the Form S-4 will furnish to Middle Bay audited financial
statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997 and such other audited
financial statements as are determined to be required by Form S-4 after
consultation with the SEC (collectively, the "Enex Financial Statements"). The
Enex Financial Statements have been or will be prepared in accordance


                                      - 9 -


<PAGE>   116



with GAAP consistently applied (except in the case of the unaudited financial
statements referenced above as otherwise permitted by the SEC for interim
financial statements) present or will present fairly the consolidated financial
position and consolidated assets and liabilities of Enex as of the dates thereof
and the results of operations and cash flows for the periods then ended, subject
in the case of unaudited Enex Financial Statements to normal recurring year-end
adjustments and absence of notes. Except as disclosed on Exhibit "D," Enex has
made all filings required to be made by it in compliance with the Exchange Act,
and such filings did not contain any untrue statement of any material fact and
did not omit to state any material fact necessary in order to make the
statements contained therein not misleading in light of the circumstances under
which such statements were made as of the respective dates of filing.

         5.9 ABSENCE OF CERTAIN CHANGES OF EVENTS. Except as disclosed in
filings that have been made by Enex under the Exchange Act, such actions as have
been taken in connection with Enex's efforts to sell the company or as disclosed
on Exhibit "E," since March 31, 1998, Enex has in all material respects
conducted its business in the ordinary course consistent with past practices and
there has not occurred with respect to Enex any change or event that has had or
is reasonably likely to have an Enex Material Adverse Effect.

         5.10 ABSENCE OF UNDISCLOSED LIABILITIES. Except for liabilities or
obligations which are accrued or reserved against in the Enex Financial
Statements (or specifically referenced in the notes thereto) or were incurred
after March 31, 1998 in the ordinary course of business and consistent with past
practices, neither Enex nor its Subsidiaries have any liabilities or obligations
(whether absolute, accrued, contingent or otherwise) of a nature required by
GAAP to be reflected in a consolidated balance sheet (or reflected in the notes
thereto).

         5.11 NO DEFAULT. Neither Enex nor any of its Subsidiaries are in
violation or breach of or default under (and no event has occurred which with
notice or the lapse of time or both would constitute a violation or breach of,
or a default under) any term, condition or provision of (i) any material note,
bond, mortgage, deed of trust, security interest, indenture, license, contract,
agreement, plan or other instrument or obligation to which Enex or any such
Subsidiary is a party or by which Enex or any such Subsidiary or any of their
respective properties or assets may be bound or affected, (ii) any order, writ,
injunction, decree, statute, rule or regulation applicable to Enex, any Enex
Subsidiary or any of their respective properties or assets, or (iii) any
registration, license, permit and other consent or approval of any governmental
agency, except in each case for breaches, defaults or violations which would not
individually or in the aggregate have an Enex Material Adverse Effect.

         5.12 COMPLIANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAW. Enex and its Subsidiaries are in
compliance with all material applicable laws.

         5.13 BROKERS. No broker, finder or investment banker is entitled to any
brokerage, finder's fee or other fee or commission payable by Enex in connection
with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement based upon arrangements
made by and on behalf of Enex.

         5.14 INVESTMENT INTENT. To the knowledge of the senior officers of Enex
without investigation, there is no present plan or intention by any Enex
Stockholder to sell, exchange or otherwise dispose of their Middle Bay Common
Stock subsequent to the Effective Time of the Merger.



                                     - 10 -


<PAGE>   117



         5.15 DISCLOSURE. No representation or warranty contained in this
Article V or in any Exhibit hereto or any closing certificate and all
information in the Form S-4 furnished or to be furnished by either Enex, its
Subsidiaries or any Enex Holder to Middle Bay pursuant to this Agreement or in
connection with the Merger contains or, at the Effective Time, will contain any
untrue statement of material fact or omits or, at the Effective Time, will omit
to state a material fact necessary to make the statements contained herein or
therein not misleading.

                                   ARTICLE VI
                  REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF MIDDLE BAY

         Middle Bay represents and warrants to Enex as follows:

         6.1 ORGANIZATION. Middle Bay is a corporation duly organized, validly
existing and in good standing under the laws of the State of Alabama and has all
requisite corporate power to own, lease and operate its properties and to carry
on its business as it is now being conducted or presently proposed to be
conducted. Middle Bay is duly qualified as a foreign corporation to do business
and is in good standing in each jurisdiction where the character of its
properties owned or held under lease or the nature of its activities makes such
qualification necessary, except where the failure to be so qualified would not
individually or in the aggregate have a Middle Bay Material Adverse Effect.

         6.2 AUTHORITY RELATIVE TO THIS AGREEMENT. Middle Bay has the power to
enter into this Agreement and to carry out its obligations hereunder. The
execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by Middle Bay and the
consummation by Middle Bay of the transactions contemplated hereby have been
duly authorized by all necessary corporate action, and no other corporate
proceedings on the part of Middle Bay are necessary to authorize this Agreement
or the transactions contemplated hereby. This Agreement has been duly and
validly executed and delivered by Middle Bay and constitutes a valid and binding
agreement of Middle Bay, enforceable against Middle Bay in accordance with its
terms, subject to the effects of bankruptcy, insolvency, fraudulent conveyance,
moratorium, reorganization or similar laws affecting creditors' rights and to
equitable principles.

         6.3 CONSENTS AND APPROVALS; NO VIOLATIONS. Except for the filing of the
Certificate of Merger as required by Alabama and Delaware Laws and the filing of
the Form S-4 with the SEC, no filing with, and no permit, authorization, consent
or approval of, any court or tribunal or administrative, governmental or
regulatory body, agency, public body or authority is necessary for the execution
and delivery of this Agreement and performance of the transactions contemplated
by this Agreement by Middle Bay. Neither the execution, delivery and performance
of this Agreement by Middle Bay nor the consummation by Middle Bay of the
transactions contemplated hereby, nor compliance by Middle Bay with any of the
provisions hereof, will (i) conflict with or result in any breach of any
provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws of Middle Bay, (ii)
result in a violation or breach of or constitute (with or without due notice or
lapse of time or both) a default (or give rise to any right of termination,
cancellation, vesting, payment, exercise, acceleration, suspension or
revocation) under any of the terms, conditions or provisions of any material
note, bond, mortgage, deed of trust, security interest, indenture, license,
contract, agreement, plan or other instrument or obligation to which Middle Bay
is a party or by which Middle Bay or any of its properties or assets may be


                                     - 11 -


<PAGE>   118



bound or affected, (iii) violate any order, writ, injunction, decree, statute,
rule or regulation applicable to Middle Bay or any of its properties or assets,
(iv) result in the creation or imposition of any Lien on any material asset of
Middle Bay, or (v) cause the suspension or revocation of any registrations,
licenses, permits and other consents or approvals of any governmental agency
held by Middle Bay, except in the case of clauses (ii), (iii), (iv) and (v) for
violations, breaches, defaults, terminations, cancellations, accelerations,
creations, impositions, suspensions or revocations which would not individually
or in the aggregate have a Middle Bay Material Adverse Effect.

         6.4 FINANCIAL REPORTS. Middle Bay has previously furnished to Enex a
true and complete copy of all reports and other documents filed by Middle Bay
with the SEC since December 31, 1996, including without limitation (i) its
annual report on Form 10-KSB for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997,
including, among other things, audited consolidated balance sheets of Middle Bay
as of December 31, 1996 and 1997 and the related consolidated statements of
earnings, cash flows and stockholders' equity for each of the three fiscal years
in the period ended December 31, 1997 and (ii) its quarterly reports on Form
10-QSB for the fiscal quarters ended March 31, 1997, June 30, 1997, September
30, 1997 and March 31, 1998 containing unaudited consolidated balance sheets of
Middle Bay as of the periods then ended and the related consolidated statements
of earnings, cash flows and stockholders' equity for each of the fiscal periods
referenced therein (collectively with the audited financial statements
referenced above the "Middle Bay Financial Statements"). The Middle Bay
Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with GAAP consistently
applied (except in the case of the unaudited financial statements referenced
above as otherwise permitted by the SEC for interim financial statements),
present fairly the consolidated financial position and consolidated assets and
liabilities of Middle Bay as of the dates thereof, and the results of operations
and cash flows for the periods then ended, subject in the case of unaudited
Middle Bay Financial Statements to normal recurring year-end adjustments and the
absence of notes. Since December 31, 1997, Middle Bay has made all filings
required to be made in compliance with the Exchange Act, and such filings did
not contain any untrue statement of any material fact and did not omit to state
any material fact necessary in order to make the statements contained therein
not misleading in light of the circumstances under which such statements were
made as of their respective dates of filing.

         6.5 CAPITALIZATION. The authorized capital stock of Middle Bay consists
of 10,000,000 shares of Middle Bay Common Stock and 5,000,000 shares of
preferred stock. As of the date of this Agreement, 8,530,591 shares of Middle
Bay Common Stock and 266,667 shares of preferred stock are issued and
outstanding. All of the issued and outstanding Middle Bay Common Stock is
validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable and free of preemptive rights. As
of the date of this Agreement, there are no shares of capital stock of Middle
Bay issued or outstanding or any options, warrants, subscriptions, calls,
rights, convertible securities or other agreements or commitments obligating
Middle Bay to issue, transfer, sell, redeem, repurchase or otherwise acquire any
shares of its capital stock or securities, other than obligations and
commitments under Middle Bay's stock option and certain employee benefit plans.

         6.6 ABSENCE OF CERTAIN CHANGES OR EVENTS. Except as disclosed in
filings that have been made by Middle Bay under the Exchange Act, since December
31, 1997, Middle Bay has in all material respects conducted its business in the
ordinary course consistent with past practices, and there has not occurred with


                                     - 12 -


<PAGE>   119



respect to Middle Bay any change or event that has had or is reasonably likely
to have a Middle Bay Material Adverse Effect.

         6.7 LITIGATION. Except for litigation disclosed in filings that have
been made by Middle Bay under the Exchange Act, there is no suit, action or
proceeding (whether at law or equity, before or by any federal, state or foreign
commission, court, tribunal, board, agencies or instrumentality, or before any
arbitrator) pending or, to the Knowledge of Middle Bay, threatened against or
affecting Middle Bay or any of its Subsidiaries the outcome of which could,
individually or in the aggregate, have a Middle Bay Material Adverse Effect nor
is there any judgment, decree, injunction, rule or order of any court,
governmental department, commission, agency, instrumentality or arbitrator
outstanding against Middle Bay or any of its Subsidiaries having or which, in so
far as can reasonably be foreseen in the future may have, any such effect.

         6.8 ABSENCE OF UNDISCLOSED LIABILITIES. Except as disclosed in Middle
Bay's filings that have been made by Middle Bay under the Exchange Act and
liabilities incurred after March 31, 1998 in the ordinary course of business and
consistent with past practices, Middle Bay does not have any liabilities or
obligations (whether absolute, accrued, contingent or otherwise) of a nature
required by GAAP to be reflected in a consolidated balance sheet (or reflected
in the notes thereto).

         6.9 BROKERS. No broker, finder or investment banker is entitled to any
brokerage, finder's fee or other fee or commission payable by Middle Bay in
connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement based upon
arrangements made by and on behalf of Middle Bay.

         6.10 DISCLOSURE. No representation or warranty contained in this
Article VI or any Exhibit hereto or any closing certificate furnished or to be
furnished by either Middle Bay or its Subsidiaries to Enex pursuant to this
Agreement or in connection with the Merger contains or, at the Effective Time,
will contain any untrue statement of a material fact, or omits or, at the
Effective Time, will omit to state a material fact necessary to make the
statements contained herein or therein not misleading.

                                   ARTICLE VII
                                COVENANTS OF ENEX

         7.1 CONDUCT OF BUSINESS OF ENEX. Except as expressly contemplated by
this Agreement, during the period from the date hereof to the Effective Time,
Enex will, and will cause each of its Subsidiaries to, conduct its operations
according to its ordinary course of business consistent with past practice and
will use its reasonable best efforts to (i) preserve intact its business
organization and assets, (ii) maintain in effect all federal, state and local
licenses, approvals and authorizations that are required for it to carry on its
business, (iii) keep available the services of its officers and employees, and
(iv) maintain existing relationships with its lenders, suppliers and others
having business relationships with it. Without limiting the generality of the
foregoing, and except as otherwise contemplated by this Agreement, prior to the
Effective Time, Enex will not, without the prior written consent of Middle Bay:

                  (a) amend its Articles of Incorporation or Bylaws;


                                     - 13 -


<PAGE>   120



                  (b) authorize for issuance, issue, sell, deliver or agree or
         commit to issue, sell, pledge, encumber, deliver or otherwise dispose
         of (whether through the issuance or granting of options, warrants,
         commitments, subscriptions, rights to purchase or otherwise) any stock
         of any class or any other securities or equity equivalents (including,
         without limitation, stock appreciation rights), or amend in any respect
         any of the terms of any such securities or options outstanding as of
         the date hereof;

                  (c) split, combine or reclassify any shares of its capital
         stock, declare, set aside or pay any dividend or other distribution
         (whether in cash, stock or property or any combination thereof) in
         respect of its capital stock or redeem, repurchase or otherwise acquire
         any of its securities or adopt a plan of complete or partial
         liquidation or resolutions providing for or authorizing such
         liquidation or a dissolution, merger, consolidation, restructuring,
         recapitalization or other reorganization;

                  (d) (i) except for borrowings under its existing credit
         facilities, incur any indebtedness for borrowed money or issue any debt
         securities or assume, guarantee or endorse the obligations of any other
         person; (ii) make any loans, advances or capital contributions to, or
         investments in, any other person; (iii) pledge or otherwise encumber
         shares of its capital stock; or (iv) mortgage or pledge any of its
         assets, tangible or intangible, or create or suffer to exist any Lien
         thereupon;

                  (e) enter into, adopt or (except as may be required by law)
         amend or terminate any bonus, profit sharing, compensation, severance,
         termination, stock option, stock appreciation right, restricted stock,
         performance unit, stock equivalent, stock purchase agreement, pension,
         retirement, deferred compensation, employment, severance or other
         employee benefit agreement, trust, plan, fund or other arrangement for
         the benefit or welfare of any director, officer or employee, or
         increase in any manner the compensation or fringe benefits of any
         director, officer or employee or pay any benefit not required by any
         plan or arrangement in effect as of the date hereof (or that has been
         in effect within the six-month period ending on the date hereof) or
         enter into any contract, agreement, commitment or arrangement to do any
         of the foregoing;

                  (f) acquire, sell, lease or dispose of any assets outside the
         ordinary course of business or commit or agree to do any of the above;

                  (g) except as required by GAAP, change any of the accounting
         principles or practices used by it (provided that, prior to making any
         change required by GAAP, Enex shall inform Middle Bay in writing of the
         nature of such change);

                  (h) make any tax election or settle or compromise any tax
         liability;

                  (i) pay, discharge or satisfy any claims, liabilities or
         obligations (absolute, accrued, asserted or unasserted, contingent or
         otherwise), other than the payment, discharge or satisfaction in the
         ordinary course of business consistent with past practice or in
         accordance with their terms, of liabilities reflected or reserved
         against in, or specifically referred to in the Enex Financial
         Statements (or the notes thereto) or incurred in the ordinary course of
         business consistent with past practice;


                                     - 14 -


<PAGE>   121



         provided that in no event shall Enex and its Subsidiaries repay any
         indebtedness except to the extent required by the terms thereof;

                  (j) (i) acquire (by merger, consolidation or acquisition of
         stock or assets) any corporation, partnership or other business
         organization or division thereof; (ii) enter into any contract or
         agreement, other than contracts entered into in the ordinary course of
         business consistent with past practice with executory obligations not
         to exceed $150,000 in each case; (iii) authorize any capital
         expenditures in excess of $20,000; or (iv) enter into or amend any
         contract, agreement, commitment or arrangement with respect to any of
         the foregoing; or

                  (k) commit or agree in writing or otherwise to take any of the
         actions described in Section 7.1(a) through 7.1(j) or any action which
         would make any of the representations or warranties of Enex contained
         in this Agreement untrue or incorrect as of the date when made or would
         result in any of the conditions set forth in this Agreement not being
         satisfied.

         7.2 ACCESS TO INFORMATION. Between the date hereof and the Effective
Time, Enex will give Middle Bay and its authorized representatives reasonable
access to all employees, offices and other facilities and to all books and
records of Enex and its Subsidiaries, will permit Middle Bay to make such
inspections as they may reasonably require and will cause Enex's officers to
furnish Middle Bay and Middle Bay Acquisition with such financial and operating
data and other information with respect to the business and properties of Enex
as Middle Bay or Middle Bay Acquisition may from time to time request.

         7.3 ENEX SPECIAL STOCKHOLDERS' MEETING. As soon as practicable
following the date hereof, Enex shall assist in the preparation of a notice to
Enex Stockholders as required by Delaware Law relating to the Enex Special
Stockholders' Meeting to be included in the Form S-4 and shall otherwise assist
in the preparation of the Form S-4 to the extent requested by Middle Bay
(including assisting with the preparation of such audited financial statements
of Enex as are required for inclusion in the Form S-4) and shall cause such
meeting to be convened and the Enex Stockholders to vote with respect to this
Agreement and the Merger in accordance with the Form S-4.

         7.4 FULFILLMENT OF CLOSING CONDITIONS. At and prior to the Closing,
Enex shall use commercially reasonable efforts to fulfill the conditions
specified in Article X hereof to the extent that the fulfillment of such
conditions is then in its control. In connection with the foregoing, Enex will
(a) refrain from any actions that would cause any of its representations and
warranties to be inaccurate in any material respect as of the Closing, (b)
execute and deliver the agreements and other documents referenced in Section
10.3, (c) comply in all material respects with all applicable laws in connection
with its execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the Merger,
(d) use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain in a timely manner the Enex
Required Consents and (e) use commercially reasonable efforts to take or cause
to be taken all other actions and to do or cause to be done all of the things
reasonably necessary, proper or advisable to consummate and make effective as
promptly as practicable the Merger. Enex shall give Middle Bay prompt written
notice of any event or development that occurs or fails to occur (and that is
known to Enex) that gives Enex reason to believe the conditions set forth in
Section 10.3 will not be satisfied prior to the Termination Date.


                                     - 15 -


<PAGE>   122



         7.5 ACQUISITION PROPOSALS. Enex will not, and will use its best efforts
to cause its officers, directors, employees, representatives and agents not to,
initiate, encourage or solicit, directly or indirectly, any inquiries or the
making of any proposal with respect to or, except to the extent required by
their fiduciary duties, engage in negotiations concerning, provide any
confidential information or data to or have any discussions with any person
relating to any acquisition or purchase of all or any significant portion of the
assets of or any equity interest in Enex or any of its Subsidiaries or any
merger, consolidation or other business combination of Enex or any of its
Subsidiaries with any other Person. Enex represents that as of the date hereof,
it has ceased any and all existing activities, discussions or negotiations with
any parties conducted heretofore with respect to any of the foregoing. Enex
agrees to notify Middle Bay immediately if any such negotiations, provision of
confidential information or data or discussions are entered into or made or any
such inquiries are received in respect thereof and shall provide details with
respect thereto.

         7.6 RULE 145 AFFILIATES. Promptly after the date hereof, Enex shall
identify in a letter to Middle Bay all Persons who might, at the time of the
Enex Special Stockholders' Meeting, be deemed to be "affiliates" of Enex for the
purposes of Rule 145 under the Securities Act (the "Securities Act Affiliates")
and shall use its best efforts to cause each Person who is identified as a
possible Securities Act Affiliate to enter into, prior to the Effective Time, an
agreement in form and substance reasonably acceptable to Middle Bay pursuant to
which (i) each such Person acknowledges such Person's responsibilities as a
Securities Act Affiliate and (ii) agrees to comply with the security transfer
restrictions imposed by the Securities Act.

                                  ARTICLE VIII
                             COVENANTS OF MIDDLE BAY

         8.1 FULFILLMENT OF CLOSING CONDITIONS. At and prior to the Closing,
Middle Bay shall use commercially reasonable efforts to fulfill the conditions
specified in Article X hereof to the extent that the fulfillment of such
conditions is then in its control. In connection with the foregoing, Middle Bay
will (a) refrain from any actions that would cause any of its representations
and warranties to be inaccurate in any material respect as of the Closing, (b)
execute and deliver the agreements and other documents referenced in Section
10.2, (c) comply in all material respects with all applicable laws in connection
with its execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the Merger,
(d) use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain in a timely manner all
necessary waivers, consents and approvals required for the consummation of the
Merger and (e) use commercially reasonable efforts to take or cause to be taken
all other actions and to do or cause to be done all of the things reasonably
necessary, proper or advisable to consummate and make effective as promptly as
practicable the Merger. Middle Bay shall give Enex prompt written notice of any
event or development that occurs or fails to occur (and that is known to Middle
Bay) that gives Middle Bay reason to believe the conditions set forth in Section
10.2 will not be satisfied prior to the Termination Date.

         8.2 REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM S-4. Middle Bay shall prepare and
file with the SEC, as soon as reasonably practicable after the date hereof, a
registration statement on Form S-4 under the Securities Act for purposes of
registering the Middle Bay Common Stock to be issued in the Merger. Such
registration statement on Form S-4 and any amendments or supplements thereto are
referred to herein as the "Form S-4." The Form S-4 will also contain a proxy
statement and notice soliciting proxies from the Enex Stockholders with respect
to the Merger and providing all notices required with respect to the Enex
Special Stockholders'


                                     - 16 -


<PAGE>   123



Meeting. Middle Bay shall use commercially reasonable efforts to have the Form
S-4 declared effective under the Securities Act as promptly as practicable after
its filing. Middle Bay shall also take such action as may be reasonably required
to cause the shares covered by Form S-4 to be registered or to obtain an
exemption from registration under applicable state "blue sky" or securities
laws. Middle Bay covenants that the Form S-4 (i) will comply in all material
respects with the applicable provisions of the Securities Act and the rules and
regulations promulgated thereunder and (ii) will not at the time such document
is filed with the SEC or at any time after it becomes effective under the
Securities Act contain any untrue statement of any material fact or omit to
state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to
make the statements therein in light of the circumstances under which they were
made not misleading; provided that such covenant shall not apply to any
information related to Enex or provided by Enex for inclusion in the Form S-4.

         8.3 STOCK EXCHANGE LISTING. Middle Bay shall prepare and file an
application with the NASDAQ Stock Market to list on such exchange the Middle Bay
Common Stock issuable pursuant to the Merger effective as of the consummation of
the Merger and will use commercially reasonable efforts to cause such
application to be approved by such time.

                                   ARTICLE IX
                            COVENANTS OF THE PARTIES

         9.1 PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS. Middle Bay and Enex will consult with each
other, and Enex shall secure Middle Bay's consent before issuing any press
release or otherwise making any public statements with respect to this Agreement
and the Merger.

         9.2 FURTHER ASSURANCES. If, at any time after the Effective Time, any
further action is necessary or desirable to carry out the purposes of this
Agreement and to vest the Surviving Corporation with full right, title and
possession in and to all properties, interests, assets, rights, privileges,
immunities, powers and franchises of either of the Constituent Corporations, the
officers of the Surviving Corporation are fully authorized in the name of each
Constituent Corporation or otherwise to take, and shall take, all such lawful
and necessary action.

                                    ARTICLE X
                    CONDITIONS TO CONSUMMATION OF THE MERGER

         10.1 CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO EACH PARTY'S OBLIGATION TO EFFECT THE
MERGER. The respective obligations of each party to effect the Merger shall be
subject to the satisfaction at or prior to the Closing of the following
conditions:

                  (a) No statute, rule, regulation, executive order, decree,
         ruling or preliminary or permanent injunction shall have been enacted,
         entered, promulgated or enforced by any federal or state court or other
         governmental authority which prohibits, restrains, enjoins or restricts
         the consummation of the Merger.


                                     - 17 -


<PAGE>   124



                  (b) The Form S-4 shall have become effective, no stop order
         suspending the effectiveness of the Form S-4 shall then be in effect
         and no proceedings for that purpose shall then be threatened by the SEC
         or shall have been initiated by the SEC and not concluded or withdrawn.
         All state securities or blue sky permits or approvals required to carry
         out the Merger shall have been received.

                  (c) The Middle Bay Common Stock issuable in connection with
         the Merger shall have been duly approved for listing on the NASDAQ
         Stock Market.

                  (d) The Enex Stockholders shall have approved this Agreement
         and the Merger.

         10.2 CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO OBLIGATION OF ENEX TO EFFECT THE MERGER.
The obligation of Enex to effect the Merger shall be subject to the satisfaction
at or prior to the Closing of the following additional conditions:

                  (a) Middle Bay shall have performed in all material respects
         its obligations under this Agreement required to be performed by it at
         or prior to the Closing, and the representations and warranties of
         Middle Bay contained in this Agreement which are qualified with respect
         to materiality shall be true and correct in all respects, and such
         representations and warranties that are not so qualified shall be true
         and correct in all material respects, in each case as of the date of
         this Agreement and at and as of the Closing as if made at and as of
         such time, except as contemplated by this Agreement, and Enex shall
         have received a certificate of the Chairman of the Board, the President
         or the Chief Financial Officer of Middle Bay as to the satisfaction of
         this condition.

                  (b) Middle Bay shall have secured all waivers, consents and
         approvals necessary for the consummation of the Merger.

         10.3 CONDITIONS TO OBLIGATIONS OF MIDDLE BAY TO EFFECT THE MERGER. The
obligations of Middle Bay to effect the Merger shall be subject to the
satisfaction at or prior to the Closing of the following additional conditions:

                  (a) Enex shall have performed in all material respects its
         obligations under this Agreement required to be performed by it at or
         prior to the Closing, and the representations and warranties of Enex
         contained in this Agreement which are qualified with respect to
         materiality shall be true and correct in all respects, and such
         representations and warranties that are not so qualified shall be true
         and correct in all material respects, in each case as of the date of
         this Agreement and at and as of the Closing as if made at and as of
         such time, except as expressly disclosed by Enex Disclosure Letter or
         this Agreement, and Middle Bay shall have received a Certificate of the
         Chairman of the Board, the President or the Chief Financial Officer of
         Enex as to the satisfaction of this condition.

                  (b) Enex shall have secured all Enex Required Consents.


                                     - 18 -


<PAGE>   125



                                   ARTICLE XI
                         TERMINATION; AMENDMENT; WAIVER

         11.1 TERMINATION. This Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to
the Effective Time by written notice as set forth below:

                  (a) by mutual written consent duly authorized by the Board of
         Directors of each of Middle Bay and Enex;

                  (b) by either Middle Bay or Enex if the Merger shall not have
         been consummated on or before September 30, 1998 (the "Termination
         Date"); provided, however, that the right to terminate this Agreement
         under this Section 11.1 shall not be available to any party whose
         failure to fulfill any obligation under this Agreement has been the
         cause of, or resulted in, the failure of the Effective Time to occur on
         or before the Termination Date;

                  (c) by either Middle Bay or Enex if a court of competent
         jurisdiction or a governmental, regulatory or administrative agency or
         commission shall have issued an injunction (which injunction the
         parties shall use their best efforts to lift) that permanently
         restrains, enjoins or otherwise prohibits the Merger, and such
         injunction shall have become final and non-appealable;

                  (d) by Enex if Middle Bay shall have materially breached or
         failed to comply with any of its obligations under this Agreement or if
         any representation or warranty made by Middle Bay shall have been
         materially incorrect when made, and such breach, failure or
         misrepresentation is not cured within 20 days after notice thereof, and
         in either case, if any of such breaches, failures or
         misrepresentations, individually or in the aggregate, result or would
         reasonably be expected to result in a Middle Bay Material Adverse
         Effect; or

                  (e) by Middle Bay if Enex shall have materially breached or
         failed to comply with any of its obligations under this Agreement or if
         any representation or warranty made by it shall have been materially
         incorrect when made, and such breach, failure or misrepresentation is
         not cured within 20 days after notice thereof, and in each case, if any
         of such breaches, failures or misrepresentations, individually or in
         the aggregate, result or would reasonably be expected to result in an
         Enex Material Adverse Effect.

         11.2 EFFECT OF TERMINATION. In the event of the termination and
abandonment of this Agreement pursuant to Section 11.1, this Agreement shall
forthwith become void and have no further effect, without any liability on the
part of any party hereto or its affiliates, directors, officers or shareholders
 . Nothing contained in this Section 11.2 shall relieve any party from liability
for any willful breach of this Agreement.

         11.3 EXTENSION; WAIVER. At any time prior to the Closing, each party
hereto may (i) extend the time for the performance of any of the obligations or
other acts of the other party, (ii) waive any inaccuracies in the
representations and warranties of the other party contained herein or in any
document, certificate or writing delivered pursuant hereto or (iii) waive
compliance by the other party with any of the agreements or


                                     - 19 -


<PAGE>   126



conditions contained herein. Any agreement on the part of either party hereto to
any such extension or waiver shall be valid only if set forth in an instrument
in writing signed on behalf of such party. The failure of any party hereto to
assert any of its rights hereunder shall not constitute a waiver of such rights.

                                   ARTICLE XII
                                  MISCELLANEOUS

         12.1 AMENDMENT. This Agreement may not be amended except by an
instrument in writing signed on behalf of the parties hereto.

         12.2 NONSURVIVAL OF REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. Except for any
agreements to be performed in any part after the Effective Time, the
representations, warranties, covenants and other agreements contained herein and
in any certificate delivered pursuant hereto shall not survive beyond the
Effective Time or any termination of this Agreement.

         12.3 ENTIRE AGREEMENT; ASSIGNMENT. This Agreement and documents and
instruments referred to herein and therein (i) constitute the entire agreement
between the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof and
supersede all other prior agreements and understandings, both written and oral,
among the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and (ii) shall not
be assigned by operation of law or otherwise.

         12.4 VALIDITY. If any provision of this Agreement or the application
thereof to any person or circumstance is held invalid or unenforceable, the
remainder of this Agreement and the application of such provision to other
persons or circumstances shall not be affected thereby, and to such end, the
provisions of this Agreement are agreed to be severable.

         12.5 NOTICES. All notices, requests, claims, demands and other
communications hereunder shall be in writing and shall be given (and shall be
deemed to have been duly given upon receipt) by delivery in person, by cable,
telegram or telex, or by registered or certified mail (postage prepaid, return
receipt requested), to the other party as follows:

             If to Middle Bay:   Middle Bay Oil Company, Inc.
                                 1221 Lamar Street, Suite 1020
                                 Houston, Texas 77010
                                 Attention: John J. Bassett, President

             If to Enex:         Enex Resources Corporation
                                 800 Rockmead Drive
                                 Three Kingwood Place
                                 Kingwood, Texas 77339
                                 Attention: Stephen W. Herod, Vice President

or to such other address as the person to whom notice is given may have
previously furnished to the other in writing in the manner set forth above.


                                     - 20 -


<PAGE>   127


         12.6 GOVERNING LAW. Georgia law shall govern all issues concerning this
Agreement and the Merger, including without limitation the validity of this
Agreement, the construction of its terms and the interpretation and enforcement
of the rights and duties of the parties hereto.

         12.7 DESCRIPTIVE HEADINGS. The descriptive headings herein are inserted
for convenience of reference only and are not intended to be part of or to
affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement.

         12.8 PARTIES IN INTEREST. This Agreement shall be binding upon and
inure solely to the benefit of each party hereto and its successors and
permitted assigns, and nothing in this Agreement, express or implied, is
intended to or shall confer upon any other person any rights, benefits or
remedies of any nature whatsoever under or by reason of this Agreement.

         12.9 FURTHER ASSURANCES. The parties hereto shall execute and deliver
any and all documents and take any and all other actions that may be deemed
reasonably necessary by their respective counsel to complete the transactions
contemplated hereby.

         12.10 COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed in two or more
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which
shall constitute one and the same agreement.

         12.11 ASSIGNMENT. This Agreement shall not be assigned by any party
hereto without the prior written consent of the other parties hereto.

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the parties has caused this Agreement to be
executed on its behalf by its representatives thereunto duly authorized, all as
of the day and year first above written.

                                           MIDDLE BAY OIL COMPANY, INC.


                                           By: /s/ John J. Bassett
                                              ----------------------------------
                                              John J. Bassett, President



                                           ENEX RESOURCES CORPORATION


                                           By: /s/ Stephen W. Herod
                                              ----------------------------------
                                              Stephen W. Herod, Vice President


                                     - 21 -




<PAGE>   128



                                  APPENDIX II



                             DELAWARE CODE ANNOTATED
                              TITLE 8. CORPORATIONS
                       CHAPTER 1. GENERAL CORPORATION LAW
                     SUBCHAPTER IX. MERGER OR CONSOLIDATION


ss. 262  APPRAISAL RIGHTS.


(a)  Any stockholder of a corporation of this State who holds shares of stock on
     the date of the making of a demand pursuant to subsection (d) of this
     section with respect to such shares, who continuously holds such shares
     through the effective date of the merger or consolidation, who has
     otherwise complied with subsection (d) of this section and who has neither
     voted in favor of the merger or consolidation nor consented thereto in
     writing pursuant to ss. 228 of this title shall be entitled to an APPRAISAL
     by the Court of Chancery of the fair value of the stockholder's shares of
     stock under the circumstances described in subsections (b) and (c) of this
     section. As used in this section, the word "stockholder" means a holder of
     record of stock in a stock corporation and also a member of record of a
     nonstock corporation; the words "stock" and "share" mean and include what
     is ordinarily meant by those words and also membership or membership
     interest of a member of a nonstock corporation; and the words "depository
     receipt" mean a receipt or other instrument issued by a depository
     representing an interest in one or more shares, or fractions thereof,
     solely of stock of a corporation, which stock is deposited with the
     depository. 

(b)  APPRAISAL RIGHTS shall be available for the shares of any class or series
     of stock of a constituent corporation in a merger or consolidation to be
     effected pursuant to ss. 251 (other than a merger effected pursuant to
     ss. 251(g) of this title), ss. 252, ss. 254, ss. 257, ss. 258, ss. 263 or
     ss. 264 of this title: 

     (1)  Provided, however, that no APPRAISAL RIGHTS under this section shall
          be available for the shares of any class or series of stock, which
          stock, or depository receipts in respect thereof, at the record date
          fixed to determine the stockholders entitled to receive notice of and
          to vote at the meeting of stockholders to act upon the agreement of
          merger or consolidation, were either (i) listed on a national
          securities exchange or designated as a national market system security
          on an interdealer quotation system by the National Association of
          Securities Dealers, Inc. or (ii) held of record by more than 2,000
          holders; and further provided that no APPRAISAL RIGHTS shall be
          available for any shares of stock of the constituent corporation
          surviving a merger if the merger did not require for its approval the
          vote of the stockholders of the surviving corporation as provided in
          subsection (f) of ss. 251 of this title. 

     (2)  Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of this subsection, APPRAISAL RIGHTS
          under this section shall be available for the shares of any class or
          series of stock of a constituent corporation if the holders thereof
          are required by the terms of an agreement of merger or consolidation
          pursuant to ss. 251, 252, 254, 257, 258, 263 and 264 of this title to
          accept for such stock anything except: 

          a.   Shares of stock of the corporation surviving or resulting from
               such merger or consolidation, or depository receipts in respect
               thereof; 

<PAGE>   129

          b.   Shares of stock of any other corporation, or depository receipts
               in respect thereof, which shares of stock (or depository receipts
               in respect thereof) or depository receipts at the effective date
               of the merger or consolidation will be either listed on a
               national securities exchange or designated as a national market
               system security on an interdealer quotation system by the
               National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. or held of
               record by more than 2,000 holders; 

          c.   Cash in lieu of fractional shares or fractional depository
               receipts described in the foregoing subparagraphs a. and b. of
               this paragraph; or 

          d.   Any combination of the shares of stock, depository receipts and
               cash in lieu of fractional shares or fractional depository
               receipts described in the foregoing subparagraphs a., b. and c.
               of this paragraph. 

     (3)  In the event all of the stock of a subsidiary Delaware corporation
          party to a merger effected under ss. 253 of this title is not owned by
          the parent corporation immediately prior to the merger, APPRAISAL
          RIGHTS shall be available for the shares of the subsidiary Delaware
          corporation. 

(c)  Any corporation may provide in its certificate of incorporation that
     APPRAISAL RIGHTS under this section shall be available for the shares of
     any class or series of its stock as a result of an amendment to its
     certificate of incorporation, any merger or consolidation in which the
     corporation is a constituent corporation or the sale of all or
     substantially all of the assets of the corporation. If the certificate of
     incorporation contains such a provision, the procedures of this section,
     including those set forth in subsections (d) and (e) of this section, shall
     apply as nearly as is practicable. 

(d)  APPRAISAL RIGHTS shall be perfected as follows: 

     (1)  If a proposed merger or consolidation for which APPRAISAL RIGHTS are
          provided under this section is to be submitted for approval at a
          meeting of stockholders, the corporation, not less than 20 days prior
          to the meeting, shall notify each of its stockholders who was such on
          the record date for such meeting with respect to shares for which
          APPRAISAL RIGHTS are available pursuant to subsection (b) or (c)
          hereof that APPRAISAL RIGHTS are available for any or all of the
          shares of the constituent corporations, and shall include in such
          notice a copy of this section. Each stockholder electing to demand the
          APPRAISAL of his shares shall deliver to the corporation, before the
          taking of the vote on the merger or consolidation, a written demand
          for APPRAISAL of his shares. Such demand will be sufficient if it
          reasonably informs the corporation of the identity of the stockholder
          and that the stockholder intends thereby to demand the APPRAISAL of
          his shares. A proxy or vote against the merger or consolidation shall
          not constitute such a demand. A stockholder electing to take such
          action must do so by a separate written demand as herein provided.
          Within 10 days after the effective date of such merger or
          consolidation, the surviving or resulting corporation shall notify
          each stockholder of each constituent corporation who has complied with
          this subsection and has not voted in favor of or consented to the
          merger or consolidation of the date that the merger or consolidation
          has become effective; or
    
     (2)  If the merger or consolidation was approved pursuant to ss. 228 or ss.
          253 of this title, each constituent corporation, either before the
          effective date of the merger or consolidation or within ten days
          thereafter, shall notify each of the holders of any class or series of
          stock of such constituent corporation who are entitled to APPRAISAL
          RIGHTS of the approval of the 

<PAGE>   130


          merger or consolidation and that APPRAISAL RIGHTS are available for
          any or all shares of such class or series of stock of such constituent
          corporation, and shall include in such notice a copy of this section;
          provided that, if the notice is given on or after the effective date
          of the merger or consolidation, such notice shall be given by the
          surviving or resulting corporation to all such holders of any class or
          series of stock of a constituent corporation that are entitled to
          APPRAISAL RIGHTS. Such notice may, and, if given on or after the
          effective date of the merger or consolidation, shall, also notify such
          stockholders of the effective date of the merger or consolidation. Any
          stockholder entitled to APPRAISAL RIGHTS may, within 20 days after the
          date of mailing of such notice, demand in writing from the surviving
          or resulting corporation the APPRAISAL of such holder's shares. Such
          demand will be sufficient if it reasonably informs the corporation of
          the identity of the stockholder and that the stockholder intends
          thereby to demand the APPRAISAL of such holder's shares. If such
          notice did not notify stockholders of the effective date of the merger
          or consolidation, either (i) each such constituent corporation shall
          send a second notice before the effective date of the merger or
          consolidation notifying each of the holders of any class or series of
          stock of such constituent corporation that are entitled to APPRAISAL
          RIGHTS of the effective date of the merger or consolidation or (ii)
          the surviving or resulting corporation shall send such a second notice
          to all such holders on or within 10 days after such effective date;
          provided, however, that if such second notice is sent more than 20
          days following the sending of the first notice, such second notice
          need only be sent to each stockholder who is entitled to APPRAISAL
          RIGHTS and who has demanded APPRAISAL of such holder's shares in
          accordance with this subsection. An affidavit of the secretary or
          assistant secretary or of the transfer agent of the corporation that
          is required to give either notice that such notice has been given
          shall, in the absence of fraud, be prima facie evidence of the facts
          stated therein. For purposes of determining the stockholders entitled
          to receive either notice, each constituent corporation may fix, in
          advance, a record date that shall be not more than 10 days prior to
          the date the notice is given, provided, that if the notice is given on
          or after the effective date of the merger or consolidation, the record
          date shall be such effective date. If no record date is fixed and the
          notice is given prior to the effective date, the record date shall be
          the close of business on the day next preceding the day on which the
          notice is given.

(e)  Within 120 days after the effective date of the merger or consolidation,
     the surviving or resulting corporation or any stockholder who has complied
     with subsections (a) and (d) hereof and who is otherwise entitled to
     APPRAISAL RIGHTS, may file a petition in the Court of Chancery demanding a
     determination of the value of the stock of all such stockholders.
     Notwithstanding the foregoing, at any time within 60 days after the
     effective date of the merger or consolidation, any stockholder shall have
     the right to withdraw his demand for APPRAISAL and to accept the terms
     offered upon the merger or consolidation. Within 120 days after the
     effective date of the merger or consolidation, any stockholder who has
     complied with the requirements of subsections (a) and (d) hereof, upon
     written request, shall be entitled to receive from the corporation
     surviving the merger or resulting from the consolidation a statement
     setting forth the aggregate number of shares not voted in favor of the
     merger or consolidation and with respect to which demands for APPRAISAL
     have been received and the aggregate number of holders of such shares. Such
     written statement shall be mailed to the 

<PAGE>   131

     stockholder within 10 days after his written request for such a statement
     is received by the surviving or resulting corporation or within 10 days
     after expiration of the period for delivery of demands for APPRAISAL under
     subsection (d) hereof, whichever is later. 

(f)  Upon the filing of any such petition by a stockholder, service of a copy
     thereof shall be made upon the surviving or resulting corporation, which
     shall within 20 days after such service file in the office of the Register
     in Chancery in which the petition was filed a duly verified list containing
     the names and addresses of all stockholders who have demanded payment for
     their shares and with whom agreements as to the value of their shares have
     not been reached by the surviving or resulting corporation. If the petition
     shall be filed by the surviving or resulting corporation, the petition
     shall be accompanied by such a duly verified list. The Register in
     Chancery, if so ordered by the Court, shall give notice of the time and
     place fixed for the hearing of such petition by registered or certified
     mail to the surviving or resulting corporation and to the stockholders
     shown on the list at the addresses therein stated. Such notice shall also
     be given by 1 or more publications at least 1 week before the day of the
     hearing, in a newspaper of general circulation published in the City of
     Wilmington, Delaware or such publication as the Court deems advisable. The
     forms of the notices by mail and by publication shall be approved by the
     Court, and the costs thereof shall be borne by the surviving or resulting
     corporation. 

(g)  At the hearing on such petition, the Court shall determine the stockholders
     who have complied with this section and who have become entitled to
     APPRAISAL RIGHTS. The Court may require the stockholders who have demanded
     an APPRAISAL for their shares and who hold stock represented by
     certificates to submit their certificates of stock to the Register in
     Chancery for notation thereon of the pendency of the APPRAISAL proceedings;
     and if any stockholder fails to comply with such direction, the Court may
     dismiss the proceedings as to such stockholder. 

(h)  After determining the stockholders entitled to an APPRAISAL, the Court
     shall appraise the shares, determining their fair value exclusive of any
     element of value arising from the accomplishment or expectation of the
     merger or consolidation, together with a fair rate of interest, if any, to
     be paid upon the amount determined to be the fair value. In determining
     such fair value, the Court shall take into account all relevant factors. In
     determining the fair rate of interest, the Court may consider all relevant
     factors, including the rate of interest which the surviving or resulting
     corporation would have had to pay to borrow money during the pendency of
     the proceeding. Upon application by the surviving or resulting corporation
     or by any stockholder entitled to participate in the APPRAISAL proceeding,
     the Court may, in its discretion, permit discovery or other pretrial
     proceedings and may proceed to trial upon the APPRAISAL prior to the final
     determination of the stockholder entitled to an APPRAISAL. Any stockholder
     whose name appears on the list filed by the surviving or resulting
     corporation pursuant to subsection (f) of this section and who has
     submitted his certificates of stock to the Register in Chancery, if such is
     required, may participate fully in all proceedings until it is finally
     determined that he is not entitled to APPRAISAL RIGHTS under this section.

(i)  The Court shall direct the payment of the fair value of the shares,
     together with interest, if any, by the surviving or resulting corporation
     to the stockholders entitled thereto. Interest may 


<PAGE>   132

     be simple or compound, as the Court may direct. Payment shall be so made to
     each such stockholder, in the case of holders of uncertificated stock
     forthwith, and the case of holders of shares represented by certificates
     upon the surrender to the corporation of the certificates representing such
     stock. The Court's decree may be enforced as other decrees in the Court of
     Chancery may be enforced, whether such surviving or resulting corporation
     be a corporation of this State or of any state. 

(j)  The costs of the proceeding may be determined by the Court and taxed upon
     the parties as the Court deems equitable in the circumstances. Upon
     application of a stockholder, the Court may order all or a portion of the
     expenses incurred by any stockholder in connection with the APPRAISAL
     proceeding, including, without limitation, reasonable attorney's fees and
     the fees and expenses of experts, to be charged pro rata against the value
     of all the shares entitled to an APPRAISAL. 

(k)  From and after the effective date of the merger or consolidation, no
     stockholder who has demanded his APPRAISAL RIGHTS as provided in subsection
     (d) of this section shall be entitled to vote such stock for any purpose or
     to receive payment of dividends or other distributions on the stock (except
     dividends or other distributions payable to stockholders of record at a
     date which is prior to the effective date of the merger or consolidation);
     provided, however, that if no petition for an APPRAISAL shall be filed
     within the time provided in subsection (e) of this section, or if such
     stockholder shall deliver to the surviving or resulting corporation a
     written withdrawal of his demand for an APPRAISAL and an acceptance of the
     merger or consolidation, either within 60 days after the effective date of
     the merger or consolidation as provided in subsection (e) of this section
     or thereafter with the written approval of the corporation, then the right
     of such stockholder to an APPRAISAL shall cease. Notwithstanding the
     foregoing, no APPRAISAL proceeding in the Court of Chancery shall be
     dismissed as to any stockholder without the approval of the Court, and such
     approval may be conditioned upon such terms as the Court deems just. 

(l)  The shares of the surviving or resulting corporation to which the shares of
     such objecting stockholders would have been converted had they assented to
     the merger or consolidation shall have the status of authorized and
     unissued shares of the surviving or resulting corporation.
<PAGE>   133
                                     PART II

                   INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN THE PROSPECTUS



ITEM 20.  INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS

         Section 10-2A-21 of the Alabama Business Corporation Act provides as
follows:

         (a) A corporation shall have power to indemnify any person who was or
is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or
completed claim, action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal,
administrative or investigative, including appeals (other than an action by or
in the right of the corporation), by reason of the fact that he is or was a
director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation or is or was serving at
the request of the corporation as a director, officer, partner, employee or
agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other
enterprise, against expenses (including attorneys' fees), judgments, fines and
amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by him in connection
with such claim, action, suit or proceeding if he acted in good faith and in a
manner he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of
the corporation and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no
reasonable cause to believe his conduct was unlawful. The termination of any
claim, action, suit or proceeding by judgment, order, settlement, conviction or
upon a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent shall not, of itself, create a
presumption that the person did not act in good faith and in a manner which he
reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the
corporation, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had
reasonable cause to believe that his conduct was unlawful.

         (b) A corporation shall have power to indemnify any person who was or
is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or
completed claim, action or suit by or in the right of the corporation to procure
a judgment in its favor by reason of the fact that he is or was a director,
officer, employee or agent of the corporation or is or was serving at the
request of the corporation as a director, officer, partner, employee or agent of
another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise
against expenses (including attorneys' fees) actually and reasonably incurred by
him in connection with the defense or settlement of such action or suit if he
acted in good faith and in a manner he reasonably believed to be in or not
opposed to the best interests of the corporation and except that no
indemnification shall be made in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to
which such person shall have been adjudged to be liable for negligence or
misconduct in the performance of his duty to the corporation unless and only to
the extent that the court in which such action or suit was brought shall
determine upon application that, despite the adjudication of liability but in
view of all circumstances of the case, such person is fairly and reasonably
entitled to indemnity for such expenses which such court shall deem proper.

         (c) To the extent that a director, officer, employee or agent of a
corporation has been successful on the merits or otherwise in defense of any
action, suit or proceeding referred to in subsections (a) and (b) of this
section, or in defense of any claim, issue or matter therein, he shall be
indemnified against expenses (including attorneys' fees) actually and reasonably
incurred by him in connection therewith, notwithstanding that he has not been
successful on any other claim, issue or matter in any such action, suit or
proceeding.

                                     II - 1


<PAGE>   134



         (d) Any indemnification under subsections (a) and (b) of this section
(unless ordered by a court) shall be made by the corporation only as authorized
in the specific case upon a determination that indemnification of the director,
officer, employee or agent is proper in the circumstances because he has met the
applicable standard of conduct set forth in subsections (a) and (b) of this
section. Such determination shall be made (1) by the Board of Directors by a
majority vote of a quorum consisting of directors who were not parties to, or
who have been wholly successful on the merits or otherwise with respect to, such
claim, action, suit or proceeding, or (2) if such a quorum is not obtainable or,
even if obtainable, a quorum of disinterested directors so directs, by
independent legal counsel in a written opinion, or (3) by the shareholders.

         (e) Expenses (including attorneys' fees) incurred in defending a civil
or criminal claim, action, suit or proceeding may be paid by the corporation in
advance of the final disposition of such claim, action, suit or proceeding as
authorized in the manner provided in subsection (d) of this section upon receipt
of an undertaking by or on behalf of the director, officer, employee or agent to
repay such amount if and to the extent that it shall be ultimately determined
that he is not entitled to be indemnified by the corporation as authorized in
this section.

         (f) The indemnification authorized by this section shall not be deemed
exclusive of and shall be in addition to any other right (whether created prior
or subsequent to the enactment of this section) to which those indemnified may
be entitled under any statute, rule of law, provisions of articles of
incorporation, bylaw, agreement, vote of shareholders or disinterested
directors, or otherwise, both as to action in his official capacity and as to
action in another capacity while holding such office and shall continue as to a
person who has ceased to be a director, officer, employee or agent and shall
inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors and administrators of such person.

         (g) A corporation shall have power to purchase and maintain insurance
on behalf of any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of
the corporation or is or was serving at the request of the corporation as a
director, officer, partner, employee or agent of another corporation,
partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise against any liability
asserted against him and incurred by him in any such capacity or arising out of
his status as such, whether or not the corporation would have the power to
indemnify him against such liability under the provisions of this section.

         Article IX of the Articles of Incorporation of registrant provides as
follows:

                  "(a) The Corporation shall indemnify any person who was or is
a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or
completed claim, action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal,
administrative or investigative, including appeals (other than an action by or
in the right of the Corporation) by reason of the fact that an individual is or
was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation, or is or was
serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, partner,
employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or
other enterprise, against expenses (including attorneys' fees), judgments, fines
and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by such
individual in connection with such claim, action, suit or proceeding if he acted
in good faith and in a manner he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to
the best interests of the Corporation and, with respect to any criminal action
or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his conduct was unlawful. The
termination of any claim, action, suit or proceeding by judgment, order,
settlement, conviction or upon a plea of nolo


                                     II - 2


<PAGE>   135



contendere or its equivalent shall not, of itself, create a presumption that the
person did not act in good faith and in a manner which he reasonably believed to
be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation and, with respect
to any criminal action or proceeding, had reasonable cause to believe that his
conduct was lawful.

                  (b) The Corporation shall indemnify any person who was or is a
party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or
completed claim, action or suit by or in the right of the Corporation to procure
a judgment in its favor by reason of the fact that the person is or was a
director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation, or is or was serving at
the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, partner, employee or
agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other
enterprise against expenses (including attorneys' fees) actually and reasonably
incurred by such person in connection with the defense or settlement of such
action or suit if he acted in good faith and in a manner he reasonably believed
to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation and except that
no indemnification shall be made in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to
which such person shall have been adjudged to be liable for negligence or
misconduct in the performance of his duty to the Corporation, unless and only to
the extent that the court in which such action or suit was brought shall
determine upon application that, despite the adjudication of liability but in
view of all circumstances of the case, such person is fairly and reasonably
entitled to indemnity for such expenses which the court shall deem proper.

                  (c) To the extent that a director, officer, employee or agent
of a corporation has been successful on the merits or otherwise in defense of
any action, suit or proceeding referred to in subsections (a) and (b) of this
Section IX or in defense of any claim, issue or matter therein, he shall be
indemnified against expenses (including attorneys' fees) actually and reasonably
incurred by him in connection therewith, notwithstanding that he has not been
successful on any other claim, issue or matter in any such action, suit or
proceeding.

                  (d) Any indemnification under subsections (a) and (b) of this
Section IX (unless ordered by a court) shall be made by the Corporation only as
authorized in the specific case upon a determination that indemnification of the
director, officer, employee or agent is proper in the circumstances because he
has met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in subsections (a) and (b)
of this Section. Such determination shall be made (1) by the Board of Directors
by a majority vote of a quorum consisting of directors who were not parties to,
or who have been wholly successful on the merits or otherwise with respect to,
such claim, action, suit or proceeding, or (2) if such quorum is not obtainable
or, even if obtainable, a quorum of disinterested directors so directs, by
independent legal counsel in a written opinion, or (3) by the shareholders.

                  (e) Expenses (including attorneys' fees) incurred in defending
a civil or criminal claim, action, suit or proceeding may be paid by the
Corporation in advance of the final disposition of such claim, action, suit or
proceeding as authorized in the manner provided in subsection (d) of this
Section upon receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of the director, officer,
employee or agent to repay such amount if and to the extent that it shall be
ultimately determined that he is not entitled to be indemnified by the
Corporation as authorized in this Section.

                  (f) The indemnification authorized by this Section shall not
be deemed exclusive of and shall be in addition to any other right (whether
created prior or subsequent to the adoption of this Section) to


                                     II - 3


<PAGE>   136
which those indemnified may be entitled under any statute, rule of law, bylaw,
agreement, vote of shareholders or disinterested directors, or otherwise, both
as to action in his official capacity and as to action in another capacity while
holding such office, and shall continue as to a person who has ceased to be a
director, officer, employee or agent and shall inure to the benefit of the
heirs, executors and administrators of such a person.

                  (g) The Corporation shall have the power to purchase and
maintain insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a director, officer,
employee or agent of the Corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the
Corporation as a director, officer, partner, employee or agent of another
corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, against any
liability asserted against him and incurred by him in any such capacity or
arising out of his status as such, whether or not the Corporation would have the
power to indemnify him against such liability under the provisions of this
Section."

ITEM 21.  EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

         The Exhibits filed as part of this Registration Statement are as
follows:

              EXHIBIT NO.                    DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBIT
              -----------                    ----------------------

                  2.1                   Agreement and Plan of Merger between 
                                        Middle Bay Oil Company, Inc. and Enex 
                                        Resources Corporation dated June 17, 
                                        1998 (filed as Appendix I to the 
                                        prospectus).

                  3.1                   Articles of Incorporation(1)

                  3.2                   Articles of Amendment to Articles of 
                                        Incorporation reflecting reverse
                                        split(2)

                  3.3                   Articles of Amendment to Articles of
                                        Incorporation designating prefer ences
                                        and rights of Series A Preferred
                                        Stock(3)

                  3.4                   Articles of Amendment to Articles of
                                        Incorporation designating prefer ences
                                        and rights of Series B Preferred
                                        Stock(4)

                  3.5                   Articles of Amendment to Articles of 
                                        Incorporation increasing authorized
                                        capital stock(5)

                  3.6                   Articles of Amendment to Articles of 
                                        Incorporation increasing authorized
                                        capital stock(6)

                  3.7                   Bylaws(1)

   
                  5.1                   Opinion of Thrasher, Whitley, Hampton &
                                        Morgan as to legality of the
                                        common stock registered hereunder
    



                                     II - 4
<PAGE>   137
   
                  8.1                   Opinion of Thrasher, Whitley, Hampton &
                                        Morgan as to federal income tax
                                        consequences of the merger 
    

                 10.1                   Executive Employment Agreement for 
                                        John J. Bassett dated January 30, 
                                        1997(13)

                 10.2                   Executive Employment Agreement for 
                                        Robert W. Hammons dated January 30, 
                                        1997(13)

                 10.3                   Executive Employment Agreement for 
                                        Stephen W. Herod dated July 1,
                                        1997(13)

                 10.4                   1995 Stock Option and Stock 
                                        Appreciation Rights Plan(7)

                 10.5                   Amended and Restated 1995 Stock Option 
                                        and Stock Appreciation Rights Plan(5)

                 10.6                   Amendment No. 1 to Amended and Restated
                                        1995 Stock Option and Stock 
                                        Appreciation Rights Plan(6)

                 10.7                   Credit Agreement between registrant and
                                        Enex Resources Corporation, as borrower,
                                        and Compass Bank, as agent and a lender,
                                        Bank of Oklahoma, N.A., as a lender, and
                                        the other lenders signatory thereto,
                                        dated March 27, 1998(8)

                 10.8                   Asset Purchase Agreement among 
                                        registrant, Service Drilling Co., L.L.C.
                                        and Diamond S Gas Systems, L.L.C. dated
                                        April 15, 1998(9)

   
                 10.9                   Consulting Agreement between Gerald B. 
                                        Eckley and registrant dated April 15, 
                                        1998*
    

                 11.1                   Statement regarding computation of 
                                        per-share earnings(10)

                 21.1                   Subsidiaries of registrant*

                 23.1                   Consent of Thrasher, Whitley, Hampton &
                                        Morgan (included in Exhibit 5.1)

   
                 23.2                   Consent of Schultz, Watkins & Company, 
                                        independent accountants*

                 23.3                   Consent of Deloitte & Touche, LLP, 
                                        independent accountants*

                 24.1                   Power of Attorney (included on     
                                        signature page)*
    



                                     II - 5
<PAGE>   138
                 99.1                   Form of Rights Agreement dated as of 
                                        September 4, 1990 between Enex Resources
                                        Corporation's predecessor-in-interest, 
                                        Enex Resources Corporation, a Colorado 
                                        corporation, and American Securities 
                                        Transfer, Incorporated, as rights agent,
                                        which includes as exhibits thereto the 
                                        Form of Rights Certificate and the 
                                        Summary of Rights to Purchase Common
                                        Stock as amended on April 12, 1994(11)

                 99.2                   Amendment to Rights Agreement dated 
                                        March 17, 1998 between Enex Resources 
                                        Corporation and American Securities 
                                        Transfer, Incorporated(12)

   
                 99.3                   Form of Proxy for Enex's shareholders

*  Filed previously
    

(1)   Incorporated by reference to exhibits to registrant's Registration
      Statement on Form S-4 filed October 4, 1993.

(2)   Incorporated by reference to exhibit A to registrant's definitive Proxy
      Statement filed February 15, 1995.

(3)   Incorporated by reference to exhibit 99.2 to registrant's Form 8-K
      filed September 19, 1996. (4) Incorporated by reference to exhibit C to
      the Agreement and Plan of Merger among registrant, Shore Acquisition
      Company, Shore Oil Company and its shareholders filed as exhibit 2.1 to
      registrant's Form 8-K filed July 3, 1997.

(5)   Incorporated by reference to exhibits to registrant's definitive Proxy
      Statement filed May 5, 1997.

(6)   Incorporated by reference to exhibits to registrant's definitive Proxy
      Statement filed May 15, 1998.

(7)   Incorporated by reference to exhibit A to registrant's definitive Proxy
      Statement filed May 11, 1995.

(8)   Incorporated by reference to exhibits to Amendment No. 3 and Final
      Amendment to registrant's Schedule 14D-1 filed April 13, 1998.

(9)   Incorporated by reference to exhibits to registrant's Form 8-K filed
      May 6, 1998.

(10)  Incorporated by reference to exhibits to registrant's Form 10-KSB/A
      filed May 15, 1998.

(11)  Incorporated by reference to exhibits to registrant's Form 8-K filed
      September 4, 1990 by Enex Resources Corporation, and to exhibits to
      Form 8-K filed April 12, 1994 by Enex Resources Corporation.

(12)  Incorporated by reference to exhibits to registrant's Form 8-K filed
      March 20, 1998.

(13)  Incorporated by reference to exhibits to registrant's Form 10-KSB filed
      March 31, 1998.

         The registrant agrees to provide to the Commission, upon request,
copies of instruments defining the rights of holders of long-term debt of the
registrant and its consolidated subsidiaries and for any unconsolidated
subsidiaries for which financial statements are required to be filed with the
Commission.

                                     II - 6
<PAGE>   139



ITEM 22.  UNDERTAKINGS

         The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes:

         (1) To file, during any period in which offers or sales are being made,
a post-effective amendment to this registration statement:

                  (i) To include any prospectus required by Section 10(a)(3) of
         the Securities Act of 1933;

                  (ii) To reflect in the prospectus any facts or events arising
         after the effective date of the registration statement (or the most
         recent post-effective amendment thereof) which, individually or in the
         aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the information set forth
         in the registration statement; and

                  (iii) To include any material information with respect to the
         plan of distribution not previously disclosed in the registration
         statement.

         (2) That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the
Securities Act of 1933, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be
a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the
offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona
fide offering thereof.

         (3) To remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment
any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the termination of
the offering.

         (4) That prior to any public reoffering of the securities registered
hereunder through use of a prospectus which is a part of the registration
statement, by any person or party who is deemed to be an underwriter within the
meaning of Rule 145(c), the issuer undertakes that such reoffering prospectus
will contain the information called for by the applicable registration form with
respect to reofferings by persons who may be deemed underwriters, in addition to
the information called for by the other items of the applicable form.

         (5) That every prospectus (i) that is filed pursuant to paragraph (4)
immediately preceding, or (ii) that purports to meet the requirements of Section
10(a)(3) of the Act and is used in connection with an offering of securities
subject to Rule 145, will be filed as a part of an amendment to the registration
statement and will not be used until such amendment is effective, and that, for
purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each
such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new registration statement
relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities
at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

         (6) Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the
Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling
persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise,
the registration has been advised that, in the opinion of the Securities and
Exchange Commission, such indemnification is against public policy as expressed
in the Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for
indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the
registrant in the

                                     II - 7


<PAGE>   140


successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such
director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being
registered, the registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter
has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate
jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public
policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of
such issue.

         (7) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes to respond to requests
for information that is incorporated by reference into the prospectus pursuant
to Items 4, 10(b), 11 or 13 of this Form, within one business day of receipt of
request, and to send the incorporated documents by first class mail or other
equally prompt means. This includes information contained in documents filed
subsequent to the effective date of the registration statement through the date
of responding to the request.

         (8) The undersigned hereby undertakes to supply, by means of a
post-effective amendment, all information concerning a transaction, and the
company being acquired involved therein, that was not the subject of and
included in the registration statement when it became effective.

                                     II - 8




<PAGE>   141
                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement to be signed
on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of
Houston, State of Texas, on this 13th day of July, 1998.

                                     MIDDLE BAY OIL COMPANY, INC.



                                     By:  /s/ John J. Bassett
                                        ---------------------------------------
                                         John J. Bassett
                                         Chairman of the Board of Directors
                                         President and Chief Executive Officer




     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed below by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated:



<TABLE>
<S>                                               <C>                                      

               *
- -----------------------------------------
          John J. Bassett
Director, President, Chief Executive and 
         Operating Officer               
    

               *
- -----------------------------------------
           C. J. Lett, III
 Executive Vice President and Director


               *                                  By: /s/ John J. Bassett
- -----------------------------------------            ------------------------------------------
        Stephen W. Herod                                         John J. Bassett
    Vice President and Director                          Pursuant to a Power of Attorney


               *                                  Dated: July 13, 1998
- -----------------------------------------
        Edward P. Turner, Jr.
             Director


               *
- -----------------------------------------
       Frank E. Bolling, Jr.
             Director


               *
- -----------------------------------------
        Gary R. Christopher
             Director 


               *
- -----------------------------------------
          Alvin V. Shoemaker
             Director
</TABLE>


                                      II-9

<PAGE>   1
                                                                     Exhibit 5.1



                                  LAW OFFICES
                       THRASHER, WHITLEY, HAMPTON & MORGAN
                           A PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION
                            FIVE CONCOURSE PARKWAY
                                   SUITE 2150
                             ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30328
                                   ----------
                            TELEPHONE (770) 804-8000
                            FACSIMILE (770) 804-2255
                              E-mail: [email protected]

                                        

                                  July 10, 1998

Middle Bay Oil Company, Inc.
1221 Lamar Street, Suite 1020
Houston, TX 77010

Gentlemen:

         We have acted as counsel for Middle Bay Oil Company, Inc., an Alabama
corporation ("Middle Bay"), in connection with the registration, pursuant to a
Registration Statement on Form S-4 filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission (the "Registration Statement") under the Securities Act of 1933 (the
"Act"), of up to 655,316 shares of Middle Bay's common stock, $0.02 par value
per share ("Middle Bay Common Stock"), to be issued to the holders of common
stock, $.05 par value per share, of Enex Resources Corporation ("Enex"), in
connection with the proposed merger of Enex with Middle Bay (the "Merger").

         In rendering this opinion, we have examined the corporate records of
Middle Bay, including its Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, Bylaws and
minutes of meetings of its directors or written consents in lieu thereof. We
have also examined (i) the Agreement and Plan of Merger dated June 17, 1998
among Middle Bay and Enex (the "Merger Agreement"), (ii) the Registration
Statement, together with the exhibits thereto, and (iii) such other documents as
we have deemed necessary for the purposes of expressing the opinions contained
herein. With respect to certain factual matters, we have relied on statements of
executive officers of Middle Bay.

         Based upon the foregoing, we are of the opinion that the shares of
Middle Bay Common Stock to be issued to the holders of common stock of Enex in
consideration of the Merger are duly authorized and, when issued and delivered
as described in the Merger Agreement, will be validly issued, fully paid and
nonassessable.

         We hereby consent to the filing of this opinion with the Securities and
Exchange Commission as an exhibit to the Registration Statement and consent to
the use of our name in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus forming a part of the
Registration Statement under the caption "Legal Matters." In giving this
consent, we do not thereby admit that we are within the category of persons
whose consent is required under Section 7 of the Act and the rules and
regulations promulgated thereunder.

                                          Sincerely,



                                      /s/ THRASHER, WHITLEY, HAMPTON & MORGAN
                                          -----------------------------------
                                          THRASHER, WHITLEY, HAMPTON & MORGAN
                                          A PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION

HGT/km





<PAGE>   1
                                                                     Exhibit 8.1



                                  LAW OFFICES
                       THRASHER, WHITLEY, HAMPTON & MORGAN
                           A PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION
                            FIVE CONCOURSE PARKWAY
                                   SUITE 2150
                             ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30328
                                   ----------
                            TELEPHONE (770) 804-8000
                            FACSIMILE (770) 804-2255
                              E-mail: [email protected]



                                  July 10, 1998

Middle Bay Oil Company, Inc.
1221 Lamar, Suite 1020
Houston, TX 77010


Gentlemen:

         You have requested our opinion with respect to the disclosures relating
to the material federal income tax consequences generally applicable to the
receipt by stockholders of Enex Resources Corporation ("Enex") of shares of
common stock of Middle Bay Oil Company, Inc. ("Middle Bay Common Stock") in
connection with the proposed merger of Enex with Middle Bay (the "Merger") as
described in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus relating to the Merger (the "Proxy
Statement/ Prospectus") forming a part of the Registration Statement on Form S-4
(the "Registration Statement") being filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission under the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Act").

         It is our opinion that the discussions and legal conclusions set forth
in the Proxy Statement/ Prospectus under the heading "The Merger - Certain
Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Merger" are accurate and complete in all
material respects and constitute our opinion of the material tax consequences to
stockholders of Enex receiving Middle Bay Common Stock in the Merger and to the
surviving corporation of the Merger.

         Our opinion is based and conditioned upon the initial and continuing
accuracy of the factual matters assumed as set forth in the Proxy
Statement/Prospectus. Our opinion is also based upon existing provisions of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Regulations promulgated thereunder
and interpretations thereof by the Internal Revenue Service and the courts, all
of which are subject to change with prospective or retroactive effect, and our
opinion could be adversely affected or rendered obsolete by any change.

         We hereby consent to the filing of this opinion as an exhibit to the
Registration Statement and consent to the use of our name in the Proxy
Statement/Prospectus under the captions "The Merger - Certain Federal Income Tax
Consequences of the Merger" and "Legal Matters." In giving this consent, we do
not thereby admit that we are within the category of persons whose consent is
required under Section 7 of the Act and the rules and regulations promulgated
thereunder.

                                            Sincerely,



                                        /s/ THRASHER, WHITLEY, HAMPTON & MORGAN
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            THRASHER, WHITLEY, HAMPTON & MORGAN
                                            A PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION

HGT/km





<PAGE>   1
   
                                                                    EXHIBIT 99.3

                                      PROXY

              THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF
                           ENEX RESOURCES CORPORATION

         The undersigned, a shareholder of record of Enex Resources Corporation
(the "Company"), hereby appoints John J. Bassett and Stephen W. Herod, and each
of them, with power of substitution, to represent and to vote all of the shares
of the Company which the undersigned is entitled to vote at the Special Meeting
of Shareholders of the Company to be held at 1221 Lamar Street, Suite 1020,
Houston, Texas, on Friday, August 14, 1998 at 10:00 a.m. Central Daylight Time,
and at any adjournment or adjournments thereof, hereby revoking all proxies
heretofore given with respect to such shares; and the undersigned hereby
instructs said proxy to vote all such shares of stock at the Special Meeting in
accordance with the following instructions: (INDICATE BY CHECK MARK)

I.   PROPOSAL TO APPROVE THE MERGER AGREEMENT DATED JUNE 17, 1998 BETWEEN
     THE COMPANY AND MIDDLE BAY OIL COMPANY, INC.

        [ ] FOR               [ ] AGAINST               [ ]  ABSTAIN

II.  OTHER MATTERS

      WITH discretionary authority           WITHOUT AUTHORITY
      to vote upon any other matters [ ]     to vote upon any other matters [ ]

         Shareholders approving the proposals set forth herein should mark the
"For" box herein; those opposing such action should register their position by
marking the appropriate "Against" or "Abstain" box herein or by not returning
this Proxy Form. SIGNED BUT UNMARKED PROXY FORMS WILL BE DEEMED TO AUTHORIZE A
VOTE "FOR" THE PROPOSALS SET FORTH HEREIN.

         The invalidity, illegality or unenforceability of any particular
provision of this Proxy Form shall be construed in all respects as if such
invalid, illegal or unenforceable provision were omitted without affecting the
validity, legality or enforceability of the remaining provisions hereof.

             YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT. IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO ATTEND THE
             ANNUAL MEETING, PLEASE COMPLETE, SIGN, DATE AND RETURN
                  THIS PROXY FORM, USING THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE.


         PLEASE SIGN BELOW EXACTLY AS NAME APPEARS ON THIS PROXY FORM. If shares
are registered in more than one name, the signatures of all such persons are
required. A corporation should sign in its full corporate name by a duly
authorized officer, stating his title. Trustees, guardians, executors and
administrators should sign in their official capacity, giving their full title
as such. If a partnership, please sign in the partnership name by authorized
persons. The undersigned acknowledges receipt of the Notice of said Special
Meeting and the Proxy Statement dated July 15, 1998 by signing this Proxy.


- -                                  -


                                       ----------------------------------------
                                       (Number of Shares)
    (Paste mailing label from
       Transfer Agent here)

- -                                  -

                                       ----------------------------------------
                                       (Signature of Shareholder)





                                       ----------------------------------------
                                       (Additional Signatures, if held jointly)





                                       ----------------------------------------
Dated:  _________________, 1998        (Title or Authority, if applicable)
    


© 2022 IncJournal is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission