Club News from November Meeting
thanks to Joe Noffey
DUES, DUES, DUES must be paid at or before the Jan, 2005 meeting, if you are changing your Boater or Non-boater status from last year please let Craig Nels know when you give him your check !!!
Gander Mountain 's “Partners Night” will be Sunday Nov. 14 th from 4PM – 7PM , ALL Club members and Jr. members are invited, 10% of all sales to Salt City Bassmasters will be returned to the Club.
Sports Show dates Jan. 21 – 23, 2005 at the Center of Progress Building, NYS Fairgrounds, we need STUFF for the Tackle Box Raffle, bring your STUFF to up coming meetings.
Nominations for “Sportsman of the Year” award must be in writing and handed in at the Dec. meeting.
Craig Terpening will look into purchasing 12 new (heavy duty) weigh-in bags for the 2005 season, Craig will also pick the 2005 Tournament Committee, this will change (as voted on) from 3 to 4 each of Boaters and Non-boaters, names will be announced at the Dec. meeting.
Start thinking about Club Sponsors for 2005, also the Jr. Club is looking for Sponsors, contact Mickey Fortunato with Jr. Club info.
Honeywell will give a presentation at the Dec. meeting on the Onondaga Lake Clean-up progress.
Tournament Bodies of Water for 2005 are: Chaumont Bay , Oneida Lake , Cayuga Lake , 1000 Ils., Sodus Bay , Seneca Lake , tournament dates will be announced as soon as they are available.
Thank you to Scott Broeker for his donation of Tackle boxes to the Jr. Club, also Thank you to Bob Rudeau for his donation of SU Football game tickets for the 50/50 raffle at The Nov. meeting.
At the recent “Brian Rayle Go-Anywhere Tournament” we had 21 boats fishing, it took over 25 lb. of fish to win, congrats to Bob Rudeau and his brother for the win.
Also at the 1 st CLUB CLASSIC Tournament held in Oct. congrats go to Mike Cusano, winner on the Boater side and Jesse Herbert winner on the Non-boater side, the Tournament was held on Oneida Lake.
November 30 th will put an end to the 2004 Bass season, I believe the 2004 season was one of the BEST in Club history both with angler participation and weights brought to the scales.
Club News from October Meeting
thanks to Joe Noffey
• The 2004 Points Tournament season is over: Angler of the Year – Bob Mabee , Non-Boater of the Year – Tom Pavlot , Rookie of the Year – Frank Guarascio , Lunker of the Year – (6 lb. 8 oz.) Carl Moore , Most Improved (31 places) Tom Pavlot . The 2005 CTC members are: Bob Mabee, Ed Liddard, Tom Pavlot, Jesse Herbert, Joe Spicer, Carl Moore , alternates are: Bob Rudeau, Scott Allen.
• Our last Points Tourn. of the year was held at Sodus Bay, Club Pres. Mike Cusano had a winning bag of Largies weighing 13 lb. 1 oz., 2 nd place saw Rich Dodge cash his first Club check with a weight of 11 lb. 11 oz., Bob Mabee finished 3 rd with a 11 lb. 3 oz. bag, and Bob Rudeau was 4 th with 10 lb. 15 oz., Mike Cusano also had Lunker with a 4 lb. 2 oz. Largie.
• The Boater/Boater issue has been resolved by the Tournament Committee, by a unanimous vote the following will take place: “ only allowing a boater to be paired boater/boater a second time, after all other boaters have first been paired boater/boater “ !
• The Club's first CLASSIC Tournament will be held Sun. Oct. 17 th at Oneida Lake . Weigh in at 3:00pm .
• The Brian Rayle “ Go Anywhere “ Tournament will be held Sun. Oct. 31 st , meet at the B'ville. Diner between 4:45 and 5:00am, 2 team members only, $50.00/ boat, $10.00 Lunker fee(optional), weigh-in at 3:00pm at Coopers Marina, all Club rules apply !
• There were no elections held, all Officers ran unopposed with exception of the Treasurer, Ed Flick stepped down and Craig Nels was nominated and ran unopposed, THANK YOU, Ed, for your time and effort !!
• A deciding vote was taken at the Oct. Meeting on what to do with the winnings from the CTC, by a 28 – 10 margin the money will be split between the CTC members and Salt City Bassmasters, this will be entered into the Clubs By-laws in the appropriate section.
• Don't forget Club dues MUST be paid by or at the Jan. 2005 meeting, you must also declare your position as to Boater or Non-boater.
• Start thinking about the SPORTS SHOW, we will need tackle to support our “Tackle Box Raffle”, remember this is the Clubs biggest money maker, everyones help is needed.
• Weigh-in slips have been purchased, 1000 at a cost of $125.00 to the Club, these will greatly reduce the chance of errors at our Tournament weigh-ins.
• The new Gander Mtn . store in Cicero will be hosting a “Partners Night” in the near future. All CNY Bass Clubs will be invited and a 10% payback of total Club purchases will be returned to each Club. An exact day and time will be posted on the Clubs web site when it becomes available.
• And a big THANK YOU to Chris Bowes for all the “STUFF” he sent ( via Dick Sessions ) for the 50/50 raffle at the Clubs Oct. meeting.
Jesse Herbert Lights Up Chaumont Bay
Moore lands 6-8 lunker to take over lead in that category
Not many times will you see a club event where 17 lbs. is only good for 4 th place or where 14+ lbs. doesn't crack the top 10. On August 29 th , second year member Jesse Herbert out dueled 47 other anglers by bringing a limit of smallmouth bass that weighed 18-2. Jesse caught his fish on top water and senkos off of a sand/rock and sparsely scattered weed flat that dropped from 6' to 14'. Congratulations Jesse on that big bag of smallies and in getting your first club win.
Second place was claimed by Ralph Alexander. Ralph found his fish some 3 weeks earlier and nervously awaited the tournament day to see if they were still there. He didn't have long to wait, although he did have to share his spot with a couple other Salt City anglers that found the same fish. Ralph was able to catch 17-6 worth of smallies and garner second place. Third place went to last years AOY, Scott Allen who is making a dramatic charge to try and reclaim his title he earned last year caught a pile of largemouth bass that went 17-1. In fourth place, Steve Houseknecht brought in a huge bag of largemouths at 17 lbs even. Great bag Steve doesn't seem right that it was only worth 4 th place. Rounding out the top 5 was Randy Lamanche with 16 lbs even. Randy was the boater with tournament winner Jesse Herbert and the two worked together to find those nice smallies.
Tournament lunker and now the leading Lunker of the Year was a 6 lb. 8oz. short and extremely rotund largemouth taken by Carl Moore. Carl only had 4 fish, but they went 15-15. Lunker came on white senko.
Please go to the schedule/results section to see all the results. There is only one tournament left and none of the races have been decided yet. The club's last event, Sodus Bay , will be interesting to say the least!!
cus
Club News from August Meeting
By Joe Noffey
• Congrats go to Club Tournament Director Craig Terpening, Craig will be fishing in Sept. on Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire with the “NYSBCF Divisional Team”, at the “ 2004 Citgo BASS Federation Eastern Divisional ”. Craig qualified for the event thru the 4 NYSBCF points Tournaments during the 2003 season and finished in 13 th place over all.
• At the Sept. meeting “ Officer Nominations ” will take place, elections will follow in Oct..
• The Clubs 30 th Anniv. Picnic will take place at Oneida Shores, Sun. Sept. 19 th , 12:00pm – 6:00pm, everyone is welcome to come, Jr. Club members as well as past Club members, the Aspen Pavilion has been reserved, free parking, bring a dish to pass, contact Dick Wescott or Ron Holt with any questions.
• The Club paid a $85.00 Registration fee to maintain its “Domain Name” for the next 5 years.
• August 28 th the Jr. Club will have a “ cast from shore ” Tournament at Onon. Lake , Mickey is looking for some help.
• Chaumont Bay Tourn. is set for Sun. Aug. 29 th , launch – 5:30am , blast – 6:30am , weigh-in – 2:30pm .
• Drawing for the Sodus Bay Tournament will take place at the Sept. meeting, last “points” Tournament of the year.
• THANK YOU to Club members Joe Spicer for once again getting the “Shirts” for the “CTE” members, and Ron Kelly for taking care of the “Embroidery” on the shirts.
• Cell # change – Jacob Volcko : 657-8038.
• Black Lake Tourn . 7/17/ 04 - Club Rookie Dave Ottman wins, Dave weighed in 5 LM'S weighing 15 lb. 3 oz., he caught on Crankbaits and Senkos, Bob Mabee finished 2 nd with 4 LM's and 1 Smallie with a weight of 14 lb. 14 oz., Bob caught on a Drop Shot rig, Rob Gofferdo was 3 rd with 5 LM'S weighing 14 lb. 5 oz., Rob caught on a Spinnerbait and Senko, Ed Liddiard came in 4 th with 3 LM'S and 2 Smallies weighing 12 lb. 11 oz., Ed caught on Senkos and a Spider Grub, Dave Ottman also had Lunker – 5 lb. 5 oz. LM.
• 1000 Ils . 7/18/04 – Another Club Rookie wins, Carl Stewart , Carl weighed in 5 LM'S at 12 lb. 5 oz., Carl caught on a Senko, 2 nd place went to Mike Fragola , Mike had 5 LM'S weighing 11 lb. 3 oz., he caught on Spinnerbaits, plastic worms and senkos, in 3 rd place was Bob Mabee , Bob had 4 LM'S and 1 Smallie weighing 9 lb. 13 oz., Bob caught on a Drop Shot rig and Senko, 4 th place saw Dick Wescott bring 9 lb. 11 oz. to the scale with 4 LM'S and 1 Smallie, Dick caught on a Plastic worm, Lunker was caught by Jesse Herbert, a 5 lb. 4 oz. LM.
• Redfield Res . 8/1/04 – Roger Stahl wins with 5 LM's weighing 12 lb. 13 oz., Roger caught on Top Water and soft plastics, Ron Kelly was 2 nd with 5 LM's weighing 10 lb. 7 oz., Ron caught with a Tube, Bob Rudeau came in 3 rd with 5 LM'S weighing 9 lb. 13 oz., Bob caught on a Spinnerbait, Joe Spicer , 4 th with 4 LM's and 1 Smallie weighing 9 lb. 6 oz., Bob Rudeau had a 4 lb. 7 oz. Lunker.
Roger Stahl's Two-Bait Approach Bests Redfield Reservoir
Bob Rudeau take home lunker and 3rd place
Everyone has go to baits and for long time member Roger Stahl a zara spook and a soft plastic stick bait (be it a Sluggo or a Senko) are always going to be tied on. Roger used his two favorite baits to fool a 5 bass limit of largemouth weighing 12 - 13 out of basically one large weedbed. Roger and his partner had steady action throughout the day when others basically stuggled to find big fish.
Redfield "expert" Ron Kelly (hey he "guided" me to a win out of the back of his boat a couple years ago), still hasn't lost his touch on the Res,though the bait changed from his normal jig/pig to a tube the result was good enough for a limit weighing 10 - 7. Third place and lunker went to Bob Rudeau who apparently is going to need to stop shopping for Drew at Bass Pro Shops long enough to buy a few more of a "certain" kind of spinnerbait. Seems he only had the one productive bait on board, which left his partner for the day scrambling to try and match it. Never seems to work out!! Bob caught 9 - 13 in largemouth including the tournament lunker a 4 - 7 beauty. His other 4 fish came "packed in oil" but somehow measured!
Rounding out the top 4 was Joe "no I haven't fallen of the face of the earth" Spicer. Apparently Joe hasn't forgotten how to catch fish as he fooled 4 largemouth and 1 smallmouth that weighed 9 -6 into going for a boat ride.
cus
Another Club Rookie Wins; Carl Stewart Unlocks the Islands
Club veteran, Mabee, claims overall two-day title
Two tournaments in two days and we had two club rookies win their first events. Not sure that is all that fair, what happened to “paying your dues”?? Oh well. Carl Stewart was able to figure out how to catch some stubborn 1000 Island bass on the second day of the club's TWO-DAY event. He caught most of his 5 fish 12-2 limit on soft plastic stick baits in shallow water next to downed trees.
Second place went to Mike Fragola who used a wacky rigged Senko to fool most of his 11-3 limit. Mike targeted shallow water weeds. Bob Mabee needed his entire bag of tricks fishing the 1000 Islands to catch his limit of 9-13 earning him 3 rd place. Fourth place went to Dick Wescott who used a “firetiger” floating worm in shallow lily pads and weeds to bring in a 9-11 bag. Rounding out the top 5 was Ed Liddiard who overcame some navigational issues (beached his boat on a huge rock) to coax a limit of fish out of shallow water on both a wacky and Texas rigged Senko. Ed fished the Senko around a variety of cover lily pads, boat docks, downed trees, and milfoil beds.
2 nd year club member, Jesse Herbert did manage to find one “pretty good one” to claim lunker honors for the day. Jesse caught a 5 lb 4 oz largemouth that ate a topwater bait early in the day.
The club's Two-Day event is really two one day tournaments as far as Angler of the Year points are concerned, but the payout is based on the anglers combined weight for both days. As such, those that fish consistently well are typically the highest finishers. This year was no exception. Bob Mabee who had a 2 nd place finish on Day 1 and a 3 rd place finish on Day 2 claimed the overall Two-Day title with 24-11. Something of interest is back in 1999 the club fished the exact same combination of waters and Bob Mabee was the overall champion back then as well.
Ed Liddiard used two consistent finishes to leap frog over some heavier day one weights to claim 2 nd place overall with 22-2. Buoyed by a strong first day, Dave Ottman held onto 3 rd place overall with 18-15. Fourth place went to Jesse Herbert who had 18 -7. Rounding out the top 5 overall was Eric Barker, 17-11.
cus
Why Wait? Club Rookie Dave Ottman Wins 2nd Event of the Season
Also catches 5 lb. 5 oz. largemouth for tournament lunker
Black Lake fishes much differently earlier in the season prior to getting the green thick algae bloom that helps promote the name “ BLACK LAKE ”. The club weights were very good and numerous fish in the 13 – 14 ½” size range were caught. Too bad they have to be 15” to keep. One angler that had no trouble with the size limit was a club rookie, who apparently doesn't want to wait to long in making his mark in Salt City .
Dave Ottman buoyed by his 5 th place finish at the club's opener, figured it would be better to step it up a couple of notches at Black Lake on July 17, 2004 . Dave caught a tournament limit of largemouth on a variety of crankbaits and soft plastics good enough for first place (15-3).
Ottman's showing at Black gave him a slim lead after day one of the club's “TWO DAY” tournament. Bob Mabee was in second place 5 ozs behind with a limit that weighed 14-14. Bob caught his fish in scattered rock/milfoil on a drop shot. Third place was claimed by Rob Goffredo with a 14-5 limit. With the majority of Rob's fish coming on “anything black and blue” in a matted over patch of milfoil and lily pads.
After day one fourth place was held down by Ed Liddiard with a mixed bag going 12-11. Rounding out the top 5 was Tom Pavlot,12-8.
cus
July Meeting News
courtesy of Joe Noffey
CLUB NEWS
Tournament Director Craig Terpening and his Tournament Committee are in the process of compiling information from Club members as to a solution to the Boater/Boater issue, please attend the August meeting if you wish to voice your opinion, the Tournament Committee will then meet and decide what course of action is best for the entire Club.
June 27 th the Club held its 1 st Bass Tourn. of the 2004 season, Oneida Lake was her usual self with high winds and rough water, there were also numerous other Tournaments going on that day. Joe Noffey weighed in a 14 lb. 6 oz. bag of Largemouths for his 1 st Club win. Scott Allen had a mixed bag weighing 13 lb. 7 oz. for 2 nd place, Craig Terpening was a close 3 rd with 13 lb. 5 oz. and Paul Ruterman cashed his 1 st check with a 12 lb. 12 oz. bag good for 4 th place. Scott Allen also had Lunker with a Largemouth weighing 4 lb. 14 oz.
At the July meeting, 3 Tournaments were drawn for – Black Lake , 1000 Isl ., (those two are this years 2 day event), and Redfield Res ., all information pertaining to these Tournaments is on the Club's Web Site !!
Tournament Director Craig Terpening is working on a set of “aerated” tanks to be used at future weigh-ins.
The Club's 30 th Anniversary Party committee is looking at 2 possible dates, Sun. Sept. 5 th or Sun. Sept 19 th - Ron Holt / Kelly Holt , Dick Wescott / Paula Wescott are taking charge of this event, Jr. members are invited as are all past Club members – get the word out when a final date is secured.
The Wednesday night Tournaments are in full flight right now, averaging about 16 boats per night .
All members please make note of this Roster and Cell# change for Club member Ed Liddiard : [H] 776-5696, [C] 730-5696.
Youth Director Mickey Fortunato is looking for help from Club Boaters for the Jr. Mr. & Miss Tournament being held on Oneida Lake Sunday Aug. 15, launch time is 6:00am .
Trailblazer Adventures in conjunction with NYSBCF is looking for Club member participation to help with seminars for Youths on Fishing Activities, these will take place on Saturday Oct. 2 nd in Albany NY , and Saturday Oct . 30 th in Buffalo NY , Mickey Fortunato will be the contact if you are interested in helping.
The Salt City Jr. Bassmasters are actively seeking Sponsors, any help will be appreciated !!
Noffey takes First for his First
Last year's AOY and runner up for AOY were right on his heels
At the club's first bass points tournament of the year, club VP-Secretary Joe Noffey was able to find a limit of bass that weighed 14 lbs. 6 ozs helping him claim his first ever Salt City Bassmasters win. Joe used his lake experience to find fish during what was for the most part a tough fishing day. Congratulations Joe on getting your first club victory!
Second and Third place anglers are no strangers to success with the club. Scott Allen last year's club Angler of the Year managed 13 lbs. 7 ozs. to claim second place and the tournament lunker a 4 lb. 14 oz. largemouth. Mr. Second, Craig Terpening, (who has finished in the Angler of the Year Runner up spot the past 3 seasons) got off to a good tournament season with a limit that weighed 13 lbs. 5 ozs and was good for a third place finish.
Paul Ruterman found 12 lbs. 12 ozs. of fish to claim forth place and cash his first club check. Good job Paul. Rounding out the top 5 is another former club AOY, Bob Mabee. Bob worked hard but was able to cox 12 lbs. 8 ozs. of fish into his livewells.
While the overall weights may not be as high as expected, a significant number of fish were caught. 63 anglers brought 192 fish to the scales and out of the 63 only 2 anglers failed to weigh any fish (1 was DQ'd due to motor trouble but even he caught some fish).
The weigh-in site was absolutely crazy with the multiple tournaments going on, and everybody made the best of it. Nice job to the tournament committee!
To see the results go to the Schedule/Results section of the website. Keep an eye out for the photo's they will be posted within a week.
The non-boater of the year race is pretty tight with Joe Noffey claiming first and Paul Ruterman taking forth. The Rookie of the Year race is also pretty tight. However Dave Ottman got his Salt City career off to a good start by cashing a check in his first bass points events. Nice job Dave!!
The 2004 under “21” hot shot rookies have some definite ground to make up against the 2003 under 21 “sophomore” class, but a few good draws and keeping some fish buttoned can help their cause in a heart beat.
One final note: Club Rookie: Mike “MEAT” McKay who was concerned that the weigh-in bags weren't going to be big enough to keep his monstrous sack of fish alive did manage to catch at least two little one (although no way did he need two weigh-in bags for those fish, unless of course they were sandwich bag sized)….. Remember MEAT, don't zip!!!
cus
Club's July 1st Meeting at the Fire Side Inn
Bring $75 entry fees to sign up for next 3 tournaments
This Thursday will mark the first club meeting at the Fire Side Inn (off of Route 370 in Baldwinsville). Please get their early to support the Fire Side Inn by having a few beverages and some food!! Remember they give us the facility for no charge we need to support them!
Very important make sure you sign up or contact the tournament director, Craig Terpening 345-6006 or other club officers (or worse case another club member) to get signed up for the Black Lake, Saturday July 17th, 1000 Islands Sunday July 18th, AND the Redfield Reservoir, August 1st. Remember do not just send an email or leave a message on an answering machine. You need confirmation that your message was received. Also, while you can tell another club member, if he forgets to tell us that doesn't get you in (that only works if you told an officer and that officer confirmed back he got the message). As always payment is expected at time of sign up and it makes it easier to keep track of the paperwork.
If you do not make the meeting and forget to let the tournament director or a club officer know that you would like to fish, then you will have probably destroyed any chance you have of making the club team. Remember we allow anglers to drop their worst two events, so even if you had a bad Oneida Lake, everybody is still in the hunt for AOY and other awards.
SEE YOU AT THE FIRESIDE!!!
cus
Salt City's First Bass Points Event in 4 Days
Please contact your partner
This Sunday, June 27th at Oneida Shores the club will be holding its first bass points event of the 2004 season. YEE HAA!
With that if you have not yet spoken to your partner you need to do so immediately. Several members were not at the meeting and you may have been paired boater to boater so you will need to determine which boat will be used along with gas expenses and boat operation schedules. DO NOT JUST ASSUME YOU ARE A BOATER!!!! We had 5 boater/boater pairings.
Reminder the ramp is located in Brewerton off of Bartell Road (the west end of the lake). You must be there and ready to go at 5:30 as there is a tournament group launching ahead of us and a tournament group launching after us. DO NOT SIT AROUND AND CHIT CHAT... We have 30+ boats to launch in 30 minutes which as long as everybody keeps moving is not a problem.
Also once you have your partner we will be doing the send off from the area outside the pin buoys in front of the beach, (which is to the east (head right going outside the pin buoys) of the ramp. There may be other boats that are not in our tournament so do not just mill around in everybodies way. Find your partner and move over to the area in front of the beach.
Make sure you have your life jackets and kill switch fastened anytime the big motor is in gear. Please check that your plug is in and your boat straps are unhooked... LETS MAKE THIS GO SMOOTHLY.
DO NOT ASSUME your non-boater knows how to drive your vehicle or back up a boat... make sure you ask. non-boater if you don't know how to do this stuff or don't fee comfortable doing it: make sure you say something!!! Experienced people, please help keep everybody moving (pull people out and park vehicles if necessary).
YOU CAN NOT LOCK THROUGH!!! **NOTE: Because of multiple tournaments leaving Oneida Shores, the tournament director has made the launch ramp area offlimits for a 50 yard radius from the outside ramp wall to the shore lines on either side. Fishing in this area will lead to your disqualification. **
Lastly have fun and be safe... if you have any questions you can contact club tournament director Craig Terpening, 345-6006 or Joe Noffey 451-3852.
see you Sunday!!!
cus
BASS SEASON OPENS TOMORROW!!!!
Almost seven months between when bass season was open
The long wait every NY resident experiences that does not have catch and release waters in their region is over with starting tomorrow!!
BASS SEASON IS OPEN STARTING AT 12:01 am TONIGHT ....
Get out and enjoy yourselves, remember to be safe and courteous on the waterways as your actions reflect not just yourself, but your club members, federation members, and BASS members throughout the nation. BE THE BEST YOU CAN BE!!!!!
Let's hear some fishing reports come Monday!!! We have 16 club members signed up to fish the NYSBCF Cayuga Lake open and I'm sure a bunch more will be practicing for Oneida Lake. Those of you that practice the lake, you can send me your GPS coordinates of where the fish are by clicking here.... (kidding....!!)
cus
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY SALT CITY BASSMASTER!!!
Today is the day that Salt City Bassmasters was official formed as a club with B.A.S.S.
Much like my marriage anniversary I almost forgot this one... today is a big day for Salt City members past and present. This is the day the club was officially chartered with B.A.S.S. by 6 members. I'm sure they would be proud of what they started looking at the work Salt City does in promoting bass fishing, protecting the environment, and working with the youth of the community.
Great accomplishment and I look forward to the next 30 years and the club's party (which is being officially planned by our assigned banquet committee) If you have any interest in helping out with the banquet please contact Kelly Holt (315) 626-2155 or email at Kholt@melvinlaw.com or Paula Wescott at Paula Wescott (315) 678-2787 or email at pwescott@baldcom.net .
Ideas or suggestions can be provided on the club's message board as well!!
cus
Inaugural Salt City Bassmasters Golf Outing
Thirteen bass anglers chase a white ball on dry land
Fisherman golfing?? Talk about a bad combination... yet that is what 13 Salt City members did at Green Valley's par 71 course on Saturday June 5th. The format was captain and crew so we had 3 teams (2 foursomes and 1 fivesome). The winning team shot 6 under par including an eagle on the first hole a 471 yard par 5. The winning team consisted of Ralph Alexander, Dave Celi, Randy Lamanche, and Roger Stahl (who prior to this event had never played golf, in fact he had to borrow clubs). In addition to shooting the best round, their team collected 4 "skins".
The remaining two teams tied at 4 under par. Team 2 consisted of Dominick Maio, Dave Rusczyk, Jacob Volcko, Larry Arnold, and Joe Maloof (another person that has never golfed). Team 3 consisted of Mike "Meat" McKay, Mike Cusano, Rob Goffredo, and Eric Barker. Both of these teams collected 3 "skins" each.
Long Drive on the front side went to Larry Arnold and Eric Barker knocked it 17' 4" on #4 to get closest to the pin honors. The back side Mike Cusano claimed long drive and Randy Lamanche claimed closest to the pin.
Everybody had a great time and special thanks to Dan at Green View (which also runs Green Valley) for squeezing us in and taking care of us!! It really was fun and maybe next year we can have someone work on getting us some prizes and get more of you out there. Captain and Crew is a great format for those that have never golfed, you can go and just swing away!!
cus
Club News from June Meeting
submitted by Joe Noffey
• ATTENTION ALL CLUB MEMBERS : The July meeting and ALL future meetings will be held at the FIRESIDE INN , address is below left !!!
• The Clubs annual “Catch & Release” Walleye Tournament was held May 16 th , near perfect weather conditions greeted 30 Club anglers, only 4 limits were caught and only 14 anglers weighed in at least 1 fish, Ralph Alexander won his 1 st tournament with a weight of 12lb. 2oz (3 fish limit)., he also took Lunker with a 4lb. 11oz. eye, Craig Terpening took home 2 nd place with a 9lb. 13oz. bag, Club Rookie Scott Broeker was 3 rd with 8lb. 1oz. and Mike Wall 4 th with 7lb. 10oz..
• All “boaters ” fishing the Clubs June 27 th Bass tournament on Oneida Lake MUST have a “ Launch Pass ” obtained from Tournament Director Craig Terpening PRIOR to the event – Craig can be reached at 452-4672 or 345-6006 .
• Off limits for the June 27 th bass Tourn. are: no lock thru at either end of the lake, cannot be on the water from midnight June 20 th – launch time, no fishing within 50 yds. of ramp. Launch will be at 5:30am , staging for “blast off” will be to the right of the ramp in front of the beach houses, because of the number of boats (31) and the time it will take to get ready for “blast off” the weigh-in time will be announced on the water before “blast off” !!
• ALL members of the CTE should make an effort to be at the July meeting, immediately following the regular meeting there will be a round table discussion with CTE members to solidify plans for the upcoming event. Also there is a form that needs to be filled out by all CTE members and sent in to the Fed. before Aug. 1 st to avoid a late penalty, Craig Terpening has the forms, please contact him to get one soon.
• The Tournament Rules have been updated on the Clubs Web site – anyone not familiar with them should read them before fishing a Club Tournament.
• The Clubs Digital Scale has been returned for a rebuild, hopefully they will be back for our 1 st tourn..
• The Club Classic will be Oct. 17 th , top 12 boaters and non-boaters will compete, boaters against boaters, same for non-boaters, “location” will be drawn at the meeting prior to the event, determined by entrants placing ballots into a hat, $25.00 entry fee.
• A short talk was given at the June meeting by Club Sponsor Kevin Ierlan (All State Ins.), just to remind boaters and non-boaters of their Insurance needs for safe boating and fishing, Kevin represents a full service Insurance Co., try to support him and all our Sponsors .
• One of the new Rod and Reels from BASSMASTERS was donated to the Club by local Sports Writer J. Michael Kelly and raffled off to Club members with proceeds going to the Salt City Jrs., Jeff Edgarton was the lucky winner.
Tournament Rules Finalized Last Night
4 additions/modifications were made by tournament director and the tournament committee
You can print out the most current tournament rules by clicking on Tourny Rules from the club's main web menu or by clicking here
The additions/modification for the 2004 rules are highlighted below:
Rule 12, section F. added
Rule 17, modified section A. Boats may be used that are 16 feet or longer in length. Any motor that is at least 40 HP and does not exceed the maximum horsepower shown on the U.S. Coast Guard rating plate, which must be affixed to each boat, can be used. The plate must be the original, installed at the factory. (PENALTY - DISQUALIFICATION OF THE BOAT).
Rule 17, added section D. Boats must be equipped with an electronic trolling motor (foot or hand controlled).
Those are the rule changes enacted for the 2004 bass points season... it is your responsibility as a club member to know all of the rules. Please print out a copy of the tournament rules and keep them handy...
cus
Oneida Lake Pairings Are Posted
31 boats are fishing the club's opening bass points event
Right now everyone is tied for Angler of the Year... and 61 contestants are going after some fun and fish at the club's first bass points tournament of the season on June 27th at Oneida Shores Park off of Bartell Road, Brewerton. This is a huge turnout for the club and we are very excited about it.
Just wanted to stress safety and remind all club members and bass anglers that your actions on the waterways reflect not only yourself or the club but all bass anglers in general. So in following the NYSBCF's theme, I'm asking you all to "BE THE BEST YOU CAN BE!"
Reminder: you must have a boat launch coupon to enter the park, so boaters if you haven't already you need to contact Craig Terpening to pay for you pass and get a coupon PRIOR to the tournament day. Craig can be reached by phone at 345-6006 or by email. Do not delay in getting your launch coupon(**non-boaters it is in your best interest to follow up with your boaters to make sure they have the launch coupon**)
Please note the offlimits for this event and the tournament waters as the tournaement director has put the ramp area offlimits to fishing. Failure to know the tournament offlimits can lead to your disqualification should you violate them. Not attending the meeting is not an excuse for not knowing the tournament rules and offlimits.
cus
First Club Tournament: Oneida Lake, Sign-Up at the June 3rd Meeting (or call tournament director before hand)
If you plan on fishing, you need to get signed up at the Turner's Club on June 3rd
This Thursday marks the first sign up for a 2004 Salt City Bassmaster's bass points tournament... if you can't make the meeting and you plan on fishing you need to contact the club's tournament director, Craig Terpening at 345-6006 to tell him that you want to be included in the partner draw for Oneida Lake on June 27th. This event is open to only current Salt City Bassmaster members... and with a membership cap at 80 and we have 79 members... only room for one more boater (remember club boater/non-boater ratio).
Please do yourself a favor, if you think you don't know where the Turner's Club is, think you may have to go to the emergency room to have a hook removed from your big toe, or whatever "excuse" you can come up with, you need to sign up before hand with Craig. A phone call "after" the tournament drawing, or a message left does not warrant your getting into the tournament. You need to personally speak to the tournament director or club officer stating your intention to fish and whether you are a boater/non-boater (or you better have a confirming email saying you are all signed up)... Boaters plan on fishing boater unless you have an emergency situation with your boat, not knowing a body of water is not an emergency.
At the meeting bring your $25 entry fee (so that we can deposit the money and hand out checks)... AND in order to receive your launch pass which will get you into the Oneida Shores Ramp, you MUST pay for your launch fee on Thursday. Failure to pay, means you will have to meet up with the tournament director or his designee before you can even get into the park and launch... That fee is $6.50...
Let's make this run smoothly...
cus
New York State BASS Chapter Federation, Cayuga Lake Tournament Deadline Fast Approaching
Entries must be post marked by June 6th
The first state federation tournament of the year will be taking place on Sunday June 20th, at Cayuga Lake. Those anglers that desire to qualify for the 2005 NY State BASS Eastern Divisional Team, will need to compete in this event to have any shot at being in the top 10 overall standings at the end of the season.
If you haven't already sign up for the NYSBCF opener, your entries need to be sent to Sharon Rice and post marked no later than June 6th, else you will face a $25 late registration fee. Trust me, the NYSBCF does not waiver on this...
Right now the sign up from Salt City members is a little on the low side, but I feel pretty confident that by June 6th there will be a good number of Salt City members fishing the event. For those of you that have never fished a federation event and are looking for a good event to fish, Cayuga could be a good place to start.
For more information about the Cayuga Lake tournament you can click here... if you haven't filled out an tournament entry form click here to access the NYSBCF's tournament entry form
2004 NYSBCF Tournament Entry Form (fill one out for each event you are fishing)
2004 NYSBCF Membership Form (must be file with the NYSBCF for each member)
See you on the water!!
cus
What a Great Time!! The SCBM's Fishing Field Trip at the Carpenter's Brook Fish Hatchery
The most fun you can have fishing without ever wetting a line!!
Imagine if you will having never gone fishing and having the first fish you catch be a 6+ lb. rainbow trout, or imagine catching by yourself 23 trout in a little over 2 1/2 hours of fishing. These were just some of the experiences at the Salt City Bassmasters' Barnabas Center Fishing Field Trip held on May 22 nd at the Carpenter's Brook Fish Hatchery.
Fifteen children from the Salvation Army's Barnabas Center (city of Syracuse ) were treated to an all around good time and some great fishing thanks to the Salt City Bassmasters, the Carpenter's Brook Fish Hatchery (CBFH), and the Friends of the CBFH.
In an effort to show some inner-city youths the joys of fishing, the Salt City Bassmasters (SCBM) set up a Fishing Field Trip with the help of the Friend's of Carpenter's Brook Fish Hatchery, in particular, Stephen Wowelko. Through Stephen the club was able to work directly with the CBFH and the CBFH's superintendent, Walt Zelie to get this particular group of children access to fish at the Time Out to Fish Pond that is at the CBFH.
To make sure all the kids were able to fish at the pond the SCBM's purchased brand new fishing poles and reels for each of the children to use. Afterwards the SCBM's gave each of the kids in attendance the rods and reels to keep and use for their own fishing adventures. In addition both the Friends of the CBFH and the SCBM's purchased hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, soda, and ice cream sandwiches for the kids to eat at lunch time.
After lunch, the kids were given a tour of the hatchery and got to see first hand some of the large breeding stock of trout as well as feed some of the trout in the tanks. Chuck Lewis a worker from the hatchery did a great job in showing the Barnabas Center kids how Onondaga County supplies the local waterways with 3 species of trout, tiger musky, and even some pheasants. During the event a local DEC conservation officer stopped by to talk to the kids as they were fishing.
Afterwards the tour the kids were obviously eager to get back to some fishing. We are happy to report that every child caught at least 2 fish and the majority caught 6 or more fish. Every child had their name submitted to the NYS DEC's First Fish Program to recognize their catches.
The program was an unbelievable success thanks in part to the large number of volunteers from Salt City Bassmasters and their families/friends. Pat Grady, Katrina Grady (who filled out all the DEC First Fish certificates), Mickey Fortunato, Craig Terpening, Derrick Terpening, Ron Kelly, Dave Celi, Mike McKay, Joe Maloof, Mark Williams, Tim Jones, Ralph Alexander, Bill Mahyna, Karen Cusano and Mike Cusano.
A very special thank you to Stephen Wowelko of the Friends of the Carpenter's Brook Fish Hatchery for helping to coordinating the event, supplying food and paper products, and for cooking all the food!! Stephen was instrumental in putting this all together.
Lastly, thanks to the Carpenter's Brook Fish Hatchery, Walt Zelie and Chuck Lewis for all the work they did in getting the pond ready for the kids and for opening the area up to the Barnabas Center children.
If you look at the pictures on the club's website (click here to see pictures), it will become evident very quickly what a great time the children and the volunteers had.
Can't wait until we can do something like this again!!!
Mike Cusano, president
Salt City Bassmasters
Alexander "the Great" Whoops Up on the Walleye
3 great big fatties help Ralph win his first Salt City Tournament
Bass anglers are only supposed to be able to catch bass... well after witnessing the "pig" walleyes that Ralph Alexander was able to locate I would have to say that some bass anglers can also catch walleye. Ralph brought 3 fish to the scales that went 12 lbs. 2 ozs. and he also caught the tournament lunker a 4 lbs. 11 oz. fish. For those of you that struggle with math, Ralph's walleye averaged over 4 lbs. each. All his fish came on a Rapala Husky Jerk in about 5 to 7' of water.
Club tournament director got off to a good start. Even though he is a "self-proclaimed" non-walleye angler, he apparently figured something out and was able to catch over a dozen walleye though only three were over the 18" limit. The part that will freak out most true walleye guys is the bait he used. A 4" texas rigged flipping tube in about 1 to 2' of water. Seems the walleye along with countless pickeral were stacked up in this very shallow area. GO FIGURE!!! Craig's limit weighed 9 lbs. 13 ozs.
Third and Fifth places were claimed by two Rookies, Scott Broeker and Josh Vircillo with 8 lbs. 1 oz. and 5 lbs. 2 ozs, respectively. Congratulations goes out to our rookie anglers for getting a check so early in the Salt City careers. Rumor has it that Josh is the "man" so we'll have to see how that plays out. Although I think Mike 'Meat' McKay may have him beat when it comes to self confidence.
Part of Josh's ability to catch fish may of had a little something to do with his boat captain, Mike Wall. Mike won the 2003 Walleye tournament and was able to round up enough fish to claim 4th place this year, 3 fish for 7 lbs. 10 ozs. Nice job Mike!!
To see all the results, go to the "schedules/results" page by clicking on the yellow buttons from the main menu....photos can be seen by clicking here .
cus
cus
Everybody 'WINS' at the Salvation Army's Barnabas Center
Not sure who had more fun... the kids or the club members who volunteered
Bass anglers, especial BASS ANGLER SPORTSMEN SOCIETY members, care about the community and in getting the youth of America involved in fishing. There are several benefits to getting kids fishing.... first, it will ensure that Americans will have the right to fish in the future, secondly, it is a wholesome activity that anyone can enjoy, and thirdly, it is a lot of FUN!!!! .
On May 14th, several Salt City Bassmasters' members got to introduce the most basic elements of fishing to a group of kids at the Salvation Army's Barnabas Center. Fish identification, various artificial lures, and most importantly casting. And not just any casting, but the full aresenal that all successful junior and senior bass anglers need: flipping, pitching, and casting. To see some great pictures, you can click here. (thanks to Pat Grady for taking the pictures)
The kids at the center, many of which have never even gone fishing got the opportunity to get outside and practice casting in the heart of down town Syracuse. Out of the casting contest, Salt City Bassmasters qualified two more contestants for next year's NY State BASS Chapter Finals.
AND THIS EVENT HELPED TO GET THE KIDS EXCITED FOR THE UPCOMING FISHING FIELD TRIP at the Carpenter's Brook Fish Hatchery on Saturday, May 22nd from 10:30 to 2:30. The club is still looking for volunteers to help out with the approximately 30 kids, so if you can help out, please contact Mike Cusano at mike@nybassfed.com or click here .
Special thanks to the club members that volunteered: Mickey Fortunato, Dominick Maio, Patrick Grady, Roger Stahl, Tim West, Rob Goffredo (and Kim Major), and Mike Cusano. Also special thanks to all the volunteers at the center, especially Craig Mitchell for keeping the contestants in order. Nice Job To All!!!
HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL ON SATURDAY!!!
cus
Club to Host Casting Kids and Fishing Discussion at the Salvation Army's Barnabas Center Tonight...
Contest to start around 4:30 - 5:00 and with various demonstrations and discussions on fishing in general
Club members are asked to show up as soon as they can to help set up for a casting kids contest and to talk to the kids at the center about a variety of fishing related questions.
These events are always a good time as we can help build a better relationship with our community and help promote the sport of fishing to those that may not get to experience it. In addition, this event is meant to be a precoursor to the upcoming May 22nd field trip and fishing trip at the Carpenter's Brook Fish Hatchery.
Please help out what ever way you can!! Looking forward to seeing you all there or at the May 22nd trip.
cus
June 3rd Meeting: At Turner's Club, Starting July 1st Meetings will be at the Fireside Inn
Turner's Club is where club awards banquet has been held
Since Hooligan's did not need our business it appears that several club members have been busy talking to local establishments and come to find out many are very interested in hosting our club's monthly meeting free of charge (just to get our dinner/drink business). Good to know that there are some people left in this world that have good business sense!!
Because of the uncertainty, the club booked the Turner's Club off of N. Salina Street for the June 3rd meeting. This is the place we have held our club's award banquet the last 3 or 4 years. So for the JUNE meeting, plan on going to the Turner's Club (directions WERE supplied in the club newsletter and are also available by clicking here). As a WARNING... do not plan on using, "I couldn't find the place" as a reason why you couldn't get signed up for the club's first bass points tournament. If there is any chance you may not be able to find the place, you need to call before June 3rd and speak to the tournament director (or other club officer) to get signed up before hand... otherwise you will not be fishing. Hopefully we are all clear on this?? :-)
Now the good news... I have spoken with Don Cole of the Fireside Inn and went to visit the place on Tuesday. Upon inspection, I got an immediate "comfortable" feeling about the place. It reminded me a lot of Rapheal's... so hopefully, we may have finally found a place to rest our hats for the next 25+ years. The room will be provided free of charge, all they are looking for is our club's members and jr. club member's parents to support the restaurant and bar business. I have no doubts that our members can do that.... The Fireside Inn is located on Route 370 in Baldwinsville.
I do want to thank all the club members who have contacted me with other business owner's that are interested in having the club come and visit them. PLEASE remember to thank them for their generous offer...
cus
Emergency: WE NEED A NEW PLACE TO MEET
If you have any contacts with local restaurant/bar/meeting facility that would like to host 40 to 80 hungry/thristy anglers one day a month, please let them know we need a place to go.
Ever since Rapheal's has closed our club has been struggling to find a suitable location to meet... The Western Ranch was a great place, but unfortunately was just a little too cramped to support our ever growing club. Too bad, cause I like the "Chicken Tings"...
We then tried Hooligan's but because of the Thursday Night Extravaganza do not apparently want the extra business our club members and junior members parents bring in. SO LAST NIGHT WAS OUR LAST MEETING AT HOOLIGAN'S. Too bad for them, cause based on th turnout, it looked like our club members were the only people in the bar eating and drinking.
So we are now once again on the lookout for a place that is willing to host us for free, and we can offer them a "sponsorship" of the club and a good "crowd" to frequent their facility. If you have any suggestions or have made some contacts please let myself or Joe Noffey know.
Traditionally, the club has met the First Thursday of every month, but if you can find a facility that can accomodate us on another day, ie. the first Tuesday, second Wednesday, etc... that will be okay. If we say it enough times, people will remember the new meeting date/time. Also, don't forget the Salt City Bassmaster Juniors... they typcially meet before the regular club meeting. So you have parents that will drop kids off and some will stay and eat/drink as the kids go to meeting.
Some "selling points" in your conversations with business owners: during the Bass tournament season, I say we have a minimum of 30 anglers/parents ordering food and another 60 anglers/parents/kids ordering drinks... That is a pretty good guaranteed turn out for a weekday night...
cus
Club Walleye Pairings Are Posted!!!
Please contact your partner to set up meeting time, determine gas and boat operation!!
Information is listed on the club's tournament schedule page... Go to the main menu on the left side and click on the button that has SCHEDULE/RESULTS on it... then click on Pairings (next to the Oneida Walleye tournament)....
I want everyone to get used to going to the SCHEDULE/RESULTS page to find information out... so please try it out!!!! If you have problems, locating it you can give me an email me and I'll walk you through it.
cus
Don't Forget: Sign Up for Walleye Tournament at Tomorrow's Meeting
Money is due at time of sign up... if you can't make the meeting and want to fish, you must speak to Craig Terpening or another officer before the meeting. AND LET THEM KNOW YOUR BOATER STATUS (boater or non-boater)
We have a lot of club business to go through tomorrow... PLEASE BRING A COPY OF THE TOURNAMENT RULES IF YOU WISH TO FOLLOW ALONG (they are on the club website).
We will be signing up for the club's first tournament of the year... Walleye. As always please bring money (cash or check) to pay at the time of sign up. As a reminder, if you can't make the meeting before a tournament and you want to fish in a tournament you must speak to the tournament director, Craig Terpening or another club officer. Do not just leave a message and assume someone heard it. When you talk to them make sure you let them know if you are fishing as a boater or non-boater. (Boaters please plan on fishing as boaters)
The Walleye tournament is a great way to get your feet wet in the tournament scene and will let some of the new anglers know what to expect come the first bass points tournament.
This will also be the first time we do the club's tournament drawing on computer, so please bear with us as we iron out any potential kinks.
See you tomorrow night...
cus
Tentatively Scheduled: Golf Outing and Picnic to Celebrate 30 Years
Need head count for golf and head count for picnic... SCBM members past/present and their families are invited to picnic
Golfing and fishing... not really related, but probably pretty funny to watch guys who normally fish golf!! In looking at the club message board a suggestion was made to see about holding a golf outing in conjunction with our club's 30th anniversary celebration.
While we need to finalize plans for the 30th anniversary celebration, here is what I would like to see happen:
Oneida Shores on June 5th or June 12th (with June 6th and June 13th as back up dates) if those days are booked. We rent a pavillion at Oneida Shores for Lunch/Dinner to start . Ideally we have the food catered (I'm looking into Dinosaur BBQ). We supply the beer/soda. If you or a family member want to bring some additional food or dessert, I know for a fact it wouldn't be turned down...
We are thinking about having a golf outing before the picnic if we can coordinate with a local golf club (as this is pretty short notice)... Dave Rusczyk has been volunteered to check into this and get back to us. We are assuming 30 to 40 participants, so please let us know if you are interested in golfing and/or the picnic. So we can try to figure out a head count. Email me by clicking here or calling me at 695-4969.
The 30th Anniversary Picnic will be open to all past and present Salt City Bassmaster members and their families (along with some special friends). The golf outing will be only for past or present SCBM members.
The prizes are non-existent as of yet, so we need to work on that... and all participants will be responsible for their own greens fees and related expenses. We are anticipating doing either a 2 person best ball team or a 4 person captain/crew team event. That stuff can be ironed out pretty easily. Finding a place will be the hard part... SO MR. RUSCZYK please get busy... note: if anyone can help Dave out or wants to help out, please feel free to jump on board.
Lets make this event a huge success.... Regardless of whether or not the golf outing takes place, the picnic will be taking place at Oneida Shores... Date to be announce shortly... Please let any SCBM member past or present know about it!!!!
cus
PS: current members can respond on club message board with ideas and suggestions...
Salt City's First Tournament of 2004 Fast Approaching
Club's walleye tournament scheduled for May 16th
Additional tournament reminders below...
Some great things about this time of year…. typically no more shoveling, can “occasionally” go outside without a parka, bass season isn't far off, and most importantly the club will be holding its first tournament of the season: for WALLEYE!!! At the May 6th meeting, the club will be signing up participants for the May 16th meeting. If you can't make the meeting you have to sign up before Thursday May 6th as we will be doing the partner drawing at the meeting. IF YOU FORGET TO SIGN UP, YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PATICIPATE. Also... do not sign up for a tournaemtn if you don't think you can make it. If you sign up and don't show up you are still responsible to pay your entry fee. Only extreme emergency circumstances, ie. death, hospitilization will even be considered as potential reasons to get a refund. Failure to remember that you are graduating that day is not an acceptable reason!!! If you sign up, plan on paying.
This is a fun tournament that allows guys to check the boats and the other equipment to make sure everything is in proper working order for the first bass tournament in about a month. So even if you don't catch walleye or know how to fish for walleye, look at it as a good time to start building the arm muscles for casting or to even check out some of the new equipment you may have purchased. Besides it is always good to just get on the water and quite possibly get paired with some of our club's local walleye experts. Believe it or not, we have guys that actually do know how to catch the wily walleye!!
For those of you that are new and some that are not so new, here are some reminders. Ideally you should try to make the meeting before any tournament sign up. If you can not make the club meeting and still want to fish in the walleye tournament you need to contact Craig Terpening (phone: 345-6006 or to email click here)before the meeting and tell him that you are planning on fishing the tournament as either a boater or a non-boater (do not assume that he will know what you joined the club as). If you can't send a check to Craig before the meeting or get the money to someone before the meeting, plan on paying at the launch ramp the morning of the tournament (before you launch). Please do not make Craig have to chase you down for your entry fees. With the club getting to this size, we need to eliminate as much extra work as possible. BE RESPONSIBLE!!
Non-boaters: it is also your responsibility to pay a non-boater fee of $20 to assist the boat owner with gas and other boating expenses (tournament rules). Please have the money ready and offer it to your boater. It is your responsibility to offer the money so don't make your boater have to ask you. Please note that as gas prices continue to rise that this amount is a minimum amount and if you ask your boater to drive 40 minutes one way to get to your spot, you should very seriously consider covering your gas expenses accordingly. Same goes for the boaters, if your spot is 40 minutes away; don't expect your non-boater to cover your running expenses especially if they have fish 5 minutes from the ramp. Prior to doing any fishing it is best to work all this out and if everybody just remembers to use some common sense everyone will be happy.
Key Tournament Rules and Tips:
Wear a Life Jacket anytime the big engine is running and in gear (and everyone is required to have their own, otherwise you will get to wear a big ugly orange one that I or someone will loan to you)
No alcohol or mind altering substances are allowed on board the boat or in your body during tournament hours
Bring a good sunscreen regardless of how dark you are, and a pair of polarized glasses (for looking into the water, but to more importantly to protect your eyes from UV rays and rod tips or flying lures)
Bring your own food supplies (especially something to drink: water/Gatorade is best)
Have a measuring device… Oneida Lake walleyes must be 18” so your standard 15” ruler isn't going to cut it.
Don't forget your fishing license.
Dress in layers and overly warm even on hot days… the early morning runs at 60mph can get down right chilly even in the mid summer months.
LASTLY AND MOST IMPORTANTLY: If you are not sure how to back a boat trailer up, operate a trolling motor, or how to do something else of equal importance. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU ATTEMPT IT, and you have to let your partner know this ahead of time. These tasks are difficult enough under normal situations, trying to “learn” during a tournament environment is just asking for a very expensive lesson. Everyone should plan on operating under a “you break it, you bought it policy”. AND boaters if your partner says they aren't comfortable doing something, then it is your responsibility to find someone to help you out. Remember all you have to do is ask for help and it is usually right there.
Everyone needs to work together at the launch ramp and keep an eye on your club members. That way things will continue to run smoothly.
cus
PS: We will be reviewing the tournament rules at the club's meeting on May 6th, so please print off a copy from the club website if you wish to bring with you. To keep expenses down no paper copies will be supplied, unless you are a new club member (or the rules have changed).
NYSBCF WINS $10,000 National Contest from Lowrance Electronics
Please check NYSBCF message board
Received a very excited phone call from NYSBCF president Wayne Tomassi.... he just accepted a check for $10,000 from Lowrance as the National Winner in Lowrance marketing contest for the BASS federations.
. 
Our club and the NYSBCF is the beneficiary of Wayne and the exec. committee's hard work in promoting Lowrance, so please go out to the NYSBCF message board and thank them!!! $10,000 is going to be very beneficial to the NYSBCF....
cus
Casting Kids A BIG HIT
Three of the four state level qualifiers came from Salt City Junior Bassmaster Club
Salt City Bassmasters qualified 4 kids this past Saturday, April 10 for the 2005 NYS Bass Chapter Federation State Casting Finals.
The club held two separate sessions. In the first session, Kaitlyn Dudash scored 70 points (50 points coming on her second attempt at the "Cast" portion) to edge out Anthony Merritt in the 7 - 10 year old grouping. Thomas Merritt II (Anthony's older brother) won the 11 -14 year old grouping with an almost perfect score of 140 points. Way to go, Thomas.
Apparently losing in the first session didn't sit well with Anthony, so he hung around until the second session began and tried it again. This time he posted a fantastic score of 130 points and was able to claim the top honors in the 7 - 10 yr. old grouping. Nick Wheeler won the 11 - 14 year old group with a very respectable score of 110 points.
Both the Merrit brothers and Nick Wheeler belong to the newly formed Salt City Junior Bassmasters. With scores like that, we are hopefult to see a Salt City Junior member qualify for the Nationals. SO GET PRACTICING.
Special thanks to Chris Bowes for setting this up prior to leaving us for BASS. And to Mickey Fortunato, the Youth Coordinator for "coordinating". Salt City members who helped are Craig Terpening, Joe Noffey, Dave Connors, Mike McKay, Ron Kelly, Dave Ottman, Bill Mahyna, Keith Cardinale, and Mike Cusano.
In addition to having a shot at qualifying for State Level Casting Kids, all contestants earned a goody bag with some assorted soft plastic baits and a gift certificate.. Thanks to Dick's Sporting Goods for supplying 50 $5 dollar bonus gift certificates.
Their are pictures available on the club website... click here to access them. Photos are courtesy of Ron Kelly and Craig Terpening. Thanks again to all who helped out...
cus
Casting Kids April 10, Great Northern Mall
Even if you didn't sign up, feel free to show up between 9:30 and 3:00 to help out
Salt City Bassmasters will be hosting two separate B.A.S.S. CASTING KIDS contests this Saturday, April 10.
It will be at the Great Northern Mall (off of Route 31 in Clay, NY) in front of the Dick's Sporting Goods mall entrance. There will be two casting kids sessions where 4 total contestants (2 from each age group) will be qualified for the state level contest:
Session One: 9:30 to 12:00 (2 winners)
Session Two: 12:30 to 3:00 (2 winners)
If you signed up to work the first session or even if you didn't and can help out (HINT,HINT) please get there around 8:45 so we can set everything up. We'll need those in the second session to stay a little late to help break things down. Also, if anyone has a digital camera and can take pictures for the website that would be great. Our official club photographer is still at Ithaca College finishing up his schooling!
cus
Club News From April Meeting
Electronic copy of the club's newsletter
Club VP/Secretary, Joe Noffey sent the newsletter in a new format... please click here to view club news from April 2004.
In addition: Some other issues of importance... CLUB CASTING KIDS CONTEST IS THIS SATURDAY, April 10.
It will be at the Great Northern Mall in front of Dick's Sporting Goods. There will be two casting kids sessions:
Session One: 9:30 to 12:00
Session Two: 12:30 to 3:00
If you signed up to work the first session or even if you didn't and can help out (HINT,HINT) please get there around 8:45 so we can set everything up. We'll need those in the second session to stay a little late to help break things down. Also, if anyone has a digital camera and can take pictures for the website that would be great. Our official club photographer is still at Ithaca College finishing up his schooling!
LETTERS ON CATCH and RELEASE: Please PUSH THIS!!! I put another post on the NYSBCF website and would appreciate when you send letters in or get others to send letters in to just put a small note out there saying that.... I'm looking for you all to lead the charge in this. In reading a letter from the DEC, Catch and Release is not a done deal and there is definitely some old school mentality that is still hanging on! We need to educate people and inform them that this change is beneficial (and we would be willing to accept it even on a temporary basis). KEEP ON IT!!!
CLUB WAS HONORED: Last night I had the priviledge of accepting an award on behalf of the club for all the hard work that was done with the Citgo Bassmaster Open held last October on Oneida Lake. Our club was recognized by the Syracuse Convention and Visitors Bureau (SCVB) at their 17th Annual "SHARE-A 'CUSE" Reception. This award is meant to recognize individual events that bring signficant economic benefit to the Syracuse communitites, and being according to the SCVB the Oneida Lake BASS Open brought in 1.9 Million Dollars into the economy over the course of just two tournament days!! Congratulations and Thanks to all of you who worked the event!!
cus
2004 Fishing Guide is Out
Bass are the nations number one sports fish
J. Michael Kelly's 2004 Fishing Guide came out in yesterday's paper. Mike Kelly (as we know him) is the outdoor writer for the Syracuse Post Standard. An electronic version of the guide can also be viewed through Syracuse.Com by clicking here .
Club member, Matt Martin was featured in a story about catching bass out of timber. In addition there were several stories of particular interest to Salt City Bass members. "Wanted: fishing tutors", talks about the positive influence mentors have on younger anglers. There is a top 10 list of Bass hotspots, a catch and release article, fly fishing tactics for bass, and an article on the new state regulation banning the retail sale of lead sinkers. One of many interesting quotes, in regards to banning the sale of lead: "Lawmakers were persuaded in part by DEC wildlife pathologist Ward B. Stone, who blamed lead fishing weights for causing the demise of 15 out of 81 dead loons he examined over a period of 27 years".
Definitely makes one question how big a problem the lead sinkers really were or how this law is going to fix anything, other than making it harder on local tackle shops to stay in business. Fifteen dead loons in 27 years... have to think more have been killed by automobiles in the same stretch. Anyone for banning automobiles??
cus
Boater Safety Course a Success
Thanks to Grace and Cliff Schoonmaker and Onondaga County Parks
Several Salt City members and others took the Boater Safety Course on March 13 & 14. This course will allow all attendees to legally operate a jet ski. In addition, the possibility exists in the not too distant future for NY to follow the leads of Connecticut and New Jersey and require all boat operators to take this course. So those people that attended will already meet that requirement.
Special thanks to Grace and Cliff for taking time out of their busy schedules to travel to Syracuse and teach the NYS Parks and Recreation Boater Safety Course. Also, thanks to Judy Talbot and Bob Geraci, both of Onondaga County Parks for giving the club an extremely discounted rate for the use of the Arrowhead lodge for two days.
Also thanks goes to the NYS Bass Chapter Federation because it is through Cliff's involvement with the Federation that prompted him to travel the state teaching the course to various bass clubs.
Because of the some available openings Salt City Bassmasters was able to offer the course to the general public at an extremely reduce rate of $5/person. This is just another example of how Salt City Bassmasters is working to help and support the community we live in.
Nice job to all involved!!!
cus
February Meeting News
Club news submitted by Joe Noffey
• Our Clubs Boater Safety Course is set for March 13th & 14th at Arrowhead Lodge, more info and directions are on the Clubs Web site. 8:00am (sharp) to 3:30pm. Working on coffee/donuts and possibly pizza (may need small donation to assist with food items)
• Because of an issue with the DEC our Walleye and Bass Tournaments on Oneida Lake will launch out of Oneida Shores – there will be a $6.50 launch fee per boat, the Club will incur a $25.00 early open fee.
• Tournament Director Craig Terpening will have hand out sheets at the April meeting concerning the Wed. night Tournaments on Onondaga Lake .
• As voted on at the March meeting 6 new weigh-in bags will be purchased for the up coming season.
• With help from Craig Terpening and Youth Coordinator Mickey Fortunato the Salt City Jr . Club is now a reality, with 6 members and looking for more. Mickey is always looking for help from Club members to make a presentation at the Jr. meetings.
• Our Clubs annual Awards Banquet was held on Feb. 28 th at the Turners Club, 58 adults and children attended, a GREAT time was had by all, special THANKS to Paula Wescott and Kelly Holt for their time and effort in the Banquet preparations !!!!
• Our Clubs Casting Kids Contest will be held on April 10 th at the Mall side of Dicks Sporting Goods in Great Northern Mall, 2 sessions, 9:30am - 12:00 and 12:30pm - 3:00 . Members interested in helping please contact Mickey Fortunato .
• Club member Joe Koetting will be representing the NYSBCF at the Penn. Black Bass Workshop on April 23 rd and 24 th .
• In early Feb. a fire seriously injured Todd Frank , a local Professional Walleye fisherman, all Todd's tackle was also lost in the fire, at our Clubs March meeting Salt City Members once again stepped up to the plate and took up a collection for Todd totaling $276.00 – long time friend and Club member Ron Kelly will deliver the check !!
• Not only is 2004 the 30 th Anniversary of the NYSBCF but also Salt City Bassmasters, the Club is looking to do something special for the event , Ron Kelly is looking into (shirts, hats etc.) and Dick Wescott and Sean Heitman have offered possible places for a party and old Club members will be contacted and invited – more info as it becomes available.
• An now last BUT certainly not least is the BIGGEST news to hit Salt City Bassmasters in a loooong time - Club member and former Club Tournament Director Chris Bowes is taking a job as a Tournament Director with BASS/ESPN – a major loss to our Club but a major gain to Bass fishing at its highest level – GOOD LUCK CHRIS !!!!!!!!
Salt City Meeting Tonight
Get final registration for Boater Safety Course and Joe Koetting's Survivor: A search for Bass panel discussion
Tonight's meeting will be pretty busy and we have a lot of important topices to go through: finalize registration for the Boater Safety course at the Arrowhead Lodge, state meeting, state casting kids finals, launch site issues, 30th anniversary plans, etc.... but we need to leave time for Joe Koetting to lead his hand picked panel of Salt City tournament winners and selected others. I've seen a preview of the questions and it should be an informative and fun discussion. The panel consists of
Chris Bowes
Craig Terpening
Ron Kelly
Carl Moore
Mike Wall
Mike Cusano
Matt Martin
Bob Mabee
(Note: Bill Kooi, winner at 1000 Isles was out of town)
The general topic is: How much of a role do Seasonal Patterns plan in locating bass in our CNY
lakes and rivers? (but there is many other questions in there).
See you tonight... also don't forget the youth meeting starts at 5:30 if you are able to attend.
cus
WHAT A GREAT BANQUET!!
Every year they just keep getting better and better
First and foremost, thank yous to Paula Wescott and Kelly Holt... OUTSTANDING JOB!! Oh, yeah to their slacker hubbies (Dick and Ron), nice job putting the beers down long enough to set up the club booth. Made a great backdrop for the photos.
This was by far one of the biggest crowds we had. The name tags were an excellent idea and I thank Joe Koetting for being the name tag enforcer! It was very nice to see Scott Allen, the club's AOY actually stand still long enough for us to photograph him. The awards looked outstanding, thank you Ron Kelly for getting that taken care of. Mike Fragola got to collect some well deserved hardware for winning the Non-Boater of the Year. Rookie Jacob Volcko took home Rookie of the Year honors and a spot on the Club Team. Additionally, Mike Fragola earned the Most Improved award. Our 2004 Club Team is comprised of Scott Allen, Craig Terpening, Bob Mabee, Joe Koetting, Bill Kooi, and Jacob Volcko, with Mike Fragola and Howard Krause as alternates.
Big thank you to Bob Mabee for once again printing up the club award certificates for the 1st thru 5th place finishers and lunker. They looked fantastic.
Also the club's rolling award for Angler of the Year (created by Dave Celi) was handed down from the 2002 AOY, Chris Bowes to the 2003 AOY Scott Allen. Someday I hope to have that beautiful award hanging in my den for at least one season. Although, if I had to place bets Scott is going to be tough to dethrone, but if anyone can do it, look out for "Mr. Second", Craig Terpening. One of these days!! You know I'm just jealous...
We all got to say goodbye to Chris Bowes as he departs very soon to warmer climates and BASS weigh-ins. Tell VanDam that I would own him on Jamesville Reservoir (or at least I'd know where the launch ramp was and he wouldn't).
Please check out the photo album by clicking on the main menu or click here . Special thanks to Chris Bowes and our newest photographer, Craig Nels. Craig has graciously volunteered to take photos throughout the upcoming tournament season. THANKS CRAIG!! The photos do not have too much verbiage as it takes a while to get all that done up in a pretty fashion. If you unsure who someone is just remember, I'm the handsome one! Don't believe me just ask my mom or my wife!!
Again, thank you to the family members for sharing in the awards banquet. Always remember you are welcome... especially when you bring excellent food !!
Lastly the club will be celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, so we are going to have to celebrate that accomplishment!! Start putting together ideas for that.
cus
Club Banquet this Saturday, Can't Wait....
Usually means the ice will be melting soon!
Please make sure you have contacted the Wescott's or the Holt's
The club's now annual awards banquet will be this Saturday. Please make sure you have contacted Dick Wescott or Ron Holt (actually their wives are doing all the work, so who are we kidding). eeehemm... So make sure you contact Paula Wescott or Kelly Holt to figure out what food items you can bring.
We have a lot of things to celebrate this year so plan on having a good time and reliving some fun memories. I've heard rumor that the club angler of the year is making an appearance, so have your autograph books and cameras handy. (We know how much he loves those cameras).
As for Ron Kelly the first thing I want to see in his hand (besides the club awards) is a nice big bowl of that "DIRTY RICE". YUMMM!
I'm struggling with "Awards we should of had" so don't get your hopes up too high... actually that means I'll be doing less talking than normal. Hmmmm is that a bad thing?? You decide.
New guys, even if you didn't fish last year this is a great way to meet club members and to see what awards you have a shot a winning. So don't think you are excluded. Heck, as long as you bring good food we'll all be your friends!!
cus
Need TV and VCR for Boater Safety Course
Yet another reason why we are going to miss Chris Bowes
** 2/25/04 Ron Kelly has offered up his 27" TV for the club to use at the Boater Safety Course.** Thank you very much Ron!!
The club is going to be hosting the NYS Dept. Parks and Recreation boater safety course on March 13 and 14th at Arrowhead Lodge. Originally Chris Bowes was going to deliver and allow the club to use his TV and VCR to show necessary training materials. Well, with Chris leaving us for BASS headquarters, he now has to take his TV and VCR with him. So that leaves the club in need of both items. More importantly a television (preferably 27" or larger).
At least two club members have a VCR that we can use, but without a TV the VCR's are like having an Oreo cookie without the creme filling... NO GOOD!!
If you can donate a working TV for the club to use over those two days, please contact Joe Noffey (315) 451-3852. Though we prefer a larger screen, at some point we will accept whatever is available.
Please contact Joe as soon as possible (as you all know how much I "worry" about things when they are not resolved). I have a habit of nagging people until finally they become so sick of hearing about it, that eventually they would rather pitch in and buy a new 41" plasma TV then ever see another note on the subject again!!
Realize I only "nag" because I care.... :-)
cus
Local Professional Walleye Angler Hurt in Fire
Todd Frank a regular at the NYS Sports Show
Excerpts courtesy of Syracuse.Com and the Post-Standard: (Feb. 17, 2004) Staff Writer: Delen Goldberg
" Todd E. Frank, suffered serious burns to his face, hands, arm and chest when the furnace in his garage blew up, firefighters and family members said. Frank, 38, of 4357 U.S. Route 11, was organizing fishing equipment in his two-car garage when he tried to light the furnace, said his brother-in-law, Mark Haynes.
"It blew up right in his face," Haynes said.
Frank was taken by ambulance to University Hospital in Syracuse and was in fair condition Monday afternoon, a nursing supervisor said. The Oswego County Cause and Origin team is investigating. "
Salt City Bassmaster members are going to be asked to make a donation to help Todd out. We know it in no way can replace the amount of tackle he lost, but it at least lets him know others are thinking about him. Many of us know how much equipment we have and how devestating it would be if we lost it. I'm hopeful that insurance will cover most of it, but it is important that we show our support.
Special thanks to concerned club members Chris Bowes, Bob Mabee, and Joe Noffey for letting us know about Todd's fire. We wish him a speedy recovery!!
cus
New York Dept. of Parks and Recreation Boaters Safety Course
March 13 and 14th
Open to public, but Salt City Bassmasters members (adults and juniors) will get priority entry
We all know that increasing regulations are coming to try and make the increasingly crowded waterways of New York safer. Thanks to the dedication of NYSBCF member Cliff Schoonmaker and his wife, Grace, the Salt City Bassmasters club members will have an opportunity to receive their boater safety course certificiate at a fraction of the cost (and a fraction of the time). Cliff and Grace both cerftified instructors will be traveling to Syracuse to offer the course on Saturday and Sunday, March 13&14 from 8 am to 3:30 pm.
Typically course fees for the boater safety course range anywhere from $35 to $95 dollars with courses sometimes taking as long as 8 weeks. The Salt City Bassmasters will be taking a $5 donation to cover travel, lodging, and miscellaneous expenses associated with holding the course. In addition adults (over 18) will need to send $10 with their passing test scores to obtain a laminated life-time certificate from the NYS Dept of Parks and Recreation; children ages 10 - 18 will get their certificates free, with submission of a passing test score, from the NYS Dept of Parks and Recreation.
Special thanks goes to Judy Talbot, the park superintendent of Oneida Shores which is part of the Onondaga County Parks system.. Through Judy's efforts she was able to work with Bob Geraci, Parks Commissioner, to provide a wonderful training location: Arrowhead Lodge in Brewerton (driving directions). We in the bass fishing community are very fortunate to have such a good working relationship with the Onondaga County Parks (so please support the parks department whenever possible).
All club members (adult and juniors) are encouraged to contact Mickey Fortunato (315) 416-4262 or by email as soon as possible. Mickey will be tracking the list of registrants. In addition, if you are not a club member and are interested in attending the boater safety course please contact Mickey to be put on our standby list. Any open slots can be filled with the general public.
Additionally: there will be another boater safety course offered at Liverpool High School starting March 9th 7pm - 9pm (runs for 8 weeks). Please call (315) 652-6474 for more information on the fees and course times.
cus
OH MY GAWD: Salt City's Own Chris Bowes is Now an ESPN/BASS
Tournament Director
May be another first with BASS for a Salt City member
I received a very excited phone call from Salt City Bassmaster member and ex-tournament director, Chris Bowes. He had just found out that he was accepted by ESPN/BASS to become one of the new tournament directors. The details are still being finalized, but from what I understand Chris will be leaving in mid-March to head on the road for training. How's this sound for a training, watching professional anglers bring in huge limits of Seminole and Eufala bass!! Can you say "jealous".
We all know how hard Chris has worked in the tournament directors position for Salt City and to be honest, ESPN/BASS is lucky to get him. The club will be saddened to see Chris leave and he leaves a void for us to fill because even though he stepped down as tournament director, this year he was doing more youth activities and going to be the club's "official" photographer (to make sure our website had plenty of photos). So I expect to see others volunteer to take on those roles.
In my discussion with Chris, we talked about a few other things and how Salt City Bassmasters seems to have a destiny with BASS. Who was the first New Yorker to win a B.A.S.S. tournament? Salt City legend, Randy Yager did that at Lake Okeechobee in 1999.
Now it very well may be possible that Chris is the first NYSBCF Federation member to work at B.A.S.S. (don't know for sure, but it is pretty cool to think it may be true!!)
Chris wanted to sincerely thank the NY State BASS Chapter Federation and especially, president Wayne Tomassi, for first off posting the position and then writing a glowing recommendation for Chris. When people ask "what the Federation can do for you", how does "get you a job sound"?
February 28th is the club's award banquet, so besides celebrating all the club anglers achievements we now have another reason to celebrate.
Congratulations Chris, it couldn't happen to a nicer and more deserving person!! But please know you will be missed.
cus
BIG NEWS: 30th Anniversary for Club and Federation
No you aren't losing your mind if you had read on website banner that the club was founded in 1976
You know there is a reason history needs to be officially documented, because over time people's memories lose some of the accuracy and attention to detail. Thanks to club member Chris Bowes, we have some very exciting news: June 14th marks Salt City Bassmasters 30th Anniversary. Chris was able to get a hold of the club's original charter papers with the 6 "founding members listed". Best I can tell the founding members were as follows:
1. Russell W. Oakes
2. Thomas R. Murphy
3. Pete Barchell
4. Ben Horak
5. Thomas Ryan
6. David Dunham
This further adds to the Salt City legacy as we were one of the first clubs in the New York State BASS Federation.
If I mis-spelled or mis-read someone's name please correct me. The cool part is if you go to the PHOTO album by clicking here you can see the actual document for yourself. There is also an old photo taken from the NY Sportsmen Show in the 1970's. Back then it was called the sports"men" show prior to all the political correctness we now have. Actually I thought the booth looked pretty sweet. Notice the sign pushing catch and release.
BASS Clubs and the Federation were huge part in making the B.A.S.S. initiative of catch and release the widely accepted practice it has become today.
So we need a party on June 12th or June 13th to CELEBRATE. I will be looking for volunteers and suggestions!! Thirty years in existence is a big deal, heck I was only 7 when the club was formed. This just further stimulates the need to gather as much historical data as we can about the club.
cus
Cormorant's Disease
Does not seem to effect humans or other waterfowl
Looks like the extremely over populated cormorant population could suffer a very slight decline thanks to good old mother nature. A new disease has been identified that has apparently affected some of the cormorants that reside on Lake Ontario and Oneida Lake.
Click here to view the story that was in the New York Game and Fish Magazine, written by J. Michael Kelly.
Thanks to Craig Terpening for bring the article to our attention and scanning it in...
cus
Club News from February Meeting
Club earns NYSBCF Club of the Year
CLUB NEWS (submitted by Joe Noffey)
President Mike Cusano has created a new Web Site for the Club, check it out at the address below left, not all links are active just yet, given time this Web Site will be a major plus for our Club.
A big THANK YOU goes to all who made donations to the Sports Show, both in time and tackle for the Raffles, another profitable show.
Don't forget the Club Banquet , Sat. Feb. 28th, 6:00pm @ the Turners Club - you need to contact Paula Wescott or Kelly Holt to let them know what food you are going to bring - ASAP !!!!!!
The Club will have its annual Casting Kids Contest located at the Mall side of Dicks Sporting Goods, Great Northern Mall, April 10th. There will be 2 sessions, 9:30am - 12:00 and 12:30 - 3:00pm, contact Mickey Fortuanto if you can help out.
NYSBCF's Casting Kids Contest will be held @ Bressee Chevrolet on March 6th @ 9:30am, Contact Mickey Fortunato if you can help.
Mickey Fortunato has set a date for the Club to participate in a Boaters Safety Course , dates are March 13th & 14th, they will be 7hrs. each day, Ron Kelly is trying to secure a place to hold the Course, more info at the March meeting.
At the NYSBCF's annual Banquet, Salt City Bassmasters was AGAIN chosen as the “ CLUB OF THE YEAR “.
Former Club member Pete Anderson has his own Web Site, Pete is trying to promote himself in the world of Outdoor Writers, check the site out @ www.bassanglersjournal.com
There will be a Black Bass Workshop , April 23rd & 24th, in Pennsylvania, this is in conjuction with the NYSBCF, Mike Cusano cannot attend, anyone interested in attending please contact Mike, all expenses will be paid by the Federation, a presentation is expected from you.
At the March meeting Joe Koetting will present questions to past Tournament winners about Seasonal Patterns for Bass.
We have 66 paid Club members !!
Ban on Hunting and Fishing Tournaments
Time to respond is now... after you respond, post on Federation Board that you have!
A bill is going to be presented to the New York State Senate that will say the following :"Provides that it shall be unlawful for any person to organize, conduct, promote or participate in any contest or competition where the objective of such contest or competition is to take the greatest number of wildlife."
The bill number is S4174 (click on it to see the summary and then can click on the actual Bill Text for more info)..
Obviously this is in response to things like the Crow Hunt in Auburn. But if this verbiage were to become a Law in NY it wouldn't take too much of a stretch for it to be applied to bass tournaments and other fishing contests. In fact I'm pretty sure the Carp Shoot in Massena would fall into this category and be made illegal.
The New York State Conservation Council is requesting the below:
It is urgent the you contact Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno ASAP and tell him to stop this bill from being brought out on to the Senate floor.
His addresses: Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno
I wrote the below as a template for you to copy, paste, and edit . The whole thing for me to write and email took around 20 minutes, so if it takes more than 5 minutes of your time I'll be amazed. DO NOT WAIT!
The Senate Majority Leaders email is bruno@senate.state.ny.us
Dear Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno:
I am the conservation lobbyist for the New York State BASS Chapter Federation (NYSBCF), representing over 60 bass fishing clubs throughout New York State and is the collective voice of over 18,000 registered Bassmaster members statewide. In addition, the NYSBCF is affiliated with over 500,000 Bassmaster members nationwide.
I'm writing you this letter asking you to stop Bill S4174 from being brought out to the Senate floor. Bill S4174 is attempting to make it unlawful for any person to organize, conduct, p