[GeneJ]

Meeting to discuss the proposed Bass Fishing Club

On Tuesday, September 10th there will be an informational meeting to discuss a proposed Bass Fishing Club in the Villages. It will be held at the Everglades Regional Recreation Center and will start at 6PM. The meeting will be open to villagers only.

Background: There are currently two fishing clubs in the Villages; one for Saltwater and one for Freshwater. Both have lots of members and they both do a good job of trying to meet all the various needs of their respective members. However, members that have specific interest areas (i.e. Bass fishing outside of the villages, kayak fishing, Crappie fishing, etc.) sometimes get lost in the bigger group. To that end I have started the process of getting like-minded Bass fisherfolks a place to focus on Bass Fishing.

So, why a new club? For starters I'm not sure if it should be a new club or just a "Target Group" within the Freshwater Fishing Club. The new club vs target group decision will be discussed as part of this meeting.

My Idea of the Bass Club (or group)
• A group that is small enough to allow interaction and discussion of all things related to Bass fishing
• A monthly meeting to discuss and share information, such as tackle tips, current fishing conditions, and recent tournament results
• A monthly club tournament to enjoy spending time with fellow members, while also stoking that competitive spirit
• A couple of multiday, overnight trips annually to allow members to explore new areas, while getting to know fellow members

The Ideal People:
• People that are Villagers
• People that love bass fishing
• People that want to fish outside of the Villages
• People that enjoy the challenge of fishing with artificial baits
• People that enjoy 'friendly' competition
• People that want to become better fisherfolks
• People that not only want to learn more about their favorite pastime but that also are willing to share their knowledge with fellow members.

Topics to be discussed at the September 10th meeting will include:
• New Club vs Target Group of the Freshwater Fishing Club
• Costs: Initiation fees, annual dues, other?
• Meeting location
• Membership limits (boat and non-boater)
• Club Tournaments: fishing locations, team vs individual, record & release vs standard weigh-in, other?

Boat Club Member concerns

Non-boater concerns

If you are still reading this, thanks! I really am just trying to enhance the time I spend on my favorite hobby! Hope to see you on September 10th!

If you have any questions or comments, feel free to comment below. If you would like to chat about this, send me a Direct Message and I will get back with you.

If you are a part-time villager or if you are not going to be able to make it on to this meeting, please reach out to me to share your thoughts, thanks.

[Will.S]

I have been wanting to join a BASS club. No longer a boat owner, but would be up for sharing a boat rental when other Bass fishermen want to hit various lakes "that have boat rentals". I hope this club takes off. I miss small club Bass tournaments. Will