YOUNG PEOPLE ARE THE FUTURE OF OUR FEDERATION!

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1 Spring 2008 ~ Dedicated to Youth, Conservation, and Bass Anglers of Michigan YOUNG PEOPLE ARE THE FUTURE OF OUR FEDERATION! Pictured below are Chase Frenchette and Joe Parker. They are the winners of the Michigan Bass Federation Nation Youth Tournament for They represented Michigan in the Federation National Youth Tournament. Congratulations gentlemen! Bass Lines ~ Spring2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

2 2 Bass Lines ~ Spring 2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

3 2008 Skeeter / Yamaha BASS Federation Nation Program Attention STATE BASS FEDERATION NATION CHAPTERS and MEMBERS: All of us at Skeeter Boats with Yamaha Outboards appreciate the opportunity provided to us by BASS to offer you the following benefits for the 2008 Skeeter / Yamaha BASS Federation Nation Program. PROGRAM OVERVIEW Skeeter Boats with Yamaha Outboards is proud to announce our first ever "No Signature Required, No Commitment Necessary" benefits program. Best of all, the program is simple, straight forward, with no hidden costs, or strings attached! This program rewards: Chapter Members With a CASH BACK retail rebate purchase incentive on qualifying Skeeter boat packages powered by Yamaha, and receive a two (2) year Yamaha Extended Service (Y.E.S.) contract. With an extended Real Money bonus program for winning qualified BASS Federation Nation events. Buy! Register! Fish & Win! Get Paid! With cash incentive of $50,000 for winning the 2008 Federation Nation Championship with a Skeeter boat powered by a Yamaha outboard. This program rewards: State Chapters With funding from each new eligible Skeeter boat package powered by Yamaha sold in their respective State. With an opportunity to purchase one promotional new Skeeter boat package powered by Yamaha for promotional events, at an extreme discount. This program rewards: Chapter Presidents With an opportunity to purchase one Skeeter boat package powered by Yamaha for personal use at an extreme discount, and receive a two (2) year Yamaha Extended Service (Y.E.S.) contract. All benefits are provided by Skeeter Boats. The retail programs may not be stacked or combined with any other Skeeter or Yamaha program offer. Program Dates: March 15, November 1, 2008* *Cash Rebate Option 3 for In Stock Boats and Real Money Program Dates are March 15, 2008 to December 31, To obtain information, you may use Skeeter's toll free telephone number by calling: SKEETER ( ) You may contact Skeeter regarding the program in writing at: Skeeter Boats Attn: Skeeter Federation Nation Program One Skeeter Road Kilgore, TX Bass Lines ~ Spring2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

4 Board of Directors President Vice President Treasurer Paul Sacks Tom Boland Jay Berwick (Term ends 2009) (term ends 2008) (term ends 2009) (248) (989) (313) Secretary Barry Narrin Larry Gargus Sharon Leonardi (term ends 2009) (term ends 2010) (term ends 2008) (989) (810) (586) Tony Impellizeri Mike Kujawski Lupe Reyes (term ends 2008) (term ends 2009) (term ends 2010) (810) Brian Masters Mike Allen Roger Beaune (term ends 2010) (term ends 2010) (term ends 2008) Bass Lines ~ Spring 2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

5 President s Corner President s Report by Paul Sacks STATE of the NATION The Michigan B.A.S.S. Federation Nation is now starting the 2008 season. Our Federation Board has worked very diligently on your behalf to start many new programs and projects, as we said we would. One of our main goals was to restart our Youth Clubs along with funding new youth projects. I am very happy to inform our anglers that in 2007 we only had two Jr. clubs but this year we have 5 and more are starting up. We hope to have 50 to 70 kids in our Jr. clubs this year. Thank you, to all the members who understand just how important the youth are to our sport. This year, our board and its clubs have put on 20 CastingKids contests, with 8 more to come. We have worked and taught over 250 kids the fundamentals of bass fishing. We had more clubs step up this year than ever before. Great job your clubs should be proud. Our board just revised the Lou Borer Jr. Scholarship fund. Now 5 applications will receive a much larger check that will really help with their college expenses. Now, what do we have to look forward to this summer well how about some great fishing! Our events in 2008 season: 1) We begin on June 8th with the first of 4 tournaments in our Mi. BASS Federation Nation Classic Series at Lake Charlevoix. (City ramp- Ferry Beach) Please note the Classic series has run since ) June 14th at Kensington Park (Kent Lake. We are putting on a BASS tournament for our Veterans. This is known as the Tips Up for the TROOPS. This will have 50 our Fed. boaters taking out 50 soldiers. Also there will be many events that day for the troops, their families and the public at the park. Here is a link to the web site for this event. We even have BASS coming to write a story for the National magazine. This will be the largest event this year in Michigan for the Vets. 3) June 15th - JR. State Championship (for our youth clubs) This will be on White Lake in Whitehall, Mi. 4) July 13th - 2nd tournament of Classic Series. On Saginaw Bay from the DNR ramp (top of the Sag. River.) 5) August 3rd - 3rd tournament of the Classic Series. On the Detroit River out of Elizabeth Park. (Det.) 6) August 22 and 23rd - Our two day Adult State Championship. This is again on Lake Charlevoix out of the city ramp. 7) August 31st - Classic Series Championship. This will be out of Algonac, N. Channel Launch I am happy to inform the membership that due to our Skeeter/ Yamaha contract we are very financially secure. Sponsorship is again growing, with several new companies coming on board. Our club numbers have risen to 35 clubs up from 28 last year and our members should again be over 500 strong. I would like to thank all of our loyal B.A.S.S. members for being a part of our Federation Nation. Your board and I will continue to work for your benefit toward a better and better Federation Nation. 5 Bass Lines ~ Spring2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

6 Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation Board of Directors Committees and Responsibilities Committee Members and Chairs State Championship Classic Series Membership Chairman - Brian Masters Chairman - Larry Gargus Chairman - Sharon Leonardi Paul Wagner Tom Boland, Lupe Reyes Sponsorship Youth Division Media Relations Chairman - Mike Kujawski Chairman - Barry Narrin Chairman - Lupe Reyes Roger Beaune Tom Boland, Lupe Reyes Youth Sponsorship Bass Lines Scholarships Chairman - Barry Narrin Chairman - Tom Boland Chairman - Jay Berwick Web Site Conservation & Legislative Youth Web Site Chairman - Paul Wagner Chairman - Mike Nolan Chairman - Barry Narrin 6 Bass Lines ~ Spring 2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

7 2007 State Championship Top 13 Anglers 2007 State Championship Final Top 13 Anglers TED PRISBE TROY SITAR MIKE NOLAN PETER TULS KENT MILLER RONALD DOWDY BILL GEACH DAVID DEMOTT SHAWN GREEN GARRY WILLIAMS BRIAN FEUTZ ROBERT E. LUTTKE TIM CHANDLER The 2008 State Championship will be held on Lake Charlevoix on August 21st-24th. Lake Charlevoix By Larry Gargus If you haven t fished Lake Charlevoix before, you should make an effort to fish the lake this year. Many anglers think this is the best big fish lake in the north. Some will argue this 17,260 acre lake is the best big fish lake in the state. Let s look at some facts and you will agree, the proof is there! In 2004, the Federation Nation held the State Championship at Lake Charlevoix. There were nine fish over 5 pounds weighed in, and one over 6 pounds. There were too many 4 pounders weighed in to even keep track of. In 2005, the Classic Series Trail visited Charlevoix and it was a real eye opener. In the two days of fishing, there were nine fish weighed in that were over 5 pounds and two were over 6 pounds. There were fourteen bags weighing over twenty pounds and two bags weighing over twenty-five pounds brought to the scales. The team of Jay Andrews and Paul Sica weighed in the best bag ever weighed in a Federation tournament, and to my knowledge, the best bag in state history. Their fish weighed in at pounds. There were dozens of four pounders brought to the scales by the anglers. So many in fact, that no one counted them! In 2007, the Classic Series went back to Charlevoix to see if the big ones were still biting, you bet they were!! This year the two day event yielded more big fish than ever before. Thirteen teams weighed in over twenty pounds and three teams weighed in over twenty-five pounds. There were fifteen fish weighing over five pounds weighed in and three fish over six pounds were weighed in. This tournament also established a new record that may never be broken. Mike Paul brought to the scales an 8.47 pound smallie that stands as the biggest fish ever weighed in at a sanctioned bass tournament in state history. The team of Mike Paul and Bob Downing Jr. won that day with pounds of bass. This is the second biggest bag ever weighed in Federation history. The average fish for the weekend was an amazing 4.43 pounds. I have never, never heard of such a catch from any lake in all of my years of tournament fishing. As you can see, Lake Charlevoix just seems to be getting better. If you have never fished this lake before, don t put it off any longer. Now is the time! The Classic Series will be there in June and the State Championship will be held there in August. See you there! 7 Bass Lines ~ Spring2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

8 Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation Youth Page Casting Kids Three official Casting Kids competitions have taken place at each of the boat shows we participated in.. One event was held on each Sunday of the shows and two events took place on each Saturday. Over the eight days of competition more than 1000 kids went through the competitions. The goal of the competition is to try to score 150 points. The way this is accomplished is to pitch, flip, and cast to the target. The kids flip from a distance of ten feet, pitch from a distance of 20 feet, and cast from a distance of 30 feet. Each child is given two chances from each distance with the best score counting toward the total score. Each local event has two winners, one in each age group (7-10 years of age and years of age). The winners then proceed to their respective state finals. The CastingKids competitors who emerge as the top-performing competitor in his or her state will advance to one of six Federation Nation divisionals, based on geographic criteria. 8 Bass Lines ~ Spring 2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

9 Cherry Capital Bass Anglers Big Brothers Big Sisters ANNUAL KIDS TOURNAMENT By Gary Emerson On a warm Saturday morning, September 15, 2007, the Cherry Capital Bass Anglers launched their boats at Arbutus Lake for the annual Big Brothers Big Sisters Fishing Tournament. The nine bass anglers anticipate this annual outing with a great deal of excitement. Always held on the Saturday following CCBA s Invitational Tournament on Lake Leelanau, the tournament has a history of donating the proceeds to BBBS. It is hard to tell who gets the bigger thrill out of this day, the kids or the bigger kids with the boats The kids from BBBS are, for the most part, kids who have not been paired with an adult and are on a waiting list. The tournament is also open to kids who are paired, even though those waiting are given preference. The nine kids are paired with adults by a scientific method consisting of the kids looking over the boats and seeing which one looks to be the fastest. Also, the kids who have fished in past years are looking for a familiar face. Angler David Luzac has had two girls from one family so long that one is now away at college and her younger sister is now David s annual partner. Angler Gary Emerson s partner has managed to bring in the big bass for 9 years in a row (could be the guiding). Assisting the CCBA on the annual outing is SFC Beth Lamphere and a number of volunteers from the National Guard from Traverse City. SFC Lamphere not only brings the troops to help with the kids, she also brings backpacks filled with school supplies to help the kids get a good start on the school year. Of course, the small token gift to the fishermen is also greatly appreciated. From 8:00 am to 12:00 the kids are allowed to choose what to fish for. Pan fish, pike, and bass are all allowed. Some choose anything that bites and others choose to target bass. In past years a mess of gills has won the tournament over a few bass. So under sunny skies and mild temperatures, the tournament began. With each boat taking positions in favorite holes, along banks, sunken trees and sometimes even the do-nothing banks, the competition was on! After 4 hours the nine kids came ashore for the weigh-in. Jeffery Bembeneck took first place with a 5 fish limit of bass weighing 8.26 lbs., with big bass of 3.33 lbs. Zion LaLond took second with 5.31 lbs. in two bass. Third place was anchored by Timmy Ward with two bass totaling 4.20 lbs. In fourth place was Alex with 2 bass weighing in at 3.36 lbs., Fifth place was Gabe with 2.70 lbs. A close sixth place was Kholii with 2.50 lbs. The rest of the kids caught a good time. After the tournament weigh-in, pizza was delivered for a picnic with the kids, CCBA club members, and the volunteers from the National Guard. The awards were given, and rods, reels, and tackle were passed out to the kids. We would like to thank BBBS of northern Michigan, The great volunteers from the National Guard, the members of CCBA, and of course the kids themselves for giving us the opportunity to bring the great sport of fishing into their lives. We are already looking forward to next year! 9 Bass Lines ~ Spring2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

10 Hooked on Sharing Michael Lipinski, 10, of Roseville, is the kind of child who asked birthday guests to skip buying a gift for him and use the money to buy fishing poles for youngsters at Children's Hospital of Michigan. And then he volunteered to teach kids how to use the gear. Lipinski's fishing skills and charitable activity won him a $5,000 education scholarship and a spot on the Kids All American Fishing Team. But that's just one reason the Roseville boy is special. He is also an athlete, a charity volunteer and fundraiser, a straight "A" student, a state champion caster in youth fishing competitions, and a patient big brother who helped teach little Nicholas Lipinski, 3, how to fish. "We're so proud of him," said father Tony Lipinski, who with wife Roula taught Michael to love the outdoors, give back whenever he can, and respect the environment. In person, Lipinski is a typical, shy 10-year old boy - until the topic turns to fishing. That's when he chats away with the confidence of a seasoned professional. He's so well-spoken and passionate about fishing that Lipinski was asked to teach more in-depth casting lessons to fellow youngsters at Children's Hospital this summer. He won rave reviews last year for teaching patients in the hospital's Stepping-Stone Brain Injury Program, where his mother is a rehabilitation supervisor. "The patients thoroughly enjoyed this experience and said that this demonstration was one of the most memorable ones," Gretchen Backer, the director of rehabilitation services, wrote in a letter to hospital supporters. To make sure kids in the program have the right equipment to fish, Lipinski wrote a poem to his friends and asked them to donate fishing poles for his birthday. He ended up with 36 poles. "I hope it helps them (patients) learn to be patient," Michael Lipinski said. "With fishing, you need to be very patient and wait." Lipinski started learning that lesson in diapers since he took his first fishing trip with his parents at 18 months old. He doesn't remember it, but they said he loved it, and they all know he hasn't stopped since. "We never realized that fishing as a family would have so many benefits," Roula Lipinski said. Every year, the family goes to Hamlin Lake in Ludington and spends a week trolling the water. Lipinski remembers one of the best times in his life came when they reeled in 251 fish in one week. Lipinski wrote about that week in the required 250-word essay for the Kids All American Fishing Team, which asked youngsters to recall a great fishing memory. Selection to the Kids All American Fishing Team is based on the leadership and citizenship examples the child sets in the community and in school. Six youngsters between 8 and 14 years old are picked for the team and each are given a $5,000 college scholarship. Lipinski was named to the team based on his essay, his impressive fishing resume, and a phone interview with judges. "Anyone who doubts the quality time that today's youth contribute to society should take note of the accomplishments of this outstanding group," said Daniel Johnson, president of HOFI, which sponsors the fishing team. "We all can learn from their unselfish efforts of involvement in things that make a difference in the lives of others." Lipinski started his competitive fishing career on a lark when he and his dad stopped by a local fishing show and young Lipinski jumped into a youth casting competition. He won. He kept practicing casting at home, which requires participants to hit specific targets to prove accuracy. 10 Bass Lines ~ Spring 2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

11 Lipinski went on to win a bevy of local and state casting awards. Lipinski was the Reel Kids Casting Competition Regional winner, took second place in the Michigan Jr. Bass Busters smallmouth division, first place in Michigan Jr. Bass Busters Kent Lake Fishing tournament, and participated in the national semifinals in Kissimmee, Fla., and the BASS Federation National Championship Final Weigh-In in Gadsden, Ala. When he's not fishing, he plays soccer, basketball, and baseball, and is learning to speak, write, and read Greek. The Lipinski family also started their own charity, Alexander's Quest for a Cure, to benefit research on Spinal Muscular Atrophy, after their son, Alexander, died in 2000 of the disease at 3 months old. Michael Lipinski imagines he will stay involved in charities like this for the rest of his life. "It feels good," he said. "It makes you feel proud and happy." Michael Lipinski wrote this poem and sent it to friends who were invited to a party for his 10th birthday: My Fishin' Mission Please don't bring a birthday gift, the spirit of others I'd rather lift. I just have one birthday wish, and that's to teach some kids to fish. If you'd like to help my mission and give Children's Hospital the gift of fishin' Just bring an unwrapped fishing pole and I'll take the patients to a fishing hole. You may bring some other gear too, like hooks and bobbers to name a few. A tackle box or even a lure, will help the patients on their fishing tour. With all this gear and a rod and reel, you'll see how happy they will feel! --Michael Lipinski This article about Michael first appeared in the Macomb Daily on March 24, It was written by staff writer Christy Strwaser. Michael certainly is an exemplary example of the youth in Michigan. We are proud to have Michael associated with the Michigan Bass Federation Nation! 11 Bass Lines ~ Spring2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

12 Conservation Report Mike Nolan Conservation Director Taking Care of Your Catch Bass are a precious commodity anywhere they swim but here in Michigan we have some of the best fishing anywhere in the country. We all hear about giant five bass limits caught in places like Florida, Texas, and California. The thing you have to realize is these giant catches are usually caught in the spring of the year. Take a look at how low the winning weights are in those same states in June, July, August, or September and you will see how drastically they fall off. There are many places throughout the Great Lakes that if you don t have 20+ pounds, from spring through fall, you aren t going to make a dent in the standings..and we re talking smallmouth! As easy as it is to do, it is very import that we do not take our fisheries for granted. Many have the misconception that the Great Lakes are so enormous fishermen can t make a dent on fish populations, and that is simply not true..which brings us to the point of this article, taking care of our catch. Unfortunately it is human nature not to ask questions and admit you don t know something, and this is a problem in the proper care of fish. Many anglers don t know how to properly work the livewell systems in their own boats. If you are one of these anglers please swallow your pride and ask someone that has a boat similar to yours how your livewell system works. Unfortunately the livewell systems from one boat to another differ quite a bit. Let me explain the difference between the Livewell Pump and the Recirculation Pump. The Livewell Pump is the pump that pumps lake water into your livewell. The Recirculation Pump is a pump that recirculates water that has been pumped into your livewell through your Livewell Pump. Some boat brands utilize the same pump for both livewell (pump in) and recirculation but the function is altered via a switch or a valve. It is also important to realize how to plug your overflow drains so water doesn t escape when your boat is moving or rocking with waves. Once the proper amount of water is pumped into your livewells, turn you livewell pumps off and turn your recirculation pumps on. Again, some boat brands have a switch or a valve and others have a plug that has to be manually put in place. If your boat is not equipped with a livewell system timer, I strongly suggest you add one. Once you familiarize yourself with the proper operation of your livewell system, please follow the following procedures to keep your fish alive; Fresh water pump in During tournaments during cool water periods (under 70 degrees), you can do one of two things to keep your fish healthy. You can use your livewell pumps to continually pump fresh lake water on your fish. Keep in mind you have to keep your overflow plugs/valves open so you don t fill your boat up with water once your livewells become full. You have to remember to block your livewells from draining whenever you move your boat from place to place and then unblock them when you stop your boat and start pumping fresh water in again. You can also use the recirculating procedures described below although if the water is cool enough you don t need to add ice. Recirculation As water temperatures climb above 70 degrees you need to take further precautions. Because warmer water doesn t retain oxygen as well as cold water once the surface temperature of the lake exceeds the mid seventies you have to cool the water in your livewell and recirculate it instead of pumping warm lake water into your livewells. Fill your livewells up with lake water, turn your livewell pump-in pumps off, and plug the overflow. It is now time to use your recirculation pumps. If you have a timer on your recirculation pumps turn it to higher as water temperature increases. You can t harm your fish by leaving your recirculation pumps on all the time but you can harm them by using your pumps too sparingly. You want to cool your water by adding ice. Some anglers like to freeze two liter pop bottles and place them in the livewells. That works, but you have to remember to remove them when the boat is bouncing around or you will bludgeon your fish to death. One mistake I see anglers making is adding too much ice to their livewells.they feel if a little ice is good a whole bunch must be better. That is not the case and can actually kill your fish. An abrupt temperature change of more than ten degrees can put your fish into shock. Because all livewells are different sizes and water temperatures vary, there is no formula for how much ice to add or how often you add it. A basic rule of thumb is a handful of ice per individual livewell (Triton style livewells) or two handfuls for a divided livewell (Ranger type livewells). Adding ice every couple of hours is usually sufficient; in extremely hot weather add ice once an hour. I have heard people say they don t like to use ice because they feel the chemicals used for purification in our drinking water may harm fish. When tap water is frozen the purification chemicals dissipate so there is no danger of harming fish with ice as long as the proper amount is added to livewells. It is also good to add either non-iodized salt (at a ratio of 1/3 cup per 5 gallons of water) or a chemical like Catch and Release or Please Release Me (as directed) to livewells. Both Catch and Release and Please Release Me (made by the same company) claim to have anti-biotic additives to help prevent infection and regenerate slime layers lost during battle and a mild tranquilizer that helps calm fish that are held in livewells. Noted fish specialist Ralph Manns has suggested NOT using the product Rejuvenate because he suggests it has a stimulant that over excites and stresses fish. Fish treated with Rejuvenate can give the impression of being healthy due to their increased activity levels during weigh-in, but in reality these fish may burn up energy needed after their release, in some cases delayed mortality will result. Please follow these procedures and help members of your club understand how and why they are important. 12 Bass Lines ~ Spring 2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

13 Brain Injury Association of Michigan The Brain Injury Association of Michigan (BIAMI) was established in 1981 as a nonprofit Michigan corporation, by family members, persons with brain injury, and persons in the brain injury profession. Its vision is to be recognized as a strong, viable, voluntary health agency providing leadership on traumatic and acquired brain injury through a broad range of services, and supporting research on brain injury treatment. Specifically, the Brain Injury Association of Michigan and its chapters have as their mission to enhance the lives of those affected by brain injury through education, advocacy, research, and local support groups; and to reduce the incidence of brain injury through prevention. Man Down photographer unknown Tips-Up - For The - Troops Pro-Am Charity Bass Fishing Tournament June 14, 2008 Contact Information - Veterans, pro-boaters, donations, sponsors, and volunteers are needed. Contact us at: veterans@biami.org. or call Rick Briggs at (810) for more information about this event. Why Support BIAMI s Veteran s Program? With the acceleration of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) among returning Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) combatants, BIAMI created a special program specifically to help with the returning veteran s 13 Bass Lines ~ Spring2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

14 TBI related issues in March of Called The Signature Wound of the War on Terror, TBIs are most frequently caused by Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDS), Mortars, Vehicle Accidents, Mines, Grenades, and Falls. Michigan s #1 national status with 55 CARF accredited TBI healthcare providers, sets the stage to ensure that Michigan TBI veterans receive the best possible care anywhere. BIAMI is working to get DOD and VA to utilize these enormous assets to augment their systems. Though young, the BIAMI Veteran s program has already established itself on the national stage as a leader for veteran s TBI programs in Advocacy, Legislative Support, Professional TBI Case Management Advocacy, Veteran TBI Support Group, and Pre-Deployment, Pre-Home Coming Family TBI Awareness, and the critical Post-Deployment Home-Coming Family Workshop briefing programs. JOIN US... For fantastic fishing family fun, and a great B-B-Q at Kent Lake, in the Kensington Metropark just east of Brighton, Michigan off I-96. While you re daydreaming of hooking up with one of the lakes lunker largemouth or smallmouth bass, remember all proceeds benefit the Brain Injury Association of Michigan s Veterans Programs and their support groups. The Blast Off to watch the boats leave and start the fishing tournament is at 0730 hours, that s 7:30 a.m. for our civilian friends. Come join the fun and cheer on the Teams of two anglers, a pro- boater and their veteran partner as they weigh-in their prize catches at 1300 hours (1:00 p.m.). While the teams are out having fun fishing, spectators, families, and friends of veterans will be entertained with numerous games and events around the pavilion. There will be a sanctioned B.A.S.S. sponsored Kid s Casting Contest with prizes as well as other activities. The B-B-Q begins at 1:30 pm and is free for veteran and pro-boater participants. A small donation of $5 per person would be appreciated from all others while kids under 5 are Free. Please come out and Thank these heroes for their service and sacrifices they have made for our nation. 14 Bass Lines ~ Spring 2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

15 - Donations - Please make donations out to: BIAMI Veterans Program. To make a credit card donation please call us at (810) Include your name, address and phone to receive your tax receipt. - Schedule of Events Registration 06:30 07:30 hrs Boat Launch/Parking 06:30 07:30 hrs Coffee & Donuts Social 06:30 08:00 hrs Opening Ceremony 08:00 hrs Tournament Briefing 08:10 hrs Tournament Blastoff 08:30 hrs Family Events 09:00 15:00 hrs (B.A.S.S. Kids Casting Contest) Weigh-in Show 13:30 hrs (1:30pm) B-B-Q 14:00 hrs (2:00pm) Awards Ceremony 15:00 hrs (3:00pm) Photo by: Brittney Briggs Photographer unknown Sponsorship Opportunities The BIAMI Veterans Program will do everything we can for our supporters to garner every possible exposure opportunity available. While there has already been significant interest concerning potential media exposure around the event, there are no guarantees here. Just our promise to do the best we can for those that help our veterans programs. Exposure will be relative to the level of support of all sponsors. Title Sponsorship $10,000 Platinum Sponsorship - $5,000 Gold Sponsorship - $2,500 Silver Sponsorship - $1,000 Bronze Sponsorship - $500 Special Donor - $100 Product & Prize Sponsors Needed We do wish to extend a Special Thanks to our primary sponsors of last years inaugural Tips-Up for the Troops event and recognize their outstanding contributions that helped BIAMI launch the Veterans Program. Thanks to the key 2007 sponsors: Legal Help for Veterans Fausone Bohn, LLP Atwell Hicks Development Consultants & Zukey Lake Marina Visit us at: 15 Bass Lines ~ Spring2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

16 How does the Federation Work? First, members begin by joining or starting a local club. Each local club runs itself as it chooses. Most clubs host tournaments during the fishing season. Each club establishes dues for members. To start a club, it takes a minimum of 6 members. There are 3 steps for full membership and all its benefits. The first step is to join B.A.S.S.. This requires a $20.00 per year fee. The benefits you receive are 11 magazines of the Bass Masters Publication. Step two is joining a local club. Lastly, the club also joins National Federation ( BASS/ESPN ). These dues are set at $ per year per member. When all 3 are in place, then the club can send a team to our State Championship tournament. The 2007 tournament was held on Lake St. Clair, launching out of Mount Clemens, Mi. The dates this year were August with August 23 being the meeting night. The actual fishing dates were August 24 & 25. From this tournament, 13 anglers advance and then become the Mi. State Team. This team earns many bonus awards. Among these are expense money to cover travel, rooms, licenses, food and VIP pricing on many of our sponsors products, as well as the bonus money for owning sponsor product from Skeeter/Yamahma, Triton/ Mercury, Lowrance, and Motorguide. The team also receives multiple Pro Shirts/caps, jackets, Berkley,Plano, and BASS products. The team is fishing for a 1 st place prize of a of $35, boat. Our Michigan Team fishes in a Northern Divisional Tournament the following year. The team from the 2007 championship will be fishing in Wisconsin in 2008 and the 2008 team will be fishing back in Michigan waters in The top Michigan Angler from the Northern Divisional tournament then goes on to fish in the Federation Nation National Championship (in November each year). From this National Championship only one angler from each of the six overall Divisions will earn a berth to fish with the Pro's in the " BIG SHOW"...The Bassmaster Classic. The overall winner receives a NEW Triton boat package. It all begins from joining one of our State Federation Nation Clubs. I know you have many more questions and I would be happy to speak with you one on one. Please contact me at or stop and see us at one of the shows. We set up a booth at major boat shows around the state. The benefits to our memberships are many: You can receive discounted products from Skeeter/Yamaha, Lowrance, Minn-Kota, Plano, and Berkley. Also, cash bonus money from Triton and Skeeter in tournaments and we offer our own Scholarship program for our members and their families. Our dues also covers a one Million dollar insurance policy for the clubs which includes a Death and Dismemberment policy of $9, Coverage is for all members and is in effect during travel to, from, and during all Federation functions and events. We represented the Federation at the Novi Ultimate Boat Show, the Lansing Boat Show and Grand Rapids Ultimate Boat Show. We could also were available at Bass Pro Shops during their Spring Classic Sales weekends. You can also contact any board member from our web site. We hope you made it to one of these shows so we could speak to you about our Federation goals and values. Our Federation places major emphasis on our Youth Programs and our Conservation projects. Several of our adult clubs also run Junior Clubs. The Youth all fish in a Junior State Championship that then leads to a National Junior Championship. Two youth anglers can win Triton Rigs and others compete for 6 scholarship awards along with trophies. This all takes place at the Bassmaster Classic. Please contract our Youth Directors for further information. They are listed on the web site. We look forward to you joining our great organization and the B.A.S.S. family. You may request a CD with additional information on it including all the forms you need to help start a club up. Each club president was given a CD to share with their club. Again thank you for contacting our Michigan B.A.S.S. Federation Nation Chapter Paul Sacks, "Sack of Bass" Michigan B.A,S.S. Federation Nation President psacks@michiganbass.net Phone # National Federation web site: Bassmaster Federation Index Our State Web site: Sponsor of the Michigan BASS Federation Nation Web site Dealer Inquiries Welcome 16 Bass Lines ~ Spring 2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

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18 Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation Classic Series Tournaments By Larry Gargus The 2008 season is just around the corner, and the Classic Series is on the move. We will be having a classic with our tournament series this year. This year promises to be the next step in the revival of the oldest and longest running tournament series in the state of Michigan. You should have an entry form by now, and the entries are already coming in. Remember, the blast-off order will be the order in which I receive entries. Also, don t forget to include your proof of insurance with your entry form. All entries will be checked to make sure the anglers are Federation members. You must be a member to fish. So, if you aren t a member, join a club now! The format will be three one-day tournaments with a one day classic for all that qualify. How do you qualify? You must fish all three of the series events. No matter how you finish in these tournaments, you automatically qualify for the Classic. The Classic winners will receive over $ in rewards and cash. We will also be paying back over 100% in cash and rewards during our regular Classic Series tournaments during the year. You can have one sub for the regular Classic Series events, but no subs will be permitted for the Classic at the end of the season. The payouts will be bigger this year, and we have lots of give-a-ways and gift cards for our top finishers this season. We will be paying one place for every five entries. We will also have free drawings for gift cards for everyone who fishes with us. We expect our number of entries to increase from last year, so we will have more prize money for payouts. If you can t make all of the tournaments, you are welcome to fish any that you can attend. If your club wants to use one of our Classic Events as a club tournament, we can make that happen, just give me a call. If you have any questions about the Classic Series, please feel free to call me anytime. It should be a great season for the Federation Classic Series. One last thought, a special thanks goes out to Little Bill s Trophies of Redford. They are helping us by providing the trophies this year and we want to thank them again for their effort to support the Federation. Mike Paul with his 8.47 pound smallie caught at Lake Charlevoix in Bass Lines ~ Spring 2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

19 Is AERATION Enough? By Sharon Leonardi Over the years I have wondered: Just how many fish we release after weigh-in, die from delayed mortality? I have been doing some research on the internet and found some disturbing claims. The difference of the mortality between bass just aerated compared to oxygen use is astounding, especially during the summer months. See Chart below: This coupled with the STRESS that the bass are subjected to, has convinced me that I need to upgrade my livewell system, and I have to remember about the importance of not relying on oxygen alone. The ammonia build-up in the livewell from the fish excrements must be flushed regularly. There are oxygenation systems on the market, but I understand that some require maintenance each time you bring your boat home. I also understand that with some systems, you cannot use a livewell additive containing SALT. Although my work schedule, along with today s soaring gas prices, doesn t allow me to fish many larger tournaments, I still believe that each fish I can keep healthy will be worth my investment in this system. I understand that with the new WATER weigh-in systems, and this includes the walleye circuits, the tournament officials will penalize contestants for fish that are struggling but still alive as a dead fish. This is probably due to the probable delayed mortality. This will put an interesting spin on the weigh-ins in the future. Although many newer boats have pro air systems built in, please be aware that air is not oxygen. The parts per mil (ppm) is limited with air and the demand from the bass goes up greatly as the water warms. Biologists consider that less than 3ppm is LETHAL to fish and 6-7ppm is dangerous to stressed fish. The conventional aerator provides 4-7ppm of oxygen and can still result in a 22% delayed mortality. Adding ice & salt to the livewell and recirculating the water can reduce mortality to 18%. The system I am looking at, peaks oxygen levels at 22ppm and briefly goes down to 8ppm when fresh water is added to flush out the ammonia and carbon dioxide from the livewell, thus in testing resulted in only 7% mortality. No ice or salt needs to be added, thus saving money. This system will cost $400- $450 depending on the size of the tank. The cost can be recouped with one tournament, with healthy fish not drawing any penalties. This will be important as the New Weigh-in systems are introduced and you are one of the few with bass that were properly taken care of. I encourage you to take a look at the information I found and decide for yourself. My information came from this website- Take a look at the figures and see if it doesn t make sense to you! 19 Bass Lines ~ Spring2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

20 This is only part of the solution. The weigh in set ups in many tournaments need to be upgraded to ensure the survival of our bass. below, are two similar diagrams of possible setups to keep our bass healthy. I hope you encourage all weigh-in officials to UPGRADE. BASS Club World Championship (BCWC) Who is eligible? BASS Federation Nation affiliated clubs and their members in good standing. BCWC State Qualifier States may only promote official BASS sponsors at BCWC qualifiers and regional tournaments. States may send up to six (6) six-person teams and their alternates to the BCWC regional tournament. BCWC Regional Tournaments Entry fee for the BCWC Regional Tournament shall be $1500 per team. There will be Six (6) regions throughout the USA. Same alignment as divisionals. BCWC Regional Tournaments will consist of two (2) official practice days on Tuesday and Wednesday immediately preceding two (2) competition days on Thursday and Friday. States may be asked to help with host responsibilities but are not required to host. There will not be a set rotation of regional tournaments. A percentage of each entry fee will be held for expenses, Regional payout and Championship payout. No money will be held back for travel expenses to the Championship. Eight (8) six-person teams and their alternates will advance from the BCWC Regional Tournament to the BASS Club World Championship. Alternates must be members in good standing, of the club in which they are representing, at the time of the regional tournament. BASS Club World Championship No entry fee. Championship will be held in October 6-11, We will try to hold the championship in a central location. World Championship team will be awarded six (6) fully rigged Triton/Mercury Packages, guaranteed. Payout for the rest of the field will be based on the number of teams that enter the BCWC regional tournaments. 20 Bass Lines ~ Spring 2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

21 Toyota Launches Fishing s First-ever Tow-vehicle Contingency program for Bassmasters. Toyota continues moving forward with their support of competitive bass fishing by launching the Toyota Trucks Bonus Bucks program. It is fishing s first ever national tow-vehicle based contingency program for anglers fishing in Bassmaster affiliated events. Tournament anglers who drive a 2007 or newer Tundra or Sequoia as their tow vehicle will be eligible for considerable amounts of bonus money at the weigh-in this year if they are registered in the Toyota Trucks Bonus Bucks program. Whether you compete as a member of the Federation Nation, Weekend Series, or full-time as an Elite Series Pro, anglers at all levels of Bassmaster affiliated tournaments stand to benefit. Best of all, there s no registration fee, and you don t have to win the tournament to be eligible for the Bonus Bucks. Plus, the Federation Nation will benefit doubly in some cases by receiving matching funds based on the success of individual members. Kevin VanDam says the truck and the associated contingency money make towing with Toyota the sensible choice. First and foremost, the Tundra is a great truck. In fact, I ve told a lot of other fishermen that it s truly the best tow vehicle I ve ever driven. You notice the towing power it has immediately. Then, you throw the Bonus Bucks incentive money on top of a superior product, and as far as I m concerned you can t afford to tow with anything but a Tundra. To get signed-up and learn more, visit toyotafishing.com, or call (918) and speak with a Bonus Bucks representative. throw the Bonus Bucks incentive money on top of a superior product, and as far as I m concerned you can t afford to tow with anything but a Tundra. Kevin VanDam 21 Bass Lines ~ Spring2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

22 2008 EVENTs overview AND PAYOUT Events Payment Bassmaster Classic 1 event Highest placing eligible entrant $ 7,500 2nd Highest placing eligible entrant $ 2,500 Bassmaster Elite Series 11 events Highest placing eligible entrant.... $ 3,000 2nd Highest placing eligible entrant $ 2,000 Bassmaster Opens 6 events Highest placing eligible entrant.... $ 1,500 2nd Highest placing eligible entrant $ 1,000 Women s Bassmaster Tour 4 events Highest placing eligible entrant.... $ 1,000 2nd Highest placing eligible entrant $ 500 Women s Bassmaster Tour Championship 1 event Highest placing eligible entrant $ 1,500 2nd Highest placing eligible entrant $ 1,000 Bassmaster Weekend Series 92 regular season events Highest placing eligible entrant $ 250 Bassmaster Weekend Series Divisional 32 events Highest placing eligible entrant $ 500 Bassmaster Weekend Series Championship 1 event Highest placing eligible entrant... $ 1,500 BASS Federation Nation Program State Team Program State Team members 14 per State.... $ 500 State Qualifier to National Championship 1 per state.... $ 1,000 Federation Nation National Championship National Championship 1 event Highest placing eligible entrant.... $ 5,000 2nd highest placing eligible entrant $ 2,500 Bassmaster Classic 6 Federation Nation Qualifiers also eligible for previously listed Bassmaster Classic contingency payment Matching Funds for Federation Nation State Programs State Team For each eligible entrant State team member $ 250 State Qualifier For each State who sends an eligible state champion entrant to nationals $ 500 National Championship To the state who s entrant is the highest placing finisher.... $ 2,500 To the state who s entrant is the 2nd highest placing finisher $ 1,250 Bassmaster Classic Goes to the state who s eligible entrant wins a Bassmaster Classic contingency payment If your State s eligible entrant is highest placing finisher (competing against full Classic field)... $ 3,750 If your State s eligible entrant is 2nd highest placing finisher (competing against full Classic field) $ 1, Bass Lines ~ Spring 2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

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24 DETROIT RIVER OPEN - JUNE 21, 2008! Guaranteed First Place prize A Tracker PT 190 W/115 HP Mercury Detroit International River Days Festival and NBAA would like to invite you to the 2nd Annual Detroit River Open to be held on June 21, Working with Tracker Marine and Mercury Outboards, the Detroit International River Days Festival and the National Bass Anglers Association would like to announce that this year s guaranteed first place prize for the Detroit River Open will be a brand new Tracker PT 190 boat with a 115 HP Mercury Optimax outboard. This prize package is valued at over $20,000 which makes the Detroit River Open one of the highest payback tournaments for bass anglers in the mid-west this year. With well over 100% payback in cash and prizes, it s no wonder why this event has drawn so much attention from anglers and sponsors alike. In addition to giving away thousands in cash and prizes, two lucky anglers will win a free co angler entry into the upcoming BFL event on Lake St Clair. This special drawing will take place at the NBAA stage immediately following weigh in. Anglers must be present to win. Besides the two co-anglers spots there will be lots of other prizes at the weigh in during the Detroit River Days Festival. The inaugural Detroit River Open kicked off last season and was a huge hit with bass anglers across Michigan, the Midwest and even Canada. The world class smallmouth fishing of the Detroit River and its access to lakes Erie and St. Clair drew over 100 teams. What seemed like an endless line of giant Smallmouth bass coming to the scales was topped by the team of Mike Trombley and Dave Hayward with just over 21-½ pounds, which was good enough for first place and $7500 If you d like to register for this upcoming once a year Detroit River Open extravaganza you may do so on-line or mail the form below into NBAA. We will be having an early draw with all entries received by June 1st getting the early boat numbers. After that your boat number will be assigned in the order in which it was received. With the enormous amount of interest in this event from last season we expect to have a huge increase in participation. For this reason, we have capped the number of boats at 150 for this event. Please visit our web site at NBAA-BASS.COM For all information and registration forms 24 Bass Lines ~ Spring 2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

25 2008 Casting Kids State Championship BASS formed in 1968 to promote and encourage fishing. Recognizing that youngsters are the future of this great sport, BASS took the lead of introducing and educating youth about the sport of fishing. CastingKids comprise the youngest level of all levels of Federation Nation competition. Youth competitors are mentored by Federation Nation anglers and learn the elements that have become the foundation of the Federation Nation membership. This year our Michigan B.A.S.S. Federation Nation clubs held many more CastingKids contest than any other year. We worked with over 250 kids teaching them the basics of bass fishing. Each year all the winners from all of our CastingKids contests are invited to the next step in their quest to be the best in our State and then to advance on to National levels. The Kids are competing for awards.$21,000 in academic college scholarships are awarded to the 12 finalists. This years State Championship was held on May 10, 2008 in Grand Blanc, MI. at the Grand Blanc Motorcar Dealership. We would like to thank the dealership for the wonderful give-a-way prizes and BBQ picnic for the all the kids and their families. At this contest 20 winners from around the State came to compete to represent the State of Michigan in Aug. at in Oshkosh WI. Our State would like to recognize the efforts all the kids who competed. Yes, we had two winners (one from each age group advances), but the best thing was that no one lost. All those kids are winners in our book. We would like acknowledge the two Kids who will be representing Michigan this year. In the 7 to 10 age group Austin Malkin of Holt, MI. - 8 Years Old In the age group Jesse Malinowski of Highland,Mi - 13 Years Old Congratulations for being the best in the State of Michigan this year. You are our Michigan CastingKids Champions for We all wish you the best of luck in the next contests and hope to see you written up as National Champions in The BASSMASTER Magazine this fall. Jesse Malinowski Austin Malkin 25 Bass Lines ~ Spring2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

26 WHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU CATCH 2007 Inc. Choice. Performance. Flexibility. With 7", 8" and 10" screens, best-in-class sonar performance and the exclusive Solar- Max color display, you can easily see the Lowrance difference even in bright sunlight. Lowrance LCX also offers the widest selection of high-detail mapping options. Now with Navionics Platinum compatibility, high-speed Ethernet networking and high-definition sonar recordings with the optional Broadband Sounder, it s easy to see why Lowrance is the hands-down favorite of top fishing pros. Find out more at A brand by Navico Leader in Marine Electronics 26 Bass Lines ~ Spring 2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

27 Michigan B.A.S.S. Federation Nation Chapter MISSION STATEMENT The Michigan BASS Federation Nation, as a Leader in the State of Michigan, is committed to a better Environment, mentoring our youth, and the sport of competitive Bass Fishing. By providing a holistic approach, we can sustain the health and welfare of our youth, the integrity in the Sport of Bass fishing, our State and the communities we partner with. VISION Together, we deliver the highest quality and care of our Youth, the Environment and the sport of BASS fishing thru experience, everyday, everywhere, for everyone. VALUES We are called to: Manage the Environment Caring and taking action to educate and participate in events that make a difference within the state and country. Reverence Respect for the sport, each other and the environment. Integrity Inspiring trust through open and honest competition and personal relationships. Wisdom Integrating excellence, stewardship and mentorship from experience. Creativity Pioneering new techniques, Stepping outside the norm to assist others. The Michigan B.A.S.S. Federation Nation Dedication Affirming our hope for a better environment, the joy of our sport, and the growth of our youth. 27 Bass Lines ~ Spring2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

28 OPTIMA Batteries Joins BASS as Sponsor CELEBRATION, Fla. OPTIMA Batteries, The Ultimate Power Source, and BASS, the worldwide authority on bass fishing, announced Tuesday that Milwaukee, WI., based OPTIMA has joined BASS as a supporting sponsor of the organization and its prestigious tournament structure. The agreement includes supporting sponsorship of the Bassmaster Elite Series, the BASS Federation Nation, the Bassmaster Opens and the Women s Bassmaster Tour presented by Academy Sports & Outdoors. Additionally, OPTIMA joins as a supporting sponsor of BASS youth initiatives: the Junior Bassmaster World Championship and the Bassmaster CastingKids program. OPTIMA Batteries is proud to align with such a prestigious partner, said Josie Cline, Marine Brand Manager for OPTIMA Batteries. As a proud sponsor of BASS and an avid supporter of the sport of bass fishing, OPTIMA Batteries encourages enthusiasts everywhere to stay out on the water longer. As part of the agreement, OPTIMA will receive booth space at the 2008 Bassmaster Classic and have a significant presence at all 2008 Bassmaster Elite Series tournaments. OPTIMA will also serve as the presenting sponsor of the 2008 Angler s Alley program, which brings Elite Series anglers closer to fans in select Elite tournament cities. OPTIMA has roots in the bass fishing industry as it was a primary sponsor of Bassmaster Elite Series angler Edwin Evers of Talala, Okla., in Evers won an Elite event on New York s Lake Erie in July and has amassed more than $1 million in career BASS earnings. We recognize OPTIMA s reputation in the industry and applaud their support of the sport of bass fishing, said Tom Ricks, vice president and general manager of BASS. For more information on OPTIMA Batteries, visit For more information, contact BASS Communications at (407) or visit Visit for ESPN's latest releases, schedules and other news, plus photos, video and audio clips and more. 28 Bass Lines ~ Spring 2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

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33 "Special packages and offers for Michigan Bass Federation Members, you must call with an ID# to find out". 33 Bass Lines ~ Spring2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation

34 Give us a call or visit us on the web for all your Amsoil needs Thomas & Jennifer Worth Independent Dealers Toll-Free: worthpulling@yahoo.com 34 Bass Lines ~ Spring 2008 ~ Official Publication of Michigan B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation