Keith Burden Takes Walk in Water
Walk in Water 10-24-09
Well it has been several years since we fished good ole Walk in Water and I really enjoyed it, just wish we could have caught some bigger fish, but we had a good time.
Before I talk about the tournament, I would like to say goodbye to Dick Moroski and Frank Petrulli. Because of health reasons and age, Dick called me and stated that they would not be at Walk in Water and would not be coming back next year. It has nothing to do with the club, but the early hours, long drive, full day of fishing and the long drive back does weigh upon a body. So Dick and Frank are going to fish Tarpon in the Extreme and I wish them the best of luck! By the way guys, remember you qualify for the CLASSIC next year and hope to see you there.
We started out the day by picking the first three lakes for 2010.
January 23rd Lake Panasoffkee Tracy’s Point
February 27th Istokpoga Hwy. 98 Ramp
March 27th Lake Tarpon Anderson Park
First weekend in April will be the CLASSIC for 2009
Lake Okeechobee out of Clewiston ( if there is water)
So on to the tournament.
The morning on Walk in Water was beautiful and we were the only tournament that day. We had 10 teams show up for our last tournament of the year. By the end of the day we had 8 teams bring fish to the scales. We had 9 teams but Colleen got sick and Frank made her go home so they released their fish early. Now Frank was saying that even Colleen was real sick, she wanted to stay until the weigh in, but Frank said ” no ” Now there is a trooper!
We had four 5 fish limits and a total of 32 bass brought to the scales.
Third Place: Bill Coker and Dave Felentzer with 5 fish and total weight of 7.65 lbs.
Second Place: Phil Mansfield and Darrell Paquin with 5 fish and total weight of 9.78lbs.
First Place: Keith Burden with 5 fish and total weight of 11.34 lbs.
Big Bass: Keith Burden with a nice 3.95lb bucket mouth.
Congratulations to all the winners and all the members of the club!
As we wind down another year, we crown ” Angler’s of the Year ” and this year it is the M&M, plain not peanuts team…………..Frank and Colleen Mackin. Frank and Colleen started out 2009 with a win and never looked back. Everyone was gunning for them at every tournament and with only a few hiccups, Frank and Colleen were able to hold off the charging field.
CONGRATULATIONS Frank and Colleen Mackin, The 2009 Angler’s of the Year!
So we draw the end to another year and we also end the 2009 season with me stepping down as your president. You know the ole saying when one era ends another begins. It has been a wonderful 6 years as your president and I have had a wonderful time. We have had our ups and downs, but we are still standing strong. I have chosen Mike Burgun to take over for the 2010 season and I know you guys will support him just like you supported me. It has been a wonderful run an I am truly blessed to call everyone my friend. This group of people is the Heart and Soul of St. Pete Pro Bass and I will never forget all the wonderful memories that we were able to enjoy and share. I wish everyone the best of luck and I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season. I will forward all information to Mike and everyone please be safe!
Phil Mansfield