Tideline Summer 2017

News from the Essex-Middle River Chapter By Frank Holden

The Essex-Middle River has had a very busy couple of months. The 34th Annual MSSA Spring Tournament found chapter members fishing from ports in Middle River to Point Lookout. Now that summer is here the chapter would like to urge anglers everywhere to practice conservation whenever possible. Keep only what you plan to eat, and practice safe catch and release methods for those you intend to release. As warmer weather arrives careful catch and release becomes even more important. Please release them carefully to fight another day. Our series of chapter One-Day Fishing contests has been challenging so far this year. Our April contest was hampered by high winds. We’ll do our best to continue them throughout the year as long as Mother Nature is a little more cooperative. Doesn’t it seem like bad weather and tournament fishing seem to walk together hand in hand! These monthly contests allow for a lot of fun competition among members while promoting comradery among members. Many members use the One- Day contests, MSSA Tournament Participation, and our Yearly Contest to earn points toward the chapter’s “Fisherman of The Year” award awarded at our Christmas party every year.

We always try to have good interesting guest speakers talking on a variety of fishing and fishing related subjects. So far this year the chapter has awarded one free charter fishing trips with a captain who has been a guest speaker. If it sounds like this is a fun chapter you’re right. Our meetings are held on the third Tuesday of the month at The Commodore Hall, 1909 Old Eastern Ave. in Essex. They start at 7:30 and always feature a guest speaker on any variety of subjects relating to our favorite sport. The Commodore Hall always has a dinner platter available prior to the meeting. For more information feel free to contact chapter president Frank Holden at 410-686-2348 or flholden@msn.com. Until next time- see you on the Bay!

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The chapter’s commitment to Family and Kids continues again this year. Our marquee Kids event is our Annual Kids Fishing Day scheduled for Saturday August 5. We take 50 youngsters from our community, treat them to a day of fishing and fun then give them a rod a reel to take home to further enjoy the sport. It’s only through the generosity of area businesses and many of our Flea Market vendors that it’s possible to host such a great community event. We urge everyone to support the local tackle shops, boat dealers, and the numerous other businesses that support chapter and MSSA activities.

Page 28 | SUMMER 2017