In my visits to several Bass Clubs in the last few months I have made a point of mentioning that our Public Relations are very important to the continuation of out sport. Every time we are on the water or just driving the many highway routes to and from fishing waters our Public Relations is on line.

By now I assume all have read the article in the past two BBAC newsletters in reference to the Contra Costa Marine Sheriffs Department watching our Delta Tournaments very closely. They are very concerned with high speed, 5 mph zone busting and cutting corners. As many of us know we are not respected by many fellow anglers, we are perceived as being self focused and in fact in some cases harming the fishery.

Yesterday I chaired a meeting in Santa Clara County to acquire approvals for the 2004 Lake Anderson Habitat Project. I shared with them how currently the BBAC had just completed the East Bay Parks Habitat Project and how this project will improve the angling for older people and kids as these lakes are located in city limits and communities. Additionally with Lake Anderson as close to townships a Habitat Program would again serve older people and kids. I went on to say these waters are not utilized by Tournament anglers, however it is their main power, revenue and concern to improve these fisheries. At this point a Santa Clara County Water District Biologist made a very negative remark, "all I see attending this meeting is representatives from 5 Bay Area Bass Clubs - no kids are present at all". This comment was made in a strong tone with attitude that presented the Bass fisherman as serving self interests.

I spent most all my Bass angling time with my two sons. I often remember my Dad doing the same with my brother and I. Back then we fished local waters, communications and Tournaments did not exist, and public relations and/or politics did not play a roll.

Today our Bass Tournaments, Bass populations and angling for "Generations to Come" is in danger. The comment noted above by a Water District Biologist is clear. We must Practice Public Relations and get involved, scrutinize those of us who are harming the sport we love, and stand united.