SJBCA News

South Jersey Bass Club Association
News

(News items are listed in order from newest to oldest. Last updated: 7/29/2022

Open Buddy Tournaments

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For news articles from previous years, click on the year below:
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2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001

July 20, 2022 - July Meeting Features Food, Chris Smith & Scholarships
Our July member meeting, held at the Thundergust picnic area at Parvin State Park, featured the usual food spread of burgers, dogs, Big Nasty ribs, salads and beverages. We were also happy to see both of this year's college scholarship recipients (Brooke Kuhmichel & Nathan Mangold) show up to receive their awards. NJ Fish & Wildlife biologist Chris Smith was the guest speaker, giving updates on various lake surveys and projects completed, underway and/or planned.

June 19, 2022 - Cram & Masciantonio Take Fathers Day Open
Our annual Fathers Day "Steve Steinmetz Memorial" open buddy tournament at Union Lake saw forty teams show up to battle some windy conditions in pursuit of some nice cash and prizes. Steve Cram and Nick Masciantonio walked away with a nice pay day. Their five-bass 11.04 pound winning bag allowed them to take not only the first place pot, but also the Franzwa Marine $500 Winners Bonus. They also had a 4.50 lb bass that took the overall lunker pot and the $100 Belleplain Supply Gun Center morning largemouth lunker prize. The winner of the $100 Belleplain Supply Gun Center morning smallmouth lunker prize were David Snedeker and Johnny Paoline with a nice 3.55 lb smallie. Harmony Fishing generously donated door prizes for all of the top finishers. Click here for detailed results. Photos are on the way.

June 6, 2022 - Scholarship Winners Announced
On June 1, our Scholarship Committee selected two winners for our annual scholarship program. (Our budget allows for one scholarship, but thanks to a number of generous donors, we're able to award two scholarships again this year.) The winners are: Brooke Kuhmichel of Manchester Township High School and Nathan Mangold of Cedar Creek High School. Congratulations to both of them. Hopefully they'll be able to make it to our July member meeting (free barbecue) for a presentation of their checks.

May 23, 2022 - Annual Open Buddy to be Held on Fathers Day
Our annual Union Lake open buddy tournament will be held on Sunday, June 19 (Fathers Day). The times are 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM (must be registered & checked in by 5:50 AM). Entry fee is $60.00 per boat ($50.00 if pre-registered at least two weeks prior to the event). The first place team will receive a $500.00 bonus payment courtesy of Franzwa's Marine in Millville, in addition to the normal payout. Belleplain Supply Gun Center is sponsoring our $100.00 largemouth and smallmouth morning lunker prizes (weighed in prior to 10:00 AM). Free hot dogs & beverages will be served to all participants at the weigh-in. Click here for flyer/entry form. Your support for this fundraiser is appreciated.
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April 19, 2022 - Scholarship Application Deadline Approaching
The SJBCA's Scholarship Committee has been accepting applications for our annual scholarship program. Applicants should note that submissions must be received by May 2. For more details on this program, as well as the application form and photos of past winners, check out the Scholarship Information section of this website. Our scholarship winner(s) will be announced by June 1.

March 28, 2022 -- Ike Youth Trail Needs Boaters
The Ike Foundation's new Youth Tournament Trail is seeking adult boaters to take the kids out fishing. The trail includes three tournaments: May 21 at Lake Lenape, July 23 at Cooper River and September 18 at Union Lake. If you're interested in helping out, complete a Boat Captain entry form on the Ike Foundation website at https://theikefoundation.org/youth-tournament-trail/ or contact Kate from the Ike Foundation.

March 5, 2022 - Very Successful Fishermen's Flea Market After A Year Off
Over 500 paying (adult) customers attended our annual Fishermen's Flea Market at the Millville Elks Lodge. In addition, all available vendor tables/spaces inside and all spaces outside were rented out. The SJBCA sincerely thanks all of the vendors, customers and volunteers who came out to support our event. The winner of our saltwater tackle box raffle was T. Welden. The winner of the freshwater tackle box raffle was John Hogan. Photos from the event are being posted here.

Thanks to the clubs and individuals that contributed towards the tackle box raffles:

Beavertail Bass Club	Big Bass Fishing Club of Maple Shade
Cumberland County Bassmasters	4th Ward Bass Anglers
Al Franchetta	Good Sports Gun Club
Harmony Fishing Company	Kickin' Bass Fishing Club
Mike Riordan	South Jersey Bass Stalkers
South Jersey Hawg Hunters	South Jersey Hook This!
SJ Kayak Bass Fishing Club	South Jersey Rod Benders
Top Rod Bassmasters	USA Bassin

February 25, 2022 -- All Flea Market Tables Have Been Rented
The committee for our annual Fishermen's Flea Market confirmed that all available vendor tables for this year's event have been rented. The event is scheduled for Saturday, March 5 from 8:00 AM until 1:00 PM. Click here for more details.

February 18, 2022 -- Sponsors Needed for June Open Buddy Tournament
Planning has begun for our annual open buddy tournament at Union Lake (usually on Fathers Day in mid-June). As part of that planning, we're seeking sponsors for awards and payouts at the tournament. Anyone interested in supporting this event can contact Brian Camp or Fred Lentz for more information.

February 16, 2022 -- 2022 Bass Bowl to be Held at Delaware River
At our February member meeting, the member clubs overwhelmingly voted for the Delaware River to be the site of our 2022 Bass Bowl tournament on October 16. The launch site will likely be the Gloucester City ramp.

February 16, 2022 -- Flea Market Plans Being Finalized
Planning for our annual Fishermen's Flea Market on Saturday, March 5 is nearing completion as most vendor tables have been rented and lure donations are being collected for our two tackle box raffles. Some vendor tables are still available, so if you've got some tackle you want sell to make a few bucks, contact event chairperson Brian Camp. Click here for full details on the event.

February 14, 2022 - NJDFW Public Forum Scheduled for February 26
The New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife has scheduled their annul Freshwater Fisheries public forum for Saturday, February 26 starting at 10:00 AM. The forum will be conducted virtually, with dial-in instructions being provided to those on NJDFW's email list. Click here for more details on this forum.

January 19, 2022 - Bass Bowl Locations Nominated
At our January member meeting, several lakes & rivers were nominated to be the location of our 2022 Bass Bowl (October 16). The potential locations are: Delaware River (NJ), Lake Hopatcong (NJ), Lake Nockamixon (PA), Pocomoke River (MD) and Union Lake (NJ). A vote on the location will be taken at our February member meeting.

January 14, 2022 - Lee Widjeskog Passes Away
Good friend of the SJBCA, Lee Widjeskog, passed away unexpectedly on January 10. Lee was a retired employee of the NJ Division of Fish & Wildlife who worked with our organization on a number of lake improvements, especially Lake Audrey. He spoke at our member meetings a number of times. He will be greatly missed. Lee Widjeskog Obituary

December 15, 2021 - Holiday Meeting Held
Our December member meeting featured a nice food spread for the relatively large group that attended in person. Thanks to Rashawn Lewis, John Sullivan and Al & MaryAnne Franchetta, who contributed food to the festivities; and to Mike Graham who picked up the deli platter. Also at the meeting, all incumbent officers who were up for re-election opted to be nominated for re-election and will continue with new terms. It was reported that all open & club tournaments submitted for our Conflict List are now free of conflicts within our Association and WMA permits are likely to be approved by NJDFW. Clubs were reminded to submit their entries for our Angling Excellence Awards to Secretary Al Franchetta by the January meeting. Also, annual dues must be paid by the end of January.

November 17, 2021 - Tournament Picks Made at November Meeting
At our November member meeting, clubs took turns picking dates & locations for open buddy tournaments and club tournaments at NJ Wildlife Management Area lakes. These tournaments and any club schedules submitted on this day will be incorporated into the initial version of our "Conflict List". Any scheduled club tournaments submitted from this point forward cannot conflict with any already included in the Conflict List. The tentative schedule of 2022 open buddy bass tournaments has been posted here.

November 11, 2021 - Return of the Fishermen's Flea Market
Our Flea Market Committee met this week to get the ball rolling for the resumption of our annual flea markets. At this time, it looks like we'll be returning the Millville Elks Lodge (but a hefty increase in the rental fee has us looking into other options). We'll need to reconnect with our usual vendors and pick up some new ones in order to make this event a success. One change we'll be implementing for the 2022 event is a special $5.00 admission price for the first hour; all admissions after 9:00 AM will be the usual $2.00 (and kids under 14 still get in free at all times) More details on the event can be found on our Flea Market page. If you are a flea market vendor interested in participating in this event (or know of one), please make sure we have your contact information.

October 17, 2021 - Kickin' Bass Takes Canal Bass Bowl
Kickin' Bass Fishing Club won this year's "Bass Bowl" tournament at Salem Canal. Their total of 24.18 lbs edged out South Jersey Kayak Bass Fishing Club (fishing out of boats) who had 22.70 lbs. The rest of the summarized standings are below. Click here for detailed results & photos.

1. Kickin' Bass Fishing Club -- 24.18 lbs
2. South Jersey Kayak Bass Fishing Club -- 22.70
3. Cumberland County Bassmasters -- 14.70
4. South Jersey Hook This! -- 14.37
5. Beavertail Bass Club -- 11.85
6. Delaware River Fishermen's Association -- 9.91
7. Top Rod Bassmasters -- 4.42
8. South Jersey Bass Stalkers -- 3.98
9. South Jersey Rod Benders -- 3.79
10. South Jersey Hawg Hunters -- 3.17
11. Barrington Rod & Reel Club -- 3.13

October 16, 2021 - Eleven Clubs to Vie for Bragging Rights
Eleven member clubs (listed below) have opted to compete for bragging rights in our club-against-club "Bass Bowl" tournament. This year the tournament is being held at Salem Canal on Sunday, October 17. Weigh-in starts at 3:00 PM. Best of luck to everyone competing!

Barrington Rod & Reel Club
Beavertail Bass Club
Cumberland County Bassmasters
Delaware River Fishermen's Association
Kickin' Bass Fishing Club
South Jersey Bass Stalkers

South Jersey Hawg Hunters
South Jersey Hook This!
South Jersey Kayak Bass Fishing Club
South Jersey Rod Benders
Top Rod Bassmasters

September 15, 2021 - Nate Figley Speaks at September Member Meeting
The featured speaker at our September member meeting was Nathan Figley, NJ Division of Fish & Wildlife regional superintendent of the Bureau of Land Management. Nate gave updates on projects at a variety of NJ Wildlife Management Areas within his region. He also addressed a lot of questions and issues brought up by club delegates.

September 15, 2021 - Another Donation Received
When the members of Beavertail Bass Club received word of a donation being made in the memory of one of their long-time members (see June 8 article below), they stepped up and decided to match that donation. They actually exceeded that donation and made a generous contribution to the Association at the September member meeting. Thanks guys!

September 15, 2021 - Next Flea Market to Feature Special Early Admission
It was decided at our September member meeting that our next Fishermen's Flea Market will feature a special "early admission" where for a few extra dollars customers can check out the vendors' wares for the first hour of the event.

July 21, 2021 - July Barbecue Meeting Held
We held our annual outdoor barbecue member meeting on July 21. The meeting featured free food & beverages, a scholarship presentation to one of our winners (Jessica Wilson of Bordentown Regional High School) and a Q&A session with State marine police officer SFC Chris Jones. Click here for photos from the event (and an earlier presentation to scholarship recipient Amanda Bogle).

July 21, 2021 - More Donations Received
More donations were received to help us make it through this difficult year and improve our operations. The South Jersey Kayak Bass Fishing Club and Sheryl Steinmetz (daughter of late tournament director Steve Steinmetz) each made contributions to us. Much appreciated!

July 21, 2021 - Boater License & Safety Course Card Possession Clarification
At our July meeting, officer Chris Jones of the NJ State Police, Marine Division, clarified that the boat operator document you need to have in your possession differs from tidal-water and non-tidal water. He stated that in tidal water you need the "Boat" endorsement on your drivers license and a boating safety course card. For tidal water the requirement is just the boating safety course card. (He realizes that the requirements aren't consistent nor necessarily logical.)

June 20, 2021 - Smiths Take Union Lake Tourney
Fifty-two boats showed up at this year's Union Lake "Steve Steinmetz Memorial" open buddy tournament, held on Father's Day. The team of Chris and Mitch Smith took the win with a limit weighing 15.65 lbs. Click here for full results. Photos will be posted as soon.

June 8, 2021 - Donation in Memory of Beavertail Member
The SJBCA received a much-appreciated donation in the memory of former Beavertail Bass Club member Thomas Byrne who passed away on May 6. Thanks to his daughter Candice for arranging it.

May 30, 2021 - Scholarship Winners Announced
Our Scholarship Committee identified two excellent applicants for our annual scholarship and, thanks to a number of generous donors, we're able to award scholarships to both of them. The winners are: Amanda Bogle of Wildwood Catholic High School and Jessica Wilson of Bordentown Regional High School. Congratulations to both of them. Hopefully they'll be able to make it to our July member meeting (free barbecue) for a presentation of their checks.

May 28, 2021 - Annual Open Buddy Tournament Planning Underway
Our annual Union Lake open buddy tournament will be held this year on Sunday, June 20. Times are 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Entry fee is $60.00 per boat. The first place team will receive a $300.00 bonus payment courtesy of Franzwa's Marine in Millville in addition to the normal payout. Franzwa's is also sponsoring our $100.00 largemouth and smallmouth morning lunker prizes (weighed in prior to 10:00 AM). Free hot dogs & beverages will be served to all participants at the weigh-in. Click here for flyer/entry form. Your support for this fundraiser event is appreciated.

March 26, 2021 - Scholarship Applications Now Being Accepted
The SJBCA's Scholarship Committee has begun accepting applications for our annual scholarship program. Applications must be postmarked by May 3. For more details on this program, as well as the application form and photos of past winners, check out the Scholarship Information section of this website. Our scholarship winner(s) will be announced by June 1.

March 26, 2021 - Used Soft Plastics Being Collected for Recycling
We're collecting used and unwanted soft plastic lures. They'll be recycled into new lures to be given out at youth fishing events. They can be brought to an SJBCA member meeting or to any of the Association's officers.

February 17, 2021 - Fishermen's Flea Market Postponed (UPDATED 3/17/21)
Due to the COVID-19 situation, our annual Fishermen's Flea Market will not be held on its normal date of the first Saturday in March. We are currently considering holding an outdoor event somewhere in the Millville area in late May or early June. That will be dependent on State regulations at that time. More info to come. It was decided at the March meeting that we would not attempt to host this event in the May/June time-frame. Later, we'll look into possibly holding the event sometime after our Bass Bowl tournament in mid-October or cancel it for the year.

February 17, 2021 - Salem Canal Wins Close Vote for Bass Bowl Location
In the closest Bass Bowl vote ever, Salem Canal won as the location for this year's event in October. In the first round of voting, the Canal and Union Lake each got 4 votes, with three other locations each receiving 3 votes. A second round of voting resulted in a 9 - 9 tie between the Canal and Union. A coin toss was used to pick the final winner, with the other location serving as a back-up.

January 20, 2021 - New Club Joins Association
A new club, Line Stretchers Bass Club, joined the SJBCA at our January member meeting. The club was formed by Bassmaster Elite Pro Greg DiPalma and some of his fishing friends. Welcome to the group guys!

January 20, 2021 - Potential Bass Bowl Locations Nominated
At our January member meeting, club delegates nominated locations for our 2021 Bass Bowl tournament (on October 17). The vote on the official location will be held at the February meeting. The locations nominated are: Lake Hopatcong (NJ), Nockamixon Lake (PA), Pocomoke River (MD), Potomac River (MD), Salem Canal (NJ) and Union Lake (NJ).

November 18, 2020 - Tournament Picks Made at November Meeting
The November member meeting, which was held both in-person & via Zoom, included our annual process for picking dates & locations for open buddy tournaments and club tournaments at NJ Wildlife Management Area lakes. These tournaments and any club schedules submitted on this day will be incorporated into the initial version of our "Conflict List". Any scheduled club tournaments submitted from this point forward cannot conflict with any already included in the Conflict List. We'll be posting the tentative schedule of 2021 open buddy bass tournaments soon.

November 18, 2020 - Another Member Club Joins
At the November member meeting, a new club was voted into the association -- Good Sports Gun Club. They've been hosting perch tournaments for many years and will now be hosting an open buddy bass tournament at Union Lake. Welcome to the group!

October 20, 2020 - Rod Benders Take Bass Bowl in 3-Way Photo Finish
Under tougher-than-usual fishing conditions, South Jersey Rod Benders won this year's club-against-club Bass Bowl tournament. Their 25.73 lb total edged out Cumberland County Bassmasters' 25.43 lb total and Barrington Rod & Reel Club's 25.18 lb total. Rounding out the top five were South Jersey Hook This! with 20.67 lbs and Kickin Bass Fishing Club with 13.34 lbs. The lunker winner was 4.96 lbs, caught by Jon Cuccinello of South Jersey Rod Benders. Nine clubs (25 boats) participated in the tournament. Detailed results are posted here .

October 12, 2020 - Bass Bowl Qualification Reduced to Three Meetings
Due to some clubs having difficulty attending the Zoom format member meetings we've been holding lately, we've decided to reduce the meeting attendance requirement for Bass Bowl participation from four to three (including the Bass Bowl pre-tournament meeting scheduled for Wednesday, October 14). The clubs listed below are now eligible to participate, assuming they have a representative attend this week's meeting. Anyone with questions about qualification should contact Al Franchetta or Fred Lentz. Clubs that plan to participate should send a list of the names of their six-person team to Al Franchetta as soon as possible. Al will confirm the eligibility of the team members and send them along to tournament director Brian Camp for the drawing of boat numbers.

Backwoods Bassers
Barrington Rod & Reel Club
Bass Blasters
Big Bass Fishing Club of Maple Shade
Cumberland County Bassmasters
Delaware River Fishermen's Assoc.
4th Ward Bass Anglers

Kickin' Bass Fishing Club
South Jersey Bass Stalkers
South Jersey Hawg Hunters
South Jersey Kayak Bass Fishing Club
South Jersey Hook This!
Top Rod Bassmasters
USA Bassin

September 19, 2020 - Bass Bowl Preparations Underway
Preparations have begun for this year's club-against-club bragging rights "Bass Bowl" tournament. This year's location is the North East River in Maryland, launching from Anchor Marine. The date is Sunday, October 18, with tournament times of 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. As of right now, we're probably looking at holding the October 14 pre-tournament meeting via Zoom (8:00 PM start). Clubs that have attended at least four member meetings from January through October of this year qualify to participate. They'll need to send the names of their six-man team members to secretary Al Franchetta prior to the pre-tournament meeting (so that he can check them against club member rosters).

A $15 per boat entry fee will need to be paid to tournament director Brian Camp either in the days prior to the tournament or on the morning of the tournament, before launching. A launch fee of $12 per boat (includes a fee for use of weigh-in facilities) will need to be paid to Anchor on the morning of the tournament. All entrants will need to complete a waiver form prior to launch. Social distancing/face covering procedures will be in effect during the weigh-in and at all other times there is close contact between entrants (other than fishing partners in a boat). Clubs should be on the lookout for an email with tournament details from secretary Al Franchetta.

July 15, 2020 - Annual Barbecue Meeting Held
Our annual July member meeting with free barbecue was held, albeit under somewhat different conditions than usual. Because the meeting was outdoors we were able to hold it in person (instead of our now-usual Zoom meeting format). Attendees sat spaced apart and word face coverings when near one another. We had our usual spread of burgers & hot dogs along with Rashawn's ribs & Brian's venison sausage, and salads, etc. Both of our scholarship recipients attended with their families. All in all it was a great evening. Thanks to everyone who contributed. Photos from the meeting are posted here. Photos of this year's scholarship winners (and all previous winners) are posted on the Scholarship Winners page.

July 8, 2020 - Many WMA Lake Ramps Closed
Due to a temporary furlough of State employees, the NJ Division of Fish & Wildlife has closed down boat ramps at certain (but not all) Wildlife Management Area lakes until after July 27. The notice and list of affected ramps can be found here.

June 25, 2020 - SJBCA Fishing Jackets Presented
SJBCA volunteers earn jackets (and hats & shirts) by serving as officers & committee members, and working at SJBCA events. We normally present these awards at member meetings, but haven't been able to hold an in-person meeting in quite a while. Consequently, we went ahead and presented what we call the "second jacket" (fancy heavy duty fishing jacket) to MaryAnne Franchetta. We also awarded "first jackets" (nice wind breakers) to Coty Camp and Dalton Camp. Congratulations to all of them and thank you for supporting the SJBCA.

June 21, 2020 - Lots of Bass Caught at Annual Open Buddy Tournament, with photo finish
The SJBCA's annual open buddy tournament at Union Lake (aka the Steve Steinmetz Memorial) was held as venues in New Jersey were beginning to reopen in the later stages of the worldwide COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. Due to regulations on crowd size we limited the number of boats in the field to 45 and required social distancing & face coverings when appropriate. This year saw a lot of bass weighed in and fierce competition for payouts & plaques. The margin of victory was one one-hundredth of a pound! Gerard Capizzi, fishing solo, took the win with a limit of bass weighing 12.21 lbs. The team of Mike Graham & Bob Dilahey were just behind with a five bass limit for 12.20 lbs. The Brian Keister & Chris Alteri team finished in third place with a limit that weighed 11.58 lbs. Click here for full details and photos. The SJBCA would like to thank all of our sponsors*, the participants and everyone who volunteered to make this fundraiser a successful event.
* Franzwa's Marine (Millville), ABS Welding & Electric (Vineland), Sandpiper Motel (N.Wildwood), Vineland Roofing & Limitaker Custom Baits.

June 13, 2020 - Winners of Annual Scholarships Announced
The SJBCA Scholarship Committee has announced the winners of the two scholarships we're presenting this year. The winners are: Stacey Ngo of Cedar Creek High School and Aidan Coombs of Arthur P. Schalick High School. Congratulations to both of them.

June 13, 2020 - New Sponsor on Board for Father's Day Tourney
New tournament sponsor ABS Welding & Electric of Vineland will allow us to make $40.00 cash payouts to 6th through 10th places at our June 21 fundraiser tournament. This is in addition to our Franzwa's Marine $500.00 1st Place Bonus and our Sandpiper Motel morning largemouth lunker prize & Vineland Roofing morning smallmouth lunker prize. Welcome aboard.

June 10, 2020 - Father's Day Open Buddy Tournament is a GO
We've received approval to proceed with our open buddy tournament at Union Lake on Sunday, June 21. Times are 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Entry fee is $60.00 per boat. Social distancing procedures will be practiced in the parking lot, ramp and weigh-in area (pretty much the same as we've been doing every year). Click here for flyer/entry form.

May 9, 2020 - May Meetings to Be Held Via Zoom
Our May 20 executive board and member meetings will be held via the Zoom tele-conferencing application. Details will be emailed and texted to club delegates. Ideally, attendees will have an electronic device with a self-facing camera, microphone & speaker.

April 5, 2020 - State Advises Against Holding Tournaments
Despite a State ban on fishing tournaments at NJ WMA lakes and NJ State Park lakes until at least the end of April, some groups are apparently still holding tournaments. Tournaments were reportedly held today at Union Lake WMA and at Parvin Lake at Parvin State Park. We were contacted by the State and asked to remind clubs that tournaments are not permitted at those lakes. And, in light of the governor's restriction on group activities of ten persons or more, no tournaments should be held anywhere. The SJBCA doesn't dictate to our clubs how they conduct their club business, but this situation could result in widespread closure of boat ramps to prevent groups from fishing together.

March 27, 2020 - Scholarship Application Deadline Extended
The deadline for submitting applications for our annual college scholarship has been extended until Tuesday, May 26 (previously was May 1). All mailed in applications must be postmarked by that date. Application materials may also be emailed (by that date) to Scholarship Committee chairperson Rashawn Lewis at relewis@comcast.net .

March 22, 2020 - Many Tournaments Cancelled
Due to the coronavirus outbreak and a NJ State executive order prohibiting group activities, bass tournaments are being cancelled or postponed. If you haven't heard whether a particular tournament is cancelled, contact the host club for more details.

March 16, 2020 - WMA & State Park Tournaments Suspended Until April 30
We've been notified by the State that all tournaments scheduled for NJ Wildlife Management Area lakes and NJ State Parks are being suspended until at least April 30. Clubs will need to decide whether they'll be cancelling, postponing or moving their affected events.

March 16, 2020 - Member Meeting Cancelled
The member meeting (and executive board meeting) scheduled for the evening of Wednesday, March 18, have been cancelled due to restrictions related to the coronavirus outbreak.

March 7, 2020 - Fishermen's Flea Market
Despite this year's event occurring during the early stages of the coronavirus outbreak of 2020, we had pretty good attendance and vendor participation. 315 paying customers risked the virus and some very windy & chilly weather to do some tackle shopping. The winners of our two tackle box raffles were: saltwater = Mike Harris; freshwater = Bill Morrison. Photos from the event are posted here. Thanks to all of the vendors, customers and volunteers who made this event a success. (We apologize to everyone for the Elks Lodge food concession people not showing up. We're currently looking into the reason.)

March 7, 2020 - Flea Market Raffle Donors
The SJBCA would like to thank all of the clubs, companies and individuals who donated items towards the two tackle box raffles we held at our Fishermen's Flea Market. Those donors included:

Backwoods Bassers
Bait 'n Hook Sportsman's Supply
Philadelphia Bass Busters
Big Bass Fishing Club of Maple Shade
Bill Ash
Cumberland County Bassmasters
Delaware River Fishermen's Association
4th Ward Bass Anglers
Gloucester County Bass Club

Kickin' Bass Fishing Club
Leading Lures
Mike Riordan
South Jersey Hawg Hunters
South Jersey Hook This!
South Jersey Kayak Bass Fishing Club
Top Rod Bassmasters
USA Bassin' Trail

February 19, 2020 - North East River (MD) Voted as Bass Bowl Site
At our February member meeting, the member clubs voted for the North East River in Maryland as the location for our annual "Bass Bowl" tournament. We will be launching from Anchor Marine in North East. The date of this club-against-club event is October 18. (The date & location are considered tentative until arrangements and permit have been finalized.)

February 19, 2020 - Annual Fishing Awards Presented
Our February member meeting included the annual presentation of award plaques in a variety of categories, including: heaviest lunkers, heaviest bags of fish, best major youth activity, Bass Bowl winning team and Bass Bowl lunker. The winners are listed on our Annual Awards page and photos of the winners are posted on our Award Photos page.

January 19, 2020 - Ike's Annual Scholarship Dinner Scheduled for January 31
Local pro angler Mike Iaconelli's annual Ike Foundation Scholarship Dinner is scheduled this year for Friday, January 31, from 7-11 PM. The location is The Grove at Centerton. Tickets can be purchased for $45 (single), $360 (table of 8) or $450 (table of 10). Tickets include Yards beer, dinner, music, dessert, a 50/50 raffle and auction items donated by their generous sponsors. More details can be found on his foundation's website or Facebook page.

January 16, 2020 - Greg DiPalma Speaks at January 15 Member Meeting
Bassmaster Elite angler Greg DiPalma was the featured speaker at our monthly member meeting on Wednesday, January 15, at 8:00 PM. He passed along a lot of specific information on fishing particular local bodies of water. He also provided some helpful information on tournament strategies and attitude. Greg stayed for quite a while, until the attendees had run out of questions. Greg can be found on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/gregdipalmafishing/ .

January 8, 2020 - Tackle Donations Needed for Flea Market Raffles
This is a reminder to member clubs that we need tackle donations towards the two tackle box raffles we run at our annual Fishermen's Flea Market (Saturday, March 7). Tackle items can be anything fishing related but need to be new. All donations should be given to Brian Camp or Coty Camp.

December 18, 2019 - Liability Insurance Available for Bass Clubs
The insurance agency that the SJBCA deals with for its liability insurance explained that they can obtain insurance coverage for individual bass clubs also. They said the minimum annual premium would probably be around $650.00, depending on club size, monetary receipts, etc. A club needs to utilize waiver forms for its club activities. Anyone interested in more details can contact Brandi Hallum at 206-535-6332 or brandi.hallum@nfp.com .

December 17, 2019 - Planning Underway for 2020 Fishermen's Flea Market on March 7
Our very popular annual Fishermen's Flea Market will take place on Saturday, March 7 (always the first Saturday in March) at the Millville Elks Lodge. An updated event flyer and vendor registration form have been posted on our Flea Market information page.

October 13, 2019 - DRFA Takes Conowingo Bass Bowl
In another tough Bass Bowl, Delaware River Fishermen's Association took the win with 15.45 lbs. South Jersey Hook This took second with 12.42 lbs. Cumberland County Bassmasters finished in third with 10.81 lbs. Fifteen boats from seven different clubs participated in the event, which was held at Conowingo Reservoir for the first time ever. Click here for detailed results.

September 18, 2019 - Bass Bowl Preparations Being Finalized
This year's club-against-club Bass Bowl will take place on Sunday, October 13, at Conowingo Reservoir in Maryland. Tournament times are 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. The launch site will be Glen Cove Marina. As this body of water spans Maryland and Pennsylvania, either state's freshwater license is sufficient (but prohibits fishing up any of the other state's tributaries). Click here for information about Conowingo, including license reciprocity. A pre-tournament meeting will be held at the 4th Ward Bass Anglers clubhouse. Participating teams must send a rep to this meeting with their six-person team member names, entry fee money and ramp fee money. All tournament details will be covered at this meeting.

August 17, 2019 - Fun Times at SJ Youth Outdoor Day
For the twentieth year (since its inception), the SJBCA co-hosted the South Jersey Youth Outdoor Day in Carney's Point. We had over a dozen volunteers show up to run various activities, including pond fishing, target casting, rod/reel loan-outs, tackle giveaway and a fishing kayak & bass boat display. We also donated three rod/reel combos to be given away as door prizes. Our thanks go out to all of the volunteers who showed up, especially Robert "Smitty" Smith of SJ Kayak Bass Fishing Club who coordinated our activities. Photos from the event will eventually be posted on the event's website at sjyouthoutdoorday.org .

August 11, 2019 - Volunteers Needed for Aug 17 Kids Outdoor Event
The South Jersey Bass Club Association will again be co-hosting the South Jersey Youth Outdoor Day on Saturday, August 17, at the Salem County Sportsmen's Club (Rt 40 in Carney's Point) from 8:30 am to 2:00 pm. This is a free fishing & shooting-sports event for kids 7 to 17. We've been co-hosting this event since its inception in 2000. This year's registration began on July 1 and all of the 200 spots have been filled. We're looking for volunteers to help make this event a success. We need guys to help out with the pond fishing, target casting and SJBCA booth. If you're interested in helping out, please contact Fred Lentz. All volunteers earn a point towards an SJBCA fishing jacket. For more information on this event, check out the event website at sjyouthoutdoorday.org .

July 17, 2019 - Scholarships Presented at July Meeting
Although our July member meeting had to be moved to an air-conditioned indoor location due to scorching heat & humidity on this day, a good time was still had by all. We still had our usual barbecued food spread and Rashawn's famous ribs (choice of wet or dry). The meeting also featured a talk by NJ Fish & Wildlife staff member (and our 2008 scholarship recipient) Ryan Risher. In addition, it was our pleasure to have both of this year's scholarship recipients in attendance. Teresa Brostow and Carly Mollins brought along their proud families to help celebrate the occasion. Click here for more photos from the meeting. Click here for photos of all of our scholarship winners through the years.

July 19, 2019 - New Graphics for SJBCA Trailer
Those who attended our annual Union Lake open buddy tournament on June 16 probably noticed something new and improved about our weigh-in trailer. It was recently re-painted and had new bold graphics applied on all four sides. For the graphics, we contracted with graphics designer Laura Graham, who adapted our logo for huge die-cut stickers. We think it looks great.

July 17, 2019 - July Member Meeting Moved
Due to expected extreme heat & humidity, our July member meeting has been relocated from the Thundergust picnic area at Parvin State Park to the normal location of the 4th Ward clubhouse on Richards Road (off of Parvins Mill Road). Start time is still 6:00 PM. We'll be doing scholarship presentations and have a feature speaker.

June 16, 2019 - DiPalma & Sims Take Union Lake Tourney
Greg DiPalma & Mike Sims won this year's edition of our annual Steve Steinmetz Memorial open buddy bass tournament at Union Lake. They brought in a 14.68 lb five-bass limit that just edged out two other teams. Brian Keister & Kevin Foley came in second with 14.54 lbs and Kevin & Zach Runyon came in third with 14.27 lbs. Kevin & Zach also won the Sandpiper Motel morning largemouth lunker prize and the overall lunker prize. David Snedeker & John Paoline took the Vineland Roofing morning smallmouth lunker prize with a 2.82 lb smallie. Overall, 42 teams participated and weighed in 73 bass for a total of 178.03 lbs. Click here for full results. Thanks to all of the participants, volunteers and sponsors who supported our event.

June 6, 2019 - 2019 Scholarship Winners Announced
The SJBCA Scholarship Committee has announced the winners of this year's two scholarships. (The SJBCA grants one $500.00 scholarship from its own funds and, in many years, donors come forward with enough more money to fund a second one.) This year's winners are: Carly Mollins of Bordentown High School and Teresa Brostow of MATES (Marine Academy of Technology & Environmental Science). Congratulations to both of them and hopefully they can attend our July meeting so we can meet them and their families/friends in person.

June 6, 2019 - Preparations Being Finalized for June 16 Union Lake Tourney
Details are being finalized for our big annual open buddy bass tournament at Union Lake on Sunday (Father's Day) aka the "Steve Steinmetz Memorial". Anglers are looking forward again to the added $500 winners' bonus courtesy of Franzwa's Marine in Millville. This tournament also features special sponsored awards for the heaviest largemouth & smallmout bass weighed in before 10:00 AM. These awards are sponsored by Sandpiper Motel (North Wildwood) and Vineland Roofing. Remember that the morning registration/check-in and afternoon weigh-in are "drive thru" -- you need to proceed clockwise around the perimeter of the parking lot for both. Also, we can always use more volunteers to ensure the success of this event (contact tournament director Brian Camp). For more details on this tournament, CLICK HERE for the entry form/flyer

June 6, 2019 - Lake Adoption Reminder
The SJBCA has a program we established in conjunction with the NJ Division of Fish & Wildlife's Bureau of Land Management whereby clubs can "adopt" NJ Wildlife Management Area lakes. Those clubs volunteer to perform parking lot & shoreline clean-ups at the lake on two or three dates per year. The club will get a sign posted at the lake recognizing their assistance. The WMA lakes currently under adoption are: Lake Audrey, Rainbow Lake, Oak Pond & Union Lake. For more information on this program contact Fred Lentz.

March 2, 2018 - Another Successful Flea Market
Our annual Fishermen's Flea Market was held on March 2 and this year's weather was a lot better than last year's. A full house of vendors showed up and 320+ paying customers passed through the doors. The winners of our two tackle box raffles were: saltwater = Jina; freshwater = Pat. The winner of the nice RiversWest foul weather jacket was John Platt. Photos from the event are posted here. Thanks to all of the vendors, customers and volunteers who made this event a success.

February 20, 2019 - Conowingo Selected for Bass Bowl
By a vote held at the February member meeting, Conowingo Lake in Maryland was chosen at the location for this year's Bass Bowl tournament. The event will be held on Sunday, October 13. More details will be available as we get closer to that date.

February 20, 2019 - Award Presentation Postponed
Due to inclement weather on the date of our February member meeting, attendance was down a bit and most of the Angler Excellence and Bass Bowl award winners did not attend the meeting. It was decided to postpone the presentation until the March meeting.

January 31, 2019 - Fishermen's Flea Market Preparations Underway
Event chairperson Stu Cohen reports that vendor tables are filling up for our annual Fishermen's Flea Market on Saturday, March 2, at the Millville Elks Lodge. Brian & Coty Camp are collecting lure donations towards our freshwater and saltwater tackle box raffles being held at the event. All event details, including event flyer, vendor registration form & directions, can be found on our Flea Market page.

January 17, 2019 - Plans for Re-Liming at Lake Audrey
NOTE: THIS VOLUNTEER PROJECT HAS BEEN PUT ON HOLD PENDING THE POSSIBILITY THAT A CONTRACTOR WILL BE USED TO DO THE WORK.
Retired NJ Division of Fish & Wildlife employee Lee Widjeskog spoke at our January member meeting to explain the plans for re-liming Lake Audrey in Cumberland County. Volunteers will be needed for weekday and weekend efforts to place bags of lime out in the lake. The lime has already been purchased and just needs to be dispersed. Outboard motors may be used by the volunteers who participate. Liming sessions are scheduled for every Sunday morning at 9:00 AM, beginning on February 17. Volunteers available on other days can schedule their own liming sessions. All participants must register as NJDFW Wildlife Conservation Corps volunteers (click here for link to the brief application).

January 17, 2019 - Locations Nominated for 2019 Bass Bowl
The members nominated potential locations for this year's Bass Bowl tournament (October 13). The final vote on the location will be held at the February member meeting. The nominated locations are: Pocomoke River, MD; Lake Hopatcong; North East River, MD; Greenwood Lake; Nanticoke River, MD/DE; and Conowingo Lake, MD.

January 6, 2019 - Ike Foundation Dinner Planned for January 25
Mike Iaconelli's "Ike Foundation" has announced that it's annual scholarship fundraising dinner will be held on Friday, January 25 from 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM. Tickets are $45.00 (+ processing fee). For more details, check out Ike's website.