Hey Western!

Time to loosen the collar and let 'er fly as we start the tournament season at Duck Lake! Yes, April 26th and 27th.

...and remember this is a Draw Format. Boaters will draw numbers and then Non-boaters will draw from those numbers to see who they will fish with. This is an opportunity for new members to learn how tournaments work… while fishing one! If anybody wants to fish with someone other than their draw person, they are responsible for finding someone to switch with. For boaters, if I do not have your boat insurance information then the draw format will be one boater short as you will have to go as a non-boater.

A reminder for Non-Boaters: YOU are responsible for a Life Vest. You have to have one for your size. There are many brands, most within $15.00-$50.00 dollars on average. Maybe someone will have one at the Tackle Swap?
For campers, plan on wind. Even if the forecast calls for calm, the daily onshore breeze can reach 25-30 knots. You should have extra tie-downs for your tent and equipment. For those less intrepid, the Echoes of the Sea Motel next to their campground requires YOU to make a reservation at the following numbers:

...tell them you are with Western Bass Club. Up to 12 campsites have been reserved for the club, but we can cram as many folks into those twelve spots as we need to, so rooms-a-plenty! Tournament "CONTEST" banners are required and I will have a few for those who lose them, but please bring your own as I don't like losing them. For those not familiar, a "CONTEST" banner is to be displayed on the engine cowling by all tourney participants. If a breakdown should occur, the banner can be reversed to display a blaze orange color, telling all other participants to stop and assist. Vice-Versa: if you see one, stop and see if they need help. If it is close to weigh-in you will not be penalized for assisting a boater in distress. I will give more info at the meeting, as well as at the driver's meeting.

Now the important stuff! Traditionally, the club has a potluck Saturday evening after the first day of fishing and it will be the same this year. With the return of the Beemens, I will be placing an order for burgers and dogs but will still need the following:

Bringing a barbecue is always appreciated. Whew! Lots happening! Hope to see all of you at the Tackle Swap and then the Draw Tournament.

Any Questions? Call me at 1-(253) 630-3988 or E-Mail at scudman93@aol.com.
Larry Sullivan
VP / Tourney Director

Directions to Echoes of the Sea, Copalis Beach, WA:

• From the Puget Sound area, take I-5 south to Exit 104 (in Olympia)
  
• Take HWY 8 west, and it will turn into HWY 12
  
• You will go through Elma, Montesano, and Aberdeen into Hoquiam
  
• Go through Hoquiam and take exit 109 north to Ocean Shores (exit about one block after Sumner St. bridge in Hoquiam)
  
• Continue north on HWY 109 until you hit Copalis Beach (along the way, you will pass Ocean Shores on the left)
  
• We do not have specific directions for the hotel once in Copalis Beach, so call the number above if you don't see it when in town (it's not a big town).
  
• It is approximately 140 miles from Seattle