Attention NYSPFFA Members:
You are officially invited to participate in the Syracuse FD 2015 Bass Tournament to be held on Oneida Lake, just north of Syracuse, NY. This event is restricted to NY professional firefighters, both active and retired, and their friends and family members. Each boat must have at least one professional firefighter to participate, and each person is required to register. The purpose for this rule is to maintain an ethical approach in the tournament. You may enter the top 5 bass caught in your boat only. The weigh-in will be conducted at Oneida Shores County Park boat launch. http://www.onondagacountyparks.com/oneida
To preserve the resources of our waters, catch and release is encouraged. A penalty of 2oz for each “dead” fish entered will be deducted off the total weight. However, it is your choice if you decide to keep your fish for consumption after the weigh in.
Live or artificial bait may be used. Remember that you must keep your receipt for any live baitfish. NYS DEC will request proof of purchase if your boat is inspected.
Oneida Lake has many mid-lake shoals. So be cautious while navigating this lake. A topographic map can be purchased to help you locate any dangerous areas.
Fishing begins when you get on the water, and ends at 2pm. Weigh-in will begin at 2pm and will be conducted at 0neida Shores boat launch.
The boundaries for this event are restricted to Oneida Lake and the Seneca River, up to the first barrier.
Awards/Dinner:
Immediately following the start of the weigh-in, there will be a gathering at the Arrowhead Lodge which is located at Oneida Shores Park. This will last until 11pm and includes a catered BBQ dinner by Abbott’s Catering. Iced tea and lemonade will be provided by caterer. You can bring any other beverages that you wish to consume. Door prizes will also be drawn at this time. You must be present to collect the door prizes (all donated). Please refer to the Facebook page (search Syracuse Bass on Facebook) for updates on what door prizes will be available. The winners of each category will also be announced, but prizes can be collected immediately following the weigh-in. This is in case participants can’t stay for the dinner. The cash prizes will be related to the number of entries. Every dollar received will be used to pay for the meal, shirt, and prize money. The more entries there are, the higher the prizes will be.
Accommodations:
There are several hotels within a few miles of Oneida Shores County Park, which is located in Brewerton, NY. The Days Inn has rooms available from $85/night. This is a very convenient location in relation to the launch site and the Arrowhead Lodge. This price includes a room with 2 beds, a continental breakfast, and electric outlets to charge your batteries. Parking also allows for a truck/boat to remain connected. You can then launch your boat for $7.50 (boats up to 23ft) or $8 (boats over 23ft) at Oneida Shores. You must call the Days Inn at 315-676-3222 30 day prior, and mention you are reserving for the SFD Bass Tournament for this rate.
Oneida Shores County Park offers camper and tents sites which are available, but limited on the nights of June 22 and 23. Tent sites are offered for $25/night. Camper sites are offered for $35/night and include 30 or 50 amp electric and water. Launch fees are included when staying at the campground. Call 315-676-7366 to reserve sites.
Entry Fee:
Please mail the completed entry form with a check for each participant to the following address. Make checks payable to Jay Smithers. Please write SFD Bass in the “Memo” section of your check. Mail to 8242 Rte 20 Manlius, NY 13104
Department being represented:__________________________
Team Captain:_________________ #of Participants:_________
Shirt Sizes:_____________ Phone #:____________________
As a courtesy and to make is easier to make arrangements with the caterer and for the shirts, please try to mail your fees and application by May 25.
Pre-event Gathering:
On June 22, everyone is welcome to meet and socialize at The Waterfront Tavern addressed at 6 US Rte 11, Central Square, NY 13036. It is located only a few miles from Oneida Shores and is accessible by car or boat. They offer food and drinks, as well as a large outdoor deck overlooking the Oneida River. At this time, you may pick up your tournament shirts.