On the Dock with Rick Smith

09. Nov, 2010 0 Comments

Sports News Article

9 November 2010

It’s Boats and Boating, Fish and Fishing (and sometimes a little Hunting)

Most of you that follow me on the radio or who read my weekly column know that I’m passionate about all things outdoors, but especially boating and fishing. Weekly I bring you the latest news on what’s happening in Central Texas whether it’s a sailing regatta, a fishing tournament or the latest laws and regulations coming out of Austin and Washington that directly affect our freedoms in our “pursuit of happiness”.

Growing up in the country has given me an appreciation for all things outdoors and it’s been my life-long passion to share my love and knowledge with others. In this pursuit I’ve had the opportunity to teach various boating, sailing and water safety courses. Boating and fishing make so much sense as a leisure time activity for families. With so many lakes and rivers near us, one does not have to travel any great distance to enjoy fishing, water skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, scuba diving, sightseeing and swimming.

This past weekend brought an honor to me that I wish to share with you. The Boating Trades Association of Texas (BTAT), whose mission since 1957 is to promote and protect boating on Texas waters, elected me as President for 2011. This honor and responsibility will give me another forum to make sure boaters and boating are protected from unfavorable legislation and that waterways remain open for all Texans to enjoy.

If you know of any issues that might adversely affect fishermen and boaters, please let me know, so that BTAT can be your voice in Austin and Washington. Together we can protect the waterways for today and for generations to come.

TuffMan Qualifier #3

The TuffMan regional bass tournament trail is hosting their next tournament on Lake Belton this Saturday the 13th. Pat Wendeborn, tournament secretary, expects over 100 two person teams to participate in this five fish limit event. Tournament headquarters will be Sunset Pavilion in Cedar Ridge Park. Teams are allowed to launch at the ramp of their choice, but must report to tournament headquarters to draw their starting number. Fishing begins at safe daylight with the weigh-in starting at 3:00 pm. Registration is $200 until 6:00 pm Thursday and $250 thereafter. Guaranteed payout is $2,500 for first place with one place paid for every ten teams. Registration includes big bass. The top 12 teams will also qualify for the $20,000 championship held during the Central Texas Boat Show, January 7-9, 2011 (www.centraltexasboatshow.com). Complete details can be found at HYPERLINK “http://www.tuffmantournaments.com” www.tuffmantournaments.com.

HYPERLINK “mailto:rick@marineoutlet.com” rick@marineoutlet.com