mlofsted

Our club is looking at converting to a point system to better choose the 12 fisherman to compete in our annual NCCC (Northern California Club Classic). Currently we do not use a point system and sometimes the choosing gets to be a popularity contest. We want to try something better. However we have some questions that aren't easily answered. 1. Do we have to keep track of points for boaters vs non-boaters? 2. How do we handle it if sometimes you go as a boater, and sometimes you go as a NB? 3. Can we still fish as a team, or is it individual points? 4. If we make it "individual" how do we make sure the boater doesn't keep the NB away from the good water? These are just some of the questions, but I know there are clubs that use a point system, so just want to hear back on how you run it. Any and all inputs are greatly appreciated!! Thanks, Mike Lofstedt....West Valley Bassmasters of Tracy, CA.

Surfer has the only solution right on. You have two options when you gut hook a bass; take him home and cook him, or cut the hook. These cutters look better than the standard pair I use. Mine take a lot of strength to cut through these hooks, and sometines it's all I can do to cut it. I find it much easier to use the cutters by carefully going into the fishes mouth through the gills. You can get a much better angle on the hook. When you cut the hook, one pice comes out still attached to the line, and then you use the NNP's to simply remove the barb end from the fish. No damage, and the fish is happy as heck. This is the only safe way in my opinion.

Ahh great responses from all of you! I truly appreciate it. Thanks and may the god of the large mouth bring you all a double digit gift on your next outing!

I'm fairly new at bass fishing (1 yr) and have just joined a local club. As a new fisher I'm a non-boater, so I always fish the back of the boat at our monthly club tournements. Are there any strategies or tactics specifically for the rear person? I've tried to find articles on the WEB, but so far nothing. From all acounts, it looks like the front person gets all the good spots, but I have to believe to be a good team or "match", there must be a tactic that best fits the rear fisherman, and thus complements the front guy. Anyone with any ideas? Much appreciated.