CAYUGA, N.Y. — A release boat constructed by members of the New York B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation (NYBCF) made its debut this month on Cayuga Lake.
Members of the New York chapter tore down and rebuilt a used boat to make it capable of transporting fish to safe, viable habitat. After a tournament on Cayuga, the release boat made its first journey to the deep, carrying 281 fish weighing a total of 651 pounds.
“All of the fish were transported to the most desirable recovery habitat they could have,” said Barb Elliott, vice president of Salt City Bassmasters and conservation director for the NYBCF. “This is a great victory and testament for our ideal of catch and release.
“It goes a long way toward avoiding any negative public perception due to dying fish lingering at public launch sites,” continued Elliott, “translating to a more positive image of us to the general public.
“Many people were key in getting this release boat to reality. From the original discussions between Pat Grady, Jerry McKinnis and the NYBCF executive committee, to support from members of the Good Ol’ Boys and Salt City Bassmasters, and the location and key logistical support from Craig Terpening at Terpening Trucking,” Elliott added. “This is proof that great things can be accomplished when everyone works together toward a common goal.”
This article is part of the Fisheries Management segment of the larger report, 2011 Annual Achievements in B.A.S.S. Conservation.
