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Montgomery Community College Annual Bass Tournament
2010
2009
Montgomery CC Forestry Club Hosts 14th Annual Tournament
March 14, 2009
Spring in North Carolina is about as fickle as feeding bass. Weather turns on a dime as fast as the local fish decide not to be anywhere in sight. Only three boats showed up for the 14th Annual Montgomery Community College Forestry Club Bass Tournament at Lake Tillery on March 14th. The Cook's Landing launch at 7:15 AM saw three teams slide out into dark and rainy conditions.
“This is certainly the smallest turnout we've ever seen,” said Russell Strong, event organizer and MCC Forestry Instructor. “ We usually have a dozen to 15 boats turn out, but I think this weather was too much.” The three teams that did show up were determined and agreed the 3 PM weigh in time didn't need to be shortened.
“We're gonna be soaked in a couple hours, so we might as well stick it out,” Clay Creed, an MCC Forestry alumnus laughed. They all seemed to agree... they'd be soaked and they'd fish 'til 3.
Payout for the event was all or nothing, so everything was on the line as gear was adjusted, rain suits were donned, and fishermen and boats slipped away from the dock. At day's end, the boat finding the luck was Randy Spivey and Reed McAllister. Their 33 pounds 10 ounces of bass netted them $120 and the best reason to call it a day.
Other teams particpipating were Russell Corry and Wayne Hatfield, placing second, and James Weaver and Clay Creed finishing third. There was not a Big Fish payout and each boat could weigh in 10 fish.
Proceeds for the event go to the MCC Forestry Club to defray costs of community service projects, as well as for forestry competitions the club participates in. It's also a time for alumni of the two-year Forestry Associates degree program to get together again. “We'll see a bigger turnout next year,” said Strong. “Hopefully the weather will help us. I know these guys enjoy seeing each other again and catching up on news.” Montgomery Community College is located in Troy, Montgomery County, NC.