Tips from the Tackle box…….2004

2003 Stratos Prize Boat - Winner Les Zacny
Mitten Vinyl VP USA Sales Jay Riley, Pro Les Zacney, Strato's President Gary Clouse

By Don Sheldrake

Back in 1997 Mitten Vinyl Inc. of Paris , ON started a special event that would bring together their customers and clients from across Ontario and the United States . This event would give everyone involved an opportunity to enjoy and experience the greatest resource Ontario has to offer……….fishing!!

In 1999 this venture was taken outside the company and now is called “Tips from the Tackle Box”. This year the event has been moved to beautiful Belleville , Ontario and promises to provide some of the most prolific smallmouth and largemouth bass fishing imaginable. The event will take place this year on July 10,11 and promises to draw large crowds as it is running at the same time as the Belleville Water Edge Festival.

The Water Edge Festival expects to draw close to 100,000 people during the course of the weekend with 6-7,000 people attending events near the launch site. Gary O’Neil has plans to promote the Tournament Weight-In to attract more of the crowds already at the Festival.

This tournament is a wonderful opportunity to see some of Ontario ’s best Professional Bass fisherman in action while providing an opportunity for others to experience a Pro-Am format for the first time. Unique to this event is the opportunity for all all anglers involved to share stories and experiences after their day on the water. In the past, Pro’s the likes of Bob Izumi, David Chong, Les Zacny and Paul Kryskow have participated in this event.

Entry fees are set at 250.00 (plus tax) for Pro’s. This will provide the Pro with all their food for the weekend, breakfast, lunch and diners and includes 4 refreshment tickets.

The payout structure is listed below :

1 st place trophy, placement medallions and Big Fish plaques will also be handed out.

Amateur Bob Lucky                 Pro Les Zacny

Last year Les Zacny drove away with first place and a new Stratos and Mercury package for a largemouth over 6 lbs. Currently Gary O’Neill and Bob Hunke are working on another prize, announcements will be made when it’s finalized. Anyone interested in fishing this great event should contact Vicki Moores @ (519) 744-2774.

“Tips from the Tackle Box” would also like to thank their supporters, Mitten Vinyl Inc, Stratos Boats, Mercury Marine, Extreme Marine and Shimano for their continued support.