Syracuse.com - Fourth annual 'Take a Soldier Fishing' event set for April 28 on Oneida Lake

HuntingNY-News · March 8, 2012

The event pairs two soldiers with a volunteer boater for a day’s free fishing on the lake. Boaters provide their assigned soldiers a rod & reel, tackle and life vest for the day.The group fishes from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. for anything that bites and they’re allowed to weigh-in one fish for a big fish prize in one of five categories, Drum/Sheephead, Common Carp, Bowfin, Rock Bass/ Perch and White Bass.

The following is a press release:

The NY BASS Chapter Federation (NYBCF) will host their fourth annual Take a Soldier Fishing event on Oneida Lake in Brewerton launching out of Oneida Shores Park on April 28.

The event pairs two soldiers with a volunteer boater for a day’s free fishing on the lake. Boaters provide their assigned soldiers a rod & reel, tackle and life vest for the day.

The group fishes from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. for anything that bites and they’re allowed to weigh-in one fish for a big fish prize in one of five categories, Drum/Sheephead, Common Carp, Bowfin, Rock Bass/ Perch and White Bass.

Last year, Specialist Nathan Oropeza fishing with Eric Tessmer won big fish of the day. Their boat team brought in a Common Carp that pulled the scales to 21.33 lbs. and Oropeza took home a Temple Fork Outfitter rod and US Reel valued at $250.

Following the afternoon weigh-in all participants are treated to a cook out-style lunch served in the park. This year’s luncheon is sponsored by the Northern NY Chapter of the United States Army (AUSA), Fort Drum Mountain Community Homes and the Fort Drum Morale Welfare and Recreation office.

Beginning April 16, soldiers can sign up for this event at the Fort Drum Outdoor Recreation Office Parks & Recreation Division, Bldg P-11115, (315) 772-5169 or (315) 772-8222. Seats are limited to the 85 Soldiers and managed by the Outdoor Recreation office.

Donations are welcome and due no later than April 15. Make checks payable to the NYBCF and mail to Burnie Haney (Take A Soldier Fishing) PO Box 136 Calcium NY 13616. Send product donations to Take A Soldier Fishing 24428 US Route 11, Lot # 51 Calcium, NY 13616.

For additional information contact Burnie Haney at [email protected] or call (315) 786-8897; or Mike Cusano at [email protected] , or call(315) 695-4969.

View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog