Message From The President

Dear Fellow Anglers,

Welcome to the Tuscawilla Bassmasters web site. Tuscawilla Bassmasters has been in existence since 1980 and is made up of a diverse group of members from all walks of life who share the same passion for fishing. 
Because of our limited membership, we’ve been able to maintain a close and friendly atmosphere, while still being competitive. The experiences and knowledge gained from one another over the years has been invaluable, and this is what I believe has set us apart from other clubs.

Tuscawilla is a member of the Florida Bass Federation and sanctioned by B.A.S.S. You do not need to own a boat to join our club as non boaters are welcome as well. If you think you’d like to become part of such a club, I invite you to contact us for more details.

Wishing you tight lines!

Bob Knoerzer

President

Tuscawilla Bassmasters

IN THE BEGINNING

In 1980 , Owen Bailey visited Harry Thomas, a Navy shipmate in Charleston, SC. Harry was an avid bass fisherman and a longtime member of the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society. That was Owen’s first introduction to BASS. Owen came back to Winter Springs armed with several old issues of Bassmaster Magazine, and called Bill Sipe, a friend who lived just down the street. Together they engaged in the founding of The Tuscawilla Bassmasters.

Once they decided to form a bass club, they began riding through their neighborhood, looking for bass boats in people’s yards and garages, and soon had seven members who were willing to join with them in starting a bass club. The organizational papers were sent to BASS for approval, and the rest is history. Since then the club has grown to over 30 members.

Owen Bailey was the first club president, for the years 1981 and 1982.

In the beginning the club met twice a month and fished one tournament each month. The meetings were held at a member’s home where fish stories (lies) and fishing tips were shared. The other monthly meeting was a dinner meeting in a formal club setting.

The club has always been a friendly club where the welfare of its members comes first. Care and emphasis have always been forefront in the election of new members, as member retention is key to the club’s longevity.

Our club has always been a group of dedicated bass fisherman who believe in catch and release and the preservation of our sport.

We have always been involved in the Florda BASS Federation as directors, officers, conservation projects, and we are very much involved in the BASS youth activities. We are also one of the oldest Federation Nation clubs in existence.