Published: May 09, 2008 12:26 am            

19th Annual Sandy Ridge Bream Open

What started out as an experiment to get rid of an overpopulation of bream has turned into a labor of love and passion for Frank Tillman of the Clarkdale Community. Tillman was originally reluctant to open his lake to the public for the tournament, but once he did the results were very successful. Not only did he rid the lake of the overpopulation of bream, but he helped introduce a generation of kids to the sport of fishing.

Year after year local sponsors have continued to step up to the plate and back this tournament. With the help of the sponsors Mr. Tillman has provided a place for the children to fish and have a good time and the opportunity to win a prize. During most of the tournaments the kids come away with a cap or T shirt, bag of baits, or some type of goody.

The tournament will begin at 8 a. m. this Saturday morning and conclude at 12 noon. Prizes will be awarded afterward in three divisions with four winners in each bracket. The divisions are pre-school, 6-10 and 11- 15 years old.

The only entry fee for participation is 2 canned goods from each participant. The donated items will be given to the Wesley House and The Baptist Crises Center. Oak Grove UMC will be on hand to offer concessions for hungry participants.

The rules are pretty simple and straight forward as the tournament is meant to give the kids a chance to fish. Adults are allowed to help the younger children, but this is not a time for adults to fish. See the rules and regulations on the entry forms on the morning of the tournament.

Only live bait will be allowed during the tournament.

Contact Frank Tillman at 601-693-1531 for directions to the lake, or to learn more about the tournament. But don’t miss out on a chance to carry a child fishing. They’ll have an opportunity to catch a fish and maybe catch the biggest bream of their life. You’ll be glad you attended, I guarantee!

        

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