“We a looking for good weather Saturday. Right now the weatherman says we will have about normal temperatures for this time of year – 32 degrees in the morning and up to 60-62-63 degrees by the afternoon,” he said.

“We might have a slight breeze, so that will be good. At least it will be better than what we have been experiencing.”

Peace said over last weekend and early in the week the region was buffeted by wind gusts up to 35-40 mph.

“They said the wind killed them in the C&S Motorsports Tournament last weekend. A lot of people did not show up for the tournament. I think it’s just a combination of the economy still being bad, high gas prices and the fact that a lot of people are hurting. They are just not able to afford to fish.”

How the fish will react to the weather is a big question, he said.

“In years past it has taken from 12-something to about 14-something to win the tournament, so I think it will probably be about the same for Saturday,” peace said.

The colder weather this week might actually pick the fishing up, he said.

“The water has been a little warmer than normal, so it might excite the fish if it cools down some. A lot of the fish are in the transition phase where they have not really come out of their summer patterns. The bait has not got balled up much and the fish are not in the backs of the creeks yet. Maybe this cooler weather will help push them on up in there.”

“We’ll feed the guys for a donation. They are usually pretty hungry when they come off the water,” he said. Peace said a barbecue sandwich will go for a $3 donation and $1 will buy a drink and chips.

Peace said the tournament grew out of a small fishing club at the Eaton Corporation. Once the club members decided to hold the tournament to benefit Special Olympics the company provided financial support and the first year the tournament raised $14,400.

The tournament really took off once some of the top names in bass fishing from around the area began fishing in it – and helping find good sponsors, Peace said. The tournament raises funds for Special Olympics and for the North Shelby School which specializes in serving children with special needs.

The total payout for the tournament is $14,350, with $2,500 for first place, and prize money will be paid back through 20 places. There will be special awards for the top parent-child team, husband-wife team and senior (62 years and up) team. Entry fee is $100 per team.

“I want everybody to know how much I appreciate all the support we have had over the six years now of doing the tournament. I really appreciate all the fishermen who participate. In the five years we’ve held the tournament so far we have raised $104,000 for these kids.”

 

Special Olympics North Shelby School Bass Tournament

Sat, Nov 3, 2012

Lake Norman

Pinnacle Access

Call Ricky Peace at 704-434-7573