Well,
It might be a little early, but I thought I would announce the Fourth Annual Bomba Bros Ice Tourney, brought to you by S-B.com.

Date - Saturday, January 26, 2013
Site - East Brimfield Resevoir - South Side
Time - 7:00 Am to 1:00 Pm
Entry - $20 or Custom Wood Plug

Last year's event was a challenge due to conditions, with about 30 participants. It was at Comet Pond, the only ice in this part of the state at the time. Good food, good times, and awesome prizes! As usual, Shawn Owen walked away with the grand prize. Cheap lodging is close, about a mile from the lake. The Bombas will be there the night before, so we'll have festivites at the Pic if they don't remember 86ing Messy Matty two years ago, on Friday and Saturday nights.

We'll be on the South Side of rt 20 this year (for those who have been asking for pike all of these years, and we'll be trying for access of Streeter Road).

Please RSVP to this thread if you plan to attend. It's a great time, and a fun way to hang out with the S-B.com crowd before the fishing show scene starts.

There's cheap lodging at the Motel 6 for $47.99 a night:

Motel 6 Sturbridge, Ma #4377
408 Main Street
I-90 At Exit #9/i-84 At Exit #3-b
Sturbridge, MA, 01566
Phone: (508) 347-7327
FAX: (508) 347-9138

Link to Mass Fishing License Information:

MassOutdooors (http://www.sport.state.ma.us/)

Local bait shops are sketchy, so best to pack in your own bait.

Please let me know if anybody has parked off Streeter Rd in the winter or if I should be looking for a different access point.

I'm in but will need an Arab free motel:devil2:

I'm in but will need an Arab free motel:devil2:

Change of venue this year Jay.

It was the year before last.

I'm gonna start calling you Johnny 2 times, Johnny two times

Just don't call me Spider.

Ill be there with 2 of my buddies

I'm in this year and what could I bring to help out.Food,drink tables?

Picadilly has been closed for a bout three months. I chipped a tooth on a piece of popcorn in there anyway.

The Pic and the local bait shop are both closed now. There is a place close to the lake to get shiners but he is a crap shoot, also a place in Palmer, 2 towns west right on Rt 20. I will be there for sure this year, had to miss last years with the rod building class.

I'm in this year and what could I bring to help out.Food,drink tables?


Ugh, Bob. I have a hard enough time making it through the thing without drink tables. Although the idea sounds fun.

Tables are always appreciated.

Last year I made bacon bourbon (not sure if I loved that one) and beach plum vodka (Christian liked that one), Kevin usually makes some kind of brandy or schnapps. I still have Kevin Jackson's blackberry brandy from last year in my sled...Even Rob stole a bottle of Jager from us one year, so the bases are pretty much covered.

We all kind of go independent on the food, but there's usually a pretty good spread for everybody, so bring what you like. Parksie got us some veal sausage from Providence that was awesome last year (from Fed-Rick, they make them special for the event).

Ugh, Bob. I have a hard enough time making it through the thing without drink tables. Although the idea sounds fun.

Tables are always appreciated.

Last year I made bacon bourbon (not sure if I loved that one) and beach plum vodka (Christian liked that one), Kevin usually makes some kind of brandy or schnapps. I still have Kevin Jackson's blackberry brandy from last year in my sled...Even Rob stole a bottle of Jager from us one year, so the bases are pretty much covered.

We all kind of go independent on the food, but there's usually a pretty good spread for everybody, so bring what you like. Parksie got us some veal sausage from Providence that was awesome last year (from Fed-Rick, they make them special for the event).


I have a 6'X3' wooden folding table and I'll make a few dozen chicken buffalo wraps with dipping sauce.

I have a 6'X3' wooden folding table and I'll make a few dozen chicken buffalo wraps with dipping sauce.

Sounds good. I'm psyched that we get to fit in your party and the tourney this year (and probably going forward). Mikey said he will likely be coming, as well.

Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

Feb 14,15,16 coming home feb 17th is the pike trip. We need to confirm the 1st week of Jan for the campers.
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

I should be able to get the time off work. Need to see if Mikey can make those days. Maybe we'll come up Thursday night.

I should be able to get the time off work. Need to see if Mikey can make those days. Maybe we'll come up Thursday night.

You guys have 6 months notice. MAKE IT HAPPEN!
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

TTT.
John, can you make this sticky at some point?
Thanks,
Rick

Ricky np excuses you Guys better make it to both functions...... or I'll.have to say you guys are gay ; )
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

No excuses.....this smart phone thingy is tuff to.learn....but you.get the idea.biatch!
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

New job, new baby might be tough for me to make both. I save my personal days for the big moon tides in June. We'll see though.

@Bob,
Mikey and I will make it to the party this year, without a doubt.
@Westport
At minimum, Matty and I will be going to Vermont. Mikey is going to try to make it. Send me the details when we get closer to Xmas. I'll send you along whatever you need from me.
Thanks,
Rick

Good news, a new guy in town is starting to sell shiners tomorrow. Better news is that its at a package store.

Good news, a new guy in town is starting to sell shiners tomorrow. Better news is that its at a package store.

Very Nice!

Just got snowshoes at Ocean State Job Lot. May be wishful thinking after last year. After the THABBIT, though, I figured that they may come in useful.

John, can you make this sticky?

Thanks,
Rick

Here's a link to the shirts. PM me if you'd like one. I'll be selling them for $23 plus shipping.

CustomInk.com design: fiabbit created by rickbomba (http://www.customink.com/designs/fiabbit/wkf0-000r-qf5y/retrieve?account_email=rickbomba%40comcast.net&account_id=7286129&identify=true)

I.d like one please. For a discounted price. But I'll buy Seano's for him.

I'm selling the shirts for cost. If I can get an order for 25 together, the price drops to $16 a piece.

Just added Matty to the t-shirt pic. John, can you make this sticky?

TTT.
John, can you make this sticky or maybe give me the priv's to do it?
Thanks,
Rick

TTT...John, can you make this sticky (or one of the admins help to tell me how to make this sticky?)
Thanks,
Rick

John, thanks for making that a sticky I thought I kept having deja vu or something, or deja vu or something.

And now the rules:



Rules are as follows:

Official Bomba Bros Ice Fishing Tournament Rules:

Fishing to begin as soon as horn is sounded (7 AM) and will proceed until tournament has ended at 1 PM, when the horn has sounded. Participants will have 5 minutes after the 1 PM Horn to weigh in all final fish. Any fish weighed in after 1:05 PM (time measured via Rick Bombardier’s cell phone) will be disqualified.

All participants must pay or surrender an entry fee equal to either one, custom made wooden striped bass fishing lure or $20. Entry fee must be paid prior to a participant placing a tip up or fishing rod in the water, or the participant will be disqualified. Fish cannot be weighed until the entry fee has been surrendered to the judges.

In no way are the persons Richard G. Bombardier, Jr. and/or Michael J. Bombardier responsible for the following areas, either personally or financially:
Personal injury incurred by a participant.
Requirement by Massachusetts State Law to be in possession of a valid Massachusetts Fishing License.
Personal conduct of participants.
Safety or welfare of any or all participants.

Official weigh in procedures are as follows:
All participants must bring prospective fish to the predetermined weigh-station and be weighed by a predetermined judge. Judges are appointed by Richard G. Bombardier, Jr. and/or Michael J. Bombardier. Any predetermined judge has the explicit right to weigh fish and record results, and the judge’s findings shall be found to be completely objective at time of weigh in. There shall be no challenge to judge’s said finding by a contestant, as contestants shall initial record along with judge weighing contestant's catch. Said judge will record the weight of the fish, and said judge’s record of weight shall stand toward and consideration of prize for the tournament.

Any prospective fish must be brought to the weigh-station alive. The fish will be weighed and the fish's weight recorded, along with the prospective angler’s name. Each weighed fish will then be put back into the ice at the weigh station, through a hole, immediately. Weighed fish may not be kept by an individual, unless subsequently marked by the judge, with a knife, which shall be done by severing the weighed fish’s tail, so the fish may be identified as not to be re-weighed.

All weighing shall be performed with a scale designated by Richard G. Bombardier, Jr. and/or Michael J. Bombardier.

Depending on participation, we will decide a predetermined list of winners just before the event.

Fishing Rules:
A fish that is caught shall be submitted by the angler who plays the fish to the hole. Fish must be submitted by an individual who had physical hands on the line that brings the fish to the hole.

Fishing in teams in commonplace among ice fishing anglers; however, a fish may only be submitted by the angler that played the fish to the hole.

If any person is suspected of team weigh-ins, they may be disqualified by Richard G. Bombardier, Jr. and/or Michael J. Bombardier.

It should be noted that the fisherman who played the fish to the hole must weigh the fish!

In conclusion:
I affirm that I am in compliance with this document.
I affirm that I accept all said rules of the tournament.
I will not hold either Richard G. Bombardier, Jr. or Michael J. Bombardier responsible for any disputes of this contract.
I will fish my hardest to win this tournament in a fair and true manner.

THESE RULES MAY BE UPDATED OR AMENDED PRIOR TO THE START OF THE TOURNAMENT!



I HEREBY MAKE THIS DECLARATION TODAY

I'm in!

Let there be ice! And there was ice. I believe. ;-)

It's early, but this looks pretty damn good:
Sat
Nov 3
48°
30°
Mostly Sunny
CHANCE OF RAIN:
10%

WIND:
WNW at 18 mph
Details
Sun
Nov 4
46°
25°
Partly Cloudy
CHANCE OF RAIN:
10%

WIND:
NW at 11 mph
Details
Mon
Nov 5
42°
23°
Partly Cloudy
CHANCE OF RAIN:
20%

WIND:
N at 5 mph
Details
Tue
Nov 6
44°
30°
Sunny
CHANCE OF RAIN:
0%

WIND:
NE at 5 mph
Details
Wed
Nov 7
44°
35°
Showers
CHANCE OF RAIN:
40%

WIND:
N at 9 mph
Details
Thu
Nov 8
45°
33°
Few Showers
CHANCE OF RAIN:
30%

WIND:
W at 8 mph
Details
Fri
Nov 9
46°
32°
Sunny
CHANCE OF RAIN:
0%

WIND:
WNW at 11 mph
Details
Sat
Nov 10
49°
40°
Mostly Sunny
CHANCE OF RAIN:
10%

WIND:
WNW at 8 mph

I would like to try to go this coming toury?

You can come anytime.

On a different note, the tourney Board of Directors was supposed to meet here today to sort out the traps, fire up the auger, charge the fishfinder, etc.

Once again, the only one who showed up was Phil Brown :(

Here's the rollcall so far:
Myself, Phil Brown, Messy Matty, Parksie, Paliaso
Mikey, Shawno
marky, daughters, and probably Jiggy and maybe a Cahill or two
Westport and crew
Sc413+2
Jack K and crew
Rob Rockcrawler
5/0
Fish 360
John and Liam?
TDF and nightfigher?
Raven
Iamskippy
Fiske27?
stiperted
mag minnow?
Jackbass (we going to see you guys this time)?
Billy Mitz and Cousin Bill?
Fisherwoman and Baitcaster?
Raider Ronnie?
Tattoo Bob?
niko?
There's a couple more people from Facebook who I can never place real names with SB.com names (sorry).

Liam & I are in as long as no camping that weekend.

I'm pretty sure I'm in...and I'm going to try and Drag Ross with me....he just doesn't know it yet :hee:

:)

Looks good for ice, except for Sunday-Tuesday:

37°F
Observed High
10:45 am
29°F
Rain / Snow Showers / Wind Early
CHANCE OF PRECIP:
30%

WIND:
NNW at 21 mph
Details
Fri
Nov 9
48°
32°
Sunny
CHANCE OF RAIN:
0%

WIND:
NW at 12 mph
Details
Sat
Nov 10
51°
38°
Mostly Sunny
CHANCE OF RAIN:
10%

WIND:
SW at 6 mph
Details
Sun
Nov 11
59°
41°
Partly Cloudy
CHANCE OF RAIN:
10%

WIND:
SSW at 7 mph
Details
Mon
Nov 12
63°
51°
Partly Cloudy
CHANCE OF RAIN:
10%

WIND:
SSW at 10 mph
Details
Tue
Nov 13
59°
33°
Rain
CHANCE OF RAIN:
70%

WIND:
SSW at 13 mph
Details
Wed
Nov 14
46°
30°
Sunny
CHANCE OF RAIN:
10%

WIND:
NNW at 9 mph
Details
Thu
Nov 15
45°
30°
Sunny
CHANCE OF RAIN:
0%

WIND:
N at 6 mph
Details
Fri
Nov 16
46°
31°
Partly Cloudy
CHANCE OF RAIN:
10%

WIND:
NNE at 6 mph
Details
Sat
Nov 17
48°
39°
Sunny
CHANCE OF RAIN:
0%

WIND:
ENE at 8 mph

Thanks for the updates Dr. Mel. But I wouldn't start worrying about it until around X-Mass.

Dr. Mel...I wonder if anyone remembers him, aside from you and I...

I'm going to buy some shirts, if anybody is interested in others. Let me know.

Good news, a new guy in town is starting to sell shiners tomorrow. Better news is that its at a package store.

:biglaugh:

I was in central mass this weekend....ice was just starting to skim over on some of the ponds. low 20's at night.

soon......

If I'm not out of town I want to do this. Just need to plan on getting a room and losing 2 days of my life....:cheers:

If I'm not out of town I want to do this. Just need to plan on getting a room and losing 2 days of my life....:cheers:

It's usually the opposite of losing 2 days. A normal 2 days can be easily lost. 2 days out there is hard to forget once you figure out what happened! Lol. Good times!
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

If I'm not out of town I want to do this. Just need to plan on getting a room and losing 2 days of my life....:cheers:
Craig,

We'll make sure that there is way more Bread and Circus this year. You can't apply last year's fun to the normal tourney. There's usually way more shennanigans.

Rob, can you let me know the name of the new shiner store? We'll pick them up for my crew when we get there on Friday.

Thanks,
Rick

http://i1063.photobucket.com/albums/t506/markpirani/8F25D8A1-DA6C-4108-BAA6-61CD01BE51EE-40538-000009C1D43FC17B_zpsb5a15a34.jpg
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

Every year I say the same thing. Wish I was closer.

Made it last year and had some good fun
with youse guys. I will be in Florida thru
January and know the Bomba boys will
have a moment of silence to mark my
absence. Good luck to all and stay sober
until you get the holes drilled--at least.

Made it last year and had some good fun
with youse guys. I will be in Florida thru
January and know the Bomba boys will
have a moment of silence to mark my
absence. Good luck to all and stay sober
until you get the holes drilled--at least.

UUGH,
We'll miss you, John. I'll make sure that Brad sets us up with a round of Morgan shooters for you.
Rick

Just bought some shirts (5). Let me know if anybody is interested in any, or you can just go to the website and buy them if you like.

John Pollack must attend!!!!!

The shiner store didnt start carrying them yet i will keep you posted about it.

Good luck to all and stay sober
until you get the holes drilled--at least.

Wicked bad luck to drill holes before the first beer

Wicked bad luck to drill holes before the first beer

OR THE FIRST SHOT/S

mmm...I remember trying to open a beer before trying to punch the holes the year we had all the slush...It was so cold that the beers froze in about an hour.

I have ice in Granby. Not strong enough to walk on, but it took a baseball sized rock without breaking. I'd say 1/2 - 1/4 inch.

wait, it won't last, unfortunately, we have a warm spell coming

Yup...looks like next week is going to be between 41-48 out there every day. I'd say that we've had a better start than last year at this time, though.

Still haven't turned on the heat in the house yet!

I'll put up another forecast this time next week.

Unlike last year, we have another two weeks of cold in January (and I get to go to Bob's party for once).

Later,
Rick

Unlike last year, we have another two weeks of cold in January (and I get to go to Bob's party for once).

Later,
Rick

:love:

And Me & Liam are 99% in - Scout camping is the week before :btu: Maybe have Boomer the Sled Dog pull the sleigh

BTW - Boomer is the one driving

I'm still looking for a place to park on the South Side near rt.20. Looks like Streeter is closed in the winter and the only place to park is the Long Pong Boat Ramp on the north side of rt. 20.

Rob or Raven, can you guys send me a pm and let me know where we should be parking?

If we need to, we can always go back up to Champeaux Rd, but I'd like to try the south side of the res.

Thanks,
Rick

Next week is not a happy ice week for sure.

the rest of dec should be above normal tempurature wise, then Jan. below average

I will scope it out this weekend. I know that even though the main lot there is closed during the winter there is still room for cars i will get a count. I may have another option as well. PM to follow.

Thanks Rob. Keep me posted. I'll attach a pic of what I'm thinking about for what I'm thinking about for parking.

Glad it's on the right side of the pond this year. It will be worth the parking headache. Starting to get a crew together. Can't wait for the REAL BBQ place. Can't remember the name for some strange reason:rotf2: But last time we were there the owner said it was a BYOB joint. Luckily for Joe and I we had a 30 pack in the truck. Rick post the name if you can. UNREAL smoked BBQ with all the fixings. The owner is a great guy and takes pride in his food. It's a small hole in the wall in a small town and has been very busy the few times we visited. I have only been there 3 times and the owner was there every time WORKING and taking pride as he should. Nothing like it around!

BT's Smokehouse. The brisket is friggin awesome.

BT's Smokehouse. The brisket is friggin awesome.

Thanks. EVERYTHING is friggn awesome:uhuh: Especially the condiments section. All homemade stuff. Pickles, onions , carrot's, sauces, crazy spicy stuff!

Thanks. EVERYTHING is friggn awesome:uhuh: Especially the condiments section. All homemade stuff. Pickles, onions , carrot's, sauces, crazy spicy stuff!

Forgot to mention the Cornbread and greens:love:

I never knew about the BBQ Place. Did I tell you about it, Jay?

I just checked it out...it's like right next door to the Motel 6.

and, yes, Yelp says its' BYOB. Nice!

I never knew about the BBQ Place. Did I tell you about it, Jay?

I just checked it out...it's like right next door to the Motel 6.

and, yes, Yelp says its' BYOB. Nice!

No we just wondered in. The place is a must
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

Across the causeway on Champeux rd. is good there is a nice channel and some deeper holes over there. The year I went two yrs ago I fished that side and we had 19 fish or so. Not a bad walk from that lot either
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

Across the causeway on Champeux rd. is good there is a nice channel and some deeper holes over there. The year I went two yrs ago I fished that side and we had 19 fish or so. Not a bad walk from that lot either
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device


We're going a little further to the south. Should be just off rt. 20 where the terrain is a little more varied.

I know the spot you are talking about.
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

There is probably about the same amount of room here as the lot off of Champeaux. There is also another small lot that can hold an additional 6 cars or so right at the top of the driveway. This is the closed boat launch n the south side of rt 20 on the west side of the causeway.

The only wildcard i can see with this location is the lack of plowing during the winter and the potential for a bit of a snow drift at the entrance.

Rob, Can you PM me your number and I'll give you a call?

Thanks,
Rick

And I'm pretty sure that we can get the lip plowed down by a special guest star.

The only wildcard i can see with this location is the lack of plowing during the winter and the potential for a bit of a snow drift at the entrance.

Another is, there was a derby on the other side 2 years ago if I'm not mistaken?
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

I did some net searches and didn't find anything about another tourney on our date. I'll keep my eye out. It's the same weekend as the Hopkinton tourney this year, so we might be ok.

Weather looks great starting tomorrow. All next week looks to be days with highs in low to mid thirties!

and to snow events

Weather keeps looking better and better. I read on another site that the water temps are a month ahead of where they were last year as far as cold goes.

I'm going to be booking our rooms after XMas. Anybody else going to be staying at the Motel 6? Jay's BBQ place is right next door, I guess.

Anybody planning to go out on Friday, as well. Just trying to figure out if we should put together some plans for Friday night.

I'll be coming Sat morning, fishing and staying for the night. Just not staying at the motel 6 jihad camp

I'm booking a room at the nearest crazy house. It will be the first time I've been away since the baby. I wanna get down the old school Rappin style!!

I'm booking a room at the nearest crazy house. It will be the first time I've been away since the baby. I wanna get down the old school Rappin style!!

Lol
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

Speaking of the bbq joint... There are some pretty funny youtube vids of the wing eating challenge. Do you think we could get a few contestants?

One "bite" wonder. Best wing challenge EVER!!!! - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4lyN25_mniE)

I'll be coming Sat morning, fishing and staying for the night. Just not staying at the motel 6 jihad camp


That's the super 8...I changed the venue to the Motel 6 this year.

That's the super 8...I changed the venue to the Motel 6 this year.

Then I'll be down for Sat night

are curved Swords required? :rotflmao:

Was out on some ice this morning in Granby. A few holes already punched in it.

Oh, this looks like we could have done the tourney two weeks earlier:

Tonight
Dec 22
35°F
Observed High
12:05 am
23°F
Partly Cloudy / Wind
CHANCE OF SNOW:
20%

WIND:
W at 22 mph
Details
Sun
Dec 23
39°
23°
Mostly Sunny
CHANCE OF PRECIP:
10%

WIND:
WSW at 16 mph
Details
Mon
Dec 24
38°
27°
Mostly Sunny
CHANCE OF PRECIP:
10%

WIND:
W at 7 mph
Details
Tue
Dec 25
32°
17°
Snow Shower
Full Christmas Forecast
CHANCE OF SNOW:
50%

WIND:
NNW at 8 mph
Details
Wed
Dec 26
32°
29°
Mostly Cloudy
CHANCE OF PRECIP:
20%

WIND:
NNE at 10 mph
Details
Thu
Dec 27
35°
19°
Showers
CHANCE OF RAIN:
50%

WIND:
NNW at 11 mph
Details
Fri
Dec 28
28°
19°
Mostly Sunny
CHANCE OF PRECIP:
10%

WIND:
NW at 10 mph
Details
Sat
Dec 29
32°
22°
Mostly Cloudy
CHANCE OF PRECIP:
20%

WIND:
NNW at 5 mph
Details
Sun
Dec 30
29°
22°
Snow Shower
CHANCE OF SNOW:
30%

WIND:
NNW at 10 mph
Details
Mon
Dec 31
29°
20°
Cloudy

The North part of the lake was frozen when I drove by today. That's pretty good. We might have been OK having it on the 19th, but we would have missed Bob's party...again.

Mikey, we should talk about how we're going to carpool down there.

Love and Merry Xmas to All,
Santa Bomba

Looks like it's not going to get above 30 for the next 10 days in Sturbridge.

If your name isn't on the roll call that I posted earlier in the thread, can you let me know if you're planning to make it or not. I'm at the point now where I'm stating to plan for how much sausage and rolls to buy.

And I have a handle of beach plum vodka (and what's left of Kevin Jackson's blacberry brandy from two years ago) for everyone to share, free of charge, along with the food.

Happy NewYear,
Rick

Oh yeah, Rob, is the new shiner guy selling bait yet. LMK so we can bring in shiners if we need to.
Thanks,
Rick

Temps for the next 2 weeks....Night time temps look real good for ice making.

The more that I look at the weather, the more that I think that the closed lots off rt. 20 will be deep with snow.

What does everybody think of moving it back to Champeaux and walking south, like Jackbass suggested.

It looks like if you walk a half-mile to the south, that there's some nice, deep water with good drops on the side of the lake.

LMK what people think. I hate to change plans, but the more that I look at this part of the lake, the better it looks to me.

Thanks and Happy New Year,
Rick

I think the idea to change the spot for a chance at a big pike, is a great Idea. Especially that there are spots around there for big pike. Being from around here, I don't really know too many spots there (It's kind of in the middle for me and Rick). SO, if any body wants to do a shout out through PMs only to the participants. Spots @ there would be greatly considered. Thanks!!

I think the idea to change the spot for a chance at a big pike, is a great Idea. Especially that there are spots around there for big pike. Being from around here, I don't really know too many spots there (It's kind of in the middle for me and Rick). SO, if any body wants to do a shout out through PMs only to the participants. Spots @ there would be greatly considered. Thanks!!

I think you're missing the point, Mikey. We'll be on the same pond, just walking to the south from Champeaux, where I hear there are pike.

We're not changing the lake, just the spot on the lake.

Thanks,
Rick

I'm in, as long as I don't get stuck working. Have no gear and don't know the first thing about ice fishing but it sounds fun
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

I heard there maybe some tasty beverages?
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

@Paul, I have enough tips to cover you (or jigging rods).

@Skip, I sampled the beach plum vodka last night after I talked to you. It was VERY good.

I love chickens! and sheep!

I got a batch of apple pie schnaaps ready to go for it......can't wait
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

Looks like no dice on the new shiner guy. I would BYOS.

See that kids, RR says no go on the shiner guy. I'll pick some up the day we head out.

That means more for Matty to eat.

Looking forward to this like nothing else.

Rick

Lol no worries! If i dont get shipped to CLE i will brong some shinning times...
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

BROODSTOCK SALMON - One hundred twenty-four broodstock salmon from the Roger Reed Salmon Hatchery in Palmer were divided between Whalom Lake, Comet Pond, Lake Quinsigamond, Wallum Lake and Webster Lake. The fish ranged in size from 6 to 12 pounds.

Looks like some Big’uns

Mikey just texted me pix of him letting a pike go into a hole. Bastards!

I have a feeling my lake in sturbridge will be safe tomorrow its about 3 miles from the rez. I will post an ice report and hopefully a fishing report as well.

Yeah,
Mikey's pics from about 60 miles further west looked about 4" of ice. I'm sure we'll be super safe in three weeks.

Far cry from last year.

Can't wait for this. Should be uber fun.

Mikey Likey Pikey... Got 3 and one LMB. Nothing over 5# though. Shawno and I both lost a few screamers. It was just nice to feel something tugging after missing the Fall Run due to the achilles. oH well time to fish again.

So the hotel is Motel 6 @ 408 main st?

Yup,
I'm going to reserve Matty's and my rooms there tomorrow.
HNY,
Rick

I'd also like to let everyone know that while practicing being a good dad with his kids today by teaching them about only going out on safe ice (he was keeping his kids away from the pond), that Parksie rescued a toddler that got dragged out on the ice by two dogs tied to a sled and went under.

It takes a brave and quick man to stop what would likely been a tragedy from happening.

Everybody that sees him at the FiABBIT should give him a big pat on the back.

They think the toddler was fine. Parksie got her out really quickly.

He then went back home, changed, and brought his kids back to the park to take them sledding so he wouldn't disappoint his kids.

WOW!

The more that I look at the weather, the more that I think that the closed lots off rt. 20 will be deep with snow.

What does everybody think of moving it back to Champeaux and walking south, like Jackbass suggested.

It looks like if you walk a half-mile to the south, that there's some nice, deep water with good drops on the side of the lake.

LMK what people think. I hate to change plans, but the more that I look at this part of the lake, the better it looks to me.

Thanks and Happy New Year,
Rick

What about calling the Streeter Point rec area and asking for permission to park there? They might not be open on the weekends? Worth a shot? Their phone #7 Industrial Park Rd W , Sturbridge, MA 01566
(508) 347-9316 ‎

What about calling the Streeter Point rec area and asking for permission to park there? They might not be open on the weekends? Worth a shot? Their phone #7 Industrial Park Rd W , Sturbridge, MA 01566
(508) 347-9316 ‎

I think two things Jay:
1. We'll get a chance for pike on the south side of Champeaux.
2. We have a spot that we know is plowed and don't need to change plans last minute if we can't get into the parking lot. I know that the Breeds', marky, and 413 bring snow machines, so they might not be able to get the trailers into unplowed areas.

Just my .02. I feel like last year suffered because we had to change plans too many times. I just want to make it as easy as possible.

Plus we change scenery to deeper water on the south side like they would have off rt.20.

That's fine I thought we were fishing North of rt 20

We were going to fish south of rt. 20 (this is where I heard there were pike on the good breaks).

I took a better look at the south side of Champeaux and it looked just as good.

I'll post some screenshots of the topo map tomorrow when I'm at work. I can't believe we haven't fished this side in the past. Although, the first year Mr. Haney pulled a 6# fish out at first bells.

The ice was marginal yesterday in Sturbridge. I went out but not too far, 3 inches of mostly white ice. Im sure its fine today, its 8 degrees out right now and it looks like it gunna be a long ice fishing season this year,

There were 20 guys out on Wilson Reservoir in Pascoag yesterday. Not sure how think the ice was but there were plenty of guys with tilts set up

Pretty cold today. And tomorrow is expected to be colder. A good sign. ;-)

Three weeks tomorrow. Anybody have questions? We booked our rooms for the weekend this week.

LMK,
Rick

Take a look...There may be some people on the ice with us as the fish can come from anywhere in the Central Wildlife District.

Take a look...There may be some people on the ice with us as the fish can come from anywhere in the Central Wildlife District.

I'm sure we'll be fine. Just get there at 5 AM like me. Lotsa parking at Champeaux.

Craig, you gonna make it, or are you working?

Hi Rick,
I'm planning on being there. I don't expect to have to travel for business at this time. I'll bring a bottle of Russian Standard Platinum for the community beverage table.

Ice is thick enough to support ATVs in my neck of the woods.

going to warm up this week, then get bitterly cold

Yeah,
We'll be set as long as there's no snow between the warm and cold to freeze up what's there now.
I CAN'T WAIT!!!!!
Rick

Was out ice fishing today great to be on the hard water again

So just to clarify we are parking at Champeaux and going across the street correct?

So just to clarify we are parking at Champeaux and going across the street correct?
Now I'm confused
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I'll send a topo map with tags from work today.

I tried to copy and paste this into a comment, but couldn't. I attached it as a PDF. Let me know if you guys can't see this and I can forward in an email.

Gonna get COOOOOOOLD next week.

So Parking is the same place we always parked....but we are fishing the other side

Yes.

Is there a safe way to cross that street and get access to the pond on that side with the fast moving water and thin ice?
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Yeah, we should be fine by the time the tourney hits.

Stick to the shoreline on the western side and then move towards the middle as the lake opens up more.

Just looked at accuweather. Looks like we're going to have non-stop freezing temps from next Wednesday on.

We should have more than plenty safe ice.

Wow, just saw Friday's forecast on channel 5. High of 19 low of 5 in Boston.

Nice!
Two weeks!!!

The PV is dropping in for a visit
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IM IN THIS YEAR see you guys in a couple weeks:jump1:

Nice. I always think to myself that you're missing, Ted.

Rick Me and my buddy parked at the ramp on the north side of 20 and fished it today solid 6 inches of ice every where we went. Epic day of fishing too

What did ya guys catch?

few pics from today with surfcaster413

Hope we catch fish like that. Mikey will be pleased.

Went back today fishing was abit slower but we still pulled a few good fish threw the ice. With the cold weather predicted there will be plenty of ice in two weeks
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So very glad to see some snow today after that "heat wave". :-)

pulled afew myself today

One more week to go!!! I'm trying to figure out how much sausage to buy.

Don't forget that your $20 entry fee (or plug) also gets you food by where we are set up (and beach plum vodka).

Can't wait!
Rick

Just finished the last of the packing, checking the grill, etc.

I have to say that for a portable grill, that Weber has been through about 50 rounds of ice fishing, 10 years driving on the beach, a million Pats games, etc. I think I lent it to Casey and Kacie for a while, too. It's a quality product that fires right up every time!

Blizzard
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

Yeah,
I see that Bill. Luckily it's only a two mile drive from the motel to the lake. It should be easy pulling the sleds through that kind of snow, though.

Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

Not enough wind to be a Blizzard. Plus the big snow will be over by the time we are starting.

Fish tend to bite better right before and after a storm. It should be good.

I think Veraka ass-posted his comment.

Looks like it's only getting to 18 on Saturday. Ouch!

Weather Underground is saying now snow past today. I have now given up on the weather channel, its good back ground noise on the TV but cant stand the website.

WU says very cold and windy the next three days. Should really capitalize on the ice making potential.

Just a reminder to pack in your own shiners. I'm picking up 6 dozen for my crew on Friday AM.

blizarrd

blizarrd

Tell me more

The liquor store in town is selling shiners but its one size only and he isnt opening early to sell them. Says he will open at 6 but it hasnt been happening so like the man say bring your own shiners.

I'm loving the this cold weather! ;-).

So, we're leaving here around noon on Friday. If anybody has trouble, feel free to call me at 781-439-1918.

We'll be out there around 5 AM on Saturday AM pulling out the gear.

Matty will likely come by to collect the entry fee from the teams (remember it's $20 this year).

He'll also be doing the weighing.

Follow the BBQ smoke to our table and say hi. We'll have sausage, beach plum vodka, and fun.

Stay warm, everybody!


Rick

Any blackberry brandy?

I still have what you left in the sled last year, Kevin.

I should have some venison burger.

Just don't make it venison sloppy joes.

Is there a pike division? Or is it all around biggest fish?
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

Gotta ask Matty....I hate to have a pike only prize and not come back with one.

I'll try to post something before we leave tomorrow, Jay.

He usually has some sort of weird prize structure in his head.

Does anyone have an address that I can put into my GPS that would get me close the where we are fishing? At ungodly hour of the morning that I am going to be driving, without a GPS to guide me, forget-about-it! ;-) THANK YOU in advance.

Gotta ask Matty....I hate to have a pike only prize and not come back with one.

I'll try to post something before we leave tomorrow, Jay.

He usually has some sort of weird prize structure in his head.

No biggie. I just won't pay to play. I'm gonna set 5 BIG dead baits out on steel for Pike and hang out.

It looks like l am out guys......truck is OOC. Broke down for the second time this week and currently sitting in a garage
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TDF if you want a ride you can hop in with me. Just will have to pare your gear down a bit.

No biggie. I just won't pay to play. I'm gonna set 5 BIG dead baits out on steel for Pike and hang out.


We can certainly make a biggest pike award, Jay. If nobody gets one, we'll collapse the prize.

Does anyone have an address that I can put into my GPS that would get me close the where we are fishing? At ungodly hour of the morning that I am going to be driving, without a GPS to guide me, forget-about-it! ;-) THANK YOU in advance.

360,
You can use 6 Champeaux Rd, Sturbridge, MA. Pass the house and keep going down the hill and you'll see the parking lot on the right.

Picking up bait on the way home from work tonite. If i get myself out of bed at a reasonable time tomorrow I'll be out there freezin' with you...

See you guys in the am
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Thank you Rick!

What.... none of you guys have smartphones with you???? How about some updates?:nopics: Hope you are having fun and catching!

I was just thinking the same thing Ross... I'm stuck on a party bus bound for Foxwoods and was hoping for some pics to pass the time between Jello shots... Maybe the action is fast and furious... ❔
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It was friggin cold out and the fish had a bit of lock jaw. As always though it was a good time on the ice.

...great time!

...pic

Aside: Limited to 3 pics per post. :-(

I talked to Peter and he said he was freezing his nuts off.

Was it cold? I did not feel cold. ;-)

Just out of curiosity, what were the final standings?

Who said it was cold :devil2:

LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Love that one vineyardblues. ;-)

COLD ! But fun glad to meet you guys & see some old friends
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Kudos to the Bombas for making this happen, despite Mother Nature's foul mood. ;-)

Stupid cops!!!

Yeah,
Good time. Very cold. Thanks to all who came. Also big thanks to Kevin for coming to Mikey's rescue.

I ended up driving back and forth to Sturbridge twice today. Glad everybody's home and safe.

Next year new venue.

Later,
Rick

Stupid cops!!!

OK, come on. You can't put up a post like that without an explanation. What happened????

OK, come on. You can't put up a post like that without an explanation. What happened????

Lot of drama, Paul. Luckily everything looks like it may pan out in the end.

Sorry to hear Rick
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need the play by play !