The 1st Annual John Haberek Memorial Striped Bass Tournment

[Pete_G]

I'd almost say skip the tournament end of it if it causes too much debate or drama, especially as it's all fairly short notice. A tournament instantly sends everyone scattering in opposite directions once it begins.

I'm sure many would turn out just to get together for a few laughs, memories, some good food, and to fish just to fish as opposed to a tournament but it all depends on what people want out of this and how long it would go for.

An afternoon/evening at Brenton Point sounds fine to me. Not that long ago Habs, Tattoo, the Daniels bros, the Ironman, Seawolf, myself and scattered other characters fished together at least a few times a year just for the company as much as the fishing often starting at Brenton Point. Some of those evenings are favorite surf fishing memories for me, even if the fishing wasn't all that great.

This isn't a post to rain on the tournament idea, just to present another option.

[Crafty Angler]

Pete, you're on exactly the right track - this tournament is as much about the camaraderie as the fishing.

Given the caliber of the people we have here at S-B, I think it's unlikely that a tourney in John's name would turn into the pissing contest that seems to surround the OTW every year. This isn't quantum physics, it's a reason to get together and fish, tell tales, laugh, share food and drink and remember somebody who would have enjoyed it all.

And if there are those who would try to turn this into a debacle like some of the contests, shame on them. Feel free to NOT participate in it. Years ago in the Caribbean Johanna and I went into a bar that had a sign at the door with a turkey with a red circle and cross thru the bird. 'Nuff said.

I think the perpetual trophy is terrific - I'd be pretty damned proud to have something like that with Habs name on it representing a notable catch (I should be so lucky), a great time with friends and the guy we all thought so much of.

What I had in mind was something in the spirit of the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Surf Classic in Hawaii - Google it, it's worth reading about how Eddie's friends memorialize the loss of a friend and a great waterman every year.

Love and respect, man.