MV Surfcasters swap tales and present annual awards

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Environmental Police Sergeant Matt Bass described some of the requirements of the state's new saltwater fishing license. — Photo by Nelson Sigelman

Fried chicken, chowder, and fish stories highlighted the Martha’s Vineyard Surfcasters Association’s annual banquet and meeting in the Baylies Room of the Old Whaling Church in Edgartown Saturday. There was plenty of all three to go around.

When the fish are biting the members of the Surfcasters, a nonprofit community beach fishing association, can be hard to corral. Good food and a chance to talk fishing on a winter afternoon were just the right lure to attract approximately 100 people on a winter afternoon.

Treasurer Sue Geresy reviewed the group’s community activities in the prior year, including awarding scholarships and making contributions to the Food Pantry, Red Stocking Fund, and the Boys and Girls Club.

Environmental Police Sgt. Matt Bass gave a brief presentation on the state’s saltwater fishing license. Asked where license fees will go, Sergeant Bass said the money would be used strictly for fishing interests — for example public access — but not for law enforcement.

Outgoing association president Janet Messineo asked what a fisherman should do if he or she observes someone breaking the law. “Let me know about it,” Mr. Bass said. “Please don’t hesitate to call.”

Club member and Trustees of Reservations employee Peter Johnson described current and historic changes on Chappaquiddick. The Norton Point opening continues to have a dynamic effect on the beach, he said, as it migrates east.

Annual club business also included fishing awards and the election of officers. Will Geresy is the new president; Peter Johnson and Paula Sullivan, vice-presidents; Sue Geresy, treasurer; and George Moran, secretary.

For more information go to mvsurfcasters.org.