CLUBS IN TUNE WITH SEASON

It's the time of the year when fishing fever begins to surface like a feisty largemouth bass.

When spring is in the air, fish and fishermen are both susceptible to the hook. And when the fever hits, it's always desirable to be in the company of those who can help combat the symptoms.

Many people may not be aware, but Cape Girardeau is host to three bass clubs. There are 47 such bass clubs statewide.

These clubs can provide an avenue for fishermen of all skill levels to further develop their ability to catch fish. While the clubs revolve around competition, they also stress fun and provide a forum for exchanging fishing knowledge.

"Anybody can join," said Gordon Brookman, treasurer of the SEMO Bass Busters, pretty much speaking for all the clubs. "You can be a boater or non-boater. All you have to have is have a desire to fish."

The Mossbacks are the oldest local club -- over 25 years old -- while the River City Anglers is the new kid, now in its third year.

Don Koehler, River City's membership chairman, said the fishing clubs have several important features.

"For me it's several things," said Koehler. "The No. 1 thing is cause I like fishing with guys and I'm plain old competitive. But it's also a good learning experience cause you're learning waters, fishing with different guys and learning new techniques."

All three clubs belong to the BASS Federated Club, which hosts the famous Bass Masters Classic each year. All three clubs provide a means for their members to reach the Bass Masters Classic, the mecca of fish tournaments.

Each club holds tournaments throughout the spring and summer with its top fishermen going to the state tournament. Each club can send up to four teams to state. From there, anglers must qualify for the regional and national tournaments. In the end, the top five fishermen at nationals qualify for the Bass Masters Classic.

"The No. 1 priority is having a good time," said Brookman. "Yes, we're competitive, but it's not cut throat. We don't cut each others lines."

The clubs also like to give back to the communities, helping with such activities as casting contests. The Mossbacks have had a Take a Kid Fishing Day and have also taken the handicapped fishing.

"We try to do as much as we can in our busy schedule to get the kids involved with fishing," said Mossbacks president Terry Young.