Several weeks ago I spoke with well known fishing personality, Ralph Phillips. He said he was interested in starting a salt water fishing club for the Summerville area and he felt that there would be some interest. Growing up on James Island, I knew there were people in Summerville who fished on the salt water side, but I really assumed most fished up on the lakes. When I moved to Summerville 14 years ago I had my eyes opened to just how many people pull their boat down the road to get to fish. I told Ralph I thought there would be some interest and I would post it an announcement about the club on CharlestonFishing.com and let people know about the first meeting. I instantly started receiving messages from interested anglers and had them contact Ralph to let him know.
Last night was the first meeting to introduce people to the club and for Ralph to share his vision about what he thought the fishing club could be with some help. The formula was really quite simple: A family friendly club with people of all experience levels with due levels that made it reasonable for members and taught members about fishing, conservation and camaraderie and respect for fellow anglers. The club would also become a place where anglers without boats could meet up and fish with those who had boats. There will be tournaments, cookouts, and monthly meetings with guest speakers and product representatives.
I was really not sure how many people would show up for the first meeting, but was surprised when I pulled up to a crowded parking lot at Miler Country Club. There were about 40 anglers at the meeting and many more that were not able to make it to the meeting, but are very interested in being a part of the club. Each angler stood up introduced themselves and told a little about their fishing interest. There was a very good mix of experience and beginners and it looks like the club is off to a strong start and long overdue in the Summerville area. If you are interested in becoming joining the club you can contac