Welcome to the Balboa Angling Club (BAC). The club was organized in 1926 “for the purpose of furthering the sport of rod & reel fishing, the conservation of fish, and the good will of fishermen.” Our membership is comprised of men, women, and children who love the outdoors, the strike of a fish, and the satisfaction of catch and release.
Some of the membership benefits include fishing seminars, exclusive “hot line” fish report updates, I.G.F.A. certified weigh station, an informative newsletter containing pending marine legislation, new club records, current standing of BAC fish Board, pictures and other club related scuttlebutt. There is also an annual yearbook listing all members, club boats, and records of the yearly activities. Of course, there is our great little clubhouse to enjoy beautiful, scenic Newport Harbor during gatherings.
The dues are modest and the revenue supports youth activities, social gatherings, funding of the clubhouse reserve account for long term maintenance & repair, trophies, first fish flags & awards, newsletters & yearbooks, insurance, payroll and general operating expenses. The BAC also contributes funds to assist in maintaining the Pacific Fisheries White Sea Bass Enhancement Foundation. The PACFISH White Sea Bass Grow-Out Facility is located in Newport Harbor and is manned by volunteers who have successfully raised and released many thousands of healthy juvenile fish. BAC also contributes support to the IGFA, Billfish Foundation and United Anglers of Southern California.
BAC members enjoy friendly competition and are recognized for their efforts with trophies at the Annual Awards Brunch. The BAC Fish Board competition begins each year on January 1st and ends on December 31st. The board, displayed on the clubhouse wall is updated daily and the species include: broadbill, marlin, albacore, bonito, corbina, croaker, tuna, thresher and mako shark, yellowtail, white sea bass, kelp bass, sand bass, barracuda, halibut and dorado. “First Fish Flags” are awarded to boat owners for albacore, broadbill, dorado, marlin (released & boated), tuna, white sea bass and yellowtail.
BAC’s fishing tournaments are recognized among the most prestigious on the coast. The Lily Call 4# line test tournament held in Newport Harbor and the Master Angler Billfish Tournament are both limited entry, so it is important to sign up early for these events. The Junior Angler Tournament which kicks off with a BBQ around mid June, runs through mid August, and is open to all children 15 years and younger. The kids celebrate their achievements at a special tournament awards banquet/barbeque on the clubhouse deck.
Social events include “pot-Luck” parties, and the fun Offshore and YSH (yellowtail, halibut and sea bass) Tournaments which are followed up with a barbeque on the clubhouse deck. There is also a clubhouse Christmas party where we all enjoy the Tournament of Lights Boat Parade from our harbor side deck.
BAC does not prorate annual dues. If you are applying for membership after November 1st, please note that your dues will be applied to the following year. You will be entitled to all membership privileges to year end.
We welcome your membership and look forward to meeting you. Please call the clubhouse if you require additional information.
