The fate of the Rodman Reservoir is still to be determined, as a Jacksonville based coalition seeks to breech the Kirkpatrick Dam, commonly known as the Rodman Dam. For years, the St. Johns Riverkeeper has sought to drain the reservoir, allowing the Ocklawaha River to flow freely. An agreement between the Riverkeeper and the coalition, made up of the JAX Chamber, City Hall, and Jacksonville Port Authority, would keep the Riverkeeper from filing a lawsuit against the coalition’s plans to dredge the St. Johns River.
The Rodman Reservoir, created in 1968 when the dam was completed, is a product of a failed project called the Cross Florida Barge Canal that began in 1935. The reservoir has since become it’s own unique ecosystem, and is a favorite destination for anglers across the country. In an effort to help raise funds for Save Rodman Reservoir, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing the destruction of Rodman Reservoir, the Jacksonville Johns Bass Trail hosted the Rally for Rodman bass tournament on March 21st. 45 boats launched from the Kenwood Boat Ramp, in an effort to showcase the fishery Rodman is known for.
Top honors were awarded to Daniel and Devin Greene, as the father-son team weighed a 19.20-pound, 5 bass limit. Finishing close behind in second place was the team of Shane and Eugene O’Neal. The O’Neal’s weighed a resectable 19.00-pound bag. Robert and Cody Black finished in third place, as they hauled in an 18.70-pound bag. Fourth place went to Jarod Howell and Jonathan Hunter, as they weighed an 18.50-pound bag. Johnny Key secured the final spot in the Top 5 with a 16.80-pound bag.
The event raised $460.00 towards the legal fund for Save Rodman Reservoir. On April 18th, Ed Taylor’s 19th Annual Save Rodman Reservoir Bass Tournament will be held to assist in raising more funds for the organization. More information on Save Rodman Reservoir can be found at rodmanreservoir.org.
Photo: Devin Greene Fishing
