Outdoor recreation provides affordable boating, fishing options

Published July 22, 2009
By Jonathan Hicks
81st Training Wing Public Affairs

KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss -- Despite the blazing hot summer, it's still possible to cool off with the help of outdoor recreation. The facility at the base marina has a variety of programs available to fit almost anyone's particular interest and taste.

Outdoor recreation director Dave Bowers and his staff assist individuals and families with equipment issue and rental, outdoor adventures, family campground trailer rentals, pools and aquatic activities and charter boat programs.

Since assuming his current job in November, one of Mr. Bowers' major goals has been finding the delicate balance of lowering costs to customers without compromising services, a rough prospect during current economic times. Outdoor recreation has been able to change the minimum number of people required to charter the Keesler Dolphin II, a 50 foot charter boat, from 15 to 10. Dolphin II charters now include activities such as overnight fishing trips, team meetings and other social functions - even a recent wedding.

Although Keesler has many recreation opportunities to choose from, Wayne Fortier, outdoor recreation's certified boat captain in charge of the boating programs, points out that boating and fishing trips are still the most popular choices.

A trip to Horn Island aboard the Dolphin II, 8 a.m. Saturdays following nonworking Fridays weather permitting, costs $30 per person. Back Bay of Biloxi fishing trips are $20 per person. Deep sea fishing trips onboard the Dolphin II are$75 per person, with private charters starting at $750 for the first 10 people and $50 for each additional person up to 22. Pontoon boats and the 17-foot Back Bay cruiser can be rented, and don't forget the excellent fishing in Delacroix, La., where self-contained trailers are available.

Despite the fun, safety is always a concern. According to Senior Airman Ronny Paz of the safety office, most outdoor recreation incidents are sports-related, but in recent years, a few mishaps can be attributed to boating, fishing and other water activities.

Team Keesler can look forward to more exciting adventures trips to points of interest within Mississippi and other surrounding states with new programs such as white water rafting on the Ocoee River in Tennessee scheduled for Aug 14-16, horseback riding, trailer rentals for camping and expanded usage of charter boats.

"We're always open for new ideas," Mr. Bowers said. "Come check us out and see what we have to offer."