At least 35 boats expected in Tuna Mix Classic 2021

Angler Inas Lizama Jr. shows off the 145-lb big eye tuna he caught around Rota. (Contributed photo)

Tasi to Table Inc. is gearing up for its hosting of the Tuna Mix Classic 2021 fishing tournament this Saturday, Aug. 14.

TTT vice president Wayne Pangelinan said they’re expecting at least 35 boats to take part in the inaugural fishing derby.

He said the Tuna Mix Classic is one of two community events they host and organize with support of sponsors for the CNMI.

“Every first week of the March is the intended Wahoo in the Marianas and in 2022, IT&E and Mobil Oil Marianas are expected to sponsor the third annual student-led tournament. For June 2022, we are planning for a student-led tournament on Rota where we hope we would get sponsors,” he said.

Then there’s this upcoming Tuna Mix Classic by Bank of Saipan and Pacific Trading Co.

“It is obvious that TTT is ambitious, however, these events do collaborate with the students as TTT also teaches about event coordination, organizing, marketing, and promotions and more to have a successful event,” said Pangelinan.

TTT’s purpose is to give that edge to students who may find themselves in the marine field of study, possible career paths with marine study, marketing, coordinating events/activities, just to name a few.

“In line with other supporting agencies and non-government offices, learning about our environment, their mental health, boating safety, water quality, [TTT will] add Micronesian Environmental Services, which is the science of our fish species and more are built into TTT’s eight-month program,” he added.

A total of $6,000 courtesy of major sponsors Bank of Saipan and Pacific Trading Co. is at stake for the Tuna Mix Classic 2021. First place will be getting $3,000, second place will be taking home $2,000, and third place will be pocketing $1,000 in cash prizes, with additional gift certificates from Fishing Tackle & Sporting Goods.

Under the rules of the unique fishing derby, any pelagic species in contention for prizes from first to third in the heaviest catch must include a tuna species—yellow fin, skip jack, and big eye tuna.

Registration forms will be placed at the Fishing Tackle & Sporting Goods as well as 4EVER CNMI shop in San Jose. Registration fee is $200 for one captain and two anglers with additional crew $25 apiece. The awards ceremony will be held after the last weigh-in on fishing derby day.

Registration is on Aug. 13 from 4pm to 6pm at the Smiling Cove Marina. Fishing shirts and other giveaways will be provided to registrants while supplies last. This event supports the youth program run by TTT in all the CNMI public high schools of Saipan, Tinian, and Rota. All proceeds generated will go toward supporting the youth program TTT spearheads.

“For the anglers who are to participate in the Tuna Mix Classic, we wish all the best of luck and look forward to recognizing the first champion of this year’s Tuna Mix Classic!” said Pangelinan.

For more information on Tasi to Table Inc.’s Tuna Mix Classic 2021, call Weaver at 483-4363 or Pangelinan at 788-8057.