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Boat inspection set from July 20 to 24
Organizers of the 31st Annual Saipan International Fishing Tournament are reminding all participants to have their boats inspected before the two-day fishing derby, set on July 25 and 26 at the Smiling Cove Marina.
A kid touches one of the entries of last year’s annual fishing derby at the Smiling Cove Marina. (Saipan Tribune)
The period of inspection by the Department of Public Safety’s Boating Safety Unit will be from July 20 to 24. The inspection is part of the requirement to join the competition.
All participating boats must also be at the Smiling Cove Marina at the 6pm deadline on Saturday and Sunday for their catch to be weighed. The competition starts at 6am on both days.
The awards banquet will be held on Monday, July 27, at 6pm at the Pacific Islands Club.
Tournament organizers are expecting the same number of participants in this year’s fishing derby.
Last year’s 30th edition attracted more than 60 boats composed of 200 fishermen and crew from Guam, Rota, Tinian, and host Saipan.
Guam’s Team GORU, with boat captain Frank Roberto and his 12-year-old son Aaron, won the overall title after catching a 276-pound marlin.
The father-and-son tandem would most likely return this year to defend their title.
The top three heaviest in weight in Bill Fish, Yellow Fin, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, and Skipjack game fishes will receive prizes.
Entry forms, rules, and schedule of events are available for pick up at the Marianas Visitors Authority office and at the Fishing Tackle in Susupe.
Registration cost is $150 per boat, which is inclusive of a captain and one crew member. A $25 fee is charged for each additional angler.
For more information, call Ed Diaz at 6643200 or visit www.sfacnmi.com.
