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Friday deadline for fishing derby entries
Friday would be the deadline for the submission of entries to this year’s 31st Annual Saipan International Fishing Tournament, which is set on July 25 and 26 at the Smiling Cove Marina.
The 31st Annual Saipan International Fishing Tournament is set for this weekend, July 25 and 26, at the Smiling Cove Marina. (Saipan Tribune)
Organizers are reminding interested boat captains to turn in their entry forms on or before July 24 at 4:30pm either at the Marianas Visitors Authority or at the Fishing Tackle in Susupe.
The MVA and the Saipan Fishing Association are hoping that at least 80 to 95 boats would be joining the two-day fishing derby but this year, they are expecting at least 60 to 70.
The period of inspection by the Department of Public Safety’s Boating Safety Unit started last Monday and also ends on Friday, July 24, the deadline of submission of entries. The inspection is part of the requirement to join the competition.
The competition starts at 6am on both days, Saturday and Sunday, while the time needed for the boat to be at the Smiling Cove Marina for the weigh in is at 6pm.
The awards banquet will be held on Monday, July 27, at 6pm at the Pacific Islands Club.
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, captained by Frank Roberto and with his 12-year-old son Aaron as one of the crew, won the overall title after catching a 276-lb marlin.
The father-and-son tandem would most likely return this year to defend their title.
The Top 3 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 crewmember. A $25 fee is charged for each additional angler.
For more information, call Ed Diaz at 6643200 or visit www.sfacnmi.com.
