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Team Debbie I reels in biggest marlin
For the captain of the Debbie I, the 33rd Annual Saipan International Fishing Tournament was only the second time that they joined this competition. In 2012, at the 28th Annual Saipan International Fishing Tournament, captain Roque Chaco and his crew took home the second place trophy for the Mahi Mahi category.
Chaco said, “Saipan showed us great hospitality.” He added, “That’s the reason we make the trip [from Guam] to join the Saipan tournament.”
On the second day of the 2017 Saipan International Fishing Tournament, Chaco and his sons Randal and Ray, together with anglers Romy Magan and brother Anthony, reeled in a 384.5-lb marlin, beating out the 344.5-lb marlin caught on the first day by Team Aquaholics. “It was a big relief after losing three marlins on Saturday and one marlin on Sunday morning,” said Chaco.
More than 1,700 lbs of marlins were caught during the two-day tournament. Out of the 64 boats competing for the grand prize, only eight were lucky enough to land a marlin, and seven of those boats are from Saipan.
Saipan Fishermen’s Association president Gene Weaver said, “We’re so grateful for the participants who drove their boats from Guam for the tournament.” He added, “It’s also nice to see their families and friends who joined them on Saipan to help cheer them on.” (PR)
