HISTORY OF THIS EVENT:

In December 1970 Angler Skelly Wilber suggested a ‘winter tournament’ to create some activity during the off-season.  A Bottom Fishing Tournament with a breakfast and fish fry was discussed and decided upon for February 1971.  It was a huge success. From that beginning it was decided that it could be an invitational event and on April 7 the approval for the First Annual Bottom Fishing Tournament was given and set for April 25.  Rules, regulations, fees, flyers and details were worked out and it became reality.  The next year it was decided to have just the one Bottom Fishing Tournament open to all angling clubs, to be held each year on a Sunday, with an entry fee to include breakfast and dinner.

That tournament has continued to this day as the Tournament gets under way on 11 May 2024.  The competition includes categories for men, women, juniors and small fries.  The entry fee of $75 for adults (Early Bird prior to 4/11/24) and $85 for Adults (4/11/2024 and after) and $25 for juniors 16 and under which includes breakfast, a day of fishing, a t-shirt and a Mexican Fiesta Banquet along with cash awards, silent and live auctions and raffle prizes.  Over the years it became a benevolent tournament supporting different charities.  Today, the Tournament is a major part of SWYC’s Benefit on the Bay.  The Top Charity of choice is Captain Rollo’s Kids at Sea.   It is a program that organizes marine-awarness fishing trips for children who might not otherwise have such an opportunity to witness the beauty and splendor of being on the ocean.