01. May 2017 Angler by Patrick Farrell

2017

TOP DOWN TAKE DOWN THE REST AT THE GULF COAST OPEN

M AY

MAKE A

SPLASH

SO MUCH MORE!

COMING HOME: MERCURY TOURNAMENT TRAIL TO END UP IN BILOXI

SOUTHERN KINGFISH ASSOCIATION

US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 3592 ATLANTA, GA PRESORTED STANDARD

JUNIOR BITES

4404 N TAMIAMI TRAIL SARASOTA, FL 34234

ANGLER SPOTLIGHT

TAKE YOUR INNER 12-YEAR-OLD OUT FOR A SPIN.

Once upon a time, you were driven by a thirst for adventure and a genuine need for speed. And now, the power and acceleration of the Mercury Verado 350 will help you shed the layers of adult that have grown around you.

Learn more at mercurymarine.com

ENTER PROMO CODE SKA17

AT CHECKOUT TO RECEIVE 20% OFF YOUR ONLINE PURCHASE FREE RETURNS // FREE SHIPPING

WW W.BLU E WATE RG E A R.COM // SA RA SOTA , F L

2017

M AY

01.2017 on the

cover

RE! CH MO SO MU

4 4404 , FL 3423 SARASOTA

KIN HERN N SOUT CIATIOTRAI L ASSO N TAMIAMI

GFISH

GE PAID US POSTA 3592 PERMIT NO. GA ATLANTA, PRESORTE

D STANDARD

Y CO MI NG : MER CURIL HO ME MEN T TRA XI TOU RNA UP IN BILO TO END HT SPO TLIG ANG LER BITE S JUN IOR

2016

YEAR IN REVIEW

divisional winners for the 2016 season

36 BIG MAC CLASSIC FISHING TOURNAMENT 38 FALL SUNCOAST KINGFISH CLASSIC 40 YELLOWFIN/YAMAHA FALL BRAWL KING CLASSIC 42 MARLIN QUAY KING MACKEREL SHOOTOUT 44 NORTH CAROLINA TROOPERS ASSOCIATION SALTWATER CHALLENGE

angler profile

Tracy Strong and Shawn McCarty

Angler No. 1 : 2017

26 F E AT U R E D T O U R N E Y

Annual Gulf 05 7th Coast Open

F E AT U R E T O U R N E Y

Mercury Trail Starts the Season at Pelican Bend with 7th Annual Gulf Coast Open

Coming Home:

2017 Mercury Tournament Trail to Wind Up in Magical Biloxi

little bites

Junior Angler Spotlight and kid's section. This month features Hunter Kendall of team Fishinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Tradition.

Perfect Kingfish Boat

11 SKA Membership

18 Mercury Trail Schedule

The

47 Member 2 Member

Fishing gear and seas often guide anglers to their Perfect Kingfish Boat

47 Points

52 Corporate Partners

Angler

Official Publication of the Southern Kingfish Association

FROM THE HELM

by DAVID WORSHAM

CORPORATE OFFICES 4404 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34234 Phone | 1-800-852-6262 Fax | 941-360-6888 www.FishSKA.com

Editor Patrick Farrell patrick@fishska.com Magazine Director Caley Curchy anglerpages@fishska.com Membership and Office Administrator Lindsay DeAnda lindsay@fishska.com Marketing Assistant Hollie Misztak hmisztak@fishska.com Director of Operations David Worsham david@fishska.com Assistant Director of Operations Matt Ambrose matt@fishska.com Writers Meeka Anne Ed Killer Terry Lacoss

Contributions: ANGLER magazine welcomes stories, art, and photos. SKA will consider, but assumes no responsibility for, unsolicited proposals, manuscripts, and photographs; all such material not accompanied by self addressed stamped envelopes will not be returned, SKA retains reprint rights for resale, republication. Copyright 2017. Angler magazine is mailed to members of the Southern Kingfish Association and is paid for in part by the yearly association dues.

he 2017 SKA season is underway! We look forward to seeing all of you along the Mercury Tournament Trail, as we prepare for Nationals return to Biloxi. We are ready for a year of adrenaline-packed fishing throughout the Southeast and hope you are too! Our season kicked off with a 7th Annual Gulf Coast Open in the new location at the Pelican Bend in Naples, FL. All 25 boats in the event weighed in fish! Captain Jeffri Durrance brought in the largest fish of the tournament aboard his â&#x20AC;&#x153;Top Downâ&#x20AC;? Onslow Bay powered by Mercury motors. The kingfish was a 48.69 pounder!

NATIONALS

2017 GOLDEN NUGGET

This year we have great awards and prizes for top Lady and Junior Anglers along the trail. The Top Lady Angler will be recognized at each Trail event with custom jewelry and gear from Nau-T-Girl Jewelry. The 1st place Jr. Angler at each Trail event will win a Custom Ocean-Tamer Beanbag. 2nd and 3rd place Jr. Anglers will win Lobster Trap Art plaques commemorating the achievement. Mercury Marine has once again offered the Jr. Angler Scholarship program that awards $500 scholarship credit to the top Jr. Angler fishing a boat powered by Mercury. Any members interested in upping the ante come by the SKA trailer and sign up for the optional pot.

OCTOBER

26-29

BOUND! The National Championship makes its highly anticipated return to the Golden Nugget in Biloxi, Mississippi, October 26-29, 2017. We are back for the entire week with the 2nd Annual Mercury PreGame Bash for Cash kicking things off on Wednesday, October 25th. This tournament comes with no costs to teams who qualify for the National Championship and you do not want to miss it! The National Championship was previously restricted to top teams in each division. After careful consideration, we have made changes to the requirements to fish in the National Championship that will help each team have a fair chance no matter the size of your division. Call the SKA office for more details. Now, to qualify for the 2017 National Championship as a team; you must participate in at least two SKA sanctioned events, and weigh at least one 10 pound fish. This will allow teams across all divisions to compete on a level playing field and then decide if they have what it takes to fish in Biloxi. The top team from each Class in each Division will earn a free entry to the National Championship and prizes. Change is never easy, but we know with this slight adjustment many more teams will have the opportunity to test their skill in Biloxi. Best of luck to all anglers this season, we look forward to seeing everyone along the trail. Tight lines, and see you at the scales!

Angler No. 1 : 2017

PROGRAMMABLE

HOT KEYS

PRELOADED

BUILT-IN

BLUECHART® G2 + LAKEVUU¨ HD CHIRP SONAR + CLEARVUU¨ + SIDEVU¨

12”

Quality, Comfort & Style

THIS SEEMS TO BE THE PLACE WHERE ALL THE FISH HANG OUT.

Tournament tested, professionally proven! The most versatile & comfortable marine seating product available.

I THINK I’LL DROP IN.

• 100% Marine Grade Materials • Available in 3 sizes, 4 styles and 32 colors • Waterproof, UV & Mildew Resistant • Lifetime Warranty • Made in the USA

OCEAN-TAMER.COM

1.800.804.0314

GPSMAP 1242xsv ®

17-MCJT512 GPSMAP 1224xsv Coastal Fishing Ad_US 4.375x5.375 SKA Angler.indd 1

Angler No. 1 : 2017

3/14/17 8:52 AM

MENTION THIS AD AND RECEIVE

10% OFF CODE: SKA2017

DIV.

feature tourney

7th annual gulf coast open

{ location} naples, FL

{ dates} mar. 24-25, 2017

ABOVE: TOP DOWN - Jeffri Durrance, David Holifield, Todd Parrish, James Manning with a 48.69 lb. king. FAR RIGHT: TEAM SALT ROCK - Cody Chivas, Brian Ball, Cory Mcguaire and Sean Wert caught a 44.86 lb. king. RIGHT: THE REEL WON’s Robert Woithe, Susan Woithe, Bruce Woithe, Luke Woithe and Robert Woithe Sr. with a 47.27.

MERCURY TRAIL STARTS THE SEASON AT PELICAN BEND WITH 7TH ANNUAL GULF COAST OPEN

48.69

top down

by MEEKA ANNE

dodgy weather forecast kept a few anglers away, but 25 boats took the plunge and registered for the kickoff of the Mercury Trail the weekend of March 24-25. Even though this was the 7th annual Gulf Coast Open, this was the first year that the Cooper family hosted the event. Steve Cooper’s grandfather opened Pelican Bend in 1979, and it has become a local favorite on the Isle of Capri. Cooper is a member of the SKA and a full time charter captain. He said, “Ever since I can remember, I have been fishing off the docks of the Pelican Bend.” His grandmother Annie was thrilled when she saw all the happy families enjoying the weigh-in on Saturday evening. The one-day fishing event started off with choppy waters in the realm of 3-6 foot seas. However, this was not enough to deter these avid anglers. After a rough ride out, the captains reported a welcoming calm sea for the ride back to the marina.

Angler No. 1 : 2017

Captain Jeffri Durrance was aboard the Top Down, in the small boat class with a 27-foot Onslow Bay and twin 350 Mercury engines. It was a short 15-minute fight for the 48.69 that proved to be the overall winner of the day. What a great way to start out the morning as the king took the bait at 8:50 and was in the bag by 9:05. David Holifield was the lucky angler, and Todd Parrish gaffed, while Jamie Manning was there to balance out the team. Durrance said, “Keep in mind that this a team sport and everyone plays a role in bringing a fish to the scales.” About the day, he said, “The wind had the waves pushing pretty good, and it’s always amazing how a big fish in the bag can take your mind off the sea conditions and make the rest of the day more enjoyable.” Durrance has been a member of the SKA since 2004. He became enthralled with kingfish the first time he saw a king skyrocket 15-feet into the air. He said, “Our goal for this year is to weigh a king in each tournament, either for points or money.”

Second overall and first place in open class went to the team, The Reel One. These veteran SKA anglers have been members since 1993. Captain Robert Woithe’s team is a family affair, and he had his 81-year old father, his mother, his brother and nephew all aboard. The weather hindered them from their original plan to ride out to the Tortugas, so they reverted to their alternate plan to an old shrimp boat wreck they had fished in 2001.The story of the day is unique, and Captain Woithe provided an engaging narrative. “The first spot was loaded up with small fish, so after we boated a 20-pound fish (to assure we would have something to weigh for Nationals qualifying), we moved. The Top Down team was on the second spot and said they had done well in the early morning bite. But by late morning, the only thing biting were sharks, amberjacks, and barracudas. We jigged up one very large blue runner and moved to the third spot. The third spot was an area of flat hard bottom in 80-feet. We had placed in tournaments from this spot in years past but had never caught a fish over 38 pounds there. The bite turned on as the tide changed about 1 p.m. We caught a few small fish, then a 42-lb fish. We decided to put out the big blue runner we had jigged up earlier. The runner was so large that it took Bob and Bobby to rig it. At 1:30, as Bob and Bobby were rigging the big blue runner at the stern, both downriggers and the top line went off (the three rods that were out).

Angler No. 1 : 2017

TEAM DON RAY GEAR/ BUCKET INNOVATIONS’s Zach Railey, Tom Bradley, Taylor Nifong and Kyle Nifong with their 43.42 lb. catch.

BOTTOM

The team wants to thank sponsors, Animal ER, Parrish Well Drilling, The Screen Guy, CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, Economy Tackle, H2) Marine, ProMarine, Loadmaster Trailers, Onslow Bay Boats and Mercury Marine. LOADED DOWN - Kyle Applefield, Alex Applefeild, Cameron Heavenridge and Luis Vazquez with their 38.25 lb. king.

While trying to reach for the downrigger rods, Bob and Bobby got themselves hooked to the big blue runner. Meanwhile, Bruce grabbed one rod, Sue another, and Luke the third. Bob and Bobby cut themselves free of the blue runner, but in doing so drove a hook all the way through Bob’s finger. Bob took the helm, one handed. Bobby picked up the gaff. Bruce, Luke, and Sue fought their fish all three of which had turned and were running back at the boat. The three fish made several runs away from and back towards the boat, usually in three different directions. Bobby was waiting to gaff Luke’s fish off the bow when he caught a glimpse of Sue’s fish down deep and called to Bruce to get another gaff because it was big. Sue’s fish circled the boat twice before Bruce gaffed it at the stern. Sue’s fish was still green and thrashing as Bruce put it on the deck and it bit the back of Bruce’s hand as he tried to remove the hooks and put the fish in the fish bag. After getting the fish in the fish bag, the team bandaged Bruce’s hand, cut the barb

UNDER ARMOUR FISHING TEAM - Arik Bergerman, Randy Keys, Daniel Hamilton, Jack Lee Vasilaros and Anthony Cellamare came home with a 38.20.

off and backed the hook out of Bob’s finger, and put the boat on a course to Marco. It was rough for the first hour of the trip, but wind and seas went down as we go closer to Marco. Sue’s 47-pound fish hit a google eye on the downrigger. Bruce spent most of the next day in the emergency room, while his neighbors cleaned and smoked the fish he brought home.” It was quite a day on the water for this team with Captain Woithe’s mom Sue reeling in the 47.27 and his dad ending up in the emergency room. What a group of dedicated anglers! The 4th place overall and 3rd open class went to Team Salt Rock and Captain Cody Chivas. This team also didn’t wait long for their big catch. Using blue runner for bait and a long rod, they had the fish onboard within two hours of checkout. Cory McGuire was the angler, and Captain Chivas gaffed. Chivas said, “Brian Ball was on another fish at the same time, which was also in the 40-lb range, so both those guys were dancing around the boat.” Chivas has been a part of the SKA since 94-95 in the junior division. Their favorite quote going out is, “Grip it and rip it.” This team’s goal for the year is a repeat as Division 6 winner and hopefully a shot at Nationals.

STANDINGS TEAM

BOAT/MOTOR

TEAM MEMBERS

LBS.

OPEN CLASS

SALTY STONERS FISHING TEAM - Thomas Stoner, Tom Stoner, Amanda Bailey and Doug Brady caught a 27.11.

BARKER BOATWORKS’ Ozzie Fischer, Chris Magnano and Kevin Barker with their 22.41 lb. king.

They want to thank Baystar Restaurant Group as their sponsor. Finally, Captain Zach Railey and his team Don Ray Gear/Bucket Innovations came in with a 43.42, which put them in 4th place overall and 3rd open class. They ran south and caught their king on hard bottom in 100-ft. of water just after lunch. Tom Bradley was out with this team for the first time, so it was very exciting when he reeled in the fish and Taylor Nifong gaffed. Railey said, “ We had a difficult time with sharks attacking the fish that day. The fight with this fish was the longest, and we were constantly watching a large hammerhead coming in and out trying to get at the fish. All part of the game, but those sharks can put a damper on your day!” This team has a quote and a ritual. They always put out the same rod first on the first bait of the day. Railey said their quote is, “Everyone take a deep breath! Things can get a little hectic on the boat as all kingfish teams know.” He said about fishing, “I am a big believer in creating your luck, and that takes a lot of skill.” They want to thank Don Ray Gear, Bucket Innovations, Single Source Insurance, Mercury, Simrad, Yellowfin, Wet Sounds, Sign Zoo and Reel Water Fishing Charters The Mercury Trail is in full swing, and many of these captains are already thinking about Nationals. It was an action-packed day on the water with some giant kings brought to the weigh-in. Pelican Bend provided good food and a great atmosphere to kick off the 2017 season.

1. THE REEL WON

Yellowfin / Yamaha

Robert Woithe, Susan Woithe, Bruce Woithe, Luke Woithe, Robert Woithe Sr.

47.27

2. TEAM SALT ROCK

Contender / Yamaha

Cody Chivas, Brian Ball, Cory Mcguaire, Sean Wert

44.86

3. TEAM DON RAY GEAR/BUCKET INNOVATIONS

Yellowfin / Mercury

Zach Railey, Tom Bradley, Taylor Nifong, Kyle Nifong

43.42

4. LOADED DOWN

Contender / Yamaha

Kyle Applefield, Alex Applefeild, Cameron Heavenridge, Luis Vazquez

38.25

5. UNDER ARMOUR FISHING TEAM

Yellowfin / Mercury

Arik Bergerman, Randy Keys, Daniel Hamilton, Jack Lee Vasilaros, Anthony Cellamare

38.20

6. TRIPLE J

Yellowfin / Mercury

Paul Myers Jr., Jake Myers, Jack Conroy, A. J. Conroy, Keith Mangus

36.82

7. REEL DIRTY

Yellowfin / Yamaha

Justin Larson, Larry Larson, Ashley Larson, Hank Albritton

33.55

8. PROMARINE

Yellowfin / Mercury

Jim Naset, Kevin Hannon, Brian Brandano, Ricky Cook

33.52

9. SALT HEIR

Yellowfin / Mercury

Michael Wolner-Lawrence, Stephen Wolner-Lawrence, Tom Reichert, Carlos Martinez

31.03

10. KRYPTEK FISHING TEAM/ ANGLERS MARINE

Cape Horn / Yamaha

John Sims

29.18

1. TOP DOWN

Onslow Bay / Mercury

Jeffri Durrance, David Holifield, Todd Parrish, James Manning

48.69

2. FINADDICT

Everglades / Mercury

Tim Packard, Debi Hurtado, Kenneth Sadler

26.15

3. FIRST TIMERS FISHING TEAM

Nautic Star / Yamaha

Logan Mckenna, Coleman Dean, Jonathan Yacso, Kyle Travis, Michael Longnecker

13.29

SMALL BOAT CLASS

SINGLE ENGINE CLASS

1. SALTY STONERS FISHING TEAM

Cobia / Yamaha

Thomas Stoner, Tom Stoner, Amanda Bailey, Doug Brady

27.11

2. BARKER BOATWORKS

Barker / Yamaha

Ozzie Fischer, Chris Magnano, Kevin Barker

22.41

TOP LADY ANGLER

Susan Woithe

THE REEL WON

47.27

Jeffri Durrance

TOP DOWN

48.69

TOP SENIOR ANGLER

SKA TOP JUNIOR ANGLERS 1. Luke Woithe

THE REEL WON 47.27

2. Stephen Wolner- SALT HEIR 31.03 Lawrence 3. Brianna and SMILE MAKER 17.84 Zachary Sullivan

MERCURY JUNIOR ANGLER SCHOLARSHIP AWARD

Stephen WolnerLawrence SALT HEIR Angler No. 1 : 2017

What does a 68.67# Kingfish EAT??

CANDY!

PELAGICGEAR.COM

THE MEEK CAN INHERIT THE EARTH. WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;LL TAKE THE

OPEN SEA. There are a million things that can go wrong with a sportfish boat. Hard core fisherman will push their boats to the limit. Ironshore Insurance has created a customized policy for this elite group. Our broad coverage includes up to $10 million in hull value, vast navigational limits and captain and crew liability. Our in-depth maritime experience and integrated claims and underwriting approach provide superior protection and peace of mind no matter how rough the open seas become. www.ironshore.com

ÂŽ

Your Fishing, Hunting and Kayak Store. OVER 10,000 PRODUCTS IN STOCK!

Strike-Zone Fishing has everything you need to get ready for your next day on the water or your trip to the woods. When you’re ready, come meet the most knowledgeable and friendliest staff in Jacksonville.

www.strike-zonefishing.com

1 Block East of 9A • 11702 Beach Boulevard • 904-641-2433 Store Hours: Monday – Friday 9:00-7:00 – Saturday 9:00-5:00 – Sunday 11:00-4:00

Roll with the Best! “Launch and Load like a Pro”

813.689.3096

10105 Cedar Run • Tampa, Florida 33619 • www.loadmastertrailer.com

Whether you’re a first timer, ready to jump in or a seasoned veteran renewing for another fin-tastic year, the time to sign up is NOW!

SEE YOU AT THE

SCALES

Visit www.fishska.com and click on the “Join Now” link.

2017

SEE YOU ON THE TRAIL!

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

Competition Member...............................................❑ 75 Competition Family.....................................................❑ 125 Competition Student................................................❑ 60 Associate Member........................................................❑ 50 ❑ New member

❑ Renewing member

Competition Student is meant for individual Anglers ages 17-22, currently enrolled in a Collegiate program. Family membership includes one Primary Member plus two family members. A Family Member is a Spouse/Partner or a Child who has not exceeded his 22nd birthday and still lives at home. Additional family members as defined are $30.00 each.

SKA Member # __________________________________________

Name: �� Address: �� City, State, Zip: �� Home: (_____) __________________________________

Cell: (_____) ________________________________

E-mail: �� Date of Birth: _____/_____/_____

Additional Family Members

Please Note: A Social Security Number (or FEI# for incorporated teams) is required. Name:________________________________________ D.O.B. ___/___/___ Relation �� Name:________________________________________ D.O.B. ___/___/___ Relation �� Name:___________________________________ (+ $30) D.O.B. ___/___/___ Relation �� Name:___________________________________ (+ $30) D.O.B. ___/___/___ Relation �� Team Name _________________________ Electronics on board: _____________ Est. Hull Value:________________ Make:__________________________________ Length:______________ _ Year:_______ Reg. # �� Power Mfg.:_________________________# Motors:______Total HP: ________ Trailer Mfg.: �� When did you purchase your vessel? ____ /____ /____ Current Marine Ins. Provider: _____________________________ Are you interested in receiving a complimentary quote from our partner and tournament sponsor NBOA? ❑ Yes ❑ No ❑ Already a customer! Payment Method: ❑ Check Enclosed

❑ Visa

❑ MC ❑ AmEx

Name on credit card: _________________________________ Exp. Date: ___________________

❑ Discover CC Number: ��

Zip Code: : ____________________________

Security Code: ��

Signature: __________________________________

Return to: SKA, 4404 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34234 or Fax with Credit Card no. to: 941.360.6888 Email: info@fishska.com APPLICATIONS ARE NOT ACCEPTED BY PHONE

By submitting this application for membership each person/family hereby agrees to adhere to all SKA sanctioned and SKA produced tournament rules. No refunds will be issued on memberships. All memberships expire December 31st.

䄀䰀圀䄀夀匀

䤀一吀䠀䔀

䜀䄀䴀䔀

䄀䄀䰀䰀圀䄀䄀夀夀匀匀

䤀䤀一一吀吀䠀䠀䔀䔀

䜀䜀䄀䄀䴀䴀䔀䔀

䌀漀渀琀攀渀搀攀爀䈀漀愀琀猀⸀挀漀洀䌀漀渀琀攀渀搀攀爀䈀漀愀琀猀⸀挀漀洀

䌀漀渀琀攀渀搀攀爀䈀漀愀琀猀⸀挀漀洀

SIGNZOO.COM

#TURNSOMEHEADS

LIL' BITES

GET TO KNOW...

Hunter Kendall What's your favorite thing about fishing? HK ] The adrenalin rush you get when the reels goes off, even though it might be small. I like spending time with my family on the water.

[ NAME ] Hunter Kendall (Bossyman) [ AGE ] 16 [ TEAM ] Fishinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Tradition [ BOAT/ENGINE ] Contender / Mercury [ HOMETOWN ] Candler, North Carolina

Angler No. 1 : 2017

What's your best fishing memory? HK ] My favorite memory was when my Dad, Uncle David, Tripp and I went to the gulf stream fishing. We saw a tanker ship and caught plenty of Dolphin. It was the first big fish that I have reeled in by myself. My arm hit the free spool lever and we thought it had come off but my dad had noticed that it was on free spool, fixed the reel and I went back to fighting it. That day we ended up with 12 fish and Tripp and I also had a write up in the newspaper. Do you have any superstitions or rituals that you follow before fishing a tournament?

HK ] By default, not

sleeping. We have a 6 hour ride to the coast and after we get there we only get 3 hours of sleep before we get up to load the boat. Who is your role model? HK ] My grandpa Kendall is my role model because even though he has a bad day he still gets up and comes to my games. He has also taught me a lot about fishing. Besides fishing, what else do you like to do? HK ] My favorite memory was at the 2017 Pregame Bash for Cash when after we weighted our 41.53 pound Kingfish and my stepmom called us that we had won the tournament by .59 of a pound. The plan for this year is to make it to the Nationals and defend our title (Mercury Pregame-Bash) and, of course, win the Championship.

FISHY FACTS

50 feet!

The largest fish is the great whale shark. It can grow to 50 feet long. The tiny Philippine goby is about the size of your pinky fingernail.

brrr!

Fish are coldblooded like reptiles and amphibians. They canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t control their body temperature.

years old!

The oldest known age for a fish was an Australian lungfish. It was still alive and well at 65 years old.

don't blink! Sharks are the only fish that have eyelids.

PERFORMANCE SHIRTS · TEE SHIRTS TANKS · BOARDSHORTS · ACCESSORIES

W W W. B L U E WAT E R G E A R . C O M

SWIM

FASHION

ACCESSORIES

1.800.366.7946

Angler No. 1 : 2017

Angler Profile Angler Tracy Strong and Shawn McCarty Hometown West Palm Beach, FL Team Shawn McCarty Jr. Ronald O’Brien Kyle Gruler James Lamantia Boat 31' Ocean Master Motors Triple Yamaha 250s Sponsors Wet Sounds, Avet, Skin It, Connley Fishing, Baitmasters of South Florida, Stormr, Smith Optics, Xtreme Braid, Inletville, Cinnetic, Miami Bikini Shop, Game On Lure, Mohawk LED, CS Custom Lures, All Signs and Grafix, Personal Injury of Florida, Choppers Shop, Strong Recovery, A American Locksmith, Eastern Towing and Transport

PROFISHN'T TOURNAMENT TEAM by CALEY CURCHY

Q&A When did you begin fishing? We all began fishing as children growing up here in South Florida. What type of fishing did you start with? We fished it all, fresh and saltwater. How did you hear about the SKA? We heard about the SKA just by our friends. What prompted you to join the SKA? We enjoy competing and the SKA seemed like a great way to do it. What do you like about tournament competition? We like getting to know the other teams and learning new things. We like the challenge of going up against some of the best teams in the state. What is most challenging about tournament competition? By far the most challending thing is going to different areas that we may not be used to fishing and having to figure them out quickly. Do you have any rituals or superstitions you use on the boat? We always throw bananas off the boat for good luck. What is a common misconception about tournament competition? People feel that competing teams are

Angler No. 1 : 2017

not friendly or helpful to each other but that's not true. Most teams are always willing to help another team. There are a lot of great people in this association. What is most rewarding about tournament fishing? The most rewarding thing is being in new situations and using that new knowledge to get better every tournament. What are your goals/dreams with regards to tournament competition? We would like to be one of the top 5 competition teams. Do you “fun fish” and if so, what species do you target? Of course we do! We fish for everything but sailfish are especially fun to catch. Tell us something most would be surprised to hear about you. We love all kinds of music and with our extremely loud Wet Sounds system you’ll catch us singing everything from 70's disco to rap! It just makes the experience that much more exciting.

THE MOST CHALLENDING THING IS GOING TO DIFFERENT AREAS THAT WE MAY NOT BE USED TO FISHING AND HAVING TO FIGURE THEM OUT QUICKLY.

» Stats At A Glance Member Since: 2016

» 2016 1st Place | King : Bluewater Babes 4th Place | Wahoo : Chasen Tailz 4th Place | Wahoo : Boynton Beach Firefighters 25th Place | Division 8 : Overall

Angler No. 1 : 2017

2017 SCHEDULE

Please note that tournament dates and information is published from the sanctioning agreements received. Dates are subject to change and tournaments may be added or deleted throughout the year. * Grey rows are tournaments that have happened before the first of the month

www.FishSKA.com DIVISION

Sponsored by: TUPPENS MARINE & TACKLE

DATE

TOURNAMENT

LOCATION

CONTACT

March 24-25

PELICAN BEND GULF COAST OPEN

Naples, FL

David Worsham 800-852-6262

May 4-6

ANGLER ARMORY SPRING KMT

Madeira Beach, FL

James Maltz 727-647-2672

Aug. 25-26

HOOKED UP FOR TATA'S FISHING TOURNAMENT

Crystal River, FL

Oct. 7-9

ANGLER ARMORY FALL KMT

Madeira Beach, FL

James Maltz 727-647-2672

June 1-4

FLORA-BAMA FISHING RODEO

Pensacola, FL

Angelo DePaola 850-287-3440

June 23-36

PENSACOLA BUD LIGHT FISHING RODEO

Pensacola Beach, FL

Jason Libbet 850-748-0197

July 20-23

84TH ALABAMA DEEP SEA FISHING RODEO

Dauphin Island, AL

Van Sims 251-654-1085

Sept. 22-24

7TH ANNUAL RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE BIG MAC CLASSIC

Destin, FL

Jerry Andrews 850-259-3158

Aug. 4-6

S.H.A.R.E. KING MACKEREL TOURNAMENT

Wilmington, NC

Briana Knight 910-431-6418

Sept. 15-16

SOUTH BRUNSWICK ISLANDS KING CLASSIC

Shallotte, NC

Howard Poe 912-577-0552

Sept. 28-30

SHALLOTTE POINT KMT

Shallotte, NC

Howard Poe 912-577-0552

Oct. 5-7

U.S. OPEN KMT

Southport, NC

Karen Sphar 910-457-6964

Apr. 27-29

FT. LAUDERDALE MEAT MAYHEM

Dania Beach, FL

Jimmy Wickett 954-605-8284

May 11-14

POMPANO BEACH SALTWATER SHOOTOUT

Pompano Beach, FL

Jamie Bunn 954-725-4010

May 18-20

DOWNTOWN SHOWDOWN KDW

Palm Beach, FL

John Jackson 561-254-6798

June 8-11

POMPANO BEACH SALTWATER SLAM

Fort Lauderdale, FL

Jamie Bunn 954-725-4010

June 16-17

CANAVERAL MAC ATTACK

Cape Canaveral, FL

Michael Schwarz 407-460-7443

July 7-8

SAILFISH MARINA BIG DOG FAT CAT KDW

West Palm Beach, FL

Bill Wummer 561-315-3722

Sept. 7-9

CHASEN'TAILZ KDW FISHING TOURNAMENT

Jupiter, FL

Summer Warren 561-201-7757

Oct. 24-25

MERCURY PRE-GAME BASH FOR CASH

Biloxi, MS

David Worsham 800-852-6262

Oct. 27-29

2017 MERCURY SOUTHERN KINGFISH ASSOCIATION NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Biloxi, MS

David Worsham 800-852-6262

Bryan Caracciolo 352-304-1323

Angler No. 1 : 2017

2017 MERCURY TOURNAMENT TRAIL TO WIND UP IN MAGICAL BILOXI

Angler No. 1 : 2017

B Y

E D

K I L L E R

FOR ST EVE SPRAGUE, TEAM CAPTAIN OF TU P P E N ’ S MA R INE/GARMIN,

VISIONS

SMOKER

K I N G F I SH

SW IR L IN HIS HEAD AS HE TWISTS UP RIGS I N THE S OLA CE OF HIS TACKLE SHAC K. THE SMAL L SHE D , ON T H E EDGE OF HIS YARD BEHIND HIS HOME IN LAK E WORT H , FL, HAS A RIG-TYING BENCH, ROD AN D R E E L RA CK , PH OTOS O F FISHING GLORY DAYS PAST AND A S M ALL TV.

n a quiet night in early April, Sprague and son Christopher, 12, spent a little time getting rigs ready for the upcoming tournament fishing season. For Team Tuppen’s/ Garmin, that means a local offshore fishing tournament and chili cook-off to benefit firefighters’ families in Palm Beach County where he lives. But two weeks later, April 29, Sprague and crew will officially begin the team’s 2016 SKA Mercury Tournament Trail National Championship title defense when the Fort Lauderdale Meat Mayhem opens the 7-stop Division 10 schedule. Hundreds of fishing teams throughout the South Atlantic and Gulf States are in early season preparation mode for the upcoming tournament season. An ambitious 35 SKA-sanctioned events (so far) are available for anglers to compete in on their way to qualifying in one of three competition classes for the 2017 Mercury Southern Kingfish Association National Championship Oct. 27 in Biloxi, MS. It will be the first time the organization’s marquee event winds up in Biloxi since 2014. According to SKA Director of Operations Dave Worsham, a rule change this season will make it easier for teams to qualify. “We changed the requirements to qualify for the National Championship this year to make it more

fair for teams in the larger divisions,” Worsham said. “Smaller divisions will not be affected by the change. First place in each class - Open, Small Boat and Single Engine - of all eight divisions will earn an entry to the National Championship.” The more the merrier. And captains like Sprague, Beeracuda’s Tim Gray, Amanda Gail’s David Lucas and Flight Risk’s Brad Sauers are eager to get back to Biloxi. For Sprague, he almost can’t contain his enthusiasm. “I’m super excited, and the guys are super excited, to get started,” he said. “I just made my reservations for Biloxi. We love fishing there, and not just for the kingfish. Last time we fished there, we caught some nice kings, but we also had an 87-pound wahoo and a 95-pound yellowfin tuna – our best ever of those two species.” Sprague just took ownership of a 2017 Jupiter 38 powered by triple Yamaha 300s, the same rig he fished last year only updated. They’ll head out using the latest Garmin 8617 synching his plotter and depth finder with the radar and VHF. A beefed up Fusion sound system will help lighten up the long rides, but once the baits hit the water and are deployed on the Canon TS10 downriggers, it’s all business until the winning fish is iced down in the bag.

Angler No. 1 : 2017

90% Preparation is

In Fort Pierce’s nationals tournament last year, those fish went 62.33 and 37.45-pounds for a Biloxi-esque 99.78 aggregate. “We had learned so much the last five years, and when we saw that 62 coming to the boat and a big shark was after it, I knew we would use our previous experience to get that fish in,” Sprague said. “I knew with Bill Broadbeck on the Marsh Tacky carbon fiber 11-11 gaff, we were going to put that fish in the boat.”

of the success in this sport.

Sprague is really looking forward to one of his favorite events of the season, the Sailfish Marina Big Dog Fat Cat KDW in Palm Beach in early July. “We’ve met so many great teams and great people by fishing these tournaments,” he said. “Guys like Spiced Rum, Penny Less, Seapremacy have been so helpful in sharing their knowledge with us and we would not have been able to do what we have done without them. We wish everyone a great year.”

COMING HOME Bobby Carter can’t wait to see all his old friends again. “The SKA is coming home,” said Carter, director of community development with Golden Nugget Casino in Biloxi, “and we’re so glad to have them back.” Carter said since the SKA capped off its 2014 fishing season in Biloxi, a lot has changed, for the better. “We’ve completed a $120 million renovation process and people are going to love the fishing here, but more so the hospitality,” Carter said. “This town has been the host of so many nationals events over the past 25 years. This community loves having everyone here. We can’t wait.” Carter said anglers and their families must check

Angler No. 1 : 2017

out the Morton’s Steak House, Bubba Gump Shrimp, Lillie’s Asian Cuisine, the pool, spa and casino, of course. But the one stop veteran and new anglers alike have to make is at Michael Patrick’s Sports Bar to see a mount of the 74.10-pound SKA record kingfish caught during the 2009 National Championship by the McMullan family of the Ocean Isle Fishing Center team out of North Carolina. “The SKA team has been working hard to ensure the 2017 Mercury Tournament Trail is the best one yet,” Worsham said. “We’ve added some new events and brought back some old favorites. And to top it all off, I can’t wait for the National Championship to be back in Biloxi after a 2-year break. Who’s ready to catch some 50 and 60-pound kings?!”

He’s already been getting ready for the upcoming tournament season by working on his bait tanks and repowering his 25 Clearwater with a new Evinrude (is there any other motor brand, he joked). On the way to Biloxi, Lucas is looking forward to two of his favorite events in Div. 1: The Bone Suckin Sauce King of the Cape Open Sept. 22-23 and the North Carolina Troopers Association tournament Oct. 13-15. Both tournaments, he said, pay back 100 percent of what they take in back to the anglers. “We won the Troopers event in 2015 with the biggest kingfish caught regardless of class at 52.85 pounds,” said Lucas who has fished the SKA since it began in 1991. “I love Biloxi, but it’s more suited for big boat fishing. Everyone talks about the long runs. I don’t mind those, as long as the weather cooperates.”

CAROLINA DREAMIN’

Lucas said when it comes to getting ready, there are three things a tournament needs.

David Lucas of the Amanda Gail based out of Atlantic, N.C. is finding it hard to wait until his first kingfish tournament of the season. So in early April, he and his team will head out and start the scouting process looking to see if any bait are in their spring spots yet.

“Preparation is 90 percent of the success in this sport. You have to be patient, too. This sport is one where you have to pay your dues. You have to have a good attitude. One guy on the boat who has a bad attitude spoils it for everyone. It also pays to be

happy for others when they do well.” Tim Gray of Beeracuda out of Ocean Isle Beach, N.C. said he is looking forward to fishing U.S. Open Oct. 5 as his team readies for a run to Biloxi. “The fishing is some of the best fishing you’ll ever see, but I love the camaraderie like running into other teams in the casino and at the restaurants,” said Gray, who runs a Mercury-powered 33 Onslow Bay. The highlight of the 2016 season for Gray was placing second in Division 9. “If we can do that again, in a division as big as ours is with as many great fisherman as there are, I’ll be happy,” he said.

TRIPLE WHAMMY Brad Sauers of Flight Risk out of Pensacola is looking forward to the growth of the Northern Gulf ’s Division 7 and being able to compete this season towards fishing nationals on essentially what he considers home turf. “We’re really growing here, and I’m starting to see teams come back who haven’t really been fishing tournaments for several years,” said Sauers, who runs a 24 Cape Horn with a 350 Yamaha in the single engine class. “We lost a lot of guys for a while who are only now starting to come back.” Sauers said he has seen better sales of boats in the Florida Panhandle and coastal Alabama area and an upswing in

the economy that has taken a few more years to reach “L.A.” than it did in other areas of the country. “We got hit hard in this region from Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and as we were started to come out of that, we got hit with the downturn in the economy that began around 2008,” he said. “By the time the BP Oil Spill hit in 2010, a lot of us just quit fishing.” Sauers said a third whammy was the complicated issues surrounding red snapper regulations. Not being allowed to keep a reasonable catch of fish took away anglers’ reasons to own an offshore fishing boat. But fishing regulations have relaxed somewhat, the waters are clean, there is an El Nino developing which should stymie hurricane development, so tournament fishing is again getting to be fun again. Look for Sauers and crew to be at his favorite local events of the season, the Flora-Bama Fishing Rodeo June 1, the Pensacola Bud Light Fishing Rodeo June 23 and the Ronald McDonald House Big Mac Classic Sept. 23 in Destin.

NATIONALS

2017 Golden Nugget 151 BEACH BLVD. BILOXI, MS 39530 (228) 435-5400

OCTOBER

26-29

And to all teams hitting the trail this year, good luck and good fishing, and may that tournament winning smoker skyrocket (and get hooked) on one of your baits. Ed Killer is based in Fort Pierce, Fla. and is the outdoors columnist for TCPalm.com and Treasure Coast Newspapers, a division of USA Today Network. He has been contributing to Angler Magazine since 1996. Follow him on Facebook or on Instagram and Twitter at @tcpalmekiller.

Angler No. 1 : 2017

adno=54506890

O rder o n lin e o r fin d a retailer n ear yo u . 2389 Ta m ia m iTr.S .,Ven ice,FL 34293 â&#x20AC;˘(941)525-4459

w w w.N a u-T-G irl.co m 24

Angler No. 1 : 2017

THE

PERFECT B Y

T E R R Y

L A C O S S

K I N G F I S H B OAT

KING MACKEREL FISHERMEN HAVE A VARIETY OF FISHING BOATS TO CHOOSE FROM WHERE FISHING GEAR AND SEAS OFTEN GUIDE THEM TO THEIR PERFECT KINGFISH BOAT

Angler No. 1 : 2017

BAY BOAT MANUFACTURES HAVE REDESIGNED THEIR BOATS TO FISH IN A VARIETY OF FISHING WATERS FROM SHALLOW WATER REDFISH TO DEEP WATER KINGFISH AS WELL. to the boat. While most of the kingfish hit the live baits during the descent, a few kings were caught while reeling the live bait back to the boat.”

Power Pole now offers a quick release system that trolls kingfish baits down to 10 feet of water, which is key for bay boat mackerel fishermen. Katie Cortiag is all smiles after landing her smoker Key West king mackerel after free falling her barbed live bait at an offshore live bottom. Katie Cortiag battles a large king mackerel off from the transom of Captain Raymond Baiz's 46-foot sport fishing boat properly named Reel McCoy.

have always thought that fishing boats would need to chase down a speedy, hooked king mackerel,” Katie Cortiag said. “However when fishing aboard Captain Raymond Baiz's 46-foot sport fishing boat properly named Reel McCoy, I soon learned that you don't need to chase down a speedy king mackerel when the proper fishing tackle and techniques are employed. Also having on board an extremely knowledgeable captain is key.”

Angler No. 1 : 2017

“Another technique we used was just to drift with live baits set back at various drop back distances from the transom of the Reel McCoy. Kingfish terminal fishing rods and reels were placed in strategic transom rod holders while waiting for a speedy king mackerel to take our live baits.” During their day of offshore fishing Katie Cortiag and mother Pamela Callister caught several nice king mackerel including Pamela’s 39-pound Smoker and a 30-pound king mackerel that Katie hooked and landed. With this in mind many a Smoker king mackerel has been caught from a fairly large sport fishing boat while simply casting out a barbed live bait from the transom and allowing the live bait to sink slowly down into the water column. A perfect kingfish tactic for a perfect fishing boat.

The Reel McCoy fishes out of famed Bud N Mary's Marina located in historic Islamorada, FL ,where Captain Raymond Baiz has skippered his sport fishing boat to numerous saltwater tournament wins and successful fishing charters too. The Reel McCoy is a 46-foot Markley sport fishing boat that is ideal for rough water conditions, long runs to prime fishing waters and being capable of catching fast running king mackerel from a large fishing platform.

Northeast Florida's Jeff and Nancy Dunbar have fished from several fishing boats while recently up grading their 32-foot Mercury powered Contender kingfish boat to a 2016 Contender, model 35 ST. Also the Dunbar's up graded their power from two Mercury outboards to triple Mercury 350-hp, 4-stroke Verado outboards.

“Once we had navigated to one of Captain Ray's promising fishing spots, we began drifting over the live bottom which showcased large concentrations of live bait and big fish too,” Katie said. “Our terminal kingfish tackle included a wire leader and typical treble hooks barbed to a variety of live baits including goggle eyes, ballyhoo and thread fin. Once the captain instructed us to cast our live kingfish baits, we would cast them off from the transom of the boat while allowing then to sink for a long count of fifteen. While the live baits were sinking we would lightly put our first finger on the kingfish line to sense a kingfish grabbing our live bait and running with it. After about 15 seconds without a hook up, we would close the bail of our large spool spinning reel and start retrieving the live kingfish bait slowly back

“Nancy and I simply needed more speed and fishing room,” Jeff Dunbar said. “The Contender's step hull and the awesome triple Mercury Verado 350's will hit speeds in high 60-mile per hour range, no matter how our boat is loaded. With a light load the newly rigged Fish Dancer tops out at 72-mph.” Certainly this is a big factor when running long distances during a Southern Kingfish Association tournament when often the first live baits out will catch the largest kingfish of the popular kingfish tournament trail.

“The center console offers unparalleled visibility and accessibility with a 360-degree view of the water both when running and when fishing too,” Jeff Dunbar said. “Also Nancy and I always have direct access to all of our fishing rods, downriggers and fishing gear while competitively king mackerel fishing.” “Our Contender center console fishing boat deck layout provides for ample storage for fish bags, big fish too, and dry storage as well. The extra livewell capacity is a big bonus and well capable in keeping a full day's supply of frisky blue runners, goggle eyes, mullet and menhaden. We have 3-livewells with two 50-gallon oval shaped wells located at the transom and a 45-gallon round livewell located in the back of our console seat. All three live wells are plumbed with 1,100 gph Rule water pumps.” Livewell pumps come in various sizes and also have a multitude of features. One of the more popular live bait well pumps is Rule’s model #405 Tournament Series 1,000 gallon per hour pump. Also unique is Rule’s easy replaceable motor that pops right out when the buttons are depressed. The popular Rule Tournament Series live bait well pump also has an Anti-Airlock feature that eliminates the worries of your bait well pump having a sudden air lock. Air locks can frequently happen while running from one fishing location to the next when the raw water pickup stops picking up water due to rough water conditions, or when backing down your fishing boat. Rule offers a 1,200-gallon per hour live well pump which screws right into the top of a seacock. Here, the seacock allows fishermen to shut off the flow of water to the livewell pump with the aid of a lever valve located on the seacock. Rule’s Gentle Flow oxygenator pumps serve a dual purpose by pumping in water and at the same time, pumps millions of micro-fine bubbles into the livewell as well. The rule Oxygenator pumps up to 1100 gallons per hour of saltwater into your livewell. Without saying, the most popular fishing boat for competing on the SKA tournament trail is a center console fishing boat in the 25-39 foot range. Simply said, a center console fishing boat gives SKA competitive fishermen a 360-degree view of the surrounding water, speedy access to fishing rods and equipment, offers a speedy/comfortable ride and is equipped with the needed live wells and plumbing to keep live kingfish baits frisky for an entire day of king fishing. If you have followed my many years of writing for the SKA Angler magazine and also competing on

the SKA tournament trail, I have floated several kingfish boats including Donzi's, Hydra Sports, Pro Line, Topaz and for many kingfish seasons now Triton fishing boats. I was a young 30-years old when I began rigging and fishing from kingfish boats, while through the years I have not been able to stop Father Time and at the same time, the size of my kingfish boats have gotten smaller.

Bay boats offer the same fishing options that larger center console fishing boats offer, only on a smaller scale. While instead of having triple outboards to power my kingfish boat, I have one powerful Mercury Verado 350.

A major consideration when outfitting a bay boat for a variety of fishing conditions is whether to install a t-top, or do without a t-top that may get in the way when spin, or fly casting. However my decision to install a t-top on my new Triton bay boat was one of the best boat rigging decisions that I have made. For one good reason, the t-top provides shade and protection from the harmful rays of the sun. Also keep in mind that when a summer thunderstorm pops up unexpectedly, my boat's t-top is a welcome shelter!

“The new Mercury Verado four-stroke outboards are very reliable,” Chelsea Marine's Jack Coker said. “If there is a problem, the Mercury Verado will shut down to 3,000-rpms which allows fishermen to navigate back to a safe harbor. Also consider that Mercury Marine has powerful outboards up to 400hp that can power a large center console, or bay boat with just one outboard. Mercury has also beefed up their lower units so that fishing with one outboard is simply no more worries on the Big Water.

Life jackets can also be stored in the canvas storage located at the rear of the t-top as well. And if the fishing action is slow, a stereo system located in the t-top electronics box was a great addition. T-top rod holders also afford for live bait trolling for flat line baits and rod and extra rod storage too. Halogen flood lights located on both the front and rear of the t-top will light up the bow and rear deck area during early morning and late evening hours as well.

Boat manufactures have also made their fishing boats more safe with stronger laminated hulls that will handle large outboard motors and heavy seas too.

With the added length and room of the 260 LTS both a fresh and saltwater wash down system was installed so that fishing gear could be washed down with freshwater and fish blood and chum with saltwater. Also unique the t-top water mist accessory keeps fishermen cool during a hot summer's day.

Today I am king fishing from a Triton 260 LTS bay boat which is much easier for the older generation of SKA king mackerel fishermen to not only maintain, but to fish from too.

Recently I worked with Triton Boat President Earl Bentz in producing a totally new Triton bay Boat along with several other key saltwater fishermen. After a lot of input Triton's new 26-foot bay boat is incorporated with many new features that allow fishermen to not only navigate in shallow freshwater rivers and lakes, but also far offshore where speedy king mackerel are king! To me the best new feature incorporated in my Triton LTS 260 is the wide flared Carolina style bow that allows the new Triton 260 LTS to run in rough water while keeping fishermen and gear dry. Also a newly designed bottom that incorporates a lifting pad provides bow lift for a faster, dry and more fuel efficient ride. Other bay boat manufactures have also re-designed their boats to fish in a variety of fishing waters from shallow water redfish to deep water kingfish as well.

My fish finder included a Humminbird Helix-12 which offered both side and down scanning, which became a huge asset when marking schools of baitfish and kingfish too on either side of my slow trolling Triton bay boat. Cast netting menhaden was also made easy by adjusting the side scan to 200-feet on both sides of the boat while using the split screen with the down scan as well. The oval shaped release well holds 60-gallons where I keep 50-70 large menhaden for a full day of king fishing. A key feature for senior SKA members is you can catch kingfish along the beaches and inlets without running far offshore and when the day of king fishing is over, simply trailer your bay boat right through the car wash!

Angler No. 1 : 2017

GPSMAP 8600 SERIES ®

Available in 17”, 22” and 24”

TIME TO REEL IT ALL IN. “Let’s catch fish,” they say. Great. Only it’s up to me to find them. Good thing I can see everything from up here on my fully integrated glass helm. I control radar, sonar, charts, engines, music, video and more – all on beautiful, large format, full HD LCD touchscreens with the highest resolution on the water. Find fish? Indeed.

Garmin.com

ECTION S G IN W O THE FOLL HES UP IS IN F ) 5 4 1 (PAGES 3 ASON. E S 6 1 0 2 OUR

TAKE A LOOK AT THE SEASON'S DIVISIONAL WINNERS AND END OF THE SEASON TOURNAMENTS.

>>>> Angler No. 1 : 2017

THE TOP TEAMS FROM EVERY DIVISION THAT BURNED UP THE 2016 TOURNAMENT TRAIL

OPEN&SMALL

DIVISION {5}

88.23 FINAL POINTS

DIVISION {6}

122.25 FINAL POINTS

DIVISION {7}

87.29 FINAL POINTS

DIVISION {8}

142.96

FINAL POINTS

117.90 Angler No. 1 : 2017

HARD LUCK

Contender/Suzuki

SWEET CAROLINE Contender/Mercury

TEAM SALT ROCK Contender/Yamaha

RAYMARINE/ STRIKE TWO Bay/Mercury

PIRACY/WHITES TACKLE Contender/Suzuki

TEAM TEAM

FINAL POINTS

Freeman/Yamaha

TEAM

DIVISION {4}

76.75

MAS PESCADO

Tim Holder Jacob Holder Micah Womble Robin Holder William Mumford

Billy Freeman Trent Caulder Ross Holmquist Brock Sandish Joe Canady Ben Freeman

Colby Harris Matthew Gordon Derek Warren Amber Wells Jordan Harris Heath Woods

TEAM

FINAL POINTS

WellCraft/Mercury

TEAM

DIVISION {3}

98.91

SEAGRASS

TEAM

FINAL POINTS

TEAM

DIVISION {1}

OPEN

Ron Hildum Brad Patterson Michael Syrakis III Matt Everett

Cody Chivas Cory McGuire Eric Mercandante Jason Stock

Rob Lupola Jeff Hall Ray Martinez Kellie Patton Bobby Schoenfeld

Kadri Benton Chris Langel Brandon Haynes Brandon Langel Richie Studer

FINAL POINTS

101.10

Yellowfin/Yamaha

SPICED RUM

Contender/Yamaha

TEAM

DIVISION {10}

110.33

HOOLIGAN

Joe Winslow Joshua Gray Cody Tucker Quentin Faulkner James Coleman Taylor Tillman Hunter Reynolds

TEAM

DIVISION {9}

FINAL POINTS

Bill Wummer Sherri Beswick Wayne Beswisk Freddie Joseph Don Lamb Mike Lomastro Howard Tuman Vincent Molle

53.25 FINAL POINTS

76.50 FINAL POINTS

103.65 FINAL POINTS

38.00

NAUTI GULL

Sailfish/Yamaha

REEL BROKE

Yellowfin/Yamaha

CHASER

Contender/Yamaha

KNOT ME

Contender/Yamaha

TEAM TEAM

FINAL POINTS

Sea Hunt/Yamaha

TEAM

62.12

FAMILY TIME

TEAM

FINAL POINTS

TEAM

DIVISION {6}

DIVISION {5}

DIVISION {4}

DIVISION {3}

DIVISION {1}

SMALL Justin Hill Kristen Hill Stephen Hill Talen Hill

Chad Sullivan Brian Alcorn Sarah Burke Michael Carter Chance Sullivan Brian Wilkinson

Mark Strickland Jody Collins Brooks Thomas

Tim Price Bob Price Victoria Price

Brian Hasson William Hasson Tiffany Seeland

Angler No. 1 : 2017

SMALL&SINGLE

FINAL POINTS

DIVISION {9}

101.60 FINAL POINTS

DIVISION {10}

91.91 FINAL POINTS

53.52

LOST BOYS FISHING TEAM

Island Runner/Mercury

WAHOOLIGANS/ ANGLER MARINE Horn/Yamaha

LOST BOYS FISHING TEAM

Island Runner/Mercury

TEAM

Contender/Yamaha

TEAM

DIVISION {8}

96.42

LINEDOUT

TEAM

FINAL POINTS

TEAM

DIVISION {7}

SMALL Mitch Mosley Jason Tison Connor Mosley Jeffrey Dees

Rich Cook John Heiser Chris Cook Michael Shoettle Jenny Schmitt

William Goss Daniel Blanks Allen Farlow Aaron Wilkinson

Rich Cook John Heiser Chris Cook Michael Shoettle Jenny Schmitt

DIVISION {3}

66.32

FINAL POINTS

30.05 Angler No. 1 : 2017

SECOND CHANZE Contender/Yamaha

WIDE OPEN

Hydra Sport/Yamaha

TEAM

FINAL POINTS

John Lewis Chad Barnes

TEAM

DIVISION {1}

SINGLE

Toby Britt Greg Burris

50.45 FINAL POINTS

92.41 FINAL POINTS

72.20 FINAL POINTS

77.15 FINAL POINTS

38.29

GFORCE

Bluewater/Suzuki

FLIGHT RISK Horn/Yamaha

HOLD EM HOOK Contender/Mercury

BACK LASH

Contender/Yamaha

HOLD EM HOOK Contender/Mercury

TEAM TEAM TEAM

FINAL POINTS

Dusky/Mercury

TEAM

103.78

LET LOOSE

TEAM

FINAL POINTS

Key West/Mercury

TEAM

39.76

PLAN B

TEAM

DIVISION {4} DIVISION {5} DIVISION {6} DIVISION {7} DIVISION {8} DIVISION {9} DIVISION {10}

FINAL POINTS

Jonas Rivenbark Adam Lovett

Andrew Herbenick Chris Anthony Leigh Ann Tuten Craig Sutton

Jason Gell Glenn Carr Whitney Harper Gell Debra Gell Ryan Stoufer

Brad Sauers Fred Sauers Douglas Stein Hunter McLane Gabrielle Ueberroth

Chris Thomas Chris Freeman Louis Jimenez Colin Thomas Nolan Thomas Quin Thomas Sophia Riedi

Eris Jones Cindy Garb

Chris Thomas Chris Freeman Louis Jimenez Colin Thomas Nolan Thomas Quin Thomas Sophia Riedi Angler No. 1 : 2017

Reel review

DIV.

Big Mac Classic Fishing Tournament { location} destin, fl { dates} sept. 23-25, 2016 stats

TOTAL BOATS

Brad Sauers, Fred Sauers, Hunter McLane and Gabrielle Ueberroth on their Cape Horn powered by Yamaha caught a whopper at the Big Mac with a 47.20 pounder.

SKA BOATS

weather

{ temp} 92° { wind} 5 mph largest catch

47.20 LBS. total payout

$ 5,000 largest kingfish

charities

RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE OF NW FLORID

Angler No. 1 : 2017

he SKA was welcomed to the Big Mac Classic and what an incredible event it was. The tournament raises a huge percentage of the operating budget for Ronald McDonald House of NW Florida and it’s easy to see why. The Ronald McDonald House sends an amazing team of volunteers to help run the tournament. The registration, captains meeting,

weigh-in and awards are all right behind AJs Seafood and Oyster Bar along the beautiful Destin Harbor. On Saturday morning while the boats are out fishing, the team has a Cane Pole Classic off the dock for kids! Hundreds of kids came out to participate, it was an amazing site. The tournament teaches the kids catch and release, some fish have been tagged with golden hooks but all are set free. The largest SKA king was brought in by single engine boat Flight Risk’s captain, Brad Sauers, a massive 47.2 pounder! Way to finish the season strong! This was an awesome event and the SKA will be back next year as we try to grow division 7 on the way to 2017 Nationals in Biloxi.

STANDINGS 1.

TEAM

BOAT/MOTOR

TEAM MEMBERS

LBS.

OPEN CLASS

1. RAYMARINE/ STRIKE TWO

Onslow Bay / Mercury

Rob Lupola, Jeff Hall, Ray Martinez, Kelly Patton

41.60

2. RIGHT RIGGER

Contender / Yamaha

Joe Shuttlesworth, Darron Czozier

16.60

3. TRIVIAL PURSUIT

Fountain / Mercury

Ronnie Worsham, Matt Worsham

14.00

Contender / Yamaha

Mitch Mosley, Jeffrey Dees, Jason Tison, Connor Mosley

32.00

Hydra-sports / Yamaha

Brian Pettis, Chris Pettis, John Davis, Ty Bunch, Kimberly Pettis

30.80

1. FLIGHT RISK

Cape Horn / Yamaha

Brad Sauers, Fred Sauers, Hunter McLane, Gabrielle Ueberroth

47.20

TOP SENIOR ANGLER

Fred Sauers

FLIGHT RISK

47.20

TOP LADY ANGLER

Gabrielle Ueberroth

FLIGHT RISK

47.20

SMALL BOAT CLASS

1. LINEDOUT 2. KING A LING SINGLE ENGINE CLASS

1. Anglers young and old fishing the Cane Pole Classic. 2. More anglers fishing for a big catch in the Cane Pole Classic.

3. Creative trophies awarded for the Cane Pole Classic at the Big Mac Classic Fishing Tournament.

SKA TOP JUNIOR ANGLERS 1. Hunter McLane

FLIGHT RISK 47.20

2. Connor Mosley

LINEDOUT 32.00

3. Ty Bunch

KING A LING 30.80

Angler No. 1 : 2017

Reel review

DIV.

Fall Suncoast Kingfish Classic

DON RAY GEARâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Zach Railey, Taylor Nifong and Kyle Nifong won out with a 36.23 lb. king.

{ location} treasure island, FL { dates} Oct. 20-23, 2016 stats

TOTAL BOATS

30 SKA

he 25th Annual Fall Suncoast Kingfish Classic was the final event in Division 6. SKA anglers from all over came to fish this final event in the hopes of qualifying for the National Championship. It was a blustery, chilly morning on Sunday, October 23rd when close to 100 boats went out in search of a smoker! Weigh-in opened at 3pm, with no boats in sight. At about 3:30, a few boats started trickling in with reports

of rough weather. Loaded Down was among the first few to weigh in with a solid 26.62 king, securing them a top spot on the leaderboard for the rest of the day. Other top contenders were Lagerhead with 29.87 and Horizon Haze with 31.01. However, the Don Ray Gear fishing team pulled out a 36.23 king, making them the winner! Not only did they win the 25th Annual Fall Suncoast Kingfish Classic, but they won the Gene Turner kingfish aggregate, taking home over $25,000! Congratulations to all of those teams who fished!

BOATS

weather

{ temp} 68Â° { wind} 15 mph largest catch

36.23 LBS. total payout

$ 44,430 charities

READY FOR LIFE

Angler No. 1 : 2017

HORIZON HAZE - Chuck Weldon, Chris Weldon, Connor Weldon, Dylan Weldon and Jessica Weldon with a 31.01. They also won Top Senior, Top Lady as well as Top Junior and the Mercury Junior Angler Award.

STANDINGS 1. TEAM

BOAT/MOTOR

TEAM MEMBERS

LBS.

OPEN CLASS

1. DON RAY GEAR

Yellowfin / Mercury

Zach Railey, Taylor Nifong, Kyle Nifong

36.23

2. HORIZON HAZE

Fountain / Mercury

Chuck Weldon, Chris Weldon, Connor Weldon, Dylan Weldon, Jessica Weldon

31.01

3. LAGERHEAD

Yellowfin / Mercury

Steve Papen, Doug Speeler Jr., Corey Alley, David Bayes, Erik Danowski

29.87

4. TEAM CORONA

Yellowfin / Mercury

James Breazeale, Morgan Domingue, Frank Quinto, Hale Wilson, Finn Domingue

25.15

5. THE REEL WON

Yellowfin / Yamaha

Robert Woithe Sr., Susan Woithe, Bruce Woithe, Robert Woithe, Luke Woithe

24.12

6. PROMARINE

Yellowfin / Mercury

Jim Naset, Ricky Cook, Brian Brandano, Kevin Hannon, Austin Naset

23.94

7. UNDER ARMOUR FISHING TEAM

Yellowfin / Mercury

Arik Bergerman, Joe Medolla, Daniel Hamilton, Randy Keys, Dominic Molfetas, Seth Funt, Anthony Cellamare

22.82

Seavee / Mercury

Chad Hickman, Stevie Dellane, Dieder Voeltz

21.99

9. NATIVE FISHING TEAM

Fountain / Mercury

Jerry Solovskoy, Robert Snibbe III Kevin Farner, Jeff Silverthorne, Nathan Fischio, Scott Fisher

19.94

10. WINE DOWN

Contender / Yamaha

Ron Berdell, Adam Major, Brenda Simpson, Lindsey Edwards

16.95

1. LOADED DOWN

Contender / Yamaha

Alex Applefeild

26.62

2. BANDIT

Bluewater / Yamaha

Vernon Bonnell, Sandra Bonnell, Jeremy Bonnell, Matthew Bonnell, Chris Bonnell, Danny Clark

24.02

TOP SENIOR ANGLER

Chuck Weldon

HORIZON HAZE

31.01

TOP LADY ANGLER

Jessica Weldon

HORIZON HAZE

31.01

8. EL CAPITANO/ KINGPIN

SINGLE ENGINE CLASS

1. LAGERHEAD’s Steve Papen, Doug Speeler Jr., Corey Alley, David Bayes and Erik Danowski brought in 29.87 lbs. of kingfish. 2. TEAM CORONA - James Breazeale, Morgan Domingue, Frank Quinto, Hale Wilson and Finn Domingue with a 25.15. 3. THE REEL WON’s Robert Woithe Sr., Susan Woithe, Bruce Woithe, Robert Woithe and Luke Woithe caught a 24.12 lb. king.

4. PROMARINE - Jim Naset, Ricky Cook, Brian Brandano, Kevin Hannon and Austin Naset with their 23.94 lb. king. 5. LOADED DOWN’s Alex Applefeild brought in a 26.62 lb. king on his Contender powered by Yamaha.

SKA TOP JUNIOR ANGLERS 1. Dylan & Connor HORIZON HAZE 31.01 Weldon 2. Finn Domingue TEAM CORONA 25.15 3. Luke Woithe

THE REEL WON 24.12

MERCURY JUNIOR ANGLER SCHOLARSHIP AWARD

Dylan & Connor Weldon HORIZON HAZE

Angler No. 1 : 2017

Reel review

DIV.

Yellowfin/ Yamaha Fall Brawl King Classic

{ location} Ocean Isle Beach, NC { dates} Oct. 28-30, 2016 Small Boat Class’ MILLER TIME on their Cape Horn powered by Yamaha caught the largest SKA kingfish at 44.20 lbs.

stats

180 95 TOTAL SKA BOATS

BOATS

ven though the OIFC’s Fall Brawl was moved due to weather, there were almost three hundred boats who showed up ready to fish! Weather was decent on the first day of fishing but

it less than favorable on day two. The McMullan’s know how to organize great events with lots of great food. While Liquid Fire put up a nice 37.80 king, this year’s winner was from a small boat - Miller Time. Miller Time’s 44.20 king secured a top three finish for them in the Division 9 Small Boat class with an aggregate of 85.79 for the year.

weather { temp} 64° { wind} 5 mph largest catch

44.20 LBS. total payout

35,000+ charity

N/A

Angler No. 1 : 2017

LIQUID FIRE Mark Henderson, Joshua Henderson, Crockett Henderson and Christopher Waters with their 37.80 lb. catch.

STANDINGS TEAM

BOAT/MOTOR

TEAM MEMBERS

LBS.

1. LIQUID FIRE

Sea Vee / Mercury

Mark Henderson, Joshua Henderson, Crockett Henderson, Christopher Waters

37.80

2. HOOLIGAN

Yellowfin / Yamaha

Joe Winslow, Matt Eisenberger, James Coleman, Quentin Faulkner, Jillian Johnson

35.30

3. CAROLINA FLY

Contender / Yamaha

Chris Lawhon, Robby Remson, Marshall Sample

32.95

4. THE REEL EXTERMINATORS

Onslow Bay / Mercury

Matt Canady, Scott Canady, Josh Smith, Matthew Caulder

31.00

5. HOT ROD

Contender / Yamaha

Brett Barnes, Alan Barnes

30.50

Alan Holden

30.30

OPEN CLASS

6. HOLD'N ON

Mako / Mercury

7. TEAM WEE DOGGIE

Fountain / Mercury

Joey Crisp, Andy McInnis

30.00

8. RAUNCHIE CONCH

Yellowfin / Yamaha

Cameron Atkins, Patrick Atkins, David Griffith, William King, Chelsey Griffith

28.75

9. BEERACUDA

Onslow Bay / Mercury

Tim Gray, Courtney Gray, Tyler Lancaster, Lauren Liles, Joey Worrells, Ryan Beal, Enrique Deahora

28.00

10. S'MACK TALK

Cape Horn / Yamaha

Kevin Petty, Duane Smith, Rebecca Mccuiston, Ronald Petty III

27.75

SMALL BOAT CLASS

1. MILLER TIME

Cape Horn / Yamaha

44.20

2. BEATS WORKIN

Seacraft / Yamaha

Derek Treffinger

37.70

3. HAIL YEAH/OIFC

Seacraft / Yamaha

Brian Aycock, Austin Aycock, Edward Julian Jr.

34.20

4. L & M FISHING TEAM

Grady White / Yamaha

Leslie Merritt, Hubert Suggs

32.00

5. EL SHADDAI/ HEY NOW FISHING TEAM

Mckee Craft / Suzuki

Will Mullins, George Mullins, Misty Tucker

30.95

Carolina Skiff / Suzuki

Andrew Ward, Chris Deremer

26.15

SINGLE ENGINE CLASS

1. REEL HEEL

1. CAROLINA FLY’s Chris Lawhon, Robby Remson and Marshall Sample had a great day with a 32.95 lb. catch. 2. HAIL YEAH/OIFC - Brian Aycock, Austin Aycock and Edward Julian Jr. caught a 34.20 lb. king. 3. REEL HEEL’s Andrew Ward and Chris Deremer on their Carolina Skiff powered by Suzuki with their 26.15 lb. catch.

2. TEAM FISH HARD GEAR

Regulator / Yamaha

Christos Carroll, John Corbett, Caleb Carroll

25.90

3. TEAM BOATS UNLIMITED WILMINGTON

Sea Hunt / Yamaha

Adam Herring, Elijah John Sorensen

22.85

4. REEL MUSIC

Contender / Yamaha

Gaston Hughes, Tolly Hughes

20.75

5. LET'ER RIP

Sea Hunt / Yamaha

Chris Cashwell

20.15

TOP SENIOR ANGLER

Leslie Merritt & Hubert Suggs

L & M FISHING TEAM

32.00

TOP LADY ANGLER

Jillian Johnson

HOOLIGAN

35.30

SKA TOP JUNIOR ANGLERS 1. Brayden & Caroline McMullan

OIFC 26.10

2. Caleb Carroll

TEAM FISH 25.90 HARD GEAR

3. Macie Ellen & Cayson Coley

HOT HOOKS 21.10

MERCURY JUNIOR ANGLER SCHOLARSHIP AWARD Carson Stewart GONE AGAIN Angler No. 1 : 2017

Reel review

DIV.

Marlin Quay King Mackerel Shootout { location} Murrells Inlet, SC

THE LAW’s Jeff and Michelle Drake caught a beast at 35.87 lbs.

{ dates} Oct. 21-22, 2016

stats

TOTAL BOATS

43 SKA

BOATS

weather

espite significant damage done by hurricane Matthew just weeks earlier, the team at Marlin Quay Marina was determined to host a top notch tournament for the final division 3 stop. This was SKAs first time at the event in Garden City SC, and it was a great turnout. The fishing was tough with the Atlantic waters churned up from the high winds and massive amount of rain, but the anglers took on the challenge to find the kings.

Captain Jeff Drake and Michelle Drake won the tournament with a 35.87 aboard their Fountain boat named ‘The Law’. Second place went to Captain Cameron Atkins and his crew aboard the Raunchie Conch with a 35.63, and Third place was Captain Trask Cunningham on the Scale Bound. Captain Billy Freeman and the Mas Pescado team pulled in a 27.33 which was enough to secure them First place Division 3 Open Class for the Second year in a row! Captain Chad Sullivan and his crew on the Nauti Gull took first place in Division 3 Small boat class. Captain Toby Britt Jr and his crew on the Wide Open finished First place Single Engine Class. Very nice work champs! Thank you and congratulations to all who competed in Division 3 this year! Just days after the tournament finished last year the marina, bar and restaurant all closed down for renovations. The new facility will be up and running for the 2017 tournament. The SKA can't wait to see it, and hope we will see you at Marlin Quay next year!

{ temp} 58° { wind} 13 mph largest catch

35.87 LBS. total payout

40,000 charity

HURRICANE MATTHEW FLOOD RELIEF (LOCAL)

Angler No. 1 : 2017

RAUNCHIE CONCH - Cameron Atkins, Patrick Atkins, David Griffith and William King with their 35.63 lb. catch. MAS PESCADO’s Billy Freeman, Ben Freeman, Ross Holmquist, Randy Wirth, Joe Canady and Corbin Canady with a 27.33 lb. king.

3. 2.

STANDINGS TEAM

BOAT/MOTOR

TEAM MEMBERS

LBS.

OPEN CLASS

1. THE LAW

Fountain / Yamaha

Jeff Drake, Michelle Drake

35.87

2. RAUNCHIE CONCH

Yellowfin / Yamaha

Cameron Atkins, Patrick Atkins, David Griffith, William King

35.63

3. SCALE BOUND

Contender / Yamaha

Trask Cunningham, Briggs Badurski, Jeff Cunningham

31.94

4. GAME HAWG

Contender / Yamaha

Charles Fehlig, Buddy Hucks, Watson Fehlig, Wade Fehlig

27.88

5. ALL IN/ ANGLERS MARINE

Cape Horn / Yamaha

James Hammonds Jr., Leon Wilcox

27.65

Freeman / Yamaha

Billy Freeman, Ben Freeman, Ross Holmquist, Randy Wirth, Joe Canady, Corbin Canady

27.33

7. FISHIN TRADITION

Contender / Mercury

Preston Kendall, Julie Kendall

27.24

8. TEAM OLD SCHOOL

Stamos / Yamaha

Scott Jennings, Richard Jennings Jr., Chris Jennings, Hayden Jennings, John Walpole Jr.

26.31

9. SEA-SCAPER

Contender / Yamaha

Dennis Hensley, Christie Hensley

25.16

10. TAILWALKER

Yellowfin / Yamaha

Stuart Ballard, Brent Ballard, Jamie Altman, Monty Bates Sr.

25.13

Contender / Yamaha

Devin Shirkey, Josh Cox, Chance Martini

23.56

Sailfish / Yamaha

Kevin Oneale, Brian Bell, Chris Bell, Logan Bell

12.50

3. SALTY DAZE

Cape Horn / Evinrude

Jonathan Staley, Christy Staley, Logan Staley

10.81

TOP SENIOR ANGLER

Julie Kendall

FISHIN TRADITION

27.24

Michelle Drake

THE LAW

35.87

6. MAS PESCADO 4.

SMALL BOAT CLASS

1. NO PITY 2. IN 2 DEEP

TOP LADY ANGLER

1. GAME HAWG - Charles Fehlig, Buddy Hucks, Watson Fehlig and Wade Fehlig with their 27.88 lb. kingfish. 2. ALL IN/ ANGLERS MARINE’s James Hammonds Jr.and Leon Wilcox caught a 27.65 lb. king on their Cape Horn powered by Yamaha.

3. FISHIN TRADITION‘s Preston and Julie Kendall with their 27.24 lb. king. 4. TEAM OLD SCHOOL - Scott Jennings, Richard Jennings Jr., Chris Jennings, Hayden Jennings and John Walpole Jr. caught a 26.31 lb. king.

1. Wade Fehlig

GAME HAWG 27.88

MERCURY JUNIOR ANGLER SCHOLARSHIP AWARD

2. Ben Freeman

MAS PESCADO 27.33

E.J. Nettles

SKA TOP JUNIOR ANGLERS

3. Hayden Jennings TEAM OLD SCHOOL 26.31

SOLID SURFACE

Angler No. 1 : 2017

Reel review

DIV.

North Carolina Troopers Association Saltwater Challenge

{ location} Morehead City, NC SEAGRASS’ Tim Holder, Jacob Holder and Micah Womble won with a whopper at 41.30 lbs.

{ dates} Oct. 21-23, 2016 stats

TOTAL BOATS

T 61 SKA

BOATS

he 6th Annual North Carolina Troopers Association Saltwater Challenge was the last tournament in Division 1. Unfortunately, this tournament was pushed back due to inclement weather. The turnout was good considering the date change. They typically have the Trooper’s Clydesdales at the event, but were unable to attend due to the date

change. Hopefully, they will return next year! This event is held in Downtown Moorehead at Jaycee Park. Seagrass, captained by Tim Holder, took the win with a 41.30, securing a first place finish in Division 1 Open Class. They fish on a 35’ Wellcraft powered by Mercury Motors. Tournament director Al Morris always goes above and beyond to put on a great tournament. We look forward to this great event in 2017!

weather { temp} 60° { wind} 17 mph

largest catch

41.30 LBS.

total payout

64,000 charity NC TROOPERS ASSOCIATION, CAISSON UNIT & MOREHEAD CITY LITTLE LEAGUE

Angler No. 1 : 2017

COMING IN HOT Ashley Widenhouse, Gary Widenhouse, Bryan Russell, Blake Widenhouse and Keaton Widenhouse with their 32.50 lb. king. TEAM ANIMAL HOUSE’s John Parks, Russell Matthew Henderson, Russell Matthew Henderson Jr. and Charlie Neal with a 29.50.

STANDINGS TEAM

BOAT/MOTOR

TEAM MEMBERS

LBS.

1. SEAGRASS

Wellcraft / Mercury

Tim Holder, Jacob Holder, Micah Womble

41.30

2. COMING IN HOT

Sea Hunt / Yamaha

Ashley Widenhouse, Gary Widenhouse, Bryan Russell, Blake Widenhouse, Keaton Widenhouse

32.50

3. TEAM ANIMAL HOUSE

Wellcraft / Yamaha

John Parks, Russell Matthew Henderson, Russell Matthew Henderson Jr, Charlie Neal

29.50

4. SEA FOX

Contender / Mercury

Billy Sherwood, Burt Ferebee, Margaret Ferebee, Sheila Honeycutt

29.40

5. OBX GIRL

Contender / Yamaha

Jim Dupree Jr., Jim Dupree III, Dan Dupree

27.65

6. TEAM EARLY OUT

Fountain / Mercury

Steve Jones, Kevin Poole, Jeff Martin

26.05

7. XCESSIVE RISK

Contender / Yamaha

Athan Parker, Clifton Parker, Julie Parker

25.65

8. STORMY GALE

Egret / Yamaha

Alex Hull, David Hull, Anthony Davis, Dwight Lanier

23.60

9. MOM SAID NO / TEAM

Cobia / Yamaha

Harvey Hoopes III, Kevin Hoopes, Chad Brown, Terry (T.J.) Lyons, Tyler North

23.50

Contender / Yamaha

Glenn Krofchick, Ted Connor III, Mark Czaster

23.10

1. FAMILY TIME

Sea Hunt / Yamaha

Justin Hill, Kristen Hill, Stephen Hill, Talen Hill

32.20

2. DROPTYNE FISHING TEAM

Kencraft / Johnson

Ricky Taylor, Joseph Taylor, Will Taylor

29.70

3. REEL BLESSED

Onslow Bay / Yamaha

Kevin Norris, Jordan Norris, David Jones, Curtis Trexel

24.85

Larry Denning, Mark Denning, Allen Denning, Marcus Denning

23.85

Chad Shingleton

23.60

Eddie Braxton, Michael Cummings

28.50

Lyn Lewis Jr.

25.30

REELSPEEDLUBE.COM

10. LIL JOHN/ REEL EM UP SMALL BOAT CLASS

4. SCREAMIN DEACON

Sea Strike / Yamaha Onslow Bay / Mercury

5. TIDE ONE ON SINGLE ENGINE CLASS

1. WET FLOORS

Sailfish / Yamaha

2. MAJOR BITE

Bluewater / Mercury

3. KING CANDY

Triumph / Yamaha

John Michael Schmidt, John Michael Schmidt Jr., Janel Tasker, John Charles Schmidt

18.60

4. TEAM LIGHTS OUT

Kencraft / Yamaha

Mark Grimmer, Neal Thigpen, Rob Best

18.15

5. S'MACK DOWN

Fountain / Mercury

Matt Purvis

17.60

TOP SENIOR ANGLER

Russell Matthew Henderson

TEAM ANIMAL HOUSE

29.50

Kristen Hill

FAMILY TIME

32.20

TOP LADY ANGLER

1. REEL BLESSED - Kevin Norris, Jordan Norris, David Jones and Curtis Trexel with a 24.85. 2. MOM SAID NO / TEAM REELSPEEDLUBE.COMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Harvey Hoopes III, Kevin Hoopes, Chad Brown, Terry (T.J.) Lyons and Tyler North caught a 23.50 lb. king. 3. LIL JOHN/ REEL EM UP - Glenn Krofchick, Ted Connor III and Mark Czaster with their 23.10 lb. king.

SKA TOP JUNIOR ANGLERS 1. Blake Widenhouse

COMING IN HOT 32.50

2. Stephen & Talen Hill

FAMILY TIME 32.20

3. Tyler North

MOM SAID NO/TEAM 23.50 REELSPEEDLUBE.COM

MERCURY JUNIOR ANGLER SCHOLARSHIP AWARD Jacob Whitesell CHAIN SMOKER Angler No. 1 : 2017

NEW

Deck Cleaner • Cleans away ground-in dirt and stains • Safe to use, contains no harsh chemicals • Leaves a protective coating to help repel dirt and stains

Deck Wax • Provides a non-slippery barrier against stains and UV exposure • Helps restore luster to fiberglass decks • Helps keep decks clean and stain-free

STARBRITE.COM (800) 327-8583

Official GPS Satellite Seatrax & Tracking provider for the SKA

FIND

YOUR BOAT & FAMILY ATLASTRAX™ IS THE WORLDWIDE SUPPLIER OF SEATRAX™, THE AFFORDABLE GPS SATELLITE TRACKING SOLUTION. • Find your loved ones and assets • Fully Portable or can be hardwired • Approved by insurance companies • Track trip data includes mileage, average speeds, headings and past fishing spots • Can be used on any asset (marine, construction, ATV)

954.465.3743

Carolyn@AtlasTrax.com info@AtlasTraxusa.net

561.582.9012 • www.tuppens.com 46

Angler No. 1 : 2017

www.atlastraxusa.net

10 FAIRWAY DRIVE, # 119 I DEERFIELD BEACH FL 33441

Boat Builder, Insurance Broker and Other Dealer Inquiries Welcomed

member 2 member Don’t let live bait be a worry

2017 SKA

POINTS

Lee & Kathleen Thompson For all your Tournament

Live Bait Needs kthompsonkat@aol.com

Designed for K I N G • WA H O O • M A H I • T U N A • SA I L • M A R L I N

– RED INFUSION –

(SIMULATES A WOUNDED BLEEDING BAIT) TKO Lures feature inlaid chrome RED INFUSION front, keeled rattler head, brass nose weight. All lures produce high and low frequency sounds, have moveable eyes, and highest quality standards.

KONA SERIES Designed from a Legend Kona Tournament Classic

Precision Crafted Lures Start @ $19.95 $100 Order - All c/c Free Shipping

25% DISCOUNT

GRAND SLAM SERIES

Since 1985

www.TKOlures.com • 281.852.2330 or email gccafreeport@aol.com to order!

made in the u.s.a.

Please note that tournament points are downloaded from the SKA database near the 10th of each month. DIV 6 | Open Class thru GCO THE REEL WON. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47.27 ROBERT WOITHE

THE REEL WON. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47.27 SUSAN WOITHE

TEAM SALT ROCK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44.86 CODY CHIVAS

REEL DIRTY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33.55 ASHLEY LARSON

TEAM DON RAY GEAR/BUCKET INNOVATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43.42 ZACH RAILEY

SALTY STONERS FISHING TEAM. . . . . . . 27.11 AMANDA BAILEY

LOADED DOWN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38.25 KYLE APPLEFIELD UNDER ARMOUR FISHING TEAM. . . . . . 38.20 ARIK BERGERMAN TRIPLE J . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36.82 PAUL MYERS JR REEL DIRTY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33.55 JUSTIN LARSON

here

SMILE MAKER. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.00 JENNIFER SULLIVAN

DIV 6 | Juniors THE REEL WON. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47.27 LUKE WOITHE

SALT HEIR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31.03 MICHAEL WOLNER-LAWRENCE

SALT HEIR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31.03 STEPHEN WOLNER-LAWRENCE

KRYPTEK FISHING TEAM/ ANGLERS MARINE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29.18 JOHN SIMS

SMILE MAKER. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17.84 BRIANNA SULLIVAN

DIV 6 | Small Boat thru GCO TOP DOWN. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48.69 JEFFRI DURRANCE FINADDICT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26.15 TIM PACKARD FIRST TIMERS FISHING TEAM. . . . . . . . . 13.29 LOGAN MCKENNA

DIV 6 | Single Engine thru GCO

SKA MEMBERS ONLY: To see your ad on this page call 1-800-852-6262

FINADDICT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26.15 DEBI HURTADO

PROMARINE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33.52 JIM NASET

SMILE MAKER. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17.84 BILL SULLIVAN

your ad

DIV 6 | Ladies

SALTY STONERS FISHING TEAM. . . . . . . 27.11 THOMAS STONER BARKER BOATWORKS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22.41 OZZIE FISCHER

SMILE MAKER. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17.84 ZACHERY SULLIVAN

DIV 6 | Seniors TOP DOWN. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48.69 JEFFRI DURRANCE THE REEL WON. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47.27 ROBERT WOITHE SR THE REEL WON. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47.27 SUSAN WOITHE TEAM DON RAY GEAR/BUCKET INNOVATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43.42 TOM BRADLEY UNDER ARMOUR FISHING TEAM. . . . . . 38.20 RANDY KEYS REEL DIRTY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33.55 LARRY LARSON PROMARINE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33.52 JIM NASET SALTY STONERS FISHING TEAM. . . . . . . 27.11 TOM STONER FINADDICT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26.15 KENNEITH SADLER

Angler No. 1 : 2017

31st AnnuAl

KINGFISH TOURNAMENT & RODEO

June 17-18, 2017 Two-Way Marina, Brunswick, Georgia

$5,000* Prizes CASH *

1st place $5,000 for largest King Pays 4 places for kingfish

$1,500 for largest Barracuda Pays 3 places

$1,500

for largest kingfish (pays 4 places)

Contact: Rick Smith 912.265.0410 wildturkeyrick@yahoo.com

for largest Spanish Pays 3 places

Tracey Gonzalez

$500

Realtor, ABR

Cell 912-266-5350

Drawing for all Weigh-in Fish

Lady & Jr Cash Single Engine Class Pays 3 places

*based on 40 paid entries

SE Petroleum

DIVISION 10

2016 Champs: Pop A Top/Bonefish Macâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

POMPANO BEACH, FL

M AY 13 , 2 0 17

2016 Purse: 253,341 $

Blue Moon Fish Co.

The best tournaments live here! www.bluewatermovements.com

954.725.4010 | www.saltwatershootout.com | #saltwatershootout

2017

2017 CORPORATE PARTNERS

Mercury's Latest

WINNERS! TOP DOWN 48.69

GULF COAST OPEN

TEAM DON RAY GEAR/ BUCKET INNOVATIONS

43.42

GULF COAST OPEN

800-MERCURY mercurymarine.com