2018bigrockprogram

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NEW BOAT CONSTRUCTION N Tradition • Innovation • Legacy Craftsmanship • Safety • Performance

LIFESTYLE Original Clothing & Accessories Home Furniture • Transom Bars & Cash Wraps

Photos by Luke Pearson, Austin Coit, Pepper Ailor & Scott Taylor

34°° 48 34 48’ 20 20” N / 76 76°° 41 41’ 07 07” W

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SERVICE & REPAIR Engine Maintenance • Repowers • Gensets Stabilizers • Yamaha Service • Electronics AC & Plumbing • Paint • Haulouts & Storage

DOCKAGE & SUPPLIES Fuel • Ice • Ship’s Store • Dockage & Pumpout Restrooms & Showers • Lounge & Crew Quarters New & Surplus Parts • Equipment Rentals

Jarrett Bay provides the finest boats, service and products designed for the coastal lifestyle.

FIND YOUR WAY TO JARRETT BAY!

Schedule a tour or drop on by during Big Rock week to see firsthand how our craftsmen and team deliver dreams day-in and day-out—with our trademark Carolina Flare.

34°° 48 34 48’ 20 20” N / 76 76°° 41 41’ 07 07” W

530 S EN ENSA SATI SA TION TI ON W EI EIGH GH,, BE GH BEAU AUFO AU FORT FO RT,, NC 2 85 RT 8516 16

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The Parker Automotive Group Fishing, Families and Fun BIG ROCK 2018 LEGEND SPONSOR SPONSOR 2017 LEGEND Dick Parker made his way to the Crystal Coast from Mount Olive selling candy and d watermelons out of the back off a sion pickup truck when the depression years sent him out looking for work. In 1947, he opened up his first car dealership in downtown Morehead City near the present day yacht basin. Embracing his new hometown and its passion for fishing, Dick and four other local businessmen, which would soon be known as the Fabulous Dick Parker | Big Rock Legend Fisherman’s Club, started the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament. The Parker Automotive group is proud to continue his legacy and tradition of supporting the charitable efforts of the tournament and the excitement surrounding reeling in the big one!

Parker Auto Group

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Continues Its Tradition of on the Crystal Coast!

Fishing Since 1957 Fish caught by J. Seaman, Dick Parker, Rufus Butner on Hubert Fulcher’s Blue Water. Reg. Lewis, Photographer

ParkerGM.com (252) 726-5103

ParkerHonda.com (252) 247-2488

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6SRUWVPDQ 2SHQ

6PLWKILHOG 1& (67 10 | BIG ROCK

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DIGITAL & MECHANICAL RIGGING MEET

BIG-BLOCK

POWER

Yamaha’s award-winning 4.2-liter V6 four strokes set the standard for offshore performance. Not only do they feature impressive 4.2-liter big-block displacement, but they’re also:

FLEXIBLE — The entire lineup of 4.2-liter V6 four strokes—from the F225 and F250 up to the mighty F300—is now available with either mechanical or digital controls, for ease of repower LIGHTER — At 562 pounds (digital) and 551 pounds (mechanical), they’re up to 73 pounds lighter than other four strokes in their class FASTER — Up to 19 percent faster than other 300-hp competitors, planing offshore boats with ease* SMARTER — Up to 17 percent better fuel economy, at cruise RPM, than comparable outboards* Learn more about the powerful performance of our 4.2-liter V6 Offshore F300, F250 and F225 at YamahaOutboards.com/V6offshore.

Collins Inc. is Eastern North Carolina’s Fishing boat headquarters! Family owned since 1956 we strive to provide the best in Service and Selection! Located in Smithfield, NC we are convenient to anywhere in Eastern Carolina.

*Testing conducted by Yamaha at Yamaha’s test facility on a Grady-White® 257 Advance/300 hp, with each boat rigged for maximum performance. REMEMBER to always observe all applicable boating laws. Never drink and drive. Dress properly with a USCG-approved personal floatation device and protective gear. © 2017 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. 1-800-88-YAMAHA

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Live Passionately. Drink Responsibly.

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Celebrating community spirit

Friends, family, neighbors, and local business owners are the backbone of this community. Our vibrant spirit comes alive at events like these. We’re proud to to be beaapart partof ofthe the59th 60thAnnual Annual Big BigRock RockBlue BlueMarlin MarlinTournament. Tournament.

wellsfargo.com © 2018 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. IHA-22303

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TABLE OF

CONTENTS FEATURES 30 70 78 92 104 114 138 125

78 | WINNERS

152 | HISTORY 92 | PARTICIPANTS

104 | KWLA

70 | GIVING

@bigrockfishing

DEPARTMENTS 175 90 166 38 144 22 134 152 170 145 133 37 148 36 100 162 155 132

Advertiser’s Index Area Charters Big Rock Foundation Board of Directors Future Dates Governor’s Letter Headquarters & Hours History of Big Rock In Memory of Loran Coordinates Map President’s Message Previous Winners Program Production Species Identification T-Shirt Sales Outlets The Elusive Blue Marlin Tournament Details

ROCKN’ SHOTS 46 66 42 54 68 88 120 142 164

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Sponsors Charities Winners Participants KWLA KWLA Rules Schedule of Events Rules/Entry

@bigrocktournament

Auction Items NC Governor’s Cup Sponsor’s Reception Captain’s Party Pig Pickin’ Wednesday Dinner Weigh Station Awards Banquet Volunteers MAJOR SPONSOR

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A WINNING COMBINATION

The choice of serious offshore anglers and experienced captains •Innovative hydrothermal drag system that virtually eliminates drag setting variances •Solid Aluminum Frame •Cold-forged Aluminum Spool

Next generation hollow core performance •Superior Structure •Improved Durability •Best Connection Strength

fish.shimano.com


Celebrating community spirit

Friends, family, neighbors, and local business owners are the backbone of this community. Our vibrant spirit comes alive at events like these. It’s It’s an honor to proudly proudly sponsor sponsorthe the59th 60th Annual Annual Big BigRock RockBlue BlueMarlin MarlinTournament. Tournament.

wellsfargo.com © 2018 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. IHA-22304

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WELCOME

FROM THE GOVERNOR ROY COOPER GOVERNOR

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR 20301 MAIL SERVICE CENTER RALEIGH, NC 27699-0301

Dear Friends: As Governor of North Carolina it is my pleasure to welcome you to the Annual Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament, one of the largest in the world. This is an exciting and much-anticipated yearly event, not only for the fishermen, but for everyone who comes to share in the fun. The Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament has a rich history of raising money for local charities. Dick Parker and the four other fishermen who began the Tournament to celebrate the area’s passion for fishing, would be proud to know that almost $5,000,000 has been contributed to the community over the years. Please enjoy all that the Crystal Coast has to offer during your stay - beautiful beaches, local seafood and many historical sites. My best wishes to the participants, friends and guests for a safe and fun-filled tournament. With kind regards, I am Very truly yours,

Roy Cooper

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B A I L E Y ’ S E XC L U S I V E C O L L E C T I O N

Every Woman Wants a Bailey Box Raleigh’s Cameron Village & Crabtree Valley Mall Rocky Mount | Greenville | www.baileybox.com thebigrock.com

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photo: Charles Harris

(New model representation varies by territory)

CUSTOM & PRODUCTION EXPERTS Building, selling and servicing thousands of world-class boats for over four decades has made the Bluewater team one of the most knowledgeable and experienced sportfish dealers in the world. Not only does Bluewater oversee the construction and service of sportfishing’s best brands, we have been captaining boats, founding tournaments and fishing right alongside our customers and friends for a lifetime. So ask yourself, why would you go to anyone else, and risk becoming just another number?

WORLD-CLASS SALES, SERVICE & SUPPORT

877.269.3021

BLUEWATERYACHTSALES.COM

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Proudly sponsoring the 2018 Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament 28 | BIG ROCK

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Photo credit: Forest Johnson Photography

Introducing a new wave of marine generators Onan Marine QD Series generators now with more power

The expanded offering of Cummins EPA Tier 3 marine generators includes a new family of Onan QD Series models. The new Tier 3 models cover a power range from 40 to 65 kW available with or without Onan sound shields and in keel cooled or heat exchanged cooling packages. Like all Cummins marine products the new Onan QD Series models are backed by our world-class warranty and global service network.

Š 2018 Cummins Inc. | marine.cummins.com | (615) 871-5101


SPONSORS

MAJOR SPONSOR

jarrettbay.com (252) 728-2690 Jarrett Bay Boatworks, founded in 1986, has delivered more than 100 custom and semi-production sportfishing boats and services more than one thousand boats per year through their 175-acre Jarrett Bay Marine Park located at ICW MM 198 in Beaufort, North Carolina. Recognized as an ABBRA Boatyard of the Year, named the 2015 NC Manufacturer of the Year, and two-time recipient of “Best Power Yacht 50 - 100 Feet” Refit Excellence Awards, Jarrett Bay has more than 175 employees and 135,000 sq. ft. of building space making it one of the East Coast’s largest and most respected allinclusive boating facilities.

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DIAMOND SPONSORS LINDA RIKE REAL ESTATE (252) 247-6922 lindarike.com Bringing you the largest selection of waterfront properties in Carteret County. JUST ADD WATER TO YOUR LIFESTYLE Official Real Estate Company Since 1998 - Over 20 Years

MICHELOB ULTRA michelobultra.com Michelob ULTRA is the superior light beer. With just 95 calories and 2.6 carbs, you can enjoy the crisp, refreshing taste of Michelob ULTRA without compromising your active lifestyle. Live Fit, Live Fun, Live ULTRA

WELLS FARGO (800) 869-3557 wellsfargo.com Wells Fargo is a provider of banking, mortgage, investing, credit card insurance, consumer and commercial financial services. Official Bank

YAMAHA OUTBOARDS / COLLINS, INC. yamahaoutboards.com collinsboating.com (919) 934-3143 Collins Inc. is Eastern North Carolina’s Fishing boat headquarters! Family owned since 1956 we strive to provide the best in Service and Selection! Located in Smithfield, NC we are convenient to anywhere in Eastern Carolina. Yamaha Outboards has proudly operated in the U.S. market for nearly 30 years. Yamaha Outboards have become synonymous with innovation, performance and legendary reliability

LEGEND SPONSOR Parker Honda (252) 247-2488 parkerhonda.com 5327 Hwy 70

Parker Buick-GMC (252) 726-5103 parkergm.com 4813 Arendell St

Parker Auto Group

Carteret County’s most comfortable car buying for over 69 years thebigrock.com BIG ROCK | 31


SPONSORS

PLATINUM SPONSORS

bacardi.com Live Passionately. Drink Responsibly.

baileybox.com (800) 849-7676 Three generations of our family serving your family.... One Bailey box at a time. Celebrating 70 years in business.

calcuttafishing.com Calcutta is one of the most widely recognized brands in the recreational fishing industry with product categories that include fishing tools, tackle bags, sunglasses, rainwear and technical fishing apparel.

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ejwoutdoors.com (252) 247-4725 EJW Outdoors has everything the sportsman needs, including hunting and fishing licenses. A full service bait and tackle shop with Penn, Shimano, and Berkley gulp. Offering inhouse reel repairs and spooling. The largest Stan Rod dealer in the area.

hwy55.com (252) 773-0586 For over 25 years, Hwy 55 Burgers, Shakes & Fries has served North Carolina its fresh, never-frozen burgers, housemade frozen custard and other classic favorites in a unique open-kitchen setting. Find your neighborhood Hwy 55 by visiting hwy55.com today!

islandxpertees.com (800) 548-TEES Island Xpertees is the only source you need for all your screen printing projects. From custom T-shirts for your home business to brand establishment of your fortune 500 company, we have you covered.

liquidvid.net (252) 725-3961 Specializing in quality Outdoor Videography, Television Shows, Commercials, Corporate Video, Event Coverage, Product Promotion Videos, Internet and Live Streaming Video

napaonline.com (877) 805-6272 NAPA is America’s first choice for automotive parts and accessories and the leading supplier of specialty parts and marine parts, equipment for the collision repair, heavy duty and industrial markets. Visit us today.

wasteindustries.com (252) 223-4176 Solid waste and recycling solutions for residential and commercial customers, providing environmentally friendly solutions to garbage collection. beaufortclub.com (844) 639-9068 From our Championship Golf Course and Clubhouse to The Pavilion with a planned resort-style pool, playground, volleyball court and gathering spaces, Beaufort Club offers resort living at its finest. 300 Links Drive Beaufort, NC .


EVENT SPONSORS ALEXSEAL YACHT COATINGS (843) 654-7755 Alexseal.com Alexseal Yacht Coatings offers a complete system of premium paint products. KWLA Major Sponsor

CUMMINS SALES AND SERVICE (910) 686-9036 Quality performance engines for recreational, intermittent sportfishing & light-duty commercial applications providing after sales support worldwide. Wednesday Event Co-Sponsor

BAILEY’S FINE JEWELRY baileybox.com (800) 849-7676 Three generations of our family serving your family....One Bailey box at at time. Celebrating 70 years in business. KWLA Ladies Trunk Show Sponsor

GREGORY POOLE (800) 760-7278 gregorypoole.com High performance marine engines with local professional service teams. Sunday Pig Pickin’ Co-Sponsor

BLUEWATER YACHT SALES bluewateryachtsales.com (252) 728-2645 Your dealer for Viking, Jarrett Bay, Albemarle, Jupiter, and leader in service and brokerage sales. Sunday Pig Pickin’ Co-Sponsors

SOUTHEASTERN FOUNDRIES (336) 299-7211 www.southeasternfoundries.com SouthEastern Foundries was established in 1954 to provide the highest quality non ferrous castings at the most competitive price possible and deliver that casting in a timely manner. Sunday Service Sponsor

THE BOATHOUSE (252) 838-1524 frontstreetvillage.com Located in historic Beaufort, NC - Front Street Village offers a unique east coast nautical community like no other. Sunday Pig Pickin’ Location

SPENCER YACHTS (252) 473-6567 spenceryachtsinc.com We’ve taken the Carolina style and tradition of boat building with a unique look and transformed it into a World Class and high performance Sport Fishing Yacht. Awards Banquet Sponsor

CHENEY BROTHERS (800) 899-3921, cheneybrothers.com If you require service by sea, air or land, Cheney Brothers can deliver on time and accurately. Their team of export professionals can help you meet the challenging demands of doing business in your country. Concert Sponsor

TOWN CREEK MARINA (252) 728-6111, towncreekmarina.com Enjoy a full array of yacht and boating services coupled with an atmosphere of relaxation and hospitality. We have all the amenities you expect from a full-service marina as well as a laidback Southern style that welcomes you and puts you immediately at ease. Wednesday Event Co-Sponsor

PRODUCT & DISPLAY SPONSORS

AIRMAR TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION

airmar.com Airmar develops and delivers the most advanced transducers available for serious sportfishing anglers. From broadband transducers with high sensitivity to Chirp-ready transducers that can identify fish species at depths that were once unimaginable, Airmar is leading the way in fishing transducer technology.

BAREFOOT WINE & BUBBLY barefootwine.com Get Barefoot and Have a Great Time! Distributed by: Johnson Brothers of NC, Inc. Patrick Doutt/Sales Manager (919) 596-1144 Official Wine

CONTENDER/STARLING MARINE contenderoffshore.com 1-800-645-2906 starlingmarine.com 252-247-6667 Contender’s boat building philosophy uses the most advanced materials and quality components available. Outboard Level Sponsor

COSTA DEL MAR costadelmar.com (386) 677-3700 Dedicated to producing the highest quality sun lens in the world. Official Sunglasses

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SPONSORS

PRODUCT & DISPLAY SPONSORS

GARMIN garmin.com/marine Conquer the high seas or your local fishing spot with Garmin’s marine line-up. From fishfinders to an entire plug-and-play marine network with sonar, radar and XM weather, they can outfit your rig. Display Sponsor

SALT LIFE Shop Salt Life’s beach clothing shop for boardshorts, decals, and apparel. Beach-goers wear the Salt Life brand and proudly display our stickers. Display Sponsor

GREGORY POOLE gregorypoole.com (800) 760-7278 High performance marine engines with local professional service teams. Daily Release Sponsor

SEAKEEPER seakeeper.com, (410) 326.1590 World leader in marine stabilization, virtually eliminates boat roll at anchor or underway. Now bringing stabilization to boats 30 feet and above. Display Sponsor

HATTERAS YACHTS hatterasyachts.com, (252) 633-3101 Experience a life without limits with Hatteras Yachts, the industry leader in sportfishing convertible and motor yacht production for more than 50 years. Display Sponsor

SHIMANO fish.shimano.com (877) 577-0600 Quality rods, reels and combos. Release Sponsor

HUK Hukgear.com HUK has developed cutting edge performance fishing apparel that protects you from the elements, keeps you comfortable and looking good! Display Sponsor

SMITHFIELD FOODS smithfieldfoods.com (910) 293-5324 Providing affordable, high-quality pork products for your family. Pork Chop Provider for Wednesday Dinner

JAMES RIVER EQUIPMENT jamesriverequipment.com Your full-service John Deere equipment and engine dealer in Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina. Our services include equipment sales, parts, service and rentals.

THE INN AT PINE KNOLL SHORES An old friend with a new face. The Inn has 102 newly renovated oceanfront rooms that await you. Come see the best kept secret on Bogue Banks. Host Hotel

LUMINOX Bailey’s Fine Jewelry is proud to donate three Luminox watches to the new Contender/Starling Marine Outboard Level winning team for 2018. Luminox Watch Donor

WBD VOLVO Volvo Penta Western Branch Diesel WBDiesel.com, (252) 504-2185 From the latest designs in modern diesel technology with low fuel consumption to the perfect precision of joystick controlled handling, Volvo Penta & WBD have you covered. Display Sponsor

MTU Western Branch Diesel WBDiesel.com, (252) 504-2185 Whether the need is for new, remanufactured or rebuilt engines and transmissions or just belts and hoses, Western Branch Diesel now covers all engine room needs in NC. Display Sponsor PELAGIC PelagicGear.com 949-642-0646 PELAGIC is the original, high-performance fishing brand dedicated to those that live, eat, sleep, and breathe the ocean lifestyle. Display Sponsor RELEASE MARINE releasemarine.com, (912) 351-2013 For more than three decades, Release Marine has designed all of the components in each of their fighting chairs and accessories. Weigh Station Sponsor

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WHITE & ALLEN www.whiteandallen.com A full service law firm, we have assisted our clients with their legal needs and served as a community partner in Eastern North Carolina since 1927. Gamefish Sponsor YETI yeti.com Built for close calls in far-flung places. Built for tall tales and epic adventures. Built for finding comfort well outside comfort zones. Built for the wild. Display Sponsor

A huge heartfelt thank you to all of our wonderful sponsors - without your generous giving this event would not be possible.


GOLD SPONSORS

BUILT FOR IT

TOURNAMENT SERIES

All CAT® powered boats participating in the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament will automatically be registered in our 2018 CAT BUILT FOR IT Tournament Series contest. The top-placing CAT boat in the tournament will win $2,000.

Beaufort 1500 Sensation Weigh Beaufort, NC 28516 252.504.2640

Wanchese 636 Harbor Rd Wanchese, NC 27981 252.473.1501

Wilmington 151 Backhoe Rd Leland, NC 28451 252.504.2640

©2012 Caterpillar. All Rights Reserved. CAT, CATERPILLAR, their respective logos, “Caterpillar Yellow” and the “Power Edge” trade dress, as well as corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission.

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Where the tournament began more than half a century ago and continues today!

PROGRAM

PRODUCTION

THE 60TH ANNUAL BIG ROCK BLUE MARLIN TOURNAMENT Phone 252-247-3575 • Fax 252-247-2392 Tournament Headquarters: 710 Evans Street Morehead City, NC PUBLISHER The Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament LAYOUT & GRAPHICS Rowanne Robertson, Madison Maxwell

Morehead City Yacht Basin has been serving Morehead City and Carteret County for over 100 years! Original home of the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament and host to many legendary sportsmen… Join many of the winners for outstanding service and get VALVTECT fuels, yacht sales and much more in a great location!

Morehead City Yacht Basin 208 Arendell Street Morehead City, NC 252.726.6862; fax: 252.726.1939 www.moreheadcityyachtbasin.com Photo taken by Linda Sandbo at lasstudio.com

PROGRAM PHOTOGRAPHY Ronnie Boone, Ted Lewis, Crystal Hesmer, Madison Maxwell, Amy Nelson, Parker Robinson, Rowanne Robertson, Ruth Zurn CONTRIBUTORS Crystal Hesmer, Bruce Paul BIG ROCK BOARD OF DIRECTORS Dale Britt, President Joy Bell, Vice President Richard Crowe, Secretary Mike Thompson, Treasurer Jim Bailey Howard Basnight Tommy Bennett Les Collins Roger Crowe Dew Forbes Emery Ivey Jack Jordan Billy Kornegay, Past President Carol Lohr Caroline Petrilli Randy Ramsey Curtis Strange Casey Wagner TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR Crystal Hesmer TOURNAMENT ASSISTANT Rowanne Robertson RETAIL AND EVENTS MANAGER Teresa Holcombe EVENTS COORDINATOR Madison Maxwell TOURNAMENT ARTWORK Steve Goione, Official Artist TOURNAMENT VIDEOGRAPHER Bryan Goodwin, Liquid Video Productions Rick Cowell, Host of BigRockTV PRINTING NCCOAST Communications Copyright ©2018. The Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament. All rights reserved. Reproduction of editorial, photography or any other content in whole or part without prior written permission is prohibited. The Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament assumes no responsibility for the advertisements, or any representation made therein.

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BIG ROCK’S

BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

On behalf of our Board of try coupled with proceeds from Directors, our hardworking and the sale of Big Rock apparel, dedicated Big Rock staff, plus this great tournament was able dozens of wonderful volunteers, to give back almost $600,000 in I would like to welcome you to 2017. Included in these dothe 60th exciting year of the finnations was the lead gift to conest blue marlin tournament on struct a new Carteret County the face of our planet. Domestic Violence home. This Winning the Big Rock Blue gift will provide safe harbor for Marlin Tournament in the marlin many hurting individuals who fishing world has to be akin desperately need protection to winning the US Open or the and a helping hand to begin life Masters in the world of golf as anew. it represents the most presYes, it’s been 60 years tigious win and the dream of since community leaders every captain, mate and angler Dick Parker, Tom Potter, Bob in the Marlin fishing community. Simpson James Macy and And our friend and long Jerry Shumacher brought their time participant Captain Brian vision to Morehead City. It has Harrington, Mate Marty Hiatt since become our most fun and team led by angler Matt week of the year as we watch DALE BRITT Henley fishing aboard the “Runyour beautiful boats and great PRESIDENT Off” successfully fought and teams converge on our thankful Although Dale has plenty to keep him busy brought a 533.8 pound blue town for a competitive, actiononshore, his most enjoyable work is at the marlin to the scales to cappacked week of fun, fellowship, helm of Jarrett Bay Hull #1, the charter ture the Fabulous Fisherman’s and excitement! fishing boat Sensation. Dale is proud to category as well as first place We are humbled and hongive back to his Crystal Coast community and is honored to be a part of the Big Rock overall which netted the team ored to have the continued supBoard. $1,161,450, the largest single port of our loyal sponsors led payout in Big Rock history. Secby Major Sponsor, Jarrett Bay Boatworks. Our sponsors are the foundation of the ond and third places went to the “Rehab” $250,720 tournament’s continued success and I would encourand “Weldors Ark” $166,480. When the action-packed age you to make a note of who they are and support week was finished, a total of $2,412,500 in prize them at each and every opportunity. money was paid to dozens of teams. And lastly, our heartfelt thanks to YOU and all But the biggest winner of all were our charities. of the participants over the past 60 years. 2018 is I have personally fished the Big Rock Tournament going to be a spectacular tournament week bringing since 1990 and have been blessed to meet and fish the best of the best back to Morehead City. Our 60th against some of the finest fishermen and women in has special surprises for you this week so be sure to the world. At the same time I have seen the gifts that check them out. the Big Rock gives back to our great community grow Again, WELCOME and please do not hesitate to let each year and making much-needed dreams a reality. us know if there is anything that we can do to make In 2017 beginning on Saturday the Keli Wagner your week more enjoyable. Lady Angler Tournament first place went to “Delta Dawn” and fielded 144 teams that provided life-saving See you at the Weigh Station :-) dollars for the Carteret Health Care Cancer Center followed by 177 teams fishing the Big Rock week. With our wonderful sponsors, your tournament enthebigrock.com BIG ROCK | 37


BOARD OF DIRECTORS

JOY BELL

Vice President Joy Bell has given hours and hours of free time as the Big Rock accountant with special attention during Big Rock Tournament week. Fishing the KWLA for many years, Joy and her team won 1st Place billfish release in 2017. Joy is an enthusiastic angler and is Lead Tax Senior Director in the firm of RSM US LLP.

RICHARD CROWE

Secretary

Richard has served on the board of directors since 1999. He has fished the Big Rock since 1976 and maintains a residence in 8-1/2 Marina Village here in Carteret County. Richard is President of Delta Equipment Enterprises, Inc.

TOMMY BENNETT

Past President 2007-2009 Treasurer, Big Rock Foundation A native of Morehead City and member of the board since 1987, Tommy was President of the 50th Anniversary Big Rock and currently serves as Chairman of the Big Rock Charity Committee. An avid fisherman, Tommy particularly enjoys flyfishing for everything from tailing drum to sailfish. He is an independent insurance agent, and lives in Morehead City with his wife, Wanda.

LES COLLINS

Les has worked over 33 years in the outboard boating industry as President and owner of Collins Inc. in Smithfield, North Carolina. An Eagle Scout and avid waterman, Les spends countless hours boating, fishing and hunting in eastern North Carolina. Les has maintained a residence at 8-1/2 Marina since 2002.

MIKE THOMPSON

Treasurer Vice-President, Big Rock Foundation Mike, a former charter boat captain and avid waterman, first began his association with the Big Rock tissue sampling for mercury/selenium content at Duke Marine Lab in 1974. Mike owns and manages Multi-Services Inc., a telecommunication and financial services firm. Mike and his wife Connie live on Harkers Island.

JIM BAILEY

Past President 1997-1999 Jim is the owner of the Anchorage Marina in Atlantic Beach and is an active Realtor and a developer of waterfront properties in the Carteret County area. He and his wife live in Atlantic Beach surrounded by water and boat slips at their marina.

HOWARD BASNIGHT

Former charter and private boat captain, and Rules Committee member, Howard brings good advice to the table. His historical catch of a 1002 lb. “Grander” blue marlin August 12, 1989 will keep him in the record books for years to come. Howard has served on the Board of Directors for over 25 years.

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ROGER CROWE

Past President 1999-2001, 2012-2014 Secretary, Big Rock Foundation Roger Crowe, Attorney at Law, provides legal support and sound advice to the Big Rock Board during the tournament and throughout the year.

DEW FORBES

Past President 1993-1995 As a previous charter boat captain, Dew provides valuable input as Rules Committee Chairman during the tournament week and throughout the year. Dew joined the Board of Directors in 1991 making this year his 27th year. He and his wife, Valorie, live in Beaufort.

EMERY IVEY

Real Estate developer and agribusinessman, Emery Ivey, joined the Big Rock Board of Directors in the fall of 2016. Owner and Captain of the “Mollie Whopper”, Emery brings a fresh perspective to the inner workings of the Board.


BOARD OF DIRECTORS

JACK JORDAN

Past President 2005-2007 Executive Vice President of Jordan Lumber & Supply, Inc. in Mt Gilead, North Carolina. Jack has maintained a local residence at 8-1/2 Marina Village for over 20 years and has served on the Big Rock board since 1998.

BILLY KORNEGAY

Past President Billy supports the board in many areas including having run the committee boat from 1986 to 1998. Billy fished the Big Rock aboard the Sugar Bear beginning in 1972 and has served on the board of directors since 1982.

CAROL LOHR

Carol has served on the Big Rock board since 1998. She brings tourism marketing and promotion/media experience to the board and has organized the recent VIP deck for tournament sponsors. She enjoys cooking, fishing, horseback riding and travel. Founding member of the Lady Angler Committee, she is married to Kenny Lohr and they are raising a German Shepard named Smoke!

RANDY RAMSEY

Past President Randy is the Founder and President of Jarrett Bay Boatworks. He has been involved in almost every aspect of the boating and fishing industries throughout his life including running a charter fishing operation, marine surveying, building boats and now running one of the worlds leading custom boat manufacturing and service facilities. Randy is also a partner in Bluewater Yacht Sales, a company that represents the industries top boat brands as well as brokerage listings. Randy is very involved in the community and serves on the UNC Board of Governors as well as numerous other nonprofit boards. Randy has served on the Big Rock Board for more than 30 years and is a long-time asset. He lives in Carteret County with his wife, Tiffany.

CURTIS STRANGE

Curtis brings extensive knowledge, experience and depth of insight in marketing, promotion and event management. Curtis has been a member of the board since the fall of 2003 and makes Morehead City his full-time residence with his wife Sarah. His extensive accomplishments include being a two-time US Open Champion, three-time Player of the Year, and in 2007 Curtis was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame.

CASEY WAGNER

Past President 1988-1992, 2013 A Morehead City native and avid sportfisherman, Casey Wagner has fished in every Big Rock Tournament since 1973 and has served on the Board of Directors since 1986. Casey will be fishing the 60th Annual Big Rock on his boat, Inspiration. He is owner of Coldwell Banker Real Estate and Spectrum Rental Properties in Atlantic Beach.

CAROLINE PETRILLI

Caroline grew up in Carteret County with a love of sport fishing. In 2014, she was awarded Top Female Angler in the North Carolina Governors Cup. She is now CPA at RSM in Morehead City and is excited to be a new member of the Board. CHUCK RHODES Director Emeritus

CRYSTAL HESMER Tournament Director

ROWANNE ROBERTSON Tournament Assistant

TERESA HOLCOMBE Retail & Events Manager

BEN MOORE Director Emeritus

MADISON MAXWELL Events Coordinator thebigrock.com BIG ROCK | 39


Big Rock board strikes gold with Crystal BY BRU C E PAU L, BIG ROCK MEDIA DIRECTOR A little more than two decades ago, Big Rock Blue Marlin board members gambled and struck gold when they voted to give a fishing tournament rookie a shot at managing one of the nation’s biggest billfish events. In 1997, board members voted to hire Crystal Lumpkin (now Hesmer) to plan and direct the upcoming 40th Big Rock. When news of the hiring began to circulate, more than a few eyebrows were raised. The sentiment at the time was that Big Rock leaders had made a risky choice. The safe play would have been to appoint Big Rock board member Dale Ward to the tournament director position. Ward had been the tournament’s weigh master for years and had impeccable tournament credentials. He was an official at other North Carolina fishing competitions. He was instrumental in setting up an intrastate billfish competition with South Carolina. On the flip side, Hesmer had never managed a fishing tournament. On the surface, it looked like a slam dunk for Ward. But Hesmer radiated confidence as she walked into her interview (more on this in the second-to-last paragraph) where she met many of the Big Rock board members for the first time. Hesmer had been recommended for the position by board member Casey Wagner, a multi-year Big Rock president, who certainly knew what the position required. “Twenty-one years ago, Crystal worked for me at Spectrum Rental Properties,” Wagner recalled. “When (the previous) Big Rock director resigned, I knew the board wanted to find someone who could continue the momentum and grow the tournament to new levels. I went to Crystal and told her I knew of an opportunity that she needed to pursue. I hated to lose her from my company, but it turned out great for the Big Rock. No one has more passion for the tournament than Crystal.” Hesmer’s interview was a home run. What she lacked in tournament experience she made up for in management skills, marketing savvy and enthusiasm. Her background as a realtor and a Morehead City

40 | BIG ROCK thebigrock.com

store owner gave Hesmer a unique advantage over other applicants. By the time she was done with her presentation, board members were ready to offer her the position. Board member Jim Bailey, who served as Big Rock president during Hesmer’s first year, knew before anyone else that the new hire was going to be special. “Crystal … was an instant hit,” Bailey said. “We came roaring out of the gate and have never looked back. She and I met weekly for much of (that first) year but she was a quick study. It was almost no time before she not only had the job figured out, but (she) reinvented and redefine how it was structured. The success over the past 20 years (has been) absolutely astonishing.” During Hesmer’s first year as Big Rock tournament director something remarkable happened: The purse topped $1 million for the first time ever. “It was a major goal of the Big Rock to go over $1 million,” said Big Rock board member Tommy Bennett. “When we did it, something had to be done to commemorate the occasion. “Crystal efficiently organized a very effective press conference complete with props. It included Tony Seamon – the person who back in 1957 pulled a red wagon full of silver dollars to the first winner. Dick Parker, one of the Big Rock founders, was able to attend. It was a special occasion covered by all of the media outlets. Looking back, I remember Big Rock board members, sponsors and friends celebrating that milestone achievement and Crystal made it possible. I knew right then Crystal was going to have a great career with the Big Rock – and she has.”

For Hesmer, the staged reenactment holds a special memory. Seamon brought silver dollars to the gathering that came from the 1957 bank bag that was used to pay out the inaugural competition purse. Seamon was about to leave the gathering when he turned to Hesmer and gave her a silver dollar “for luck.” She had the coin fashioned into a special necklace that she wears every year during Big-Rock week. Hesmer was able to enjoy her first-tournament success for about three weeks. Then it hit her: She had set the bar so high she needed to get started on the 41st Big Rock. It soon became clear to Hesmer that she needed to work twice as hard as she had that first year. She had to prove to everyone it wasn’t just “beginners luck.” In the end, her hard work paid off. The 41st Big Rock tournament was perfect and it paid out another record purse. Hesmer was now considered a seasoned veteran and her attention to detail had become legendary. “With Crystal, no stone is left unturned,” said Curtis Strange, a World Golf Hall of Famer who joined the Big Rock board after an outstanding PGA career. “Crystal is all about the details … and details make the Big Rock the best tournament there is. I can’t thank her enough for her 20 years of hard work.” Hesmer’s efforts yielded another milestone last year when the Big Rock purse topped $2 million for the first time. On this occasion, the milestone was notable for its quiet celebration. Hesmer hugged staffers and board members as they dropped by to congratulate her. The “remember when” stories brought forth smiles and laughs. But then it was back to work. Hesmer had


a tournament to run … one that was bigger than ever. Most Big Rock fans see Hesmer in her official capacity at tournament events. On those occasions, she is truly the face of the tournament. But few get to see Hesmer in high gear during the operational phase of the competition. If there’s a problem, she knows who to call. If things get crazy, she’s the embodiment of cool. Hesmer doesn’t get flustered because she knows the tournament

delay the distribution of awards. “Her initial response was “This is a ‘disasta,’“ and the way she said “disaster” struck me funny. There was nothing funny about the situation, however, and I wondered what Crystal would do. “She immediately changed her focus, reorganized what was taking place at the awards ceremony and made sure everyone felt special before they left the event. I am grateful for Crystal’s friendship and all she has done to ensure the success of the Big Rock.” Under Hesmer’s direction Big Rock charitable donations topped $4.2 million. It’s an amazing total when you consider the first tournament purse was a red wagon filled with silver dollars. “Crystal’s passion for the Big Rock is rooted in the charitable giving that takes place each year … and not enough is said about that,” said Big Rock treasurer Mike Thompson. “I remember she was so excited

in this article – the 20th KWLA set an all-time record with 144 boats. The first KWLA had 10. Perhaps Hesmer’s easiest task was to expand the popularity of the Big Rock brand through product merchandizing. Sales of Big Rock swag exploded under her direction. Tournament fans seemed to buy anything that carried the new Big Rock logo … something that Hesmer designed.

Under Hesmer’s direction Big Rock charitable donations topped $4.2 million. It’s an amazing total when you consider the first tournament purse was a red wagon filled with silver dollars. inside and out. Hesmer’s great supporting staff, honed over two decades, finds a way to keep things smooth no matter what comes up. “I remember the early years vividly,” said Big Rock board member Randy Ramsey, who is the voice of the Big Rock tournament radio. “In many ways, we all grew up together helping build the Big Rock into the event it is today. Crystal lives it every day. “While some people fold when the pressure is on, Crystal has always thrived. Several years ago, when the awards banquet was running perfectly, Crystal sensed something was wrong. I finally told her we needed to

the first year we had a winner in Fabulous Fisherman category. She was happy for the (category) winner, but she also knew this meant more money would go to Big Rock charities. That’s what she was most excited about that day.” While Hesmer’s main focus is on the day-to-day details of the six-day Big Rock competition, she concurrently oversees the Big Rock’s Keli Wagner Lady Angler (KWLA) tournament. The KWLA is a one-day event that celebrated its 20th anniversary last year. The KWLA, by itself, has generated nearly $300,000 for charities and yes – in case anyone has missed a recurring theme

This growth in annual sales eventually justified the purchase of a Morehead City waterfront property and the construction of a permanent headquarters building. That’s quite a change from the early days when Hesmer directed the Big Rock from a hot, dusty trailer. With Hesmer at the helm, the Big Rock became the premier blue marlin tournament on the East Coast. The tournament’s sharp rise can be traced to the confidence Hesmer displayed at her interview. It was a confidence that grew every year as she met and exceeded the annual goals put forward by the Big Rock board. While the Big Rock board struck gold with Hesmer, the real winners were the tournament participants, sponsors and charities. No one could have imagined the fun and success that’s been packed into the past 20 years. It all started with a gamble that really paid off. (Editor’s note: The author of this article was in a unique position to witness Crystal’s Big Rock career. He saw Crystal walk to her interview because he had been one of the other interview candidates. The Big Rock board asked him to write this article because he had teamed with Crystal for 20 years to develop her ideas on media coverage. When asked about his favorite memories of Crystal, long-time Big Rock media director Bruce Paul had this to say: “Nobody … and I mean nobody … could have done a better job than Crystal. It’s been a true honor to assist her. She’s absolutely amazing.” thebigrock.com BIG ROCK | 41


ROCKN’ SHOTS FROM THE SPONSOR’S RECEPTION

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$39,250 raised for charities in 2017!

59TH ANNUAL

AUCTIONS

Special thanks to Bailey’s Fine Jewelry for years of donations to Big Rock for our charitable auctions.

Official Art of the 59th Annual Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament by Artist Steve Goione Sold for $25,000

Jewelry donated by Bailey’s Fine Jewelry Sold for $4,300

Official Art of the 20th Annual KWLA Tournament Sold for $2,500

Jarrett Bay Painting Sold for $2,000 46 | BIG ROCK

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Jewelry donated by Bailey’s Fine Jewelry Sold for $3,750


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2018 North Carolina Billfishing ConservaƟon Series Welcome to the 28th Annual North Carolina Governor’s Cup Billfishing ConservaƟon Series, we are excited to have the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament as part of our Series. The North Carolina Governor’s Cup Billfishing ConservaƟon Series is an annual sporƞishing series operaƟng cooperaƟvely with eight major billfish tournaments from Oregon Inlet to Cape Fear. Tournaments take place from May to August and parƟcipants experience world class billfishing right in our own back yard. One of the principles that the Governor’s Cup was founded on was to conserve billfish for future generaƟons. Tournaments who parƟcipate in the Governor’s Cup agree to set the bar higher for their anglers by requiring weighed fish to be larger than the Federal management limits. All Governor’s Cup Tournaments are Highly Migratory Species registered tournaments which require the use of circle hooks when paired with natural baits to help ensure live releases of billfish. At each tournament, data on billfish and gamefish landed as well billfish release informaƟon is collected to help manage these species. 2017 Overall Governor’s Cup Winner Inspira on

2016 2017Statistics Statistics 50 Entrants 242 Billfish Entered 67 Blue Marlin (63 Released)

The Series is managed by the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries in partnership with the eight parƟcipaƟng billfish tournaments, and industry sponsors. Boats or teams are awarded points throughout the season for billfish caught and released and for billfish taken which met tournament minimum size requirements. Trophies are awarded to boats with the most points in both the “Private Boat” and “Charter Boat” categories. Individual awards are given to the outstanding junior boy, outstanding junior girl and lady anglers. In addiƟon, trophies are awarded for the largest blue marlin, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and dolphin.

127 White Marlin Released

46 Sailfish Released 2 Spearfish Released

98.35% Were Released

We had 46 boats and teams parƟcipate in 2017 with 242 billfish entered in the Series and we are looking forward to having another great season this year. Bring your dockmates and join us at any point in the season!

*Photos by Ted Lewis 66 | BIG ROCK

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2018 GOVERNOR’S CUP PARTICIPATING TOURNAMENTS HATTERAS VILLAGE OFFSHORE OPEN May 15–– 19 www.hatterasonmymind.com SWANSBORO ROTARY MEMORIAL DAY BLUE WATER FISHING TOURNAMENT May 24 - 27 www.swansborobluewater.com CAPE FEAR BLUE MARLIN TOURNAMENT May 30 - June 2 www.capefearbluemarlintournament.com BIG ROCK BLUE MARLIN TOURNAMENT June 9–– 16 www.thebigrock.com HATTERAS GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT July 5 – 7 www.hatterasgrandslam.com BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB BILLFISH CLASSIC July 12 – 14 Website— —TBA 252.639.1093 DUCKS UNLIMITED BILLFISH TOURNAMENT July 18 – 21 www.ncdubillfish.com PIRATES COVE BILLFISH TOURNAMENT August 13 – 17 www.pcbgt.com

Research Efforts and Conserva on While we encourage anglers to release fish with best pracƟces available, we also collect valuable informaƟon about blue marlin and gamefish taken during tournaments. The tournament seƫng provides a unique opportunity for sample collecƟng across agencies and academic laboratories. Below is an example of an age structure collected from a tournament blue marlin. This blue marlin ototlith (ear bone) which is located just behind the fish’s brain is placed on a penny for size reference. This otolith was removed from a 600 pounder! Otoliths are used to age fish and lay down rings the same way a tree does.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: NC Governor’s Cup Bill ishing Conservation Series Randy Gregory, PO Box 769, Morehead City, NC 28557 E-Mail: Randy.Gregory@ncdenr.gov 252-726-7021 thebigrock.com BIG ROCK | 67


ROCKN’ SHOTS FROM THE PIG PICKIN’

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Pig Pickn’ Co-Sponsored by:

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charities

Conservation Innovation Charitable Giving

70 | BIG ROCK thebigrock.com

Charitable Giving Reaches

$4,909,791 The Big Rock Board of Directors and its Charity Committee have committed to a core group of charities in the community to receive consistent funding from the tournament. The entire process is driven by the fit between Big Rock’s five-point mission statement and the destination of the charitable funds. In addition to these yearly donations, the board also reviews new larger impact community projects. The donations are funded by the success of the tournament, our sponsors and retail sales. In 2017 the Big Rock Board was able to contribute to their annual core donations but also fund additional needs within these core charities and beyond. The Salvation Army kicked off their capital campaign for a new building and Big Rock donated the seed fund of $262,500 just before the 2017 tournament began. Various Carteret County School donations for labs, special leadership programs and playground equipment totaled $37,200. In addition, the board will donate $200,000 this spring for the Domestic Violence Center’s new facility. These and other donations to our community and state are the basis of what Big Rock tournament stands for and total over $600,000 from last year’s event!! Last year the Keli Wagner Big Rock Lady Angler Tournament (KWLA) was sponsored by ALEXSEAL YACHT COATINGS and held on Saturday June 10, 2017. A whopping tournament record of 144 boats participated and the Keli Wagner Lady Angler Tournament donated $25,000 to the RAAB Oncology Clinic. Donations to the clinic since 2005, total over $278,916. Overall, the ladies tournament has donated a total of $324,416 since it began in 1998. Way to go ladies!! The tournament is very proud of its past contributions totaling $4,909,791 after the 2017 tournament. This year’s Tournament Charity Committee consists of Tom Bennett, Chairman, Dale Britt, Richard Crowe, Curtis Strange and Caroline Henry.

MISSION STATEMENT • To promote sportfishing throughout Carteret County and the state of North Carolina • To promote conservation among sportfishermen. • To raise money for charities and worthy community projects. • To preserve maritime culture and heritage. • To promote marine education.


Additional Giving

Beaufort Elementary School .....$10,000 Beaufort Lions Club ....................$5,000 Beaufort Middle School ..............$1,200

The Carteret County Domestic Violence Program receives $200,000

Bogue Sound Elementary ............$6,000 Bridge Down East .....................$32,500 Cape Carteret Trail ....................$35,000 Carteret County Domestic Violence ..................$200,000 Carteret Co. Health Dept. ..........$10,000

CMAST Youth Program .............. $7,800

The Big Rock was blessed to provide our largest gift in 2017 to Carteret County Domestic Violence. This gift will be very meaningful to the 2018 Capital Campaign to build and provide Safe Harbor for many hurting individuals in our community, both adults and children, who desperately need protection and a helping hand to begin life anew.

Crickett II Restoration Project ....$3,500

The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall

Carteret Preschool Center .........$20,000 History Place ............................$28,500

Crystal Coast Hospice House ......$1,000 Family Promise .........................$17,500 NC Missions of Mercy (The NC Dental Health Fund).....$10,000 Newport Consolidated School Alumni ..........................$14,000 Operation North State .................$5,000 Project Healing Waters ...............$2,800 Seamans Service Ministry ........$40,000 WRAL Coats for Kids...................$5,000 CCC STUDENT OF THE YEAR - $2,000 Andrew “Grayson” Canipe, Carteret Community Colleges Big Rock Student of the Year Scholarship Recipient.

The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall made a grand entrance over Memorial Weekend in 2017 with over 200 motorcycles leading the way. It was open to visitors to honor our American heroes. Big Rock was a Presenting Sponsor.

Newport Historical Museum receives $14,000

The Newport Historical Museum was the recipient of Big Rock Foundation’s donation of $14,000 for the repair of the Museum roof and new shingles. The Museum is located in the historic Teacherage building on Chatham Street in Newport.

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core charities

EAST CAROLINA COUNCIL, BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA

For more than 100 years, the Boy Scouts of America has been providing character education and citizenship training to America’s young men in a setting that encourages them to take charge. The leadership training that local youth get in Scouting is unmatched, as is the support from local communities. The support that the East Carolina Council gets from the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament has played a vital part in ensuring that the movement continues to improve the lives of all its Scouts and their families. East Carolina Council serves more than 10,000 youth and more than 2,900 volunteer adult leaders in 20

eastern NC counties, including the world renowned Crystal Coast. Scouts participate in unique learning experiences that help them develop their appreciation, skills and leadership abilities for good stewardship of our land and water resources. East Carolina Council provides facilities and programs for use by Cub Scout Packs, Boy Scout Troops, Venturing Crews and interested public groups can take part in interactive, hands-on learning that will develop our future leaders at several locations. The East Carolina Scout Reservation, our main camping area, encompasses Camp Boddie, the Pamlico Sea Base and the PotashCorp ECO Lodge in Blount’s Creek, on the Pamlico River east of Chocowinity. Toward the coast, there is TOTAL AMOUNT Camp Sam Hatcher in Newport DONATED and to the west, in Bailey, is Camp Charles. Programs at these camps are sure to provide a fun, engaging outdoor SINCE 1988 experience that is sure to enrich the lives of the visitors and their families.

$128,500

Conservation. Inno v

BROAD STREET CLINIC

The Broad Street Clinic has been providing free medical and pharmaceutical services to uninsured and under insured residents of Carteret County and surrounding areas since 1993. Patients must be at or below the 200% federal poverty level. Patients also must qualify medically by having one of 5 chronic diseases: heart disease, pulmonary disease, diabetes, and hypertension or thyroid disease. Free medical care is provided to BSC patients by over 40 health care providers. Health care providers volunteer weekly to ensure patient needs are met. Currently the clinic has over 900 active patients. The Clinic continues to offer our regular medical clinic, eye clinic, gynecological clinic and limited dental clinic. The Clinic

72 | BIG ROCK thebigrock.com

is a member of the National Association of Free Clinics and a member of the NC Association of Free Clinics. Funds received from the Big Rock are used for general operating expenses and to purchase medicines and supplies necessary for BSC patients. It takes 70 volunteer hours each week with the supervision from four pharmacists to ensure patients receive their medications. 22,000 prescriptions were dispensed from the BSC pharmacy with a value of $3 million during 2017. Left: Dr. Paul Woodard with patient Carey Kendall Right: Dr. Nick Reid doing an eye exam

TOTAL AMOUNT DONATED

$85,100 SINCE 1988


THE HISTORY PLACE

The Carteret County Historical Society’s “History Place” is a 501c3 nonprofit whose educational mission it is to preserve and interpret the human history of the county from early Native American times through the present. We accomplish this by offering various history products to the general public, including in-school programs, publications, exhibits, a family genealogical library and presentations by various speakers and groups. We fund these activities in a variety of ways. Our Les A. Ewen Auditorium lays at the heart of our income producing assets. Year round, we rent this hall to various groups, wedding parties, musical performers, governmental agencies and others. We also present our own local history programs within its walls. The $5,000 contribution has been added

to another $3,000 from the Town of Morehead City and some money in our capital budget, and applied this year to two capital projects including the refinishing of our auditorium’s floor ($6,500) and the replacement of old windows on the side of our building that faces 10th Street ($2,400) - this is the Infusion Cafe’s portion of our operation. We put in new thermal pain windows, and did a far better job of insulating the surrounds than was first done back in 2001. The Society operates on roughly $110,000 per year – averaging 15-20,000 visitors per year. It is supported through grants, donations, fund-raisers and membership. Many consider what we hold as the “living memory” of the county. We are very thankful for the Big Rock TOTAL AMOUNT Tournament’s grant in DONATED support of our work.

$92,000 SINCE 1988

vation. Charitable Giving. MARTHA’S MISSION CUPBOARD

We at Martha’s Mission are especially thankful to the Big Rock for the donations we receive each year. This year your money was spent on our operation. We had new clients and we have been seeing more people. Your wonderful donation is what keeps us going, especially, during the first part of the year when we are trying to restock our food. Martha’s Mission is an emergency Food Bank, all made possible by donations and volunteers.

OUR MOTTO:

WE BELIEVE IT MAKES A DIFFERENCE WHEN PEOPLE HELP AND SHARE; THAT WHEN SOMEBODY REACHES OUT, IT MATTERS TO BE THERE.

TOTAL AMOUNT DONATED

$50,500 SINCE 1988

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core charities

TAKE A KID FISHING FOUNDATION Tuesday, July 24th will be the Take A Kid Fishing Foundation’s 30th year of serving the children of North Carolina. On that day volunteers, sponsors and contributors will join together to host over 700 children with their chaperons to a day of fishing and fun. For many it will be a day filled with firsts. Their first trip away from home, their first glimpse of the ocean and the first time they will have the opportunity to cast a line. Tired from a long early morning ride, hundreds will stream from their buses filling the boats and piers. So eager to learn, they wait patiently as equipment is distributed, with eyes focused on the volunteers as they receive instruction on water safety, conservation, ethical angling practices and fishing skills. It’s then that the fun begins! Lines hit the water and the volume starts to rise as they call out to one another, “I’m going to get the first one, well mine will be the biggest, or watch, I can show you how to cast a line.” Skilled volunteers work alongside the children throughout the day, teaching them about the various species that live in the area. They point out their distinctive features, explain what they eat and where they live. The highlight of the children’s day is always when the first menacing looking creature is pulled from the deep. Scared by the sight, they scream and run, only to quickly return encircling the volunteer as he reaches down to show

them how to handle this scary sight. He patiently stands and answers questions before explaining why it is so important to release him back to the sea. It is the Take A Kid Fishing Foundation’s mission to provide disabled, disadvantaged and other children of North Carolina with the opportunity to experience the joys of fishing. The goal is to have a positive impact on these children while they learn from others what was once shared with them. The Foundation’s volunteers work to stress the importance of conservation and maintaining the environment while teaching skills they can utilize for a lifetime. Solely supported by donations, the Take A Kid Fishing Foundation, Inc. exists through the generosity of individuals and organizations like the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament. It is through your participation in the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament and their hard work that organizations like the Take A Kid Fishing Foundation, Inc., are able to continue to provide so much to so many. To find out more about the Take A Kid Fishing Foundation, TOTAL AMOUNT Inc., or to make a donation DONATED contact Teresa Holcombe at PO Box 1191, Morehead City, NC or visit our website at www.takf.org. SINCE 1988

$98,500

Conservation. Inno v

NC UNIVERSITY CENTER for Marine Science and Technology

North Carolina State University’s Center for Marine Science and Technology (CMAST), located in Morehead City, has worked with the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament since 2003 to sample these fishes from the tournament. In addition to collecting samples for our own research, we also sample these fish for other scientists that work on these species. The opportunity to sample some of these animals is quite rare. The following information and samples are taken from yellowfin tuna, wahoo, dolphin, and blue marlin: length, weight, sex, a variety of tissues (e.g., muscle, reproductive organs, liver, heart, stomachs, and mucus), and hard parts (e.g., scales, otoliths, and fish spines). To date, we have collected samples for over a dozen marine biologists working along the U.S. Atlantic coast. The fish captured during the Big Rock Tournament are top predators in the surface waters of the ocean. They have extremely high feeding rates and may have a disproportionately large effect on their prey populations when compared to other predators. Stomach contents are being analyzed by 74 | BIG ROCK thebigrock.com

N.C. State University to determine the principal prey of these species. To date, dolphin and yellowfin tuna have the most diverse diets with a variety of fish and invertebrates including flyingfish, filefish, and squid. However, blue marlin and wahoo appear to be very selective, feeding mainly on frigate mackerel. Besides the thrill they bring to captains, crew, and the Big Rock audience TOTAL AMOUNT at the weigh station, fish DONATED caught during the Big Rock continue to help shed light on the biology of these highly migratory fishes.

$123,000 SINCE 1988

Jeffrey A. Buckel is an Associate Professor and Paul J. Rudershausen is a Research Associate with North Carolina State University. Both work out of N.C. State’s Center for Marine Sciences and Technology in Morehead City, NC.


HOPE MISSION

Hope Mission Christian Ministries is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization located in the heart of Morehead City, NC to serve Carteret County and surrounding areas. With the generous support of Big Rock, Hope Mission of Carteret County, Inc is in its 28th year of ministering to our community. Hope Mission is all about “serving others with many hands and one heart” as we offer help and HOPE to those in need. The Community Kitchen serves balanced meals seven days/week and in 2016 alone provided 39,232 nourishing meals to hungry individuals and families. The Men’s Homeless Shelter offers temporary overnight shelter for up to 15 men per night, while holding them accountable to take the steps necessary to return to independent living. In 2016, 155 men were offered HOPE to start again. The Emergency Financial Assistance Ministry extends HOPE when an individual or family faces financial crisis. In 2016

Hope Mission dispersed $40,200 in emergency aid to 253 clients to avoid loss of life essentials such as electricity, heat, or shelter. Hope Mission operates entirely on contributions from individuals, families, churches, civic groups, and charitable organizations. The generous support of Big Rock is so greatly appreciated in these challenging economic times! If you would like further information please contact the Executive Director of Hope Mission, Pastor Gene TOTAL AMOUNT McLendon at 252-515-4361 DONATED or gene@hmcm.org, or check out our web site at www. hmcm.org. SINCE 1988

$69,100

vation. Charitable Giving. CAROBELL, INC., STATION CLUB ENTERPRISE

The Big Rock Foundation has been helping Carobell, Inc’s Station Club Enterprise expand its possibilities for more than 25 years. Located in Morehead City, Station Club Enterprise is a private, non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization serving adults with cognitive impairments and developmental disabilities. Funds received through these generous donations provided by the Big Rock Foundation have afforded Carobell/Station Club the possibility to expand our capabilities to provide our members with choices of tasks/activity opportunities and to reach out with new ideas and concepts. This truly fulfills

our mission, which is to provide self-directed support for members with intellectual developmental disabilities, empowering them to reach their fullest potential. Past donations have enabled Station Club to purchase many needed items for our members such as iPads, a laptop computer and accessories to assist them in developing technology skills and increasing problem-solving skills. All of Carobell/Station Club staff and members alike are extremely TOTAL AMOUNT appreciative of this continual DONATED community support. A big thank you goes to our steadfast community SINCE 1988 friends, Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament.

$75,000

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Seaman’s Service Ministry - $40,000

charities: additional giving

Operation North State $5,000 The Seaman’s Service Center was established at the Morehead City Port in 1971 and was incorporated as a 501(c) 3 organization in December 1989. The purpose of the Center is to serve the temporal needs of seafarers of all nationalities, ethnic and religious backgrounds who visit the State Port and to a lesser extent military personnel awaiting deployment. The Center is located on the Port in a 2500 square foot facility. Here our visitors are provided a game room with a pool table and ping pong, a quiet chapel, free internet service, a TV room and refreshment area, and quiet phone booths for private conversations with family members. In addition, the Center has a 15 passenger van to shuttle passengers to retail shops, mailing facilities, restaurants, and medical/dental facilities. During a typical year, Center volunteers will visit 120 ships. Each ship carries an average crew of 25 which means approximately 3000 seafarers visit the Port each year and our volunteers interface with approximately 1000 during the year. The Ministry appreciates the support of the Big Rock Foundation in providing funds to help with much needed upgrades to the Center.

Giving back to veterans and wounded warriors is what Operation North State is all about. There were more than three hundred people fishing and hanging out on the pier. What is unique about this event is all the wounded warriors and disabled veterans were able to bring their friends and family with them. Retired US Air Force veteran Jim Kiger said he loves fishing, but also spending time with the others he served with. “This is one of those things that we do as ya know brothers in arms. We get together we just have a great time. Every couple of weeks, every couple months we get together all over the state and this is what we do. We fish, we see each other, what a wonderful way to spend time together,” Kiger said. This festival was free for the veterans and families to attend. One of the organizers said this is only one of many other events Operation North State has throughout the year.

Coats for Children - $5,000

Bridge Downeast - $32,500

Big Rock donated $5,000 to WRAL’s Coats for the Children, a major community campaign to support disadvantaged families in need of warm clothing for winter.

Big Rock donated $32,500 to The Bridge Downeast, a non-profit organization that seeks to have a positive impact on the Down East community by offering a variety of programs through out the year.

76 | BIG ROCK thebigrock.com


Better Than a Bertram. Legendary. We don’t need to explain what it means. Think of a legendary athlete, a legendary destination, or the most legendary catch you’ve ever seen. The picture forms in your mind as clearly and as quickly as your eyes move across this page. Legends are larger than life. And if you’ll excuse us, we’ll take a bit of credit by noting that many believe the Bertram falls squarely in the category of legendary. We may also need you to excuse us for essentially saying, f– it. It needs to be even better. Here’s the thing. You don’t become a legend by being content with the status quo. When Dick Bertram created the deep-vee hull on the original Moppie, it was a total revelation. And each subsequent model broke new barriers, pushing performance into uncharted waters.

Naturally, the new Bertram Yachts are a total departure. The newest incarnation takes another surprising turn, which isn’t so unexpected, is it? Sure, it’s based on the timeless, original deep-vee design. The superior performance and reliability are straight from Bertram’s roots. But everything else, you’ll find bolder and better, with design, detail and craftsmanship on a completely new level. Here is a vessel that blows everything you’ve ever experienced at its size, and everything we’ve ever made, straight out of the water. This is a Bertram in every sense of the word, including the part where it’s like nothing that’s come before it. D I S C O V E R M O R E AT BERTRAM.COM

BEST OF LUCK, ANGLERS! thebigrock.com

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2017 WINNERS

BLUE MARLIN DIVISION

RUN-OFF 533.8 pounds Captain Brian Harrington Angler Matt Hanley $1,161,450

FABULOUS FISHERMAN’S LEVEL $467,500

GRAND TOTAL BOTH LEVELS

$1,161,450 78 | BIG ROCK thebigrock.com


Caroline Petrilli

2nd Place

3rd Place

2ND PLACE REHAB 506.9 pounds Captain Nathan Shepard Angler Ryan Howard $250,720

3RD PLACE WELDORS ARK 484.9 pounds Captain Mike Taylor Angler John Roberts $166,480

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OUTBOARD DIVISION

1 Bl Blue B lu ue eM Marlin arrrllliin a 40 400 0lue PM iar 14 B Bl Blue u0ePoints Marlin artlliiin n 400 40 4 00 Points Po P oints ints in ts

1 Bl B Blue lu ue eM Marlin arrli a lin 4 40 400 00 Poin Po P Points oints inttss in

1W Wh hit hi ite White M Ma arrlli lin in Marlin 1 12 25P 5Po oiints ntts n 125Points

80 | BIG ROCK thebigrock.com


DAILY RELEASE

RELEASE DIVISION Sponsored by:

Sponsored by:

Daily 1st Billfish Released $5,000 Each

1st Place

SEA TOY Total Points: 2525 Captain Bull Tolson $139,187.50

Monday Tuesday Wed. Thursday Friday Saturday

BUDDY BOY ISLAND GIRL STRIKE ONE ANN WARRICK LITTLE LESS TALK PIG RIG

CAPTAIN Scott Fairsworth Eli Blake David Bostic Brad Diaz Josh Harris Tommy Herring

ANGLER S. Tulevech J.S. Johnson C. Wade F. Adams C.R. Williams

59th Billfish Released MEGABITE Teak Bell

Brian Narron

$5,900

Release Division Winner Take All $48,520.83 Each

2nd Place

UNO MAS Total Points: 1575 Captain Tommy Lynsky $83,512.50

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

FREE SPOOL SEA TOY LEGACY UNO MAS UNO MAS BULL FROG

800 points 1200 points 800 points 650 points 925 points 400 points

JUNIOR ANGLER - Release

3rd Place

MARLIN FEVER Total Points: 1450 Captain Cameron Guthrie $55,675

Jr. Angler Release Division JOB SITE Captain Bill Farrior Angler William Farrior 1 BM William Farrior

96% RELEASE RATE - TOTAL RELEASES: 166 78 Blue Marlin, 62 White Marlin and 20 Sailfish

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Sponsored by:

GAMEFISH DIVISION WEEKLY TUNA 1st Place RELEASE 29.3 pounds Angler Pete West Captain Rom Whitaker $5,000

WAHOO

1st Place DOC FEES 97.7 Pounds Angler Chad McIntyre Captain Jed Galloway $5,000 2nd Place SKIRT CHASER 22.7 Pounds Angler Ty Thomas Captain Barry Daniel $3,000

DOLPHIN ISLANDER 69.1 Pounds Angler Jess Powell Captain Bobby Schlegel $137,700 WELDORS ARK 35.1 Pounds Angler John Roberts Captain Mike Taylor $3,000 82 | BIG ROCK thebigrock.com


Sponsored by:

GAMEFISH DAILY Monday 1st Place Wahoo STEEL DEAL 1st Place Dolphin WELDORS ARK 2nd Place Dolphin FULL PULL

19.7 $2,000 35.1 $2,000 30.4 $1,000

Tuesday 1st Place Wahoo DOC FEES 1st Place Dolphin ISLANDER 2nd Place Dolphin FLOAR PLAN

97.7 $2,000 69.1 $2,000 30.3 $1,000

Wednesday 1st Place Dolphin BAD HABIT 2nd Place Dolphin HUNTER

22.7 $2,000 18.6 $1,000

Thursday 1st Place Dolphin RUN-OFF 2nd Place Dolphin J & B

34.3 $2,000 19.6 $1,000

Friday 1st Place Wahoo SKIRT CHASER 1st Place Dolphin HUNTRESS 2nd Place Dolphin RILEY GIRL

22.7 $2,000 25.3 $2,000 23.6 $1,000

Saturday 1st Place Tuna RELEASE 1st Place Dolphin RELEASE 2nd Place Dolphin BEAGLE

29.3 $2,000 18.3 $2,000 14.2 $1,000

JUNIOR ANGLER - GAMEFISH DIVISION

HAMMER TIME Captain Austin Eubanks Angler Robert Holmes Dolphin 15.7

JOB SITE Captain Bill Farrior Angler Drew Yates Dolphin 14.1

FINISH LINE 1ST Captain Mike Kennedy Angler Bradley Smith Dolphin 13.3

ACCORDINGLY IV Captain Peter DuBose Angler Wood Parker Dolphin 12.2

TOTAL PARTICIPANTS: 177

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DETAILS ARE BUILT BY THE HANDS BUT CR AFTED BY THE HEART Paul Mann celebrates thirty years in business and a lifetime of training, engineering, design skill, specialized resources and incomparable attention to detail.

Visit our website or better yet, come see the magic happen right here in Manns Harbor, NC. 6300 US Hwy 64 Manns Harbor, NC 252-473-1716 paulmanncustomboats.com

84 | BI 84 BIG ROCK BIG RO OCK CK

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JICHI 61'


thebigrock.com BIG ROCK | 85


86 | BIG ROCK

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FULL PAINT RE-FITS RE-POWERS SEAKEEPERS HEAVY LIFTING AND

TOUGH CASES

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BIG ROCK | 87


ROCKN’ SHOTS FROM THE WEDNESDAY DINNER

Wednesday Dinner Co-Sponsored by:

88 | BIG ROCK

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Pork Chops Donated by:


thebigrock.com

BIG ROCK | 89


CARTERET COUNTY

CHARTERS

ATLANTIC BEACH Magic Sportfishing (252) 349-2348 Pelagic Sport Fishing (252) 904-3361 MOREHEAD CITY Beagle Charters (252) 670-1080 Bill Collector (252) 247-5617 Blue Water (252) 714-9970 Bluewater Lady (252) 725-5935 Carolina Princess (252) 726-5479 Continental Shelf (252) 726-7454 Dancin’ Outlaw (252) 504-2342 Diamond Girl (252) 256-2019 Energizer Sportfishing (252) 726-2944 90 | BIG ROCK thebigrock.com

Floar Plan (252) 342-1124 Hunter (252) 241-2538 Island Girl (252) 725-4956 Island Girl Sport Fishing (252) 725-4956 Lookout Adventures (252) 515-0356 Reel Country (252) 725-0902 Sensation (252) 725-5375 Susie-Q (919) 920-9170 Top Shelf 919-306-5651 SWANSBORO Nancy Lee Fishing Charters (910) 326-4304


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Eastbay Media is proud to again have been selected to be the live webcast provider for the 60th Annual Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament. Good luck anglers! thebigrock.com

BIG ROCK | 91


177 BOATS FISHED 2017 BIG ROCK

59TH ANNUAL

PARTICIPANTS AVA D Custom 62’ Havelock, NC Owner: Jerry A. Jackson Captain: Jerry A. Jackson

BLUE EYES Shearline 57’ Emerald Isle, NC Owner: Billy & Terri Farrington Captain: Billy Farrington

ACCORDINGLY IV Viking 76’ Jacksonville, NC Owner: Accordingly II LLC Captain: Peter DuBose

AVIATION REEL ESTATE Jarrett Bay 36’ Greenville, NC Owner: Ed Smith Captain: Ed Smith

BLUE WATER Buddy Harris 54’ Greenville, NC Owner: Jimmy Hite Captain: Jimmy Hite

ALL SOUTHERN Cavileer 53’ Swansboro, NC Owner: All Southern LLC Captain: Chip Williford

BAD HABIT Hatteras 54’ Duck Key, FL Owner: John Steele Captain: John Steele II

BOOTLEGGER Guthrie 60’ Sophia, NC Owner: Jimmy Canoy Captain: Jimmy Canoy

ANGLER Spencer 59’ Remsenburg, NY Owner: Angler’s Edge Inc. Captain: Tim Day

BANK WALKER Omie Tillet 60’ Raleigh, NC Owner: Bryant Montague Captain: Bryant Montague

BOX OFFICE Grady White 33’ Cary, NC Owner: Joe Elphick Captain: Joe Elphick

ANITA JEAN Winter Yacht 64’ Kinston, NC Owner: Peter Watson Captain: Kyle Weave

BEAGLE Custom 62’ Harkers Island, NC Owner: Capt. Bill Dillon Captain: Capt. Bill Dillon

BUDDY BOY Buddy Davis 34’ Beaufort, NC Owner: Scott Farnsworth Captain: Scott Farnsworth

ANN WARRICK Paul Mann 76’ Midlothian, VA Owner: Linwood Lacy Captain: Brad Diaz

BILL CHASER II Viking 57’ Salisbury, NC Owner: Brandon Dietz Captain: Brandon Dietz

BUENA SUERTE Hydra Sports 34’ New Bern, NC Owner: Tommy Kellis Captain: Tommy Kellis

ANNIE O Guthrie 60’ Raleigh, NC Owner: NBS Properties LLC Captain: Brad Sutton

BILL COLLECTOR TEAM PARKER Jarrett Bay 51’ Morehead City, NC Owner: Draughon Ent Inc. Captain: Stephen Draughon

BUILDER’S CHOICE Jarrett Bay 64’ New Bern, NC Owner: BC4, LLC Captain: Harris Huddle

ASHLEY LAUREN Ricky Scarborough 46’ Raleigh, NC Owner: Island Adventures Captain: Mark Annis

BIZZY B World Cat 33’ Kinston, NC Owner: Rob Bizzell Captain: Rob Bizzell

BULLFROG Duffy 35’ Buxton, NC Owner: Bob Eakes Captain: Bob Eakes

A SALT WEAPON Paul Mann 56’ Asheboro, NC Owner: Waste Knot Charters, LLC Captain: Dennis Cundee

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CALCUTTA Ocean 48’ Virginia Beach, VA Owner: Joe & Scott Monds Captain: Joe Monds

COVERAGE Sportsman 61’ Raleigh, NC Owner: Jim Holmes Captain: Hunter Blount

DOC FEES Jarrett Bay 58’ Wilmington, NC Owner: T&T Sportfishing LLC Captain: Jed Galloway

CAN DO TOO Viking 52’ Stuart, FL Owner: Sid Gold Captain: Paul Cameron

CRACKER Scarbourgh 63’ Ovido, FL Owner: Chris Schultz Captain: Gabe Warren

DOUBLE 07 Chadwick 61’ Angier, NC Owner: Kathy Stancil Captain: Freddie Stancil

CAROLINA GIRL Jarrett Bay 53’ Moyock, NC Owner: Mayjestic “Jessie” Anderson Captain: Mayjestic “Jessie” Anderson

CURRENT SEA Hydrosport 33’ Emerald Isle, NC Owner: Mike Patchkofsky Captain: Mike Patchkofsky

DOUBLE B Taylor Made 57’ Greenville, NC Owner: Harry Smith Captain: Harry Smith

CAROLINA LADY Viking 50’ Fayetteville, NC Owner: Carolina Lady Charters, LLC Captain: Fred Willis

DANCIN’ OUTLAW C & L 56’ Summerfield, NC Owner: Crystal Coast Charters Captain: Thomas Wood

DROPPED CALL Viking 61’ Newport, NC Owner: Bryan Leach Captain: Junior Johnson

CAROLINA TIME Gwaltney 57’ Raleigh, NC Owner: Reel Partners Sportfishing LLC Captain: Shane Brafford

DEEP BLUE BD 52’ Clayton, NC Owner: RRT Investments Captain: Josh Reason

DRUM STICK VI JC 35’ Ocracoke, NC Owner: Farris O’Neal Captain: Marty Baumgaertel

CARTERICAN Gwaltney 57’ Morehead City, NC Owner: Jaime & Lee Smith Captain: Lee Smith

DELTA DAWN IBW 57’ Raleigh, NC Owner: Pete Manuel Captain: Pete Manuel

DUN-RITE Jarrett Bay 57’ Winterville, NC Owner: Derek Dunn Captain: Mark Moye

CATBABY Albemarle 36’ Raleigh, NC Owner: Randy Hoft Captain: Jon Henry

DESPERADO B&D 60’ Virginia Beach, VA Owner: Joe Woodington Captain: Mike Romeo

EL CAZADOR Ricky Scarborough 85’ Quitman, TX Owner: Sail & Bobby Ricks Captain: Michael Kennedy

CHASER Island Boat Works 48’ Frisco, NC Owner: Catherine Holtham Captain: Jeffrey Quidley

DIAMOND GIRL Weaver 68’ Raleigh, NC Owner: Clyde Bailey Captain: Gabe Soriente

ENDORFIN Forbes 53’ Edenton, NC Owner: EndorFin Sportfishing OBX LLC Captain: Jim Ashley

COLHOUNA Rampage 33’ Apex, NC Owner: Thomas Colhoun Capt: Mark Schlenker

DIRTY MARTINI Albemarle 36’ Little River, SC Owner: Jeff Martini Captain: Jeff Martini

ENERGIZER Harris Craft 46’ Morehead City, NC Owner: Pete Zook Captain: Daniel Monette thebigrock.com BIG ROCK | 93


EYE CATCHER Garlington 61’ Clayton, NC Owner: Ray Hales Captain: Burrows Smith

FLORIDIAN Carolina Blackwell 54’ Stuart, FL Owner: Glenn & Jennifer Cameron Captain: Glenn Cameron

GENETIC DISORDER Viking 55’ Beaufort, NC Owner: TD LLC Captain: Bill Diller

EZ BOY Winter 40’ Trinity, NC Owner: Van Pierce Captain: Van Pierce

FLY N FISH Albemarle 41’ Newnan, GA Owner: Tom Galazka Captain: Tom Galazka

GOOD TIMES Sheldon Midget 41’ Hatteras, NC Owner: Good Times Charters, LLC Captain: Johnny Piland

FEET FIRST Blackwell 58’ Ayden, NC Owner: Feet First Charters Captain: CL Lupton

FOWL HOOKED Garlington 61’ Camden, SC Owner: Ron Prestage Captain: Ron Prestage

GOOMBAY Weaver 62’ Kannapolis, NC Owner: Terry Young Captain: Brian Peele

FENDER BENDER Jarrett Bay 55’ Hampton, VA Owner: Bobby Whelan Captain: Carl Beale

FREE SPOOL Viking 62’ Jacksonville, FL Owner: Rob Rowe Captain: Allen Rouse

GRYPHON Hatteras 60’ Isle of Palms, SC Owner: 3 C&M LLC Captain: Charles Moore

FIN PLANNER Buddy Harris 58’ Raleigh, NC Owner: Mark Fortier Captain: Chris Gornell

FREESTYLE Blackwell 61’ Chesapeake, VA Owner: Kenny Lindauer Captain: Kenny Sexton

HAMMER TIME Spencer 54’ Charlotte, NC Owner: Steve Mozeley Captain: Austin Eubank

FIN-ALLY F and S 58’ Newtown, CT Owner: Andrew Siegel Captain: Daryl Brower

FULL PULL Croswait 57’ Spartanburg, SC Owner: Diamond Girl Charters Captain: Dan Woody

HATTERAS FEVER II Ricky Scarborough 54’ Buxton, NC Owner: Buddy Hooper “Edgar” Captain: Buddy Edgar Hooper

FINISH LINE 1ST Jarrett Bay 54’ Thomasville, NC Owner: Mike Kennedy Captain: Mike Kennedy

GAMBLER Shearline 35’ Goldsboro, NC Owner: Gambler Sportfishing Captain: Neil Hine

HEL’S ANGEL’S Viking 42’ Hingham, MA Owner: Paul Squarcia Captain: Bobby Memmen

FISHBONE Island Boatworks 65’ Islamorada, FL Owner: Thomas D. Arnot Captain: William Chapman

GAME ON Paul Spencer 66’ Columbia, SC Owner: Sea Hunt Boats Captain: Trey McMillan

HELLO DOLLY Bertram 31’ Jacksonville, NC Owner: Matt Henderson Captain: John Parks

FLOAR PLAN Gary Davis 53’ Goldsboro, NC Owner: Anthony Floars Captain: Brent Gaskill

GAMEKEEPER Core Sound 55’ Wilmington, NC Owner: UKenFish LLC Captain: Ken Upton

HIGH TIMES Viking 56’ Emerald Isle, NC Owner: Ricky Rowland Captain: Ricky Rowland

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HONEY HUSH Spencer 61’ Raleigh, NC Owner: Bob Warren Captain: Chuck Lindner

JOLLY ROGER Albemarle 24’ Winterville, NC Owner: Neal White Captain: Neal White

LOOKIN BACK Jarrett Bay 58’ Raleigh, NC Owner: John Glover Captain: Parker Henry

HUNTER Harris 50’ Morehead City, NC Owner: Hunter Sportfishing LLC Captain: Alan Scibal

JSEAS Alex Willis 50’ East Sandwich, MA Owner: James O’Brien Captain: Jon O’Brien

MAGGIE Hatteras 60’ Atlantic Beach, NC Owner: Pro Environmental Services Captain: Randy Bryant

HUNTRESS Ricky Scarborough 59’ Goldsboro, NC Owner: Huntress Sport Fishing, LLC Captain: Max Weaver

KATHERINE ANNE Spencer 63’ Virginia Beach, VA Owner: Brodley Wachowiak Captain: Daniel Spencer

MAGIC MOMENT Jarrett Bay 54’ Four Oaks, NC Owner: T. Lee McLamb Captain: Timmy LeRoux

INSPIRATION Jarrett Bay 55’ Morehead City, NC Owner: Casey Wagner Captain: Casey Wagner

KRISTI KAY Albemarle 32’ New Bern, NC Owner: Mike Truesdale Captain: Mike Truesdale

MARLIN FEVER Jarrett Bay 64’ Selma, NC Owner: Albert Daniel Captain: Cameron Guthrie

ISLAND GIRL Hightide Boatworks 48’ Salter Path, NC Owner: Brian Peele Captain: Eli Blake

LEGACY Sullivan Boatworks 58’ Manteo, NC Owner: Jordan Croswait Captain: Jordan Croswait

MARLIN GULL Buddy Cannady 55’ Edenton, NC Owner: William Blakemore Captain: Kenny Midgett

ISLANDER Holton 60’ Greenville, NC Owner: Bobby Schlegel Captain: Bobby Schlegel

LET IT RIDE Viking 68’ Vero Beach, FL Owner: Arthur Kontos Captain: Edward “Jake” Farley

MEGABITE Dixon 57’ Smithfield, NC Owner: Whitley Stephenson Captain: Teak Bell

J&B Wanchese 55’ Red Springs, NC Owner: J&B LLC Captain: Alan Murry

LITTLE LESS TALK Viking 48’ Johns Island, SC Owner: Josh Harris Captain: Josh Harris

MEZZO II Cabo 40’ Morehead City, NC Owner: Tony Haslam Captain: Tony Haslam

JACKPOT Sunny Briggs 52’ Wilmington, NC Owner: Mark Dressler Captain: Brian Dressler

LITTLE RASCAL Hatteras 45’ New Bern, NC Owner: Hatteras Yachts Captain: Curtis Josey

MISS WY Scarborough 53’ Greenville, SC Owner: Holder Boat LLC Captain: Matt Wilkinson

JOB SITE Viking 55’ Winterville, NC Owner: Bill Farrior Captain: Bill Farrior

LOGAN’S RUN Yellowfin 39’ Wrightsville Beach, NC Owner: Logan’s Run Boating Captain: “D” Logan

MISTER PETE C & L 58’ Little Mountain, SC Owner: Mister Pete, LLC Captain: Alan Neiford thebigrock.com BIG ROCK | 95


MJ’S Blackwell 55’ New Providence, NJ Owner: Michael Yocco Capt. Michael Yocco

PELAGIC Guthrie 61’ Atlantic Beach, NC Owner: Mike Webb Captain: Mike Webb

REEL RIGGING Grady White 27’ Greensboro, NC Owner: Guy M. Tuner, Inc. Capt. Christopher Clark

MOLLIE WHOPPER Merritt 46’ Beaufort, NC Owner: Mollie Whopper LLC Captain: Emery Ivey

PIG RIG Caison 60’ Newton Grove, NC Owner: Tommy Herring Captain: Tommy Herring

REELIN FEELIN Viking 61’ North Wildwood, NJ Owner: Adam Youschak Captain: Ron Kozlowski

NAUTI-GALE Intrepid 37’ Savannah, GA Owner: Robert Beck Captain: Robert Beck

PIRACY Shearline 61’ Morehead City, NC Owner: Curtis & Russell Struyk Captain: Chris Russell

REHAB Viking 48’ Okatie, SC Owner: Glenn Shepard Captain: Nathan Shepard

NAUTIBOYS Viking 50’ Stella, NC Owner: Robin Comer Captain: Gene Ward

QUALIFIER Paul Mann 57’ Manteo, NC Owner: Fin Gaddy Captain: Fin Gaddy

RELEASE Sullivan 53’ Hatteras, NC Owner: Rom Whitaker Captain: Rom Whitaker

NO PROBLEM Viking 58’ N. Myrtle Beach, SC Owner: Mark Becker Captain: Scott “Goaty” Lawrence

REEL AFFAIR Wellcraft 33’ Greenville, NC Owner: Jason Harlin Captain: Jason Harlin

RILEY GIRL Tides Custom 27’ Wilmington, NC Owner: Ashley Wade Captain: Ashley Wade

NO QUARTER Taylor Made 54’ New Castle, DE Owner: Fishfighter LLC Captain: Kyle Peet

REEL COUNTRY Buddy Harris 58’ Oxford, NC Owner: Mark Ellington Captain: Mark Chambers

RITE TOUCH Pro Cat New Bern, NC Owner: Roger Needham Captain: Shane Malone

OFFICE II L&H 33’ Bald Head Island, NC Owner: John Munroe Captain: Sam Koonce

REEL DEVELOPMENT Viking 66’ Jacksonville, NC Owner: Reel Development, LLC Captain: Justin Ringer

ROYAL FLUSH Paul Mann 66’ Ayden, NC Owner: Ron Bowen Captain: Pete Zook

OUTLAW Island Boatworks 57’ Rocky Mount, NC Owner: Ken Miller Captain: Ken Miller

REEL EASY Jarrett Bay 55’ New Bern, NC Owner: The Doghouse at Sea LLC Captain: Ralph Griffin

RUN-OFF Wesmac 46’ Morehead City, NC Owner: Billy Vansciver Captain: Brian Harrington

PEGGY Briglia 60’ Raleigh, NC Owner: Doug Abrams Capt: Mike Guthrie

REEL QUICK Jarrett Bay 64’ Raeford, NC Owner: Carroll Thomas Capt: Brian Maready

SAFARI Garlington 61’ Whiteville, NC Owner: John McNeill Captain: Kevin Gaylord

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SALLY GIRL Ricky Scarbourough 57’ Edenton, NC Owner/Captain: Chauncey Krahenbill

SEA I SEA Viking 72’ Swansboro, NC Owner: Don Mills Captain: Rob Mahoney

SPORTSMANN Paul Mann 56’ Kiawha Island, SC Owner: Gary Wyatt Captain: Will Frederick

SALT SHAKER Grady White 28’ Clinton, NC Owner: Danny Aycock Captain: Dan Aycock

SEA STRIKER Jarrett Bay 61’ Morehead City, NC Owner: Adrian Holler Captain: Adrian Holler

STARFLITE Jarrett Bay 54’ Beaufort, NC Owner: Jarrett Bay Boatworks Captain: Joey Johnson

SALVATION Omie Tillet 50’ Fairfield, NC Owner: Dare to Hyde LLC Captain: Jamin Simmons

SEA TIGER Ricky Scarborough 50’ Columbia, SC Owner: Jerry Smith Captain: Jerry Smith

STEEL DEAL Hatteras 36’ Raleigh, NC Owner: Apex Steel Corp. Captain: Ron Clemmons

SARCASTIC Edgewater 38’ Graham, NC Owner: Chandler/ Wayne Rose Captain: Johnathan Rose

SEA TOY Spencer 59’ Manteo, NC Owner: Sea Toy, LLC Captain: Bull Tolson

STREAM WEAVER Spencer 60’ Wilmington, NC Owner: Rusty Carter Captain: Timmy Kidwell

SAVANNA LEIGH Guthrie 40’ Clayton, NC Owner: Michael Shawn White Captain: Troy Pate III

SECOND CHANCE Bertram 28’ Geenville, NC Owner: Michael Biggerstaff Captain: Michael Biggerstaff

STRIKE 1 Chadwick 35’ Harkers Island, NC Owner: David Bostic Captain: David Bostic

SEA CREATURE Core Sounder 58’ Hatteras, NC Owner: Steve Coulter Captain: Steve Coulter

SENSATION Jarrett Bay 53’ Greenville, NC Owner: Michael Rowe Captain: Dale Britt

SUSHI Island Boatworks 57’ Nags Head, NC Owner: Charley Pereira Captain: Charley Pereira

SEA CREECHER Cabo 35’ Clayton, NC Owner: Brandon Creech Captain: Brandon Creech

SHENANDOAH Spencer 61’ New Bern, NC Owner: Robert Stallings Captain: Alan Willis

SYKED OUT Viking 56’ Isle of Palms, SC Owner: Dave Sykes Captain: Bobby Garmany

SEA DAWGS Onslow Bay 33’ Mint Hill, NC Owner: Gina Lemons Captain: Ted Connor

SKIRT CHASER Buddy Cannady 55’ Manteo, NC Owner: Barry Daniels Captain: Barry Daniels

TAMMY GAIL Everglades 32’ Fuquay Varina, NC Owner: Sam Honeycutt Captain: Sam Honeycutt

SEA HOUND Core Sound 56’ Kure Beach, NC Owner: MM King ENT LLC Captain: Mike King

SPECULATOR Merritt 80’ Boston, MA Owner: Big Eye, Inc. Captain: Edward Murray

TEAZ’EM Hudson 54’ Greenville, NC Owner: Teaz’em Sportfishing LLC Captain: Mark Barton thebigrock.com BIG ROCK | 97


THE GENERAL - SCHUCH Buddy Cannady 55’ Raleigh, NC Owner: Zack Schuch Captain: Wade Fickling

UNO MAS Bayliss 68’ Ft. Lauderdale, FL Owner: Brooks Smith Capt: Tommy Lynsky

WELDOR’S ARK Jarrett Bay 55’ Greenville, NC Owner: John B. Roberts Captain: Mike Taylor

THE OTHER WOMAN Hatteras 65’ Huntsville, AL Owner: Jon Stimpson Captain: Jon Stimpson

VIKING 62 Viking 62’ New Gretna, NJ Owner: Pat Healey/ Viking Yacht Co. Captain: Brian Komer

WHITE CAPS Buddy Davis 52’ Wilson, NC Owner: Steve White Captain: Scott Wiggins

TIDE ONE ON Onslow Bay 27’ Clayton, NC Owner: Chad Shingleton Captain: Chad Shingleton

VOODOO CHILD Scarborough 70’ Savannah, GA Owner: Daly Double Charters Captain: Zack Adams

WOLVERINE Winter 60’ Port Huron MI Owner: Jason Fletcher Captain: Rocky Hardison

TORTA Viking 66’ Farmingdale, NY Owner: Joe Posillico Captain: Artie Meadows

WALL HANGER Spencer 59’ Raleigh, NC Owner: Brian Allen Captain: Gray Blount

WRAITH Hatteras 39’ Canterbury, CT Owner: Wraith Sportfishing Captain: John Foss

TRIPLE ‘S’ Invincible 42’ Swansboro, NC Owner: Todd L. Smith Captain: Todd L. Smith

WASTE KNOT Jarrett Bay 67’ Morehead City, NC Owner: Waste Knot LLC Captain: Patrick Kannan

YELLOWFIN BC 56’ Morehead City, NC Owner: Fishmore Charters Captain: Jeff Garner

TUNA DUCK BC 50’ Frisco, NC Owner: TD Sportfishing Inc. Captain: Dan Rooks

WE III Hatteras 52’ Fuquay Varina, NC Owner: Tim Powell Captain: Tim D. Powell

YIPPEE KI YAY Yellowfin 36’ Greenville, NC Owner: Bruce & Jeff Tripp Captain: Jeff Tripp

177 BOATS FISHED THE 59TH ANNUAL BIG ROCK

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PURSUE WHERE OTHERS COWER

The signature ride of every Hatteras® isn’t just written in busted waves or carved into smooth wakes that trail our convertibles. It’s inscribed in an agreement forged nearly 60 years ago between Hatteras and the sea. A promise that inspires every inch of our designs and instills confidence in every fisherman that charges into open waters on a Hatteras. HatterasYachts.com. ©2018 Hatteras Yachts

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BILLFISH SPECIES

IDENTIFICATION Drawings provided by: The Carey Chen Collection careychen.com

Blue Marlin Makaira Nigricans Dark blue to chocolate brown body D along the back and upper sides, a changing to silvery white on the belly. c On the sides there are approximately O 15 pale blue vertical bars. Blue Marlin 1 may be distinguished from White m Marlin by the dorsal and anal fins M and by the fish’s size. The dorsal and a anal fins of Blue Marlin are pointed, a whereas White Marlin have rounded w fins. The first dorsal fin of the Blue Marlin is much shorter relative to the M body depth when compared to that of b tthe White Marlin. Any marlin caught off the southeastern United States o weighing over 150 pounds is almost certainly a Blue Marlin.

White Marlin Tetrapturus Albidus The most characteristic feature of the White Marlin is the rounded, rather than pointed, tips of the pectoral fins, first dorsal fin and first anal fin. The body is dark blue to chocolate along the upper half and brownish to silvery white along the lower sides and belly. The first dorsal fin is blue-black and covered with many small black spots. The other fins are brown-black. Unlike Blue Marlin, the White Marlin usually has no spots or bars on the sides. The White Marlin has a clearly visible lateral line. Usually less than 100 lbs. with a majority in the 40-60 lb. range. In comparison, the Blue Marlin has pointed fins, and the lateral line is not evident.

Sailfish

Istiophorus Platypterus

Not Pictured: Pi

Longbill Spearfish

Sailfish are dark blue along the upper half of the body, fading to brownish-blue on the lower sides to silver white on the belly. The first dorsal fin is high, sail-like, blueblack, and covered with many small black spots. All related billfishes have a high dorsal fin as juveniles, but only the Sailfish retains the high fin throughout life. The other fins are silver-blue. On the sides are 15-20 vertical bars consisting of several small blue spots. The majority of Sailfish caught off the North Carolina coast range from 20 to 50 lbs.

Tetrapturus pfluegeri Spearfish, Hatchet Marlin The Longbill, which attains a length of 6-1/2 feet, may be distinguished from the more common White and Blue Marlins by the slender body, the number of rays in the two dorsal fins (44 to 50; and 6 or 7), and the close proximity of the anus to the origin of the first anal fin. The body is dark blue dorsally, brownish-white along the sides, and silvery on the belly; overall it lacks conspicuous vertical bars. The first dorsal fin is blue-black and unspotted.

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ALEXSEAL.COM

> EU: +49 (40) 75 10 30 > USA: +1 (843) 654 7755


ALEXSEAL® Yacht Coatings is excited to be a part of some incredible milestones this year as the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament celebrates 60 years of conservation, innovation & charitable giving. Likewise, the Keli Wagner Lady Angler Tournament (KWLA) is celebrating 21 years of fun, fishing and giving back to the community. ALEXSEAL’s long-standing partnership with these renowned fishing tournaments has been made possible by the hundreds of teams who have entrusted the finish of their sportfishing boats to the ALEXSEAL family of products. We are grateful

for this incredible trust, and honored that it has provided us the opportunity to join the KWLA in fulfilling their mission of donating tournament proceeds to cancer research and patients. ALEXSEAL is humbled to know that our support of the KWLA tournament has helped achieve the remarkable amount of over $275,000 in donations to the Carteret Health Care Cancer Center to further advance cancer research and assist patients in their battle with cancer. Now that is something for all of us to be incredibly proud of! Here’s to tight lines, superb fishing and great times to all the participants this year!

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RECAP

TOTAL PURSE $99,520

Sponsored by:

1st Place Billfish Release DELTA DAWN 1 Blue Marlin, 1 White Marlin 525 points Angler Connie Thompson Captain Pete Manuel Tie Breaker: Dolphin 8.9 lbs. Angler Nina Foust $15,300

DELTA DAWN WINS 20TH ANNUAL KWLA

WINS 20TH ANNUAL KWLA

By Bruce Paul, Media Director

2nd Place Billfish Release FULL PULL, Captain Dan Woody Anglers Haylea Martin & Becky Mullis 1 Blue Marlin, 1 Sailfish, 525 points

3rd Place Billfish Release REEL QUICK, Captain Brian Maready Anglers Laila Fogleman, Halsey Allen, Beverly Thomas and Renee Rhodes 4 White Marlin, 500 points 104 | BIG ROCK thebigrock.com thebigrock.com

Delta Dawn angler Connie Thompson released a blue marlin and a white marlin to help her team defeat a record field of 144 boats and capture the 20th annual Keli Wagner Lady Angler (KWLA) tournament. While Thompson’s two catches were key, an 8.9-pound dolphin landed by Delta Dawn angler Nina Foust proved to be the difference. Foust’s catch Nina reeling in her 8.9 pound tie-breaking broke a tie with dolphin. the lady anglers aboard Full Pull who released a blue marlin and a sailfish but did not weigh in a gamefish. That gave Delta Dawn the first place prize of $15,300. The win also gave Delta Dawn captain, Pete Manuel, his second KWLA victory. In 2000, Manuel guided the


Delta Dawn to a KWLA victory with two blue marlin releases and reported seeing a “huge blue marlin” that his lady anglers did not hook. A few days later, the Summertime Blues caught an 831-pound blue marlin to win the 42nd Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament. That catch is still a Big Rock record.

GamefishWinners

WHAT AN AWESOME DAY! FISHING, FRIENDS, AND COMRADERIE! AFTER FISHING THIS TOURNAMENT TOGETHER FOR 9 YEARS AND FINALLY WINNING WAS JUST ICING ON THE CAKE! -- CONNIE THOMPSON

It proved to be an almost perfect day offshore. Lady anglers caught and released 13 blue marlin, 15 white marlin and 10 sailfish as the competition went right down to the wire. Lady anglers on the Sensation have the most to celebrate as team member Michelle Gregory reeled in a 54.2-pound dolphin to capture the “Winner Take All” dolphin division. Gregory, who won once before as a member of the Honey Hush fishing team, helped her teammates win a $58,225 prize. A two-year rollover of tuna division money created a windfall profit for the lady anglers aboard Release. The Release team received $15,795 at the awards ceremony, which includes the $10,695 rollover from the previous two years. Snowkidz lady anglers won the wahoo division for the second straight year, this time with an 18.9-pound catch. The Snowkidz lady anglers won $4,427 in 2016 and added another $5,100 this year. Proceeds from the one-day billfish event were donated to KWLA charities. Since 1998, the KWLA has raised $324,165 for charity, including $278,916 to support the Carteret General Hospital Cancer Center.

1st Place Dolphin & Dolphin Winner Take All SENSATION 54.20 lbs. Captain Dale Britt Angler Michelle Gregory $63,325

1st Place Tuna RELEASE 32 lbs. Captain Rom Whitaker Angler Riley Cutler $15,795.83

1st Place Wahoo SNOWKIDZ 18.9 lbs. Captain Ken Snow Angler Blake Stancil $5,100 thebigrock.com thebigrock.com BIG ROCK | 105


ABOUT THE

20TH ANNUAL

Participants ACCORDINGLY IV ANITA JEAN ANNIE C ANNIE O ARKETA ASHLEY LAUREN AVIATION REAL ESTATE BAD HABIT BANKWALKER BARE BONES BEAGLE BILL CHASER II BILL COLLECTOR BIZZY B BLACK PEARL BLUE EYES BOOTLEGGER BUILDER’S CHOICE CAN DO TOO CAROLINA GIRLGLASGOW CAROLINA GIRLANDERSON COLHOUNA CAROLINA KING CAROLINA LADY CARTERICAN CLASSEA CONCH REPUBLIC COVERAGE CURRENT SEA DANCIN OUTLAW DEEP BLUE DELTA DAWN DEVELOPIN HABITS DIAMOND GIRL DOC FEES DOUBLE 07 DOUBLE B DOUBLE TROUBLE DROPPED CALL DRUM STICK VI DUN-RITE EL CAZADOR ENDORFIN ENERGIZER EYE CATCHER EYE ROLLER EZ BOY 106 | BIG ROCK thebigrock.com thebigrock.com

FEET FIRST FINISHLINE FISHBONE FISH WHISTLE FIXATION FLOAR PLAN FLORIDIAN FLY N FISH FULL PULL GAMBLER GAMEKEEPER GENETIC DISORDER GETNIT GOLD-N-FISH GOOMBAY GRYPHON GULF STREAM HAMMERIME HIGH OCTANE HIGH TIME HONEY HUSH HOO HUNTER HUNTER SPORTFISHING HUNTRESS INSPIRATION ISLAND GIRL ISLANDER J&B KATHERINE ANNE KIKI KRISTI KAY LIMITED EDITION LITTLE LESS TALK LIVE ACTION II LONE WOLF / SHE’S A KEEPER LOOKIN BACK MAGGIE MAKE IT WORK MARIE 105 MARLIN FEVER MARLIN GULL MAVERICK MEGABITE MEZZO II MISTER PETE MORNING GIRL NAUTIBOYS NO QUARTER

OCEAN STINGER OFFSHORE III PELAGIC PIPE DREAM PIRACY POST CALL QUICK SNATCH REEL ADVENTURE REEL AFFAIR REEL COUNTRY REEL DEVELOPMENT REEL QUICK REHAB RELEASE RUN OFF ROYAL FLUSH SALLY GIRL SAVANNA LEIGH SEA CREECHER SEA DOODLE SEA HOUND SEA I SEA SEA TOY SENSATION SHENANDOAH SIDE TRACKED SKIRT CHASER SNOW KIDZ SOUTHPORT 33 STARFLITE SUDDEN IMPACT SUSHI SUSIE-Q TRIPLE THREAT TEAZ’EM THE GENERAL TRIPLE ‘S’ VOODOO CHILD WAHOOii WALL HANGER WASTE KNOT WE III WET DREAM WHITE CAPS WOLVERINE WRAITH YELLOWFIN YIPPEE KI YAY

Artist The 21st Annual KWLA Tournament art is titled “Not Your Average Guy” by Elizabeth & Co. Growing up on the vibrant waterways of the South Carolina Lowcountry has afforded artist, Beth Melton-Seabrook, the luxury of the most incredible inspirations that range from the egret’s graceful steps along a creek bank to the fin flash of a colorful billfish rising through the deeper currents. Beth’s work pays homage to the diverse coastal life, the lush green and golden marsh and woodlands that surrounded her childhood and continue to captivate her attention. She thrives on combining the unexpected use of ordinary objects with the natural beauty of local scenery and wildlife. When she isn’t creating in her home studio, Beth can be found enjoying the beaches, trails, and waterways of her coastal hometown by way of bike, kayak or stand-up paddle board, or hiking the hills of the nearby North Carolina mountains all with her trusty canine companion-Roxie. She lives, paints, scavenges for surfaces, and generally enjoys life in a coastal town outside of Charleston, SC with her very helpful hubby, 4 daughters, 3 felines, and one very energetic pup! This piece in particular, “Not Your Average Guy”, was created by laying down several abstract layers of colors and textures then coaxing the marlin image out by use of negative space-the area around the image is filled in to reveal the marlin. Beth’s favorite surface to create on is a recycled one. The surface for this piece is a salvaged cabinet door. With all the renovating and upgrading that goes on to structures in the area, there is a surplus of kitchen or bathroom cabinetry. These cast-off doors make for the perfect painting surface!


Best Dressed CONTEST WINNERS The Best Dressed Contest Prizes were graciously donated by Promise Land Market, Beaufort Proper and Jame’s Clothing Boutique

Originality

Effort

BLACK PEARL Pirates of the Cure-ibbean

GULF STREAM Sea Witches

Presentation

DEVELOPIN’ HABIT Size Does Matter

Spirit

CARTERICAN Big Rockers

Creativity

DELTA DAWN Trollin’ for a Cure

Fishiest

SEA CREECHER Sea Creatures thebigrock.com thebigrock.com BIG ROCK | 107


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Major Sponsor

SPONSORS

314-783-2110 www.Alexseal.com ALEXSEAL YACHT COATINGS OFFERS A COMPLETE SYSTEM OF PREMIUM PAINT PRODUCTS.

Event Sponsor LINDA RIKE REAL ESTATE 252-247-6922 www.lindarike.com Bringing you the largest selection of waterfront properties in Carteret County. JUST ADD WATER TO YOUR LIFESTYLE

Trophy Sponsor McQueen’s Interiors 252-247-3175 www.mcqueensinteriors.com McQueen’s Interiors has been beautifying Crystal Coast homes since 1973.

108 | BIG ROCK thebigrock.com thebigrock.com

Edgewater Linen 252-726-1044 www.edgewaterlinen.com Edgewater Linen is a home decor store that features rugs, window coverings, bath linen, table linen and more.

Ann Paige Designs www.annpaigedesigns.com A family owned business that has been sharing their love for fashion since 2012. Located on the east coast in Morehead City, NC they have watched southern style develop over the years and love the charm of accessories.

Ginny Gordon’s 252-726-6661 www.ginnygordons.com Proudly serving Carteret County and the Crystal Coast since 1982. We are more than a kitchen supply store.

Bailey’s Fine Jewelry 800-849-7676 www.baileysfinejewelry.com Three generations of our family serving your family....one Bailey box at a time. celebrating 69 years in business.

Haley & the Hound 252-222-3490 www.HaleyAndTheHound.com A unique boutique with both women and children’s clothing and a touch of home decor.

Beaufort Proper 252-269-8913 www.beaufortproper.com Women’s online boutique offering an ever-changing selection of trendy clothing from dresses to shoes and outerwear to accessories. Wear what you love!

Harbor Specialties 252-838-0059 www.harborspecialites.com Offering a wide selection of hats, bags, apparel and accessories that can be personalized to make it a very special gift.

Downtown Barre 252-422-3793 www.thedowntownbarre.com Certified instructors will take you through amazing workouts at the studio that will lengthen, strengthen and tone your muscles in record time.

Island Proper 252-838-1576 islandproper.com Island Proper is a little boutique located on the waterfront in historic downtown Beaufort. Our selection of fine apparel, accessories, handbags and footwear suit women of all ages who strive to remain trendy, yet classic.


OYSTER

BELLE

AT S E V E N T H A N D A R E N D E L L

James Clothing & Accessories 252-247-5263 jamesclothingboutique.com A quaint boutique specializing in the latest fashion trends from New York and California.

Paisley Boutique 919-698-9390 www.shoppaisleync.com Established in 2014 by a recent East Carolina graduate, Paisley is the newest apparel and accessories boutique with southern charm!

Jarrett Bay 252-728-6363 shop.jarrettbay.com The Boathouse is the one-stop shop for Jarrett Bay gear & apparel in addition to many unique nautical themed gifts.

Remoline www.remoline.com Online and by-appt, boutique specializing in bikinis, active wear, and coastal fashion. Our clothing is feminine, stylish, and fun.

Momentum Yoga & Wellness 252-247-9642 (yoga) www.momentumfitnessnc.com A studio dedicated to strengthening your health and well-being. Welcoming space and experienced instructors.

Social House Vodka www.socialhousevodka.com Branded in Raleigh and distilled in Kinston, is made entirely from corn grown within 60 miles of the Neuse River.

New Visage Laser Skin Care Center 252-808-2NEW (2639) www.newvisagenc.com Utilizing state-of–the-art lasers and technology to help you achieve the results you desire.

Southern frock 252-838-9316 www.southernfrock.com Currently retailed in boutiques through out the east coast & Caribbean. The line offers a collection of Sundresses, Tunics, and Beach Cover-ups for the laid back Coastal life!

OysterBelle 252-617-0017 www.oysterbelle.com Bright and Briny-Fresh Inspirations Sourced From Near And Far. Home.Garden.Apparel.Stationery.

Z&Z Designs www.zzdesigns.net Handmade jewelry designed and created by a mother and daughter, inspired by the love of the North Carolina coast.

Each piece is signed, numbered and set in 18 karat gold with precious gemstones.

Join Bailey’s for an afternoon of shopping Friday, June 15 | 11am - 4pm Atlantic Beach’s Coral Bay Club 1901 W. Fort Macon Road

Every Woman Wants a Bailey Box

A portion of the event’s sales will go towards supporting KWLA.

www.baileybox.com thebigrock.com thebigrock.com BIG ROCK | 109


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CHARITY

Comfort & Care

Carteret Health Care provides an outstanding comprehensive range of services to meet the needs of cancer patients and their caregivers. The hospitals goal is to improve the quality of life of patients by offering a full spectrum of cancer services close to family, friends, and home. The goal of the KWLA tournament is to improve the quality of the visit by contributing to patient comfort and care.

365 DAYS OF

Carteret Health Care’s Cancer Center provides comprehensive, multidisciplinary oncology services in a convenient, single location to better meet the needs of patients and families throughout our county and region. This resource, so generously supported by the Keli Wagner Lady Angler tournament, will immensely benefit advanced cancer care and enhance survivorship in a comforting and supportive environment that builds on the hospital’s tradition of high quality, personalized healthcare. On behalf of the patients and families served by the Raab and Coleman Clinics, I want to thank the Lady Anglers for participating in such a fun and successful charitable event. Dick Brvenik, President Carteret Health Care

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Keli, who lost her battle with cancer in October 2008, was instrumental in having proceeds from the lady’s tournament donated to the Carteret Health Care Cancer Center, specifically for patient comfort and care.

A patient at The Carteret Health Care Cancer Clinic attended a pottery class at The Blu Sail Art Gallery, with other patients and survivors. She expressed how much joy it brought to her during this difficult time. The class was offered and paid for by the KWLA funds! #KWLA #charityfirst #blusailgallery

The Carteret Health Care Cancer Clinic opened in August of 2015. We are in partnership with UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Care which strengthens the CHC Cancer Services. The affiliation offers additional clinical trials, streamlines the process for patients who may seek second options and allows collaboration in patient care planning via telehealth. Awarded a three-year accreditation with commendation from The Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons (ACoS). Medical Oncology is one of ten facilities in NC recognized by the Quality Oncology Practice Initiative. One last but most important thing. Because of you, the KWLA, we are able to provide so many things to make the patients journey much more comprehensive and comfortable. Patients are loving the addition this year of art therapy.


KWLA BY THE

Numbers

Any way you add these up, it equals a guaranteed good time.

144

RECORD BREAKING! The number of teams that fished the 20th Annual KWLA Tournament.

$25,000

Total Funds raised for Carteret Health Care this year.

38 Total Releases

13 Blue Marlin 15 White Marlin 10 Sailfish

$15,300 Prize paid out to DELTA DAWN for 1st Place Billfish Release, Angler Connie Thompson, Capt Pete Manuel.

36

Total number of gamefish that were brought to the scales. 33 dolphin, 1 tuna and 2 wahoo.

1 $63,325

Number of tuna brought to the scales. Rollover money from 2016 resulted in a prize of $15,795.83 for RELEASE Angler Riley Cutler.

18.9

The weight of the Wahoo, Angler Blake Stancill and Capt. Ken Snow, caught on the SNOWKIDZ.

$278,916

Total donated to Carteret Health Care for patient comfort and care.

Prize paid out for 1st place Dolphin and WTA, Angler Michelle Gregory, Capt Dale Britt, on SENSATION.

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SHOTS

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*2018 changes are printed in red. ** Rules and/or Registration information is subject to change prior to the upcoming Lady Angler Tournament, June 9, 2018

1. REGISTRATION - All boats must be registered with the Tournament Committee and entry fee paid to qualify for prizes and trophies. Any boat may be substituted but must be registered with the Tournament Committee prior to fishing. The tournament reserves the right in its sole discretion to deny entry to anyone for any reason. No entries or upgrades after 8:00 am.

OFFICIAL RULES Tournament Date Saturday, June 9, 2018

FISHING DAYS

Available fishing day and hours (EDT): June 9, 2018, 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Scales close at 6:00 p.m. for Gamefish

RULES COMMITTEE

Howard Basnight, Dale Britt, Dew Forbes, Randy Gregory, Randy Ramsey, Casey Wagner

Committee Boat: To Be Announced Weighmaster: Randy Gregory Tournament President: Dale Britt Tournament Director: Crystal Hesmer KWLA Tournament Coordinator: Madison Maxwell For clarification or any question, write, phone, email or fax Crystal Hesmer, Tournament Director director@thebigrock.com Madison Maxwell, KWLA Tournament Coordinator 710 Evans Street Morehead City, NC 28557 Office (252) 247-3575 FAX (252) 247-2392 www.thebigrock.com

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2. RULES MEETING - At least one person from each boat should attend the Captain’s Meeting for the Tournament, which is usually held on the Friday evening prior to the day of fishing on Saturday. Regardless, all participants in the tournament are responsible for knowing all Tournament Rules including any changes to the rules that may take place at the Captain’s Meeting. 3. FISHING TIME - No lines or teasers are permitted in the water before official fishing hours. Official fishing hours are 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. This is a one-day billfish release/gamefish tournament scheduled for Saturday, June 9, 2018. Official time will be GPS time. Fish hooked prior to or after fishing hours are not eligible. 4. ROD & REEL RULES - This is a rod and reel, hook and line tournament. Double line and leader combined may not exceed 40 ft; neither of which may exceed 30 ft. The following practices are illegal in this tournament: a) use of handline or rope attached to the line or leader; b) shooting, harpooning, or lancing; and c) the transfer of any participant from one boat to another. After hook-up, only a female may fight the fish. 5. REPORTING - All billfish must be reported to TOURNAMENT HEADQUARTERS when hooked, lost or released. Radio frequency shall be VHF CHANNEL 71 and alternate channel 78a. 6. BOUNDARIES - All boats fishing in tournament must fish between LORAN coordinates North 40275 and South 39200. All fish must also be hooked within those coordinates. 7. QUALIFYING BILLFISH - All participants, fish, and boats must adhere to all State and Federal fishing regulations to qualify for prizes in this tournament. This is an all release tournament. No billfish shall be boated. A fish is boated when any portion of the fish or gaff breaks the plane of the boat. In the event a billfish is boated, the boat will automatically be disqualified from the tournament.

8. FEDERAL AND STATE REGULATIONS All vessels and participants shall comply with North Carolina and Federal Fisheries laws and regulations regarding fishing licenses, vessel permits, fishing gear, season size limits and bag limits. Participants shall also adhere to all Keli Wagner Lady Angler Tournament rules as contained herein. 9. GAMEFISH - Winning gamefish will be determined by weight. In the event of a tie, the winner will be determined by the first fish weighed-in. Fish must be in fresh edible condition and fit for human consumption. All gamefish must be weighed in the day they are caught. All gamefish to be weighed-in must be reported as soon as possible after 2:00 p.m. to the Committee boat. Only one gamefish per species per boat may be weighed in. Weigh Master has the right to refuse any fish. “Winner take all-dolphin” prize money will rollover to the next year’s tournament if no qualifying fish is weighed. 10. WEIGH-IN - All gamefish eligible for prizes must be off-loaded and weighed at the official Tournament weigh station from the boat landing the fish unless authorized by the weigh-master at the weigh station. The fish must be entered on the official entry form by the Tournament weigh-master. The same scales and weigh station will be used for all fish including those entered in the Governor’s Cup Series. Gamefish scales will close at 6:00 p.m. The Weigh station is located on the Morehead City Waterfront. The weighmaster has the right to refuse any fish in his sole discretion. 11. MANDATORY HOOK REQUIREMENTS - Non-offset circle hooks are mandatory when deploying natural bait or natural bait/artificial lures. “J” hooks are allowed on artificial lures only. 12. RELEASE POINTS - A cash prize will be awarded to the boat that scores the most number of points first. In order for a billfish to be counted as a release, a member of the fishing team or a crewmember must touch the leader. A fish is boated when any portion of the fish or gaff breaks the plane of the boat. Release points are awarded as follows: Blue Marlin 400 points, White Marlin 125 points, Sailfish 125 points, Spearfish 125 points and Hatchett Marlin 125 points. In the event of a tie in total release points, the tie breaker shall be the largest single gamefish (yellowfin tuna, dolphin, wahoo) by weight. If no gamefish are caught, the winner will be determined by the first boat to achieve the winning total. Gamefish scales close at 6:00 pm. Released fish must be attested to by


signature of the female angler, captain and two witnesses (if available) on board the boat at the time of the release on the Official Release Form provided by the Tournament Committee. This form shall be turned in to the OFFICIAL WEIGHMASTER, TOURNAMENT HEADQUARTERS. Release forms must be turned in (no later than 10:00 pm on the day the fish is caught) to qualify. Forms may also be photographed and emailed to forms@ thebigrock.com. If you do not receive an email confirmation, please call tournament headquarters to confirm. 13. PRIZE PAYOUT SCHEDULE - Trophies will be given to Level I Release winners in three places. Level I cash prizes will be split 50/50 for billfish and gamefish. Gamefish will be winner take all in each species. Billfish cash prizes in Level I and Level III are winner take all. Prize money checks will be made payable to the person or entity so indicated on the registration form of the winning boat. Social Security number or Taxpayer I.D. number of the recipient must be provided on the entry form. All checks will be distributed 10 days after the Awards Banquet on June 16, 2018. 14. PROTEST - Any protest by any participant against the catch of another must be submitted in writing to the Tournament Rules Committee. Any protest must be received by 9:00 a.m. on the day following the catch. Any member of the Rules Committee, or the weigh-master (in their sole discretion), retains the right to hold and keep any fish deemed questionable by him with respect to being qualified for any prize or cash award. If retention of the fish is refused, the fish is automatically disqualified. 15. DISPUTE RESOLUTION – A protest by one participant against the catch of another must be submitted in accordance with Rule 14. All other disputes, controversies, or claims of any kind arising out of or relating to the Tournament (hereinafter, “dispute” or “disputes”), including, but not limited to, all disputes concerning decisions by Tournament Officials, Boards, or Committees, must be submitted in writing to the Rules Committee no later than 5:00 p.m. on the last fishing day of the Tournament. Failure to submit any such disputes in writing by that date and time shall constitute a waiver and release of any and all such disputes. In the event of any dispute arising out of or relating to the Tournament in any way, the interested parties shall use their best efforts to settle such dispute by mutual agreement. To this effect, responsible, authorized representatives of the interest parties shall meet, consult, and negotiate with each other in good faith (with or without a third-party mediator, as they may

choose) and attempt to reach a mutually satisfactory solution. In the event they do not reach such a solution within a period of five (5) days after the first notice by any party to any other of the existence of the dispute, then without waiving any other provisions in these Rules concerning the absolute discretion and finality of decisions made by the Tournament Officials, Boards, or Committees, the sole and exclusive means for resolution of any dispute shall be the procedures set forth below: a) The dispute shall be submitted to arbitration under the North Carolina Revised Uniform Arbitration Act, Chapter 1, Article 45C of the North Carolina General Statutes. b) All negotiations, mediations, and arbitration hearings shall take place in Morehead City, North Carolina, or such other places the interested parties may agree upon in writing. c) The arbitration shall be conducted by a single arbitrator who is a retired North Carolina state or federal judge or an attorney whose practice experience includes commercial litigation. The arbitrator must be a resident of the State of North Carolina. In the event the interested parties cannot agree upon an arbitrator, the decision shall be made by a Resident Superior Court Judge of Carteret County, North Carolina. d) Prior to any arbitration hearing, limited discovery shall be permitted for the purpose of obtaining production of documents and taking depositions. All discovery shall be governed by the North Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure. All issues regarding discovery requests shall be decided by the arbitrator. All discovery shall be completed within 90 days after the selection of the arbitrator; provided, however, that the arbitrator shall have the authority to extend or reduce the time for discovery in a manner consistent with a general desire for expedited resolution of the dispute. e) All fees and expenses for the arbitration shall be borne by the parties equally. However, each party shall bear the expense of said party’s own counsel, experts, witnesses, and preparation and presentation of proofs. Only in the case of extreme abuse of the procedure may the arbitrator reallocate such costs and expenses among the parties. f) Any arbitral award may be enforced by an action in the Superior Court of Carteret County. The terms and conditions of this Agreement shall be construed, interpreted, and enforced under the laws and judicial decisions of the State of North Carolina,

notwithstanding any principle of conflicts of law. In the event any part of this Agreement shall be declared illegal, invalid, or void, such declaration shall not affect the validity of any of the other terms or provisions of this document. 16. WEIGHT ALTERATION - Attempted weight alteration of any gamefish will automatically disqualify the boat from the tournament. IGFA rules apply regarding mutilated fish. The Rules Committee reserves the right to cut open any fish for inspection of suspected weight altering efforts such as inserted weights, ice, water, etc. 17. POLYGRAPH - Polygraph Tests may be administered to the top money winners, release winners, (captain, mate and/ or angler) and others as deemed necessary by tournament officials. Participants must make themselves available for polygraph testing in Carteret County within 24 hours following notice from Tournament Officials. Individuals that are required to take the polygraph test must not consume alcohol or any controlled substance within eight hours prior to the test. A participant’s refusal to take a polygraph test or failure to answer test questions in a manner satisfactory to Tournament Officials, in their sole discretion, may result in disqualification. By entering the tournament, participants consent to the admissibility of polygraph results in any dispute or proceeding arising out of the tournament. 18. WITHDRAWAL FROM TOURNAMENT - No fees will be refunded. 19. REFUNDS - In the event that no qualifying fish are caught, the prize money will be handled as follows; a) Half of each entry fee will be donated to the Lady Angler charity, b) 85% of remaining entry fees will be retained by the Tournament and added to the following year’s purse accordingly. 20. VIOLATION OF RULES: Any boat violating any of these Tournament Rules or any boat containing a participant violating any of these Tournament Rules is subject to disqualification for the Tournament (unless another sanction for a particular violation is expressly set forth herein). By participating in the Tournament, all participants acknowledge that all Tournament Rules are material and that disqualification is permitted and appropriated sanction for any violation of any Tournament Rules. Decisions regarding the interpretation of Rules, violation of Rules, penalties, and the suspension of any Rules or penalties will be made by Rules Committee and/or Board of Directors in their sole discretion. All decisions by Rules Committee and or Board of Directors are final and are not subject to further challenge by participants. thebigrock.com thebigrock.com BIG ROCK | 115


KELI WAGNER LADY ANGLER TOURNAMENT

Sponsored by:

REGISTRATION FORM Please Complete Form in Detail & Sign Has this boat fished in this tournament before?  Yes  No Boat Name ______________________________________________

**Based on 100 boats 15% of fees retained by tournament.

____________________________________________ Pay Prize Money To [Winner]

Make and Length ________________________________________ Winner’s Address _____________________________________ City, State, Zip ________________________________________ Owner’s Address ________________________________________ Phone ________________________________________________ City, State, Zip ___________________________________________ E-mail Address __________________________________________

_______________________________________________________ Winner’s Social Security # or Federal Tax ID#

Name of Captain_________________________________________

_______________________________________________________ Where Docked During Tournament Boat Engine Type _____________________________________

Year-Round Contact Number_____________________________

After May 25, 2018, we strongly recommend that you register in person rather than mailing your form and entry fee.

LADY ANGLERS

Billfish Release per point system $10,625

Largest Wahoo $3,541.66 Largest Tuna $3,541.66 Dolphin Winner Take All $42,500 Billfish Winner Take All $42,500

Entry fees and/or participation are as follows:

Level I $500 Release and Gamefish

City, State, Zip ___________________________________________ Mobile Boat # for Emergencies __________________________

Total Entries $50,000 Amount to Charity $25,000

Largest Dolphin $3,541.66

Name of Owner __________________________________________

Captain’s Address _______________________________________

Prize Schedule

HMS Permit #__________________________ https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/permits-and-forms#

I, as entrant, do hereby RELEASE, DISCHARGE and HOLD HARMLESS Crystal Coast Tournament, Inc., its officers, directors and sponsors, whether individual or corporate, from any claim for damages to my person or property incurred by my participation in the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament. This release applies to all members of my crew and all parties fishing from my boat. By signing the entry form and paying my entry fee, I acknowledge that I have read this release and am bound by same. This release shall also be binding on my heir, executors, administrator, or assigns. I further do hereby acknowledge that I have read and understand the Rules of the Tournament and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions contained therein.

Signature: __________________________________

Name _____________________________________________________________ Name _____________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip _____________________________________________________ City, State, Zip _____________________________________________________ E-mail _____________________________________________________________ E-mail _____________________________________________________________

Level II $500 Winner Take All - Dolphin

Must enter Level I to enter Level II

L Level III $500 Winner Take All Billfish - Release Must enter Level I to enter Level III

Non-Fishing Team Charitable Donation

$250

Make Checks Payable to: Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament Mail Form & Payment to: Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament 710 Evans Street Morehead City, NC 28557

Name _____________________________________________________________ Name _____________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip _____________________________________________________ City, State, Zip _____________________________________________________ E-mail _____________________________________________________________ E-mail _____________________________________________________________

Please check which levels you are entering and add for

TOTAL:

$____________________

Name _____________________________________________________________ Name _____________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________

Rec’d by ______________________

City, State, Zip _____________________________________________________ City, State, Zip _____________________________________________________

Check # ______________________

E-mail ____________________________________________________ E-mail ____________________________________________________

Date __________________________

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60th Annual Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament

REGISTRATION

Please Complete Form in Detail & Sign Has this boat fished in this tournament before?  Yes  No

Boat Name _____________________________________________________________ Make and Length _______________________________________________________ Name of Owner _________________________________________________________ Owner’s Address _______________________________________________________ City, State, Zip __________________________________________________________ E-mail Address _________________________________________________________ Name of Captain________________________________________________________ Captain’s Address ______________________________________________________ City, State, Zip __________________________________________________________ Mobile Boat # for Emergencies _________________________________________ Year-Round Contact Number____________________________________________

Pay Prize Money To [Winner] ____________________________________ Winner’s Address _______________________________________________ City, State, Zip __________________________________________________ Phone __________________________________________________________ Winner’s Social Security # or Federal Tax ID# ____________________ _________________________________________________________________________ Where Docked During Tournament Boat Engine Type _______________________________________________________

HMS Permit # _____________________________________________________ https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/permits-and-forms# I, as entrant, do hereby RELEASE, DISCHARGE and HOLD HARMLESS Crystal Coast Tournament, Inc., its officers, directors and sponsors, whether individual or corporate, from any claim for damages to my person or property incurred by my participation in the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament. This release applies to all members of my crew and all parties fishing from my boat. By signing the entry form and paying my entry fee, I acknowledge that I have read this release and am bound by same. This release shall also be binding on my heir, executors, administrator, or assigns. I further do hereby acknowledge that I have read and understand the Rules of the Tournament and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions contained therein.

Signature _____________________________________________________________________ After May 25, 2018, we strongly recommend that you register in person rather than mailing your form and entry fee.

MAJOR SPONSOR

Level 1 Mandatory $2,500_______ Guaranteed Prizes First Release of the Gamefish Level Day Sponsored by: Sponsored by: $25,000 First Place Blue Marlin $10,000 Second Place Blue Marlin Release Sponsor: $ 6,000 Third Place Blue Marlin $ 5,000 First Release of Each Day $ 6,000 60th Billfish Released during week of the Tournament $ 5,000 Largest Gamefish for the week (Tuna, Wahoo, Dolphin) $ 3,000 2nd Place Gamefish for the week (Tuna, Wahoo, Dolphin) $ 2,000 Largest Gamefish Daily (Tuna, Wahoo, Dolphin) $ 1,000 2nd Place Gamefish Daily (Tuna, Wahoo, Dolphin) Level II Three Places 50/30/20 Largest Blue Marlin $1,500_______ Paid in 2017: Must enter Level I $99,450 First Place $59,670 Second Place $39,780 Third Place Level III Three Places 50/30/20 Largest Blue Marlin $5,000_______ Paid in 2017: Must enter Level I, II $301,750 First Place $181,050 Second Place $120,700 Third Place Level IV Winner Take All Blue Marlin Paid in 2017: $267,750 Winner Take All

$2,500_______ Must enter Level I, II, III

Level V Fabulous Fisherman’s First Fish Boated over 500 Pounds $5,000_______ Paid in 2017: Must enter Level I, II, III, IV $467,500 Level VI Winner Take All Largest Dolphin Paid in 2017: $137,700 Winner Take All

$1,000_______

Level VII Three Places 50/30/20 Weekly Release Paid in 2017: $139,187.50 First Place $83,512.50 Second Place $55,675.00 Third Place

$2,500_______

Level VIII Daily Release Winner Take All Paid in 2017: $48,520.83 Daily Winner Take All Each Day Level IX Outboard Three Places 50/30/20 Paid in 2017: $6,375 First Place Sponsored by: $3,825 Second Place $2,550 Third Place

Must enter Level I

Must enter Level I

$2,500_______ Must enter Level I, VII

$1,000_________ Must enter Level I

ENTRY FEE All Levels $22,500 *Excludes Level IX Outboard Level

Make Checks Payable to: Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament Mail Form & Payment to: Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament 710 Evans Street Morehead City, NC 28557

Total: _____________________ Rec’d by __________________ Check # __________________ Date ______________________ thebigrock.com BIG ROCK | 125


OFFICIAL RULES @fishhuntphoto

* 2018 changes are printed in red. 1. REGISTRATION - All boats must be registered with the Tournament Committee and entry fee paid to qualify for prizes and trophies. Any boat may be substituted during the week but must be registered with the Tournament Committee prior to fishing. Registration forms will be accepted at the Big Rock Office, the Saturday Captain’s Party or the Sunday Pig Picking. Any boat entered in the Big Rock tournament shall not be entered in another tournament simultaneously, except for 1) NC Governor’s Cup 2) Atlantic Billfish Championship and 3) King of the Hill. The tournament reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to deny entry to anyone for any reason. No entries or upgrades will be accepted after 9:00 am, Monday morning. 2. RULES MEETING - At least one person from each boat should attend the Captain’s Meeting for the Tournament, which is usually held on the Saturday evening prior to the first day of fishing. Regardless, all participants in the Tournament are responsible for knowing all Tournament Rules, including any changes to the Rules that may take place at the Captain’s Meeting. 3. ROD & REEL RULES - This is a rod and reel, hook and line tournament. Double line and leader combined may not exceed 40 ft; neither of which may exceed 30 ft. The following practices are illegal in this tournament: a) use of handline or rope attached to the line or leader; b) shooting, harpooning, or lancing; and c) the transfer of any participant from one boat to another to aid in the landing of the fish. 4. BOUNDARIES - All boats fishing in Tournament must fish between LORAN coordinates North 40275 and South 39200. All fish must also be hooked within those coordinates. 5. MANDATORY HOOK REQUIREMENTS - Non-offset circle hooks are mandatory when deploying natural bait or natural bait/artificial lures. “J” hooks are allowed on artificial lures only. 6. FISHING TIME AND LAYDAYS - No lines or teasers are permitted in the water before official fishing hours each day. Official time will be GPS time. Fishing days for all eligible boats shall be any four out of the available six days, captain’s choice. No single boat can fish more than 4 total days during the Tournament. Lay day forms may be submitted in person at the Big

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Rock Office, Hatteras Harbor Marina or electronically by taking a photograph of the form and emailing it to forms@thebigrock. com. Lay Day forms must be submitted prior to 9 AM on the day declared as a non-fishing day. There will be no exceptions on time. If a boat does not declare a day as non-fishing, the Tournament Committee will automatically count the day to be a fishing day for that boat. If you do not receive an email confirmation, please call tournament headquarters to confirm. 7. REPORTING - All billfish must be reported to TOURNAMENT HEADQUARTERS when hooked, lost, boated or released. Radio frequency shall be VHF CHANNEL 71 and alternate channel 78a. Fish hooked prior to or after fishing hours are not eligible. 8. RELEASE POINTS - Blue Marlin, White Marlin, Sailfish, Spearfish, and Hatchett marlin will receive 125 points. Blue Marlin will be scored at 400 points if the team provides indisputable video or photo evidence to the Rules Committee. In order to qualify for the 400 points, teams must turn in a Release Form in person along with the SD Card, Micro SD Card or Compact Flash Card from their camera. Forms and Media Cards can be turned in at the Official Weigh Station in Morehead City or to the tournament representative at Hatteras Harbor Marina. The Media Card and Release Form must be turned in no later than 10:00 p.m. on the day fish is released to qualify. The Media Card must show continuous video or a clear single photo of the mate touching the leader and clear and indisputable evidence that the fish is a blue marlin. It is the responsibility of the participants to ensure that their camera’s Clock/Date is set accurately to reflect the time and date of the Releases to qualify for the 400 points. All videos will become property of the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament. In the event that the rules committee is unable to see indisputable evidence that the fish is a blue marlin, the release will be scored at 125 points. The tournament will NOT allow photos or video from cell phones. All other released fish must be attested to by signature of the captain and mate or angler on board the boat at the time of the release on the Official Release Form provided by the Tournament Committee. This form may be submitted to the OFFICIAL WEIGH MASTER AT TOURNAMENT HEADQUARTERS, Hatteras Harbor Marina or submitted electronically. Release forms must be turned in no later than 10:00 p.m. on the day the fish is released to qualify. Other than blue marlin, billfish forms


may also be photographed and emailed to forms@thebigrock. com. If you do not receive an email confirmation, please call tournament headquarters to confirm. Release reports will be taken over the phone from the reporting station personnel to the Tournament Headquarters staff each morning of the tournament. The forms will then be forwarded to the Tournament Headquarters by the reporting station for verification. In the event of ties, the first boats to achieve the winning totals shall be declared the winners. 8. QUALIFYING BLUE MARLIN - To be eligible for prize money, a blue marlin must weigh at least four hundred pounds or measure at least one hundred and ten inches. In the event of a tie by weight, the marlin having the largest total measurement of girth plus length shall be declared the winner. Length shall be measured from the V-notch in the tail to the tip of the lower jaw. Additionally, all fish must adhere to State and Federal Fisheries regulations to qualify for prizes in this tournament. In the event a blue marlin does not meet these qualifications, the fish will be disqualified, and the boat will be penalized four hundred pounds from the weight of the largest blue marlin weighed in by the boat during the week. In addition, a penalty of four hundred points will be taken away from the total of release points accumulated by said boat. No official weigh slip will be given for any disqualified fish. In the event a blue marlin is boated or gaffed, the fish shall be presented at the official weigh station; if not presented the 400 point penalties will incur. A fish is boated when any portion of the gaff or fish breaks the plane of the boat. The weigh master has the right to refuse any fish in his sole discretion. 9. RELEASE POINTS FOR Levels VII and VIII - Cash prizes will be awarded to the boats that score the most number of points first. To be considered a release, the crew cannot have attempted to boat or gaff the fish. In order for a billfish to be counted as a release, a member of the fishing team or crewmember must touch the leader. A fish is boated when any portion of the gaff or fish breaks the plane of the boat. 10. LEVEL V $5000 - The Winner of this level will be the first blue marlin reported and boated weighing 500 lbs. or more. Qualifying fish must meet all Tournament Rules. All boats participating in this level must be entered in Levels I, II, III and IV of the Tournament. IF NO QUALIFYING FISH IS WEIGHED IN, THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF PRIZE MONEY WILL BE PAID TO THE BOAT ENTERED IN THIS CATEGORY ATTAINING THE MOST RELEASE POINTS. 11. OUTBOARD LEVEL $1000 - Entry in this level is restricted to outboard boats only. No inboards, inboard-outboards, jet powered or airboats permitted. No sailboats permitted. Any hybrid or combination engine boat will not be eligible for prizes in this level. To be eligible for prize money, a blue marlin must weigh at least 400 pounds or measure at least 110”. If no blue marlin are caught, the winners will be determined by release points. If no billfish are caught or released, winners will be determined by the largest gamefish , (yellowfin tuna, dolphin, wahoo). Prize money for the Outboard Level is a guaranteed purse of a minimum of $10,000. Prizes will be divided as follows: 50%/first place, 30%/second place and 20%/ third place or 60/40 for two places. Winners may be polygraphed (See Rule #19). All other Big Rock rules are enforced for this level. Entrants must enter Level I and may enter additional levels as stated in Big Rock rules. 12. FEDERAL AND STATE REGULATIONS - All vessels and participants shall comply with North Carolina and Federal Fisheries laws and regulations regarding fishing licenses, vessel permits, fishing gear, season size limits and bag limits. Partici-

pants shall also adhere to all Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament rules as contained herein. 13. GAMEFISH - Winning gamefish will be determined by weight. In the event of a tie, the winner will be determined by the first fish weighed-in. Fish must be in fresh edible condition and fit for human consumption. All gamefish must be weighed in the day they are caught. Hookup time for gamefish should NOT be reported to Tournament Headquarters. Level VI - “Winner take all - dolphin” prize money will rollover to the next year’s tournament if no qualifying fish is weighed. 14. WEIGH-IN - All blue marlin and gamefish eligible for prizes must be off-loaded and weighed at the official Tournament weigh station from the boat landing the fish unless authorized by the weigh master at the weigh station. The fish must be entered on the official entry form by the Tournament weigh master. Blue marlin take priority over gamefish at the scales. The same scales and weigh station will be used for all fish including those entered in the Governor’s Cup Series. Gamefish scales will close at 7:00 p.m. during the week and 6:00 p.m. on Saturday. The weigh station is located on the Morehead City Waterfront. All billfish weighed in shall be donated for research. The weigh master has the right to refuse any fish in his sole discretion. 15. PRIZE PAYOUT SCHEDULE - Prize money checks will be made payable to the person or entity so indicated on the registration form of the winning boat. Social Security number or Taxpayer I.D. number of the recipient must be provided on the entry form. All undisputed funds will be distributed 10 days after the tournament. 16. PROTEST - Any protest by any participant against the catch of another must be submitted in writing to the Tournament Rules Committee. Any protest must be received by 9:00 a.m. on the day following the catch of the disputed fish and by 7:00 p.m. on the last day of the tournament. Any member of the Rules Committee or the weigh master (in their sole discretion), retains the right to hold and keep any fish deemed questionable by him with respect to being qualified for any prize or cash award. If retention of the fish is refused, the fish is automatically disqualified. 17. DISPUTE RESOLUTION – A protest by one participant against the catch of another must be submitted in accordance with Rule 16. All other disputes, controversies, or claims of any kind arising out of or relating to the Tournament (hereinafter, “dispute” or “disputes”), including, but not limited to, all disputes concerning decisions by Tournament Officials, Boards, or Committees, must be submitted in writing to the Rules Committee no later than 5:00 p.m. on the last fishing day of the Tournament. Failure to submit any such disputes in writing by that date and time shall constitute a waiver and release of any and all such disputes. In the event of any dispute arising out of or relating to the Tournament in any way, the interested parties shall use their best efforts to settle such dispute by mutual agreement. To this effect, responsible, authorized representatives of the interested parties shall meet, consult, and negotiate with each other in good faith (with or without a third-party mediator, as they may choose) and attempt to reach a mutually satisfactory solution. In the event they do not reach such a solution within a period of five (5) days after the first notice by any party to any other of the existence of the dispute, then without waiving any other provisions in these Rules concerning the absolute discretion and finality of decisions made by the Tournament Officials, Boards, or Committees, the sole and exclusive means for resolution of any dispute shall be the procedures set forth below: thebigrock.com BIG ROCK | 127


a) The dispute shall be submitted to arbitration under the North Carolina Revised Uniform Arbitration Act, Chapter 1, Article 45C of the North Carolina General Statutes. b) All negotiations, mediations, and arbitration hearings shall take place in Morehead City, North Carolina, or such other places the interested parties may agree upon in writing. c) The arbitration shall be conducted by a single arbitrator who is a retired North Carolina state or federal judge or an attorney whose practice experience includes commercial litigation. The arbitrator must be a resident of the State of North Carolina. In the event the interested parties cannot agree upon an arbitrator, the decision shall be made by a Resident Superior Court Judge of Carteret County, North Carolina. d) Prior to any arbitration hearing, limited discovery shall be permitted for the purpose of obtaining production of documents and taking depositions. All discovery shall be governed by the North Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure. All issues regarding discovery requests shall be decided by the arbitrator. All discovery shall be completed within 90 days after the selection of the arbitrator; provided, however, that the arbitrator shall have the authority to extend or reduce the time for discovery in a manner consistent with a general desire for expedited resolution of the dispute. e) All fees and expenses for the arbitration shall be borne by the parties equally. However, each party shall bear the expense of said party’s own counsel, experts, witnesses, and preparation and presentation of proofs. Only in the case of extreme abuse of the procedure may the arbitrator reallocate such costs and expenses among the parties. f) Any arbitral award may be enforced by an action in the Superior Court of Carteret County. The terms and conditions of this Agreement shall be construed, interpreted, and enforced under the laws and judicial decisions of the State of North Carolina, notwithstanding any principle of conflicts of law. In the event any part of this Agreement shall be declared illegal, invalid, or void, such declaration shall not affect the validity of any of the other terms or provisions of this document. 18. WEIGHT ALTERATION - Attempted weight alteration of any blue marlin or gamefish will be subject to disqualification and automatically disqualify the boat from the tournament. IGFA rules apply regarding mutilated fish. The Rules Committee reserves the right to cut open any fish for inspection of suspected weight altering efforts such as inserted weights, ice, water, etc. 19. POLYGRAPH - Polygraph Tests shall be administered to the top money winners, release winners, (captain, mate and/ or angler) and others as deemed necessary by Tournament Officials. Participants must make themselves available for polygraph testing in Carteret County within 24 hours following notice from Tournament Officials. Individuals that are required to take the polygraph test must not consume alcohol or any controlled substance within eight hours prior to the test. A participant’s refusal to take a polygraph test or failure to answer test questions in a manner satisfactory to Tournament Officials, in their sole discretion, may result in disqualification. By entering the Tournament, participants consent to the admissibility of polygraph results in any dispute or proceeding arising out of the Tournament. 20. WITHDRAWAL FROM THE TOURNAMENT - No Level I fees will be refunded. 100% of all other levels will be refunded 14 days after the tournament and following collection and clear-

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ing of all funds paid. All refund requests must be received in writing by 12:00 noon Sunday prior to the tournament at Tournament Headquarters. 21. REFUNDS – In the event that no qualifying fish are caught, the prize money will be handled as follows: Level I entry fees will be retained by the tournament. Level III and Level V prize money will be paid to the boat achieving the highest number of release points entered in that level. All other entry fees will be retained by the tournament and added to the following year’s purse accordingly. 22. VIOLATION OF RULES - Any boat violating any of these Tournament Rules or any boat containing a participant violating any of these Tournament Rules is subject to disqualification from the Tournament (unless another sanction for a particular violation is expressly set forth herein). By participating in the Tournament, all participants acknowledge that all Tournament Rules are material and that disqualification is a permitted and appropriate sanction for any violation of any Tournament Rules. Decisions regarding the interpretation of Rules, violation of Rules, penalties, and the suspension of any Rules or penalties will be made by Rules Committee and/or Board of Directors in their sole and absolute discretion. All decisions by Rules Committee and/or Board of Directors are final and are not subject to further challenge by participants. 15% OF FEES RETAINED BY TOURNAMENT EXCEPT FOR LEVEL I. (SEE PRIZE SCHEDULE FOR LEVEL I) For clarification or any questions, contact: Crystal Hesmer, Tournament Director, Cell 252-241-1515 710 Evans St., Morehead City, NC 28557 Office 252-247-3575, Fax 252-247-2392 director@thebigrock.com

Fishing Days Available fishing days and hours: (EDT) June 11, 2018 9:00 am-3:00 pm June 12, 2018 9:00 am-3:00 pm June 13, 2018 9:00 am-3:00 pm June 14, 2018 9:00 am-3:00 pm June 15, 2018 9:00 am-3:00 pm June 16, 2018 8:00 am-2:00 pm Scales close at 7:00 p.m. daily for gamefish, 6:00 p.m. on Saturday. Boats may fish four out of the six available fishing days. Rules Committee: Howard Basnight, Dale Britt, Dew Forbes, Randy Gregory, Randy Ramsey, Casey Wagner Committee Boat: To Be Announced Weigh Master: Randy Gregory Tournament President: Dale Britt Tournament Director: Crystal Hesmer Reporting Stations Tournament Headquarters (opens 6:00 am on fishing days) Hatteras Harbor Marina Entry Fees You must enter Level I before you can enter any other level.


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60TH ANNUAL

TOURNAMENT INFO SEA BAGS » All Seabags for Sponsors, Board Members and Anglers can be picked up beginning June 1, 2018 at Headquarters, 710 Evans Street. Big Rock bag will have 4 shirts, KWLA has 2. Additional shirts can be purchased upon registration. TOURNAMENT HEADQUARTERS RADIO » The Tournament Headquarters Radio will be dedicated all six days (9 am - 3 pm, Saturday 8 am - 2 pm) to manning the radio SSB Channel 4146.0 and VHF channel 71 with an alternate channel of 78a. Alternate boats (for emergencies) will be announced at the Captain’s Meeting on June 9, 2018 at 7:30 pm at Joslyn Hall on the campus of Carteret Coumminty College (next door to the Civic Center). All billfish hook-ups must be reported at the time of hook-up to qualify. You will not need to report gamefish hook-ups. However, we ask that you call the weigh-station to announce that you’ll be weighing in a gamefish at least 30 minutes prior to arrival. POLYGRAPH REQUIREMENTS » Polygraph Tests shall be administered to the top money winners, release winners, (captain, mate and/or angler) and others as deemed necessary by Tournament Officials. Participants must make themselves available for polygraph testing in Carteret County within 24 hours following notice from Tournament Officials. Individuals that are required to take the polygraph test must not consume alcohol or any controlled substance within eight hours prior to the test. A participant’s refusal to take a polygraph test or failure to answer test questions in a manner satisfactory to Tournament Officials, in their sole discretion, may result in disqualification. By entering the Tournament, participants consent to the admissibility of polygraph results in any dispute or proceeding arising out of the Tournament. Polygraphs will be administered at the Law Office of Mr. Roger Crowe on Hwy. 70 in Beaufort, NC. (See Map page 133). Appointment will be made either at the weigh station or by phone. Should the leader board change on Saturday, 132 | BI 132 BIG G RO ROCK CK thebigrock.com thebig the bigroc big rock.c roc k.com k.c om

June 16 (the last day of fishing) any newcomers to the top 3 positions must be polygraphed upstairs at the Civic Center beginning at 5:00 pm. REGISTRATION BY MAIL » Registration by mail must be received no later than May 25, 2018 by 5:00 pm. After that time you should register in person at Headquarters, 710 Evans Street with cash or check only. REGISTRATION/HEADQUARTERS » Tournament Headquarters is located at 710 Evans Street on the Morehead City waterfront (off Hwy. 70 East turn right on 8th Street see map). Hours are 9:00 am-5:00 pm. June 8 - 6:00 pm-9:00 pm Registration continues at Civic Center during Lady Angler Event outside entrance to the Civic Center. KWLA Captain’s Meeting upstairs 6:30 pm. June 9 - 6:00 pm-9:00 pm Registration continues at Civic Center during Captain’s Party outside entrance to the Civic Center. June 10 - 6:00 pm-9:00 pm Registration continues at The Boathouse at Front Street Village, Beaufort, for Pig Pickin’. (See map). June 11-16 Fishing Days, 9:00-3:00 Monday-Friday, 8:00-2:00 Saturday. BIG ROCK TICKETS CAPTAINS PARTY $75.00 PIG PICKIN’ $20.00 WEDNESDAY DINNER $20.00 AWARDS BANQUET $30.00 4 Tickets Level I 6 Tickets Level I & Level II 6 Tickets Level I & Outboard 8 Tickets for Entering all Levels

KWLA TICKETS LADY ANGLER EVENT $25.00 4 Tickets to Lady Angler Event for Entering Level I 2 additional tickets for Entering Level II 2 additional tickets for Entering Level III


AREA MAPS Lay and Play at the Beaufort Club June 11-16

Crystal Coast Civic Center Lady Angler Event Friday, June 8 Captain’s Party Saturday, June 9 Wednesday Dinner Wednesday, June 13 Awards Banquet Saturday, June 16

Tournament Headquarters & Weigh Station Registration, Daily weigh-ins Saturday, June 9 and Monday, June 11-16 Sunday Breakfast Sunday, June 10

Polygraph Site Roger Crowe Law Offices The Boathouse at Front Street Village Pig Pickin’ Sunday, June 10

Morehead City/Beaufort 1 Crystal Coast Civic Center 3505 Arendell Street 3 Polygraph Site Morehead City Roger Crowe Law Offices 2 Waterfront Headquarters & Weigh Station Hwy. 70 East (402 Turner 710 Evans Street Street) Morehead City Beaufort

The Inn at PKS Official Hotel

4 The Boathouse at Front Street Village 2400 Lennoxville Road Beaufort 5 Beaufort Club 300 Links Rd. Beaufort

Bailey’s Trunk Show Atlantic Beach’s Coral Bay Club Friday, June 15 11:00 AM-4:00 PM

Atlantic Beach/Pine Knoll Shores 6 The Inn at PKS 511 Salter Path Road Atlantic Beach

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TOURNAMENT

EVENT SCHEDULE JUNE 8-16, 2018

FRIDAY JUNE 8 6:00 pm-9:00 pm Lady Angler Event, Civic Center Best Dressed Contest Captain’s Meeting upstairs 6:30 pm

SATURDAY JUNE 9 8:00 am-2:00 pm 21st Annual Lady Angler Tournament

Event Sponsor

SATURDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY JUNE 9 JUNE 9 JUNE 10 Sunday Prayer 5:30 pm-7:00 pm 7:30 pm-8:00 pm Breakfast at Big Rock Sponsors Captain’s Meeting Landing - Time TBA Reception CCC at Joslyn Hall, next Sponsored by: Student Center, door to Civic Center. adjacent to Registration outside Civic Center. Civic Center 1:00 pm-5:00 pm Invitation Only Waterfront Registration 9:00 pm-11:00 pm continues Captain’s Dance 7:00 pm-9:00 pm 6:00 pm-9:00 pm Captain’s Cocktail Pig Pickin’, The Boathouse, Front St. Party Entertainment by:

Right to Party Trophy Sponsor

Catered by: Major Sponsor

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Village, Beaufort

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JUNE 11TH - JUNE 16TH Beaufort Club’s Big Rock Lay & Play Tournament

Big Rock participants are invited to play in the Beaufort Club’s Big Rock Lay & Play Tournament! Make the most of your lay day and play our championship 18-hole course located 7 miles from the Big Rock landing. Teams of four will compete to win 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes as well as bragging rights until next year! Sign up by calling the pro shop (252-728-5525) and making your tee time. Be sure to mention you are a Big Rock team when you call! Turn in your scorecards at the end of the round and the winners will be announced on Saturday, January 16th at the end of the week. Players must be in teams of four, all four players must be participants in the Big Rock, and all scorecards must be turned in by 4PM on Saturday. Entry fee is $40 per player and includes your cart and range balls.

ENJOY AT ALL TOURNAMENT EVENTS

MONDAY JUNE 11-16 Begins 6 Days of Fishing, 2 Lay Days Required - Captain’s Choice

WEDNESDAY JUNE 13 7:00 pm-10:00 pm Smithfield Foods Pork Chop Night Crystal Coast Civic Center

Daily Weigh-Ins Monday thru Saturday

Co-Sponsored by:

FRIDAY JUNE 15 11:00 am-4:00 pm Ladies Luncheon Coral Bay Club Bailey’s designer trunk show. 10% of all proceeds will be donated to the KWLA Tournament.

SATURDAY JUNE 16

7:00 pm-10:00 pm Awards Cocktail Party, Dinner & Auction Crystal Coast Civic Center

Sponsored by:

ALL WEEK LONG

Beautiful jewelry and clothing sold at all major events and at weigh station weather permitting. Come ready to shop for every gift giving occasion.

8:00 pm-11:00 pm Free Concert featuring Spare Change Big Rock Landing

710 Evans Street Morehead City. Approx. 4 pm (Sat. 3 pm.) See map page 133

thebigrock.com Pork Chops by:

Sponsored by:

Visit us on the web for daily up to the minute standings during tournament week. Listen to the live hook-ups via the audio and view the weigh-ins live with emcee Rich Cowell, all starting on Monday, June 11, 2018. thebigrock.com thebig the thebigrock.com bigroc big rock.c roc k.com k.c om BIG BIG RO ROCK CK K | 139 139


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ROCKN’ SHOTS FROM THE AWARDS BANQUET

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FAVORITE FISHING SPOTS

COORDINATES

Pelletier Harbor Shops 4426 Arendell Street Morehead City, NC 28557 252.247.5263

210 ROCK

27069.7

39493.1

PAPOSE

27074.0

39431.1

SUBMARINE

27063.5

39491.5

NAECO

27065.6

39387.5-86.8

S.E. NAECO

27035.0

39391.0

1700 ROCK

27043.0

39709.8

D WRECK

27042.5

39740.8

SHAD WRECK

27025.3

39724.2

ATLAS TANKER

27023.6

39721-5-9

FAR E. TANKER

26981.3

39788.9

KNUCKLE

27061.2

39618.7

RUSSIAN WRECK

27037.1

39617.6

N.E. BIG ROCK

26984.2

39593.5

1400 LINE

27936.0

39890.5

WWI WRECK

27067.7

39463.2

SEA BUOY

27113.2

39668.7

TRAWLER

27092.3

39633.3

13 BUOY

27146.1

39550.1

ROCK SOUTH

27134.3

39470.0

SOUTH WRECK

27143.2-6

39524.3

FEWNWICK ISLE

27064.0

39607.9

1ST N.W. PLACE

27090.4

39577.6

2ND N.W. PLACE

27089.1

39574.8

3RD N.W. PLACE

27089.1

39570.0

LITTLE 10

27081.1

39560.6

BIG 10

27079.6

39555.2

14 BUOY

27040.5

39572.4

N.E. ROCK

27037.2

39595.4

S.E. 14

27032.8

39577.1

190’ FROM 14

27031.5

39543.1

N.W. OF W. ROCK

27077.4

39521.7

WEST ROCK

27072.1

39515.7

240 ROCK

27079.1

39515.7

SWANSBORO

27189.7

39546.1

45 MIN. ROCK

27176.0

39511.2

KEYPOST ROCK

(IN)27178.4

39567.4

SEA BUOY

(OUT)27177.4 39563.7 EAST ROCK

27159.0

39561.4

CHRISTMAS ROCK

27182.3

39393.8

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SHOW YOUR BIG ROCK PRIDE! Big Rock License Plates are now available to order online!

$20.00 of all license plate sales go towards our charities.

ORDER YOUR PLATE TODAY AT https://edmv.ncdot.gov/VehicleRegistration/SpecialPlate 146 | BIG ROCK

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BIG ROCK’S

PREVIOUS WINNERS 1957 143.5 pounds MARY Z Jimmy Croy LaGrange, NC First Marlin landed off Morehead, caught aboard Bill Olsen’s Mary Z 1958 428.5 pounds DOLPHIN C.L. Safrit Salisbury, NC 1959 397.25 pounds BUNNY TOO J.D. Rivers Durham, NC

1962 487 pounds SEA HAG Dr. Leroy Allen Raleigh, NC

1969 495 pounds DOLPHIN 1 Leland Pribble Madison Heights, VA

1976 575 pounds RESTLESS V Bob Donovan Rockville, MD

1983 459.8 pounds PROMISES TOO Ken McLeskey Virginia Beach, VA

1963 420 pounds BOLO JR. Calvin Koonce Raleigh, NC

1970 476 pounds REEL KING “Bump” Styron Morehead City, NC

1977 636 pounds SEA BUSTER Rusty Cutshaw Morehead City, NC

1984 720 pounds OUTLAW Brad Gillam Windsor, NC

1971 377 pounds ALPHA D’AMOUR Carroll Ballou Morehead City, NC

1978 604 pounds KELLY BEAN Mark Mason Greensboro, NC

1985 534.5 pounds SEA HAG Bruce Young Raleigh, NC

1972 487 pounds WAHOO Lance Harris Springfield, VA

1979 376 pounds SEA MINT Jim O’Daiell

1986 608.5 pounds SHEARWATER Susan Mac Rae Sneads Ferry, NC

1973 530.5 pounds SEA TRAMP John Waldin Charlotte, NC

1980 390 pounds JET STREAM Margaret Adams Winston-Salem, NC

1987 576 pounds MIDNIGHT HOUR James Edmonds Arlington, VA

1974 451 pounds C’EST LA VIE L.B. Britton, Jr. Ahoskie, NC

1981 432 pounds FLYING FISH Tom Barnes Wilson, NC

1988 440 pounds O FOUR Randall Link Virginia Beach, VA

1975 481.5 pounds YELLOW BIRD IV Richard Miller Rumson, NJ

1982 398.25 pounds MARLIN DARLIN T. Teeter Morehead City, NC

1989 513 pounds DIAMOND GIRL Denard Harris Charleston, SC

1964 427 pounds DOLPHIN Curt Seifart Charlotte, NC 1965 No Fish Landed During Tournament

First Fabulous Fisherman’s Blue Marlin Tournament 1960 1960 390.5 pounds BUNNY TOO Carroll Williams Petersburg, VA 1961 474.5 pounds TOM N’ JERRY J. Duckett/W., Turner Cherry Point, NC 148 | BI 148 BIG G RO ROCK CK K thebigrock.com thebigrock.com thebig the bigroc big rock.c roc k.com k.c om

1966 245 pounds BUNNY TOO Ivan Mercer Charleston, SC 1967 350 pounds DOLPHIN Rufus English Lynchburg, VA 1968 538 pounds RED SNAPPER Jerry Fulford Washington, NC


1990 717 pounds TOP DAWG Dub Jones Seabrook Island, SC 1991 637 pounds LOCOMOCEAN Jimmy Zeigler Richmond, VA

1995 400 pounds SEA STRIKER Rex Johnson 1996 535 pounds THE GIRL NEXT DOOR Russell Orenstein

2000* 831 pounds SUMMERTIME BLUES Ron Wallschlager Kiawah Island, SC 2001 515.5 pounds SEA STRIKER Vince Johnston Morehead City, NC

1992 514 pounds OUTLAW Bob Smith Hatteras, NC

1997 646 pounds OCEAN YACHTS 48 Norm Schaeffler Virginia Beach, VA

2002 541.5 pounds SAMANNA Kent Copeland Kill Devil Hills, NC

1993 759 pounds CHASER Kathy Keel Edenton, NC

1998 564 pounds WASTE KNOT Karl Knudsen Raleigh, NC

2003 677 pounds PIPE LAYER J.F. Pedersen, Jr. Jim Pedersen Hollywood, SC

1994 649 pounds SALTY FARE Bob Waren

1999 600 pounds DANCIN’ OUTLAW David Wood Harkers Island, NC

2004 555 pounds IMPULSE Donald Lane, Jr., Jay Hughes Atlantic Beach, NC

2005 529 pounds SIZE MATTERS Gigi Wagoner Frederick, MD

2010 528 pounds CARNIVORE John Parks Cape Carteret, NC

2006 501.5 pounds CHAINLINK Wes Seegars Goldsboro, NC

2011 652.8 pounds DOUBLE B Travis Stephenson Greenville, NC

2007 613 pounds BAK BAR Montukie Lewis Charleston, SC

2012 499.3 pounds FLY BUOY Todd Baxley Wilmington, NC

2008 640 pounds ARTEMIS Darryl Reyna Charleston, SC 2009 466 pounds SEA CREATURE Bobby Weeks Hatteras, NC

2013 465.3 pounds HATTERAS FEVER II Taylor Miller Raleigh, NC 2014 754.3 pounds INSPIRATION Bruce Brown Nags Head, NC 2015 680 pounds VIKING 62 Earle Hall Hampton, VA 2016 621.4 pounds ASHLEY LAUREN Doug Phillips Atlantic Beach, NC 2017 533.8 pounds RUN-OFF Matt Hanley Morehead City, NC

*Denotes Record

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BIG ROCK

RUN-OFF WINS HISTORIC 59TH BIG ROCK By Bruce Paul, Media Director During the run up to the 59th Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament, no one would have predicted Run-Off would run off to a historic victory. Run-Off captain Brian Harrington, Morehead City, and angler Matt Hanley of Glen Allen, VA, entered the 2017 Big Rock tournament having never fished together before. Their schedules had been so conflicted before the tournament they had only been able to practice a few fishing scenarios at the dock. Add to this the fact that Hanley had never reeled in a blue marlin before and you had what appeared to be a recipe for disappointment. Novice blue marlin anglers often make mistakes during their first turn in a fighting chair. But Run-Off first mate Marty Hiatt, Morehead City, proved to be a perfect agent to meld the efforts of Hanley and Harrington. For 92 minutes the trio worked in unison to land a 533.8-pound blue marlin on the 59th Big Rock’s opening day. This catch provided a wire-to-wire victory and cash prizes totaling $1,161,450.

“I just couldn’t be happier,” Harrington said shortly after the results became final. “I’m so proud my crew. We’ve had tremendous support. I have never ever in my life had anything even close to grasping what that ($1,161,450) would be like. That’s going to take some time to get used to.” Harrington’s record first-place prize was part of an alltime record purse of $2,412,500. It’s a stunning total when you consider not so long ago, no one fished for blue marlins in NC coastal waters. The post-World War II economic boom that was changing much of America had not had much impact on Morehead City. Area residents scratched out a living as best they could. Those who fished worked close to the shoreline. As late as 1956, nobody had ever caught a blue marlin off the N.C. coast. In those days, when cargo ships stopped at the Morehead City port, sailors sometimes talked about seeing blue marlin not too far offshore. While most locals dismissed this as “bar talk,” a few wishful thinkers hoped the stories were true. (Continued on next page) thebigrock.com BIGROCK ROCK||| 153 thebigrock.com thebigrock.comBIG BIG ROCK 153


the N.C. coastline, it crosses a structure on the continental shelf called “Big Rock” from which the tournament takes its name. The Big Rock – which is not a rock at all – is a series of ledges, peaks and plateaus that covers an area about 8-10 miles long by 1 mile in width. It’s a haven for small reef fish – the type of fish that attract the larger fish that blue marlin feast on. It’s a microcosm of the oceanic food chain just a short distance from the Morehead City waterfront.

The crew of Run-Off, winner of 59th Annual Big Rock. These dreamers were members of Morehead City’s Fabulous Fishermen Club, a collection of local fishing enthusiasts who gathered at one of the waterfront cafes to share a story or two over a cup of coffee most mornings. Bob and Mary Simpson, Bill Strickland, Tom Potter and Dick Parker were all charter members of the club. They had all heard the fish tales and wondered how they could find out if it was true. Club members decided they needed the support of local business owners so they went around town asking merchants to ante up a cash prize to encourage the area’s novice charter boat industry to go further offshore. Parker, who had fished for billfish in the Caribbean, knew what a boon this would be to the waterfront’s fledgling charter boat business. They just had to entice someone to find these elusive fish. The prize money did the trick. Boats began to venture further and further offshore. Captains and anglers began reporting their own blue marlin sightings. Still, throughout the summer of ’57, no 154 | BIG ROCK

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blue marlins were caught. These summer failures finally gave way to one memorable autumn success. On Sept. 14, 1957, Raleigh angler Jimmy Croy, fishing aboard the Mary Z with Capt. K.W. “Bill” Olsen, landed a 143-pound blue marlin. This catch would forever change the face of fishing on the North Carolina coast. Olsen radioed back to the port and word of Croy’s catch spread throughout Morehead City. When the Mary Z finally pulled up to the dock, the boat and crew were greeted by a large group of supporters and a cacophony of blaring police sirens. An impromptu parade along the waterfront ensued. The main feature was a child’s red wagon filled with silver dollars. This first prize was presented to the Olsen and Croy. While no one knows exactly where Olsen and Croy made their historic catch, most think the lucky captain and angler reached the Gulf Stream, a warm-water current that bisects colder coastal waters about 40-60 miles south of the Morehead City’s port. As the Gulf Stream meanders north just off

While the Big Rock remained an underwater secret for much of the nation’s history, it’s now considered the premier spot for marlin fishing on the East Coast. Even though the Big Rock has provided more than $1 million to tournament winners for 20 straight years, it took more than 40 years of hard work by the Big Rock board of directors, volunteers and tournament organizers to reach this level of success. Early Big Rock events could hardly be considered tournaments. There were few rules and the competition was restricted to the members of the Fabulous Fishermen Club. Some of the early prizes resembled booty from a scavenger hunt. A 1965 newspaper article that detailed the winner’s prizes included a donated quart of varnish. Now the tournament has a permanent headquarters building at 710 Evans Street on the Morehead City waterfront. The sale of Big Rock T-shirts and other items goes on throughout the year. That’s because humble beginnings gave way to a huge growth in prize money that no one could have predicted. In 1974, the winning boat received just $800. Ten years later, the purse reached $70,000. Twelve years after that, the purse reached $743,000. Last year, the


THE ELUSIVE competition has topped $2 million and continues to grow with increased sponsorship and participation. Throughout the Big Rock’s growth, the tournament’s biggest asset has been the collective leadership of the Big Rock board of directors. The men and women who serve on the board act as stewards of the tournament. They have been instrumental to its rise in prosperity and popularity. They established rules that have been tweaked every year to ensure the competition is fair to all entrants. They’ve worked hundreds of hours to help the Big Rock flourish and grow, They have also pushed to establish conservation and competition standards that other tournaments now emulate. As the Big Rock tournament grew, the Big Rock board made it a part of its charter to give back to the local community. The Big Rock established a foundation that, over the years, has supported dozens of charitable organizations. Since 1988, more than $4.9 million has been donated to Big Rock tournament charities. Early on, the competition consisted of a handful of charter boats hoping to win a few dollars and the bragging rights that came with a Big Rock victory. Now, close to 1,000 captains, mates and anglers participate in a competition that represents some of the best marlin fishermen in the world. This year, every team will try to discover the same combination of teamwork, skill and luck that helped make Hanley’s inaugural blue marlin a huge addition to Big Rock history. Anglers will remember that RunOff didn’t run off the competition, but Harrington, Hanley and Hiatt battled hard and were lucky enough to hold a lead through six full days. This is the type of luck that all Big Rock competitors hope for and all Big Rock winners find.

BLUE MARLIN

The Blue Marlin is one of the largest game fish caught in the Atlantic Ocean. Individuals may exceed 13 feet and weigh over 1,300 pounds. The species is found throughout much of the western Atlantic, seasonally ranging in latitude from about 45°N to 35°S. There appear to be two seasonal concentrations, one from January through April in the southwestern Atlantic between latitudes 5° and 30°S, and the other from June through October, in the northwestern Atlantic between latitudes 10° and 35°N. Blue Marlin are most frequently caught off North Carolina, in the Gulf of Mexico, in the Caribbean Sea, and off Brazil. The body is dark blue to chocolate brown along the back and upper sides, changing to silvery white on the belly. On the sides there are approximately 15 pale blue vertical bars. Blue Marlin may be distinguished from White Marlin, Tetrapturus Albidus, by the dorsal and anal fins and by the fish’s size. The dorsal and anal fins of Blue Marlin are pointed, whereas White Marlin have rounded fins. The first dorsal fin of the Blue Marlin is much shorter relative to the body depth when compared to that of the White Marlin. Any marlin caught off the southeastern United States weighing over 150 pounds is almost certainly a Blue Marlin. Life history information on the species is scarce. Some generalities, however, may be made. Sexual maturity for males is attained when fish weigh about 76 pounds, 103 to 135 pounds for females. Blue Marlin spawn in the North Atlantic from July through September, and in the South Atlantic in February and March. The eggs and larvae are free floating. Longevity probably exceeds 15 years, although most fish caught are less than 10 years old. Age and size data are not available, but we do know that a Blue Marlin 4 feet long weighs about 44 pounds, one 8 feet long weighs about 319 pounds, and a fish 13 feet long weighs around 817 pounds. Blue Marlin feed on squid and a variety of pelagic fishes such as dolphin, tuna, mackerel, and flyingfish. Scientists argue whether the bill is used in feeding. However, divers have reported seeing marlins not only stun prey with their bills but also use them to spear fish. Impaled fish were dislodged by the marlin violently shaking its head, and then were swallowed. thebigrock.com

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• Escapada • Karlie Clothes • Vineyard Vines • Trina Turk • Mignonne Gavigan • Jack Rogers • Dolce Vita • Kendra Scott • Saltwater Luxe • Patagonia • Haley and the Hound • Buddy Love • BB Dakota • Loren Hope • Citizens of Humanity • Boho Beads • Barbour • Chocolat Blu • Tyler Boe • Southern Tide • Julie Brown • Jude Connally • Hobo the Original • Gigi New York • Misa Los Angeles • Crosby • Greylin •

and so much more!

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60TH ANNUAL

T-SHIRTS T-SHIRTS

This is the Big Rock’s 60th year and we are pleased to announce our Major Sponsor Jarrett Bay Boatworks. The 2018 T-shirt will be available in 8 colors; White, Black, Ocean Blue, Ice Blue, Neon Green, Bright Salmon, Banana and Blossom. Youth shirts are available in Light Pink, Ocean Blue and Lime. The 21st Annual Big Rock Keli Wagner Lady Angler Tournament shirt will be available in a crew neck White and Island Reef and a ladies cut v-neck in Helconia. Purchase online at thebigrock.com or at these area retailers: MOREHEAD CITY: Tournament Headquarters, Dee Gee’s Gifts & Books, EJW Outdoors, Gloria’s Hallmark, Wal-Mart and Walgreens. ATLANTIC BEACH: Atlantic Beach Surf Shop, Capt. Stacy Gift Shop, Chasin’ Tails Outdoors, and Marsh’s Surf Shop. BEAUFORT: Jarrett Bay Boathouse, Kitty Hawk Kites, BP Zingo Express, NC Maritime Museum and The General Store. EMERALD ISLE: The Reel Outdoors. HATTERAS: Hatteras Harbor Marina and Kitty Hawk Kites in NAGS HEAD. CAPE CARTERET: Walgreens. Additional locations are Bannister Gifts in La Grange, EZ Bait & Tackle in Goldsboro, Neuse Sport Shop in Kinston, Springhill Outfitters in Selma, and From the Heart in Goldsboro.

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ROCKN’ SHOTS OUR STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS

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OYSTER

BELLE

AT S E V E N T H A N D A R E N D E L L

The Big Rock

FOUNDATION

The Crystal Coast Tournament, Inc. dba, The Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament has established a new 501 (c) (3) charitable organization known as The Big Rock Foundation, Inc. This entity is a wonderful vehicle for participants and the public to make tax-deductible contributions to a fund, which will support Big Rock charities on a sustaining and ongoing basis. “The tournament has always had participants who want to contribute to the charities we support, especially after a win” commented Joy Bell, Big Rock board member. “Lonnie Poole contributed $14,000 to our charity fund after his win in 1998 allowing the tournament more funds to help the victims of Hurricane Floyd that following fall. It is another way of giving back to those who are less fortunate”, Joy explained. In 2017, Arthur Kontz made a $25,000 donation to the Foundation. The Big Rock appreciates any support you could contribute both during the tournament and all year through. Please make check payable to “The Big Rock Foundation, Inc.” 710 Evans Street Morehead City, NC . 166 | BIG ROCK

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PLATIN NUM DO ONORS $50,0000 GOLD DONORS $10,000 SILVER DONORS $5,000 BRONZE DONORS $2,000


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IN MEMORY OF...

Donald Ray (D.J.) Patrick 10-22-67 ~ 11-12-17

D.J. was raised and lived most of his life in Greenville, NC. He was a graduate of Virginia Episcopal School (VES) and East Carolina University. D.J. worked in the construction industry for many years; however prior to this he was an avid offshore fisherman having been introduced to the sport at a very young age in the early 1980’s by the late Marvin Blount Jr. on his boat the LADY B. D.J. spent many years as a mate on charter boats in Morehead City NC, Hatteras, NC and Oregon Inlet, NC. In 1989, D.J. was the mate on Captain Howard Basnight’s charter boat, WAVE RUNNER where he and Captain Basnight were winners of the 1989 Swansboro Memorial Blue Water Tournament followed by a Grander in

Alexander Edward Ray White aka “Cheese”

the first Ducks Unlimited Band the Billfish Tournament - on August 12, 1989. The 1002 pound Blue Marlin remains the only Grander ever caught out of Carteret County. From Morehead City, D.J. went on to mate for Captain Rom Whitaker on the RELEASE in Hatteras for two seasons. He then moved to Oregon Inlet where he mated for Captain Bobby Croiswait on the RIGHT HOOK before a final season for Captain Brynner Parks on the SMOKER. Having mated and fished for many years along the North Carolina coast, D.J. was well known in the fishing community. He made many friends along the way but Captain DM Gray from Hatteras, NC was one of his closest and spent lots of time with D.J. in his final days. D.J.’s childhood friend, Jim Blount, who helped introduce him to offshore fishing was with him until the end. D.J. leaves behind a son, Tripp Patrick III. We miss you D.J.!

Scott Kelly 11-23-49 ~ 9-5-17

10-21-85 ~ 12-11-17

Alex was an avid fisherman from Greenville, NC and seen mostly fishing on the “Islander” with Bobby Schlegel. He loved marlin fishing, country music, and could mix a mean orange crush on the boat. Alex had a real love of Hatteras Island and was as good as gold. He will be missed… --Emery Ivey 170 | BI 17 170 BIG IG RO ROCK CK K thebigrock.com thebigrock.com thebig the bigroc big rock.c roc k.com k.c om

Scott Kelly loved to fish, from speckled trout to blue marlin he loved it all. Scott got involved with the NC Governor’s Cup back in 1991, Dale Ward asked for help in getting the hospitality together and Scott was all too happy to oblige. That opened the door for quite a few trips for the NC/SC Governors

Written by Howard Basnight and Jim Blount

Cup Shootout. Scott was always there making sure Dale had what he needed for a successful event. Over the years, this led to Scott helping with hospitality during Big Rock week, the Captains party, the weigh station, Wednesday nights at 70 West Marina back in the day and most recently the VIP sponsor party for The Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament. Scott fished the Big Rock with Earl Batts, and later on for several years with Bob Warren aboard the Honey Hush. Never quite knowing whether he would be back at the dock at the end of the day or in Hatteras for an “overnight”. Scott always had a joke, a story, a TAB and had never met a stranger. Scott will be missed, however, he and Dale Ward are together telling fish stories


Robert “Bob” Simpson 9-18, 25 ~ 3-28-18

Bob Simpson, one of Big Rock Tournaments Founders, has died at 92. Bob Simpson had a vision of boosting the economy by highlighting fishing on the Crystal Coast. 60 years later his idea has turned into the largest tournament of its kind in the United States. Director Crystal Hesmer says “It is with great sadness we have lost another member of the original “Fabulous Fishing Club.” Bob Simpson was a visionary and worked tirelessly to create what is now the “Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament.” He was told it was impossible and he persevered. We were so excited to have him as part of our 60th anniversary celebration and it will not be the same without him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family.” Simpson was a part of the Fabulous Fishing Club that created the original tournament. “Up until then we had never caught any marlin. Then a blue marlin drifted up on the beach. We had been talking about marlin and I was convinced there were blue marlin off here,” explained Simpson in a prior interview. The club decided to offer local captains a cash prize to land a blue marlin. However, there were no sign of marlin that summer. The first blue marlin was landed more than

a year later in the fall of 1957. And the rest is history. The tournament has grown beyond what Simpson ever imagined with a two-million-dollar purse and international following. Simpson was the longtime owner of the famed “Sylvia II.” She operated out of the “Sanitary” as a charter boat before she sank during the “Great Ground Hog Day Storm” of 1976. Bob bought her for the princely sum of $300 as documented in his book “When the Water Smokes.” Syliva is known as the oldest fishing boat on the Carolina Coast. In 2006, Simpson was inducted into the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, North Carolina’s highest civilian honor. During the 1960’s he was instrumental in building support for the creation of the Cape Lookout National Seashore and even provided the first tours to politicians in his WWII amphibious vehicle. His

influence on today’s Outer Banks and the Crystal Coast is absolutely undeniable. “You know, I’m proud of what we did,” Simpson said in a prior interview. “And I’m proud of all those people who worked with us and after us because they stepped up to the bat. We were told it was impossible – and we did it.” Simpson will be greatly missed by our Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament family. We are forever grateful for the time we spent with an amazing angler, businessman, writer and former United States Marine.

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Russell W. Dement Jr.

James “Jim” Stevens, Sr.

James R. “Jimmy” Bullock, Jr.

3-17-17

5-29-46 ~ 5-13-17

6-15-48 - 9-1-17

Last Spring, Russell W. DeMent, Jr. passed away. Russell was known as one of the best Criminal Attorney’s in North Carolina. Russell was a true Southern Gentleman. His passion for the Law was as great as his passion for outdoor activities. He was an avid Hunter, Boater and Fisherman. He has fished and participated in the Big Rock for decades. He always had a smile on his face and thought it was never too rough to fish. Once, in the early 90’s he chose to fish on the second day of the Tournament where only two other boats went out. Seas were 10-13 feet and he was on his 31’ Bertram. A true Sportsman.

A true Big Rock fan, Jim supported the tournament as a sponsor for many years. Jim was co-owner of Security Solutions of America and also donated security officers for each year’s Captain’s Party. Jim firmly believed in Big Rock’s mission to give back to charity and aided that effort any way he could. Thank you Jim, for all you gave to Big Rock.

Kim W. Redd 1957 ~ 2017

Some people know from an early age what they would like to accomplish in life and Kim was one of these people. Her enthusiasm and marketing skills came along at the perfect time for Big Rock and help set the stage for its phenomenal growth. Kim was hired in 1986, initially as a marketing agent, but it became obvious she could take the lead as tournament director working her magic. The Big Rock Board of Directors gave her a fulltime position that she held for ten years until September of 1997. Kim’s leadership guided the tourna172 | BIG ROCK thebigrock.com

ment while her people skills increased participation and sponsorship. She will always be remembered for her many contributions to Big Rock and Carteret County .

Jimmy, a faithful Big Rock participant and sportfishing advocate, passed away on September 1, 2017. After college at Wingate University, Jimmy joined the Coast Guard and was assigned to Special Forces to protect President Richard Nixon at Key Biscayne, Florida. Following his military service, he returned to North Carolina to join his father’s business, Environmental Air Systems, which he later ran as president until 2015 when he retired. Jimmy and his family were regular participants in The Big Rock aboard his beloved boats – the Frequent Flyer and the Jester. He was a member and former director of the Hatteras Marlin Club. In 2012, after more than 20 years of continuous participation, Jimmy accomplished his goal of winning Club’s Blue Marlin Tournament, competing against some of the finest marlin fishermen in the country. In 2003, Jimmy won the World Cup aboard the Oppositional, angling a 647 lb. Blue Marlin. Jimmy generously invited many to join him on ventures to the Gulfstream, and was especially fulfilled to see young anglers catch their first billfish. Jimmy was a quiet and incredibly generous philanthropist, but was very vocal in garnering support for his favorite causes, including The Billfish Foundation to which he made a significant grant each year. Jimmy will be missed around the docks for years to come.


Good Luck and Tight Lines

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ADVERTISER’S INDEX 106.5 WSFL .............................................................................174 Airmar Technology Corporation ............................................137 Alexseal Yacht Coatings ................................................ 102-103 Amos Mosquitos ....................................................................169 Ann Paige ................................................................................150 Bacardi ......................................................................................12 Bailey’s Fine Jewelry ..................................................25,109,136 Barefoot Wines ........................................................................ 50 Bausch American Towers ....................................................... 60 Bayliss Boatworks ....................................................................87 Beaufort Club ........................................................................... 23 Beaufort Proper ..................................................................... 140 Bertam ...................................................................................... 77 Bistro-by-the-Sea....................................................................160 Bluewater Yacht Sales .............................................................27 Calcutta .....................................................................................15 Cheney Brothers .......................................................................52 Coastal Carolina Cutting Boards...........................................151 Collins, Inc. .........................................................................10,144 Contender/Starling Marine ....................................................124 Costa Del Mar ...........................................................................49 Crowe Law Firm ....................................................................... 48 Cummins ...................................................................................29 Damco .....................................................................................173 Dini’s Self Storage ..................................................................163 Downtown Barre ................................................................90,130 Eastbay Media ..........................................................................91 Edgewater Linen .....................................................................169 EJW Outdoors ...........................................................................21 Fences Unlimited ....................................................................167 Fish Monkey ............................................................................131 FishTrack ...................................................................................65 Garmin ...................................................................................... 45 Ginny Gordon’s ........................................................................130 Gregory Poole ..................................................................... 35,58 Haley and the Hound ..............................................................156 Harborside Specialty Shops ..................................................156 Hatteras Yachts ....................................................................... 99 Huk .............................................................................................85 Hwy. 55 Burgers, Shakes & Fries.............................................18 Island Proper ...........................................................................160 Island XPertees ........................................................................24 Jame’s Clothing, Accessories & Art......................................149 James River Equipment .........................................................147 Jarrett Bay Boatworks ............................................. 2-3,144,180 Linda Rike Real Estate ...............................................4-5,134,117

Liquid Video ..............................................................................16 Marina Casa De Campo .........................................................159 McQueen’s Interiors ...............................................................119 Michelob Ultra......................................................................... 8-9 Momentum Yoga & Fitness .................................................. 140 Morehead City Yacht Basin .....................................................36 Mt. Olive ................................................................................... 60 MTU - Western Branch Diesel ..................................................47 Napa ..........................................................................................14 NCCOAST Communications................................................... 58 New Visage .............................................................................150 Oyster Belle .............................................................................166 Paisley .....................................................................................158 Parker Auto Group .................................................................. 6-7 Paul Mann ................................................................................ 84 Pelagic ...................................................................................... 63 Pepsi - Minges Bottling Group...............................................157 RamJack .................................................................................118 Reel Time Apps.......................................................................158 Release Marine .........................................................................62 Remoline .................................................................................136 Salt Life..................................................................................... 53 Seakeeper .................................................................................59 Shimano Reels ..........................................................................19 Smithfield Foods ......................................................................28 Social House Vodka ................................................................ 64 SouthEastern Foundaries ......................................................161 Southern Frock ...................................................................... 177 Southern Wildlife Company .................................................... 90 Spencer Yachts .......................................................................179 Steve Goione .............................................................................51 TAP Agency .............................................................................141 Taylor Auction .........................................................................135 The Boathouse at Front Street Village ...................................26 The Flame................................................................................130 The Friendly Market............................................................... 177 The Inn at Pine Knoll Shores .................................................101 Tow Boats U.S. ........................................................................178 Town Creek Marina...................................................................86 Volvo Penta - Western Branch Diesel ...................................176 Waste Industries .......................................................................36 Wells Fargo .........................................................................13, 20 White & Allen Attorneys At Law .............................................129 Yamaha Outboards ...................................................................11 YETI ...........................................................................................61 Z&Z Designs............................................................................162 thebigrock.com BIG ROCK | 175


Good Luck Lady Anglers !

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