Vol 9, Issue 3 by Linda Fisher

速

VIKING 68: What leading edge engineering is all about. Family owned and operated for 44 years, our quality, performance and service is recognized around the world.

www.vikingyachts.com Route 9, On the Bass River - New Gretna, NJ 08224 - Phone: 609.296.6000 - Fax: 609.296.3956

BECAUSE QUALITY IS OUR REPUTATION.

Boat Division 2009 Viking

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Ricky Scarborough

Hatteras

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Venture

Motor Division 2009

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MTU/Detroit Diesel

Yamaha

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This award is presented annually to the top boat and motor manufacturing companies based on performance in over 60 tournaments on the WBS World Tour. The current standings are presented above.

TABLE

CONTENTS

“Supporting Tournament Sportfishing, Now and Forever” On the Cover Dawn brings the promise of another day of sportfishing excitement off Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. Photo by Robbie Carter

Departments 7 7 8 12

Editor’s Message Upcoming Event Calendar Industry News Caught On The WBS World Tour

Destinations: 16 Destination: Costa Rica From Flamingo and Tamarindo to the north down to Los Suenos, Quepos and Golfito, Costa Rica offers a wide variety of both offshore and onshore adventures.

Tournament Tales 24 PCCA Costa Rica One of tournament sportfishing’s most competitive series, the Presidential Challenge kicks off it’s 2009 season in Carrillo, Costa Rica.

28 Capt. Bob Lewis Billfish Challenge The Wound Up continues their winning ways in 2009.

Angler Profiles 41 Dan Poe 43 Eric Brush 45 Sari Turner

Inside the WBS 44 2009 Sponsors 45 2009 Standings 46 2009 World Tour Schedule

Billfishing Magazine

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Front Cover

FROM THE WBS

EDITOR’S

BILLFISHING

ME SSAGE

Spring is here on Florida’s west central coast at the home of the World Billfish Series—the azaleas are blooming, the fish are biting and all is right with the world. As we move past a successful Miami International Boat Show, the buzz in the marine industry seems to be one of cautious optimism. It’s a theme we heard over and over again from industry executives in Miami. Not surprisingly, many manufacturers reported having an above-average to outstanding Miami show this year, which is very important. Miami really is one of the bellwethers for the overall season to follow, so we’re off to a good start in 2009. Tournament participation seems to be on everyone’s mind as we move into the spring and early summer months on the WBS World Tour. With some big events like the Yamaha Contender Miami Billfish Tournament and the start of the Bahamas Billfish Championship coming up in the next few weeks, we’ll know more but most tournament directors are preparing for a drop in participation this year. However, so far this year the fishing has been very good around the world and that will certainly help tournaments attract more anglers—no one likes to spend their hard-earned cash just to stare at the baits for two or three days; we want action, and if it’s red-hot, we’ll want to be out on the water competing. And the emphasis is on packing as much fun into a tournament as possible. The directors that I’ve spoken to recently have really put an emphasis on reducing the hassles and amping up the fun, throwing beach barbeques, hosting additional nightly cocktail parties and loading up on value-added benefits for their participants. It’s a win-win situation for the participants. In this issue, there’s a great feature on beautiful Costa Rica, one of the sport’s finest destinations for both the fishing and the adventure. While a lot of focus has been on Los Sueños (and understandably so, it’s an awesome destination) there are some outstanding opportunities for the traveling angler throughout the Pacific coastline. So get out there and explore a bit, travel up to Flamingo or Carrillo or down to Golfito and the Osa Peninsula and see for yourself what this Central American paradise has to offer. Tournament sportfishing remains an immensely popular and tremendously enjoyable pastime that over 30,000 anglers around the world still pursue. We’re certainly not going anywhere any time soon, except maybe to say that we’re going fishing! See you on the docks,

The Official Publication of the WBS March 2009

Published monthly by SportsUSA Group, Inc. 9293 Bay Pines Blvd. St. Petersburg, Florida 33708 phone: (727) 864-4400 fax: (727) 867-1149 email: info@fishwbs.com

President & CEO James R. Simons Editor-in-Chief Sam White Creative Director Linda Fisher-Morgan World Tour Coordinator Robbie Carter Membership Services Kaela Morgan Administrative Director Jana E. Simons Destinations Editor Jeff Merrill

Special Contributors

Sam White World Billfish Series

Upcoming Events

APRIL 28 – MAY 2 BBC Central Abaco Championship MAY 7 – 10 Puerto Los Cabos Billfish Classic MAY 7 – 10 The Sailfish Tournament MAY 19 – 22 BBC Cape Eleuthera Championship MAY 22 – 25 Mobile BGFC Memorial Day Tourn. MAY 25 – 29 HMY-Boat Harbour Billfish Blast JUNE 2 – 5 BBC Boat Harbour Championship JUNE 3 – 7 Mississippi Gulf Coast Billfish

Bailey Bobbitt

Marty Locke

David A. Brown

Heather Maxwell

Robbie Carter

Kitty McGowan

Laurie Ciecierski

Jim Niemiec

Bart K. Davis

Bruce Paul

Capt. Rob Ellyn

John E. Phillips

Brenda Fletcher

Walt Rhodes

Rick Gaffney

Capt. Jim Sharpe

Greg Gawlikoski

Tom Twyford

Scott Kerrigan

Capt. Joan Vernon

Alaric Lambert

Eric West

Special Thanks to: All the companies, associations and individuals who give back to the sport of billfishing so that future generations can enjoy one of America’s favorite pastimes. Copyright © 2009, SportsUSA Group, Inc.

Order the WBS Tournament Calendar at www.FishWBS.com. Billfishing Magazine

INDUSTRY

NEWS

RECREATIONAL FISHING ALLIANCE ANNOUNCES NEW BOARD MEMBERS

n its ongoing efforts to build strategic alliances within the recreational fishing and boating industry while strengthening its representation of individual members, the executive board of directors for the Recreational Fishing Alliance has appointed seven highly qualified new members to begin two-year terms starting in 2009.

The seven newest members of the RFA executive board include Dean Travis Clarke, executive editor of Marlin and Sportfishing magazines; William “Jamie” Wilkinson, senior director of event operations at ESPN Outdoors; Phil Keeter, president of the Marine Retail Association of America; Dick Wood, president of Wood Advertising; Ken Ehlers, northeast representative for Lamiglas and Wizard Lures; Jim Motsko, White Marlin Open and Peter Harper, business solutions manager for GE Capital. The newest RFA “Directors at Large” join an RFA board that also includes RFA cofounder Bob Healey, chairman and CEO of the Viking Yacht Company; Jerry Straub Sr., chief financial officer of Viking Yachts; Patrick Healey, Viking Yachts; Anthony Hsieh, Crow’s Nest Yachts; Jim Simons, president and CEO of the World Billfish Series; Mike Leech, International Game Fish Association ambassador at large; and Mat Dunn, legislative director for the National Marine Manufacturers Association. "When we first incorporated back in 1996, the RFA’s goal was make positive changes in the way that our government manages our nation's saltwater fisheries by combining the voting power of a large grassroots membership with the economic power of the fishing industry," said Jim Donofrio, executive director of the RFA. “I’m proud to work on behalf of our national membership, and with the guidance and direction of this current board, I’m confident that we can properly address the marine fisheries issues that affect our recreational fishing community today. Following his recent appointment to the position of RFA’s managing director, Jim Hutchinson, Jr. resigned his position as

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member of the board. Hutchinson was originally appointed to the RFA executive board in 2006, but joined the RFA fulltime in February. “With the lineup of directors now in place, I think the sportfishing community is well-represented,” Hutchinson said. “I’m particularly excited about the newest board members because of their knowledge of saltwater fishing and awareness of the individual fishing communities along our coast.” As ESPN Outdoors’ senior director of event operations and business development, Wilkinson said it’s a great honor to serve on the RFA board alongside others who truly understand what’s at stake today within the recreational angling community. “If we are not willing to change the way we approach fisheries management, we will lose not only valuable species, but the tradition of recreational angling for future generations,” Wilkinson added. For Motsko, what’s become known today as the world’s largest billfish tournament nearly came to an end when federal regulators were looking to enact Endangered Species Act protection on white marlin, a drastic measure which would’ve permanently affected not only the White Marlin Open, but nearly all offshore fishing tournaments along the East Coast where similar fishing tactics are deployed for other species like yellowfin tuna or blue marlin. “Without the RFA and its lobbying efforts, we would not be fishing for white marlin now,” Motsko said. “I realized that having a voice in decision making within the government, and with the RFA's input, realistic regulations were formed that would allow the recreational fisherman to continue his or her favorite pastime.” The executive editor at the leading national fishing publishing group in the world, Clarke understands the need to unite business leaders with the individual anglers they serve. “The Recreational Fishing Alliance is a group of people with a com-

mon goal—protecting recreational anglers’ rights to fish,” explained Clarke. “Yes, indirectly it promotes fisheries conservation and responsible angling, but the RFA has as its main mission making sure that recreational fishermen are not shut out of the resource by more powerful interest groups.” For tackle representatives like Ehlers, the current economic climate is having an obvious effect on business. “I’ve been doing this for over 35 years, and this is about as bad as I’ve ever seen it,” said Ehlers who explained that heritage companies like Lamiglas and others will make it through the tough times, but wondered what will happen to fishing communities in general along the way. “My biggest concern is with the differing views within the fishing community,” said Ehlers. “I can’t help but think about this whole management mess we have in the Northeast, particularly with summer flounder regulations dividing the anglers of New York and New Jersey. You have 20 different groups arguing over 20 different views,” Ehlers noted, saying, “at some point you have to just have bring it all together, and I think the RFA can bring the unity we need.” Clark agreed that there’s strength in numbers, adding, “My efforts alone would be insignificant, but when associated with a group of like-minded individuals, we can move mountains. That’s why I agreed to become a board member of RFA.” The Recreational Fishing Alliance is a national, grassroots political action organization representing recreational fishermen and the recreational fishing industry on marine fisheries issues. The RFA mission is to safeguard the rights of saltwater anglers, protect marine, boat and tackle industry jobs, and ensure the long-term sustainability of our nation's saltwater fisheries. For more information or to join, call 1-888JOIN-RFA or go to www.joinrfa.org.

INDUSTRY

NEWS

U.S. HOUSE PASSES SHARK CONSERVATION ACT

he United States House of Representatives recently passed the Shark Conservation Act (H.R. 81) to strengthen the U.S. ban on the practice of shark finning and to encourage other countries to implement comparable regulations or face U.S. sanctions.

This is a major victory for these species because the fins-on requirement, which applies to all vessels landing sharks within the United States and its territories, would not only help enforcement of the U.S. shark finning ban but will also assist in the

identification of sharks, improving our understanding of these much maligned oceanic predators. The bill has now been referred to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, and must be approved by this committee before it can be voted upon by the full Senate. Ultimately, the support of the full Senate will be needed in order to see this bill enacted by the 111th Congress. For more information please visit the National Coalition for Marine Conservation at www.savethefish.org.

TREASURE CAY BILLFISH TOURNAMENT TO OFFER DISCOUNTS

he 26th Annual Treasure Cay Billfish Tournament, scheduled for June 7-12, 2009 is offering a special series of promotions to their anglers this year.

First, there is a guaranteed overall purse of $10,000 for ten boats participating and up to $50,000 for 50 boats, as well as a special optional tournament within a tournament. Participants registering by March 31, 2009 will receive three days of dockage (up to 60 feet) or three nights of standard rooms (upgradeable) at no additional charge. The entry fee of $2950 includes up to six anglers, boat entry, four dinners and cocktail parties, goody bag and room discounts. There are also fuel discounts available along with some great cash prizes for fun fish, a Hell’s Kitchen lay day dock party and a perpetual trophy engraved with the winner’s name.

NEW ADDRESS FOR TBF

he Billfish Foundation is moving—but not too far. Their new office is located in the northeast corner of Commercial Boulevard and North Federal Highway in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. All other contact information including P.O. Box, email addresses and phone numbers will remain the same.

Their new address is: The Billfish Foundation 5100 N. Federal Hwy, Ste. 200 Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33308

In a time when tournaments are becoming ever more competitive, these are some great incentives to fish in this outstanding event, located in the heart of the Abacos at Treasure Cay. It’s also a valuable part of the WBS Caribbean Division points race, so anglers doing well here will have a shot at qualifying for the WBS Grand Championships as well. Treasure Cay itself is one of the most beautiful resorts in the Bahamas, offering a long stretch of sandy beach in addition to a world-class golf course, SCUBA diving and watersports and three great restaurant/bars for the ultimate in relaxation. For more information, please email Sabine Kirchner at sabine@treasurecay.com or call 800-327-1584.

A.H. RIISE BVI BILLFISH TOURNAMENT POSTPONED

he A.H Riise BVI Billfish Tournament, a popular edition to the WBS Caribbean Division in the British Virgin Islands, has been postponed for the 2009 season. Citing an uneven economic forecast in the U.S. and decreased participation among the teams traveling within the region, the event organizers also pointed to a strong decline in the economy of Puerto Rico as another reason for the postponement. Due to its proximity to the British Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico historically provides a number of teams for the tournament, most of whom declined their invitations to fish this year. Event organizers hope to rejoin the WBS World Tour as early as next year. For more information on the WBS Caribbean Division, please visit www.fishWBS.com.

For more information on The Billfish Foundation, please visit www.billfish.org. Billfishing Magazine

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Enter the "Caught on the WBS World Tour" contest and win a new pair of Costa Del Mar sunglasses! 1

D0 you recognize anybody in the “Caught On WBS Tour” photo gallery?

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caught on tour the place to see your face 6

Win a new pair of Costa Del Mar sunglasses! See page 15 for more on the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Caught On WBS Tourâ&#x20AC;? Contest.

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Billfishing Magazine

caught on tour the place to see your face 17

Congratulations to our most recent contest winners: We need your submissions no matter how many faces you can put names to. Justin Roberts — Ocean City, MD Carla English — Rockford, IL

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“Caught On WBS Tour” Contest 22

The WBS Anglers Club member who correctly identifies the most people on pages 12, 13 and 15 by May 30, 2009 will win a pair of Costa Del Mar sunglasses. Send your entries—including photo number, names of individuals in photo, tournament name, and magazine issue—to sam@fishwbs.com, fax to 727-867-1149 or mail to WBS, 9293 Bay Pines Blvd., St. Petersburg, FL 33708. Please include your name, address, phone number and e-mail address. Fax, e-mail or mail entries only. Entries will be judged on individual identification first, tournament identification second. Any ties will be decided by time and date of entry. Billfishing Magazine

Like peeling back the layers of an exotic fruit, exploring the Pacific coastline of Costa Rica yields one beautiful vista after another, with enough sights, sounds and sensations to last a lifetime. Or at least until you can book a return flightâ&#x20AC;Ś 16

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n his fourth voyage to the New World, the intrepid explorer Christopher Columbus landed on the Caribbean side of Central America, where he found indigenous people who adorned themselves with gold—the name Costa Rica (Spanish for Rich Coast) was given to the area. However, the nation’s riches lie not in large deposits of gold or precious stones but in natural resources, a boon for the nation that was able to slip under the Spanish radar for centuries after its initial discovery. Its people were able to carry on without the exploitation and subsequent rule that followed in most other parts of Central America.

Today, that spirit of independence carries on in a nation that prides itself on a democratic way of life and a peaceful existence, having dodged the political turmoil that has plagued their neighbors in Nicaragua and Panama over the decades. Costa Rica’s military was abolished shortly after the Second World War, with those funds used instead for education and a cradle-tograve health care system that is widely respected around the world. The nation’s president and two vice-presidents are

elected to office every four years, ensuring a consistent turnover of leadership and inspiring fresh ideas. And while the land itself offers a fertile growing environment for a variety of valuable crops (coffee is the most important national export, followed by bananas, cattle, rice and flowers), the government has set aside large swaths of land in the form of natural parks and preserves in order to protect their most valuable assets in their natural resources. Costa Rica has just over 700 miles of coastline, most of which is located on the rugged Pacific coast. Two major peninsulas, the Nicoya in the north and the Oso to the south, add to the nation’s coastline and are home to additional national parks, land that is protected from over-exploitation. And while the true history of sportfishing in Costa Rica is a bit fuzzy, it’s clear that the early pioneers found excellent opportunities for a variety of gamefish, both inshore and offshore, and the nation’s sportfishing tourism industry was born. In recent years, Costa Rica has landed atop many an angler’s list of destinations due to the combination of outstanding action as well as plenty of activities back ashore, all found within the borders of a safe, stable and democratic nation. Ease of travel is another benefit for those Billfishing Magazine

While most of the planet is shivering in the grip of Old Man Winter, Costa Rica lies blissfully unaffected thanks to her Central American location. traveling from the United States, as the flights are frequent and relatively short in duration. It’s entirely possible to depart Miami in the morning and be hooked up to one of Costa Rica’s brawniest gamefish by mid-afternoon. Another significant Costa Rican attraction is the tropical weather. While most of the planet is shivering in the grip of Old Man Winter, Costa Rica lies blissfully unaffected thanks to her Central American location. There are two primary seasons here, the rainy, green season from May through November and the dry season from December through April. But don’t let

the names fool you—rain showers can be encountered at any time of the year, while even in the rainy season the sun shines brightly for most of the day with rain squalls for just a few hours in the late afternoons. In the capital city of San Jose and the surrounding Central Valley area, the temperatures remain a relatively constant 65 to 78 degrees year-round thanks to their altitude in the mountains, while at the coast it’s usually between 80 and 95 degrees.

No matter what location is chosen, visitors will find a wide selection of sportfishing operations available, from top-flight charters with the latest equipment to small outboard-powered center consoles and pangas. Both can provide outstanding action depending on the target species and budget, but it’s always a good idea to research charter operations well in advance to avoid being taken for a ride (literally) on a vessel that doesn’t meet your expectations. In order to help maintain healthy stocks of billfish for future generations, circle hooks are a mandatory requirement for billfishing off Costa Rica, and these crews have become experts in their use. Ballyhoo are a favorite bait, rigged to skip or swim depending on the

FOR MORE COSTA RICA

OWNING A SLICE

Location: North of the equator and between the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, bordered by Panama to the south and Nicaragua to the north.

Costa Rica’s laws and constitution include equal rights to both foreigners and Costa Rican citizens regarding property ownership. These rights in property ownership are for the most part unique to Costa Rica, where citizenship, residency or even a presence in the country is not a requirement for land ownership. In fact, there are almost no restrictions on ownership of land in Costa Rica with the exception of direct beachfront property. To a prospective investor, the receptiveness of the host nation is an important consideration and is especially true for real estate, and few countries in the world welcome foreign investment so openly as Costa Rica. Combined with a stable political and economic system and secure property rights, it’s a solid choice for those choosing retirement or investment properties.

Capital City: San Jose Land Area: 19,735 miles, slightly smaller than West Virginia. Population: Approx. 4.1 million Language: Spanish is the official language although English is widely spoken. Government: Democratic republic International Airports: Juan Santa Maria in San Jose, Daniel Oduber in Liberia Official Currency: the colon, although both dollars and international credit cards are widely accepted Entry Requirements: A valid passport is required for entry.

INFORMATION

Flamingo Marina Resort: www.flamingomarina.com

Villas Playa Samara: www.villasplayasamara.com Presidential Challenge of Central America: www.preschallenge.com Los Sueños Resort and Marina: www.lsrm.com Los Sueños Signature Series Tournaments: www.lstournaments.com Marina Pez Vela: www.marinapezvela.com

Billfishing Magazine

captain’s preference as well as the sea conditions, and when paired with a few hookless teasers, it’s a style of fishing that’s used throughout the country. Expect a larger bait like mullet or Spanish mackerel to be held in reserve on a larger outfit in case a marlin should suddenly appear. While it’s impossible to list every single destination within the country, there are several hotspots that really cater to the angler and adventurer. Let’s start by dividing the Pacific coast into thirds, with Flamingo, Tamarindo and Carrillo in the north, Jaco/Los Sueños and Quepos in the central, and Golfito and surrounding areas in the south.

Diving is also very popular here due to the water clarity and proximity to the action, with at least three dive shops and charter operations serving the Flamingo/Tamarindo area. The Catalina Islands, located directly offshore from Flamingo, are a top destination where visiting divers can swim with white-tipped sharks, manta rays and the occasional sailfish as well as the usual tropicals, with excellent conditions and visibility nearly year-round.

The northern reaches of Costa Rica are defined by a climate that’s both drier and windier than the rest of the country, although the winds usually don’t affect the fishing for the most part. In Flamingo, a popular destination for anglers is the Flamingo Marina Resort, situated on a hilltop overlooking Flamingo Bay and well-situated for easy access to both the international airport in nearby Liberia as well as the attractions of Guanacaste Province. Many of the region’s top boats call this area home, with the height of the offshore fishing taking place from April through December—the billfishing usually peaks around the summer months of June and July. Large numbers of Pacific sailfish are usually encountered during these months as well as good numbers of yellowfin tuna and dolphin, called dorado in Costa Rica. The fishing usually ranges from the Bat Islands to the north (near the Nicaraguan border) to well south toward Nicoya.

Flamingo is also located within an hour’s drive from seven of Costa Rica’s national parks and wildlife reserves (the Guanacaste region boasts more National Parks than any other province in the country) where guests can embark on excursions to explore active volcanoes, sulfur springs, caves, waterfalls and of course tropical forests replete with their exotic inhabitants. There are also two 18hole golf courses located just minutes away from the resort. Billfishing Magazine

A Bit Further South but still easily accessible from Liberia are the small coastal towns of Carrillo and Samara, both located a short distance from the anchorage at Carrillo Bay, the epicenter for the region’s sportfishing activity. From January through March, this area offers perhaps the best shot at a Pacific grand slam of three different billfish species in one day, with a super slam (four species) not uncommon. While Pacific sailfish are the mainstays of the action, there are enough striped marlin, Pacific blue marlin and black marlin to make for a very interesting day offshore for any bluewater angler. The run to productive fishing grounds is usually an hour or so, with the Cabo Blanco area to the southeast a top producer. There are no high-rise hotels here—accommodations tend to be much more laid-back and typically Costa Rican in nature. Carrillo is also home to the WBS-sanctioned Presidential Challenge of Central America, hosted by the Villas Playa Samara resort located right on the beach in Samara. With its 59 bungalowstyle rooms, long stretch of isolated beachfront, an excellent restaurant, enormous pool and swim-up bar, the Villas Playa Samara is a definite favorite among visiting anglers.

The World Billfish Series sanctions a number of Costa Rican tournaments including the Los Sueños Signature Series and Marlin Invitational as well as the Presidential Challenge of Costa Rica.

Central West Coast Moving farther south past Cabo Blanco across the Gulf of Nicoya is the best-known destination for sportfishing in Costa Rica and one of the top billfishing hotspots in the world: Los Sueños Resort and Marina. This is the place for those who crave a “one stop shop” environment, with an unbeatable combination of lodging, charter operations, restaurants, shops and more, all within one central location. The Los Sueños Marina features 200 wet slips, 100 dry slips, fuel dock, and hardworking full-time staff. Their wet slips accommodate vessels from 30 to 180 feet in length, while the dry storage spaces accommodate vessels of 35 feet and less. Lodging options range from the Marriott Golf and Beach Resort located on the property to a wide variety of condominiums, townhomes and private residences for purchase or rent by the week or month. And whether you desire an American-style cheeseburger and fries, sushi or filet mignon, there’s a restaurant to suit those tastes, all located within the safety and security of the resort.

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Hefty blue marlin like this one offer one of the top lighttackle challenges in the sport of billfishing. Another reason for the resort’s top rating as a sportfishing destination revolves around the Los Sueños Signature Series tournaments, with two events in January and February respectively and another in November each year, coinciding perfectly with the seasonal migrations of the Pacific sailfish and marlin species. Designed as a way to showcase not only the resort’s amenities but also the area’s billfishing, the Signature Series tournaments have become the largest and most prestigious events ever held in Central America, attracting participants from the four corners of the sportfishing world to Costa Rica each season. How are these for numbers: in the first leg of the 2009 series, 43 participating boats released 741 sailfish and 40 marlin in three days of fishing, while the second leg produced 172 sailfish and an incredible 391 marlin releases by the 44 participating boats. That’s an incredible 913 sailfish and 431 marlin in a total of six fishing days! The resort is also the home of the World Billfish Series Grand Championships, held each December. This event caps the WBS World Tour each season, where qualified anglers gather to crown the World Champion of Billfishing.

Southwest Region Moving a bit farther south down the coast from Los Sueños is the quiet seaside community of Quepos, sitting squarely astride Costa Rica’s Pacific coast and located in the province of Puntarenas. Discovered by the Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon in 1519, Quepos is home to some 14,000 year-round residents, many of whom make a living from the warm tropical seas that front their doorstep. From this central location, the large fleet of local charter boats can range to the northwest toward Cabo Blanco or southeast and the Drake Islands in search of productive waters. The winds here are usually calm nearly year-round, giving anglers the best chance to fish in nearly mirror-flat seas.

It’s also home to the country’s newest marina project, known as Marina Pez Vela. While in years past, the charter fleet has utilized mooring buoys in the bay, picking up their charters from the town’s central concrete pier, the new marina will make charter fishing much more accessible. And the new full-service marina facility, one of the largest in all of Central America, will create a major destination for Pacific boating and fishing enthusiasts. Under construction are 300 concrete floating dock slips that will accommodate boats up to 200 feet, with the first 100 or so slips scheduled for completion by the late summer of this year. In addition to their wet slips, Marina Pez Vela will also provide dry rack storage and forklift operation for boats up to 35 feet in length, with 120 dry slips to be stored four levels high under cover. These slips will be available for those who prefer to operate smaller boats and will be a terrific complement to the wet slips. The marina will have the only full-service repair facility for hundreds of miles, complete with 75 and 200-ton Travel-Lifts, unique to all of Central America. Marina Pez Vela will also include a fully staffed maintenance facility capable of any repairs or service required. Also on tap for the facility is a boutique hotel along with a variety of shops, restaurants and nearly 200 residences with views overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Quepos is also a popular destination due to its proximity to Manuel Antonio National Park. Manuel Antonio is a gem among Costa Rica’s nature reserves and one of the most popular tourist

destinations in Costa Rica. A lush blanket of tropical rainforest seems to spill over onto several hidden and incredibly beautiful, jungle-lined beaches. Within this magnificent landscape visitors might see one of many species of monkeys, loud and colorful parrots, giant toucans, three-toed sloths and a whole host of rare plant and animal species that inspire and overwhelm the senses. The birding opportunities are nothing short of fantastic, with more than 350 species spotted in the park’s small boundaries. Easy walking trails take in sweeping vistas of Costa Rica’s dramatic coastline and meander through primary rainforest with over 300 species of trees. Both guided and unguided tours are available. Located still farther south on the Golfito Dulce, the town of Golfito is often referred to as the last frontier of Costa Rica. A remote and secluded region of the country, it’s a largely unexplored rugged wilderness of rainforest and beaches. A major southern port until the mid 1980s, Golfito was the center for Costa Rica’s banana growing region, with the United Fruit Company’s headquarters being based in the north of town. Since its closure, Golfito suffered from major economic loss but with the advent of tourism, the community is rebuilding itself on more modern lines. As with much of the rest of the country, Golfito has responded well to the rise in sportfishing tourism, with a good number of well-equipped charter operations. The best action for billfish is usually between the months of November and May. The small but suitable Golfito Domestic Airport lies a few miles north of the center of town and is serviced by regular flights with both Sansa and Nature Air from the Costa Rican capital city of San Jose. For those looking to catch the perfect wave, the area south of Golfito is a surfer’s paradise. Pavones is the place to go. Said to have one of the longest left point breaks in the world, on a good south swell surfers can ride a wave for several minutes, with the best conditions found between April and October. While this feature in no way encompasses all the great opportunities for both sportfishing and eco-tourism within Costa Rica, it should inspire anyone interested to get out there and travel—experience the richness and hospitality offered by this Central American gem. Billfishing Magazine

Presidential Challenge Costa Rica Samara, Costa Rica www.preschallenge.com

By Joan Vernon l Boyce Photos by Joan Vernon and Bil

Few places on the planet offer the combination of natural beauty, from unspoiled beaches to wild rainforests, combined with friendly locals, knowledgeable captains and the possibility for outstanding billfishing as Playa Carrillo, located on Costa Ricaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nicoya Peninsula just down the road from the small town of Samara on the Pacific Coast. 24

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ow in its’ thirteenth season, the Presidential Challenge of Costa Rica once again descended upon Carrillo. Anglers, crews and observers were welcomed at the Presidential Challenge host hotel, Villas Playa Samara. Located right on the beach, these lovely villas provided perfect accommodations for the visiting participants as well as an inviting pool and the necessary swim-up pool bar. After a brief rules meeting, a buffet dinner was served while the guest were entertained by classical guitar played by a local musician. The waters off of Carrillo are world famous for two things: nearly flat calm seas and producing a mixed catch of marlin and sailfish. The first day of competition proved that history correct as anglers were ferried to the waiting boats by pangas and inflatables right off the beach in Carrillo. Fishing on the Gamefisher II with Capt. Richard Chellemi, Team USA jumped to the lead, picking up where they left off in 2008 when they concluded the PCCA season winning in El Salvador and Guatemala. Gary Tarpley released the first fish of the tournament at 8:41 in the morning, and teammates Jimmy Taylor and Mike Viveiros both released marlin to give them a total of 1800 points for Day One. Jimmy took the Top Daily Angler honors with 900 points followed by Davis Clapp of Team A-Fin-Ity with 700 points aboard the Permit III with Capt. Chepe Santana. Davis successfully released a striped marlin late in the day to bump him up the leaderboard. Mike Viveiros also released a blue marlin and, when combined with his sailfish release, put him in third place today. In the ICT Team Division, the Hattaboy, a beautiful 60-foot Hatteras owned by Ted Smith and captained by Chris Garner, turned in 800 points to move into second place behind Team USA. A-Fin-Ity jumped to third place with Davis Clapp’s late day marlin. Following the first day of fishing, the anglers, observers and crews were entertained at a dinner party hosted by tournament

director Joan Vernon. It was a lovely evening at her mountain top home and the guys and gals enjoyed the fine food catered by Massimo and the great drinks poured at the Bacardi Bar. The fish tales flew wildly for a few hours and a good time was had by all in attendance. The sun rose once again over the Carrillo anchorage in typical Costa Rican style as the anglers waited to board the pangas for another trip to the waiting tournament boats. Promptly at 7:30 a.m, the fleet departed for the fishing grounds. After the first hour, scorekeeper Russell Nelson realized that it was going to be a long day on the VHF radio—the bite slowed and the airwaves were silent. At 11:56 a.m, the Permit III with Team A-Fin-Ity called in a blue marlin release for angler Davis Clapp. This moved AFin-Ity up the ladder in the Maspor Marine Team Division and put Davis on top of the Angler Division ahead of Team USA’s Jimmy Taylor. At the same time, Capt. Gregg Penley on the Carolina Magic called in a doubleheader blue marlin release for anglers Mike Topp and Shawn Kooyman. The blues plus a few sails put Carolina Magic up to second place. This got the blood pumping and hopes were high that the bite would pick up. However, as the afternoon progressed, the fishing slowed for the entire fleet. By the end of the day, the anglers were looking forward to getting back to shore and paying a visit to the Bacardi Bar at the Villas Playa Samara. Within just a short time of returning ashore, the pool at the Villas resembled a scene from the movie Caddyshack, as anglers, crews and observers piled in and made their way to the pool bar for what seemed to be an endless stream of daquiris and rum drinks served up with a smile by the friendly bartenders. The final day of the 2009 Presidential Challenge of Costa Rica started as usual with lines in the water at 8 a.m. sharp. At 8:05, the Wet Ass II called in a striped marlin release for Carol Ott,

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Going Presidential The Presidential Challenge series was initially established as a way of highlighting sportfishing in Central America, and to put an emphasis on conservation within these nations. Over a decade ago, marlin and sailfish were routinely killed in many of these countries, with little regard placed on their sportfishing value. But with the introduction of the PCCA, a new focus was placed on tourism and the value of releasing these fish to fight again. Today, several nations including Guatemala and Costa Rica have adopted strict rules regarding sportfishing, including the mandatory use of circle hooks, based directly upon the impact of the Presidential Challenge tournament series.

All events in the PCCA series feature a standard set of rules which includes restrictions on tackle: anglers are required to use 20-pound test Berkley Big Game line supplied by the tournament as well as circle hooks—Eagle Claw 2004EL hooks are also provided but anglers may use any non-offset circle hook in the tournament. By mandating the use of light line, the PCCA has become one of the most competitive light-tackle billfish tournament series found anywhere in the world. Tournament proceeds go to The Billfish Foundation, an organization that is actively working with Central American governments to conserve stocks of marlin and sailfish. Recently, the Presidential Challenge Conservation

Series formed a new parent company, the Presidential Challenge Charitable Foundation, Inc, which was granted 501(C)3 status. All PCCA events are also sanctioned by the World Billfish Series, where the event’s top anglers will have the opportunity to represent the PCCA in the WBS Grand Championships held each December. These events also have a tremendous impact upon the WBS Pacific Division, where the division champion is regularly decided late in the year in PCCA tournaments. For more information, please visit www.preschallenge.com.

Final Results 1st Place Team: USA 2700 points 2nd Place Team: Carolina Magic 1800 points 3rd Place Team: Gear Up 1600 points 1st Place Angler: Davis Clapp 1300 points

To the victors go the spoils: George Crawford (tournament observer) and Team USA’s Gray Tarpley, Mike Viveiros and Jimmy Taylor. fishing on The Billfish Foundation team. A few minutes later Capt. Mac on the Let It Ride called in a black marlin release for angler Jeremy Warren, putting both teams in contention and raising everyone’s hopes for a stellar day of billfishing. But while hopes were high for a fabulous final day of tournament fishing, the fish had other plans. Warm, green water moved into the area and the bite all but stopped. Hey, if this was easy then everyone would be doing it! The slow fishing did not stop the Gamefisher II and Team USA. They added a striped marlin and three sailfish to their score to secure victory in the 2009 Presidential Challenge of Costa Rica. The Carolina Magic with anglers Shawn Kooyman, Mike Epping and Mike Topp rallied to hang onto their second place spot by adding one sailfish to their tally on Day

Three, while the Gear Up also added one sail to their score to nail down third place. Presidential Challenge veteran Davis Clapp went fishless today but remained on top of the leaderboard in the Angler Division. Mike Viveiros secured second place angler followed by Mike Topp who placed third. And although the fishing turned off, the fun never stopped. The Bacardi Bash cocktail hours at Villas Playa Samara were a huge success with anglers and crews exchanging fish stories and information well into the evenings. For the tournament there were 60 sailfish, seven blue marlin and four striped marlin successfully released. Massimo’s Restaurant did an outstanding job with their catering service and hosting the observers for dinner. The ICT, Costa Rica’s tourism department, hosted the

2nd Place Angler: Michael Viveiros 1200 points 3rd Place Angler: Mike Topp 1000 points Top Boat: Gamefisher II 2700 points 2nd Boat: Carolina Magic 1800 points 3rd Boat: Gear Up 1600 points

awards dinner. The entire staff of the PCCA would like to thank the anglers, captains and crews for their participation and dedication to helping billfish conservation. A check in the amount of $5000 will be presented to Ellen Peel from The Billfish Foundation to be used for the TBF conservation program in Costa Rica on behalf of the Presidential Challenge of Costa Rica. Billfishing Magazine

Story and Photos by Greg Gawlikowski

For the past 16 years, the annual Capt. Bob Lewis Billfish Challenge has been one of the premiere billfish tournaments in the Miami and south Florida areas, celebrated as much for the outstanding angling teams that it attracts as for the tournamentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s charitable contributions to the youth and the community in which they serve. This year, the tradition continued on.

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or the past 16 years, the annual Capt. Bob Lewis Billfish Challenge has been one of the premiere billfish tournaments in the Miami and south Florida areas, celebrated as much for the outstanding angling teams that it attracts as for the tournament’s charitable contributions to the youth and the community in which they serve. This year, the tradition continued on. In addition to an exciting billfish tournament, the Captain Bob Lewis Billfish Challenge, Inc. is also a 501, [c](3), not for profit Florida corporation, dedicated to promoting environmental education, marine conservation and improving the health of our youth in the south Florida community. Throughout the year, the committee uses various means to raise money that benefits the youth of south Florida. The tournament committee, with new executive director Greg Gawlikowski and new president Janice Sands, plans year-round events with such groups as Big Brothers & Big Sisters, Boy and Girl Scouts of America, Neat Stuff, and many others. It’s become a cornerstone for helping the underprivileged youth as well as fostering the next generation of anglers in the region.

The 16th annual billfish tournament was hosted by the Miami Beach Marina, while the captain’s meeting kicked off at the historic Miami Rod and Reel Club in Miami Beach, Florida, serving its traditional buffet dinner to a slew of hungry participants. Check-out was run from the famed “Checkpoint Charlie” in pristine Miami Beach Marina on a beautiful Saturday morning with much anticipation from all involved, both tournament anglers and tournament officials. Throughout the first day of competition, the seas were a dream and the fleet enjoyed a steady run of sailfish up and down the Florida coastline. By the end of the day, 79 billfish were caught and released by the tournament fleet, with Miss Britt II leading the Inboard Division with 1000 points and five releases and the Rockstar heading up the Outboard pack with 800 points (four releases). Day Two had a much better

The Capt. Bob Lewis event places much emphasis on the success of their junior anglers, who each received trophies. showing with 126 sailfish released by the fleet of 40 boats. The tournament fleet released a very respectable 205 sailfish throughout the two days of fishing. That’s an average of two and a half sailfish per boat per day—not bad for anywhere in the world, much less right here off Greater Miami!

Proving that they are the team to beat in 2009, the Wound Up once again emerged victorious at the Capt. Bob Lewis Billfish Challenge.

In the end, it was the Wound Up, captained by John Louie Dudas, which ran away with the most fish and the tournament win, earning 2400 points on their twelve sailfish releases for the High Point Boat trophy. “The Bob Lewis is one of the most respected and prestigious sailfish tournaments, so this is a great accomplishment,” beamed Capt. John Louie Dudas after the win. Sharing angling duties with Wound Up owner Warren Sands were anglers Bill

CHALLENGING THE KIDS Last year, nearly 300 kids, many of whom had never fished, got to learn the ways of the rod and reel—and enjoy a picnic lunch—under a cloudless sky. There were Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, new faces and old faces all joining the fun. With the help of plenty of volunteers, they learned how to cast, tie knots, bait hooks and reel in fish— maybe not big ones, but big enough to pull on the line. “This is about getting kids fishing” according to Judy Lewis. Her late husband was a south Florida fishing pioneer who developed the fishing kite, a mainstay in all south Florida billfish tournaments. Lewis ran the kite-making business after her husband’s death in 1997, but recently retired.

The Capt. Bob Lewis organization hosted their 5th Annual Kids Challenge at Tropical Park in Miami, Florida in November, 2008 that hosted 297 little anglers ranging from three to 15 years old. Each angler was given a free rod and reel, t-shirt, lunch and a bucket of wiggly worms. The remainder of the year is scheduled with various activities that include another Kids Challenge (in addition to the sixth annual event scheduled for November 2009), Everglades outings, Biscayne National Park events, several casting seminars at the Dade County Youth Fair, and much, much more. We are in the process of redesigning our web site, which will list all of these planned events and more and will also let you donate to help the Capt. Bob Lewis Billfish Challenge & Charity reach as many kids as possible. Be sure to check out all of our new and exciting plans at www.billfishchallenge.com.

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Danko, Brett Dudas and Rob Ramirez. Sands has been a standout in the WBS Southeast Division for the past several years so this may be his shot at a Division champion title in 2009. Second place fell to the Ovation, captained by Jeremy Huston with 2200 points and 11 releases. Ovationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s releases were split among their angling team of Ben Smith, Dana Massa, Darin Newheart, John Monti and Sean Brighten. They were followed by the Jichi, run by Capt. Ricky Linder, also with 2200 points who finished in third for the Inboard Division based on time. Jichi owner Luis Isaias topped the WBS Southeast Division standings in 2008 so he could be looking to repeat in 2009. He was assisted in the cockpit by teammates Albert Castro, Ricky Carratetta and Hannabal Moya.

Though they fell short of the mark set by the leaders, the Ovation team held onto second place in the tournament.

The Outboard Division was headed by first place winner Kite Hunter, captained by Jimmy Lewis, the son of the late Captain Bob Lewis, with 1800 points (9 releases). The family team of Jimmy, Joshua, Matthew and Holly all contributed releases along the way. Second place Outboard was awarded to Rockstar, captained by Scott Leon with 1400 points (7 releases). Third place Outboard went to High Standards, run by Capt. Mike Puller, also with 1400 points (7 releases). The Top Junior Angler went to Joshua Lewis, grandson of Bob Lewis, aboard the Kite Hunter. Top Lady Angler was awarded to Janene Claus fishing on the Qualifier. The Top Angler award, with an invitation to fish in the WBS Grand Championships in Costa Rica this December, went to Nick Corallo, fishing aboard the Hostile. The Capt. Bob Lewis Billfish Challenge has paid out over $1,000,000 over the past five years! For the tournament, 284 sailfish were released, all using tournament-approved circle hooks.

The first place check and trophy was presented to the Wound Up team .

For a complete listing of payouts and standings please visit the tournament website at www.billfishchallenge.com. Billfishing Magazine

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Dan Poe Prof ile Favorite Billfishing Location: “I think my favorite spot is out by the oil rigs in the Gulf. Whether it’s day or night, you never know what you are going to hook up with out there.” Favorite “Fun Fishing” Location: “Key West. My first tournament down there was so much fun and I met a lot of nice people on that trip. My favorite picture from that trip was me posing with Johnny Bench. After the camera shot, he hung around us for a while and told some great stories—real nice down-to-earth guy.” Other Interests: “I am a home brewer. I have brewed beer since 1986. I also enjoy spending time with my wife Karen and our three sons: Daniel II just graduated from Clemson, Chris who is a freshman at Florida State, and Andrew who is in the 5th grade.” Occupation: “For 20 years I worked for a local oil company. I recently switched to a large retirement community helping to run the HVAC end of the operation. I love my new job, but I was up to four weeks’ vacation with my previous job and now I have to start over. Really cuts into my fishing time!”

have fished in quite a few tournaments over the past 40 years but didn’t really start in the World Billfish Series until 2007. Ken Cummins, owner of the Hooker, and I went to high school together. His brother Dave still lives here in Maryland and teaches at the local high school. I have fished in several tournaments since my first. Being that I live in Maryland and only get so much time off each year, I am limited on how many I can participate in. Not to worry though, I will eventually move south.”

Favorite Fish Story: “We do a lot of fishing here on the Chesapeake Bay. One day we were bottom fishing and it was a slow day. This one teen was complaining that he was bored and kept asking, ‘When are we going to catch something?’ We had about a 35-pound frozen bluefish in the bait box that we were going to cut up for chum, so while the kid was in the head, we hooked the frozen bait to his line and let it drift way out behind the boat. Someone gave it a big tug and yelled, ‘Fish on!’ The kid about broke his leg running to the rod and proceeded to fight that blue for 30 minutes. When he got it close to the boat, we pulled it up and let it plop on the deck, still hard as a rock. ‘What the heck?’ he said. ‘It’s dead!’ The look on the kids face was priceless.”

“From 1969 to 1972, my dad was in the Navy and stationed at Key West so that is when I got my first taste of offshore fishing. The first time we went fishing was on Capt. Tony’s Greyhound V, we just caught some grouper and snapper, but it was still bigger than any of the fish I had snagged back in Maryland. Then we went trolling for the first time on a neighbor’s boat and I caught a 45pound wahoo. I’ve caught bigger ones since, but when you are in 7th grade, that was the biggest fish in the world.” “When it comes to tournament prep, I guess the most important thing for me personally is to make sure I wear the right clothes and use plenty of sunblock.” Dan Poe (far right) and his team mates enjoying a little time aground. Billfishing Magazine

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Eric Brush Prof ile Tournament Awards 2007 1st Place: AH Riise BVI Blue Marlin Tournament, British Virgin Islands 2006 1st Place Blue Marlin: Mid-Atlantic $500,000, NJ 2nd Place: BBC Boat Harbour, Bahamas 2nd Place: Lahaina Halloween Tournament, HI Favorite Billfishing Location: “St. Thomas and the Virgin Islands. The best billfishing day of my life was off Anegada—everything was really going our way on that particular day.” Favorite “Fun Fishing” Location: “Same place, St. Thomas.” Other Interests: “Travel, snowboarding, surfing and music.” Occupation: “I’m a professional captain and I also own a yacht management company that specializes in sportfishing boats. I do freelance work and book charters anywhere in the world. I have developed such a great friend base in the industry that we can book a charter for someone just about anywhere in the world with some of the best crews in the sport.”

grew up spending time in Ocean City, Maryland and first started fishing the White Marlin Open sometime in the mid-1990s. When you have a passion for the sport and the boats, then why not try to compete and win some money at the same time? Plus, I enjoy the preparation and planning. I’d say we fish between 4-8 tournaments a year depending on our program and if I am able to put together the right crew for the right tournament. I own a yacht management and free lance fishing and charter business so I have a lot of friends that are pros in the industry and tournaments give all of us a chance to win some money and fish together. The right team is crucial—everything is about the team. Whether we win or lose we’re in it together.”

Thoughts on the Future of Sportfishing: “I’d like to see it get more rootsy again, with people building simpler boats that go back to the basics of the sport. Fast, with simple systems, and not too big. So many boats are just too excessive now. I think we’re heading in the right direction as far as conservation, we just need to get more kids involved and I really wish we could get more TV coverage of tournament billfishing because I don’t think people understand exactly what goes on. I think it would get way more anglers involved chartering boats all over the world to complete.” Favorite Fish Story: “Mine would have to be the day we caught the 722-pound blue marlin off of Ocean City. We were 96 miles offshore, the fish had gone down and died, and my angler was exhausted. When we finally got the fish in the boat I knew that we were very limited on time even if the boat ran well. The three-hour ride home was the longest three hours of my life! But the weather was amazing, the boat ran very well and we made it back with four minutes to spare to win first place in the tournament.”

“Our best day ever was in the 2007 Boy Scout when we went five for six and won the daily. Part of that was a double caught in about seven minutes. I was running the boat and we had an amazing crew that we put together that week.” “Before a tournament, I gather as much information as possible about water temps, currents, etc. and track everything for several days before. The whole crew communicates with everyone we can and all of the tackle is checked and replaced before a tournament if necessary. Fuel filters are all changed and everything mechanical is checked. The night before we all talk about the plan and exchange ideas.” Eric and the Quiet Storm team won the blue marlin category in the 2006 Mid-Atlantic $500,000 tournament. Billfishing Magazine

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Sari Turner Prof ile Tournament Awards 2008 Top Lady Angler: Mobile Big Game Fishing Club, Alabama Top Lady Angler: MBGFC Memorial Day Tourn, AL 2nd Place Release Angler: MBGFC Memorial Day Tourn, AL 6th Place: WBS Gulf Coast Division Favorite Billfishing Location: “The Gulf of Mexico—it’s where I first fished and it is home.” Favorite “Fun Fishing” Location: “Isla Mujeres is my favorite fishing location. It is easy to get to from Baton Rouge, just removed enough from the hustle and bustle, with plentiful fish and amazing food.” Other Interests: “Cooking is another of my passions. Preparing dinner for family and friends at home, served up in the kitchen right off the stove is the way I relax and enjoy myself.” Occupation: “I co-own nk boutique, a ladies clothing, shoe and handbag store in Baton Rouge. Shoes and clothes–beyond an obsession. Fishing and fashion are not an obvious combination, but for me both are essential. On the boat I am in board shorts and rash guards and during the day I am in dresses and four-inch heels. What a contradiction! I love them both and it is what makes me who I am.”

was thirteen years old the first time I went deep-sea fishing, on a family vacation to Destin, Florida. After I caught my first fish I was hooked. My husband Thomas and I began fishing small Gulf of Mexico tournaments in our early twenties, before we had children, on our 26-year old 25-foot Bertram, the Miss Behavior. About five years ago, we purchased an Intrepid and started fishing competitively again in the Mobile Big Game Fishing Club tournaments. It soon dawned on us that if we really wanted to be in the hunt we needed a more well-equipped boat; four boats later, we now fish on our 64-foot Viking, You Never Know. In an average season, we compete in about six or seven events.” “Just recently, I went to Cabo San Lucas twice to train for the WBS Grand Championship. Fishing in different regions requires different tools and skills. I was filled with self-doubt, afraid that I did not have the experience at stand-up fishing to be at the top of my game for the championship. The second week was the trip of a lifetime. I caught and released 23 striped marlin in three days–all stand-up—and the crew reeled in at least another twenty marlin. I was in the zone so often described by athletes: I truly believed I could fish the waters empty. On the other hand, my 49-year-old body and brain knew that they were worn out, and that if I didn’t stop, I probably was going to go home in traction. The experience gave me a huge boost in confidence and I made the decision to compete in the WBS Championship.”

Favorite Fish Story: “I have two favorite fish stories. The first is when my 13-year old daughter, Austen, was eleven; she reeled in a 60-pound wahoo, 10 pounds heavier than she was at the time, in about 10 minutes. When we arrived at the weigh-in dock, everyone was so amazed at her size and the fish’s that she was immediately interviewed on live television. The second was on a fishing trip with my daughter Sydney in Isla Mujeres this past summer when she and I had doublehooked a 58-pound dorado. Once we realized we had the same fish, we started reeling in sync and brought it in without having to communicate. And to all of the fish that got away–there is always another day in which to catch you.”

“Our captain, Joey Birbeck, always says, “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” He and our first mate, Neil Petersen, work daily at keeping our boat in tip-top shape. They ready her for our fishing expeditions by having ballyhoo sewn, all the technical elements complete, and keeping up with all the current weather reports and hot fish spots. They have made sure that Thomas and I don’t have to worry about the advance work, but now that we have become more competitive in tournament play and I have progressed as a fisherman, I am taking a more active role in these matters.” Billfishing Magazine

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“DEALER’S CHOICE” 64’ 2007 VIKING SF THIS CUSTOM ORDERED DEALER DEMO is powered w/C-32A CATs and boasts a custom 4 stateroom layout. NO EXPENSE WAS SPARED!

“CAPRICHO” 42’ 2005 RIVIERA FLYBRIDGE 635hp QSM11s still under warranty, 2 stateroom//2 head with mid-level galley layout, KVH SAT TV, SAT radio, davit, (4) Ocean LED underwater lights.

2009 WBS World Tour Sponsors The following companies proudly support the World Billfish Series and the sport of billfishing as sponsors of the 2009 World Billfish Series World Tour.

www.FishWBS.com

Bacardi USA Marketer of fine spirits, including the world’s number one rum.

2100 Biscayne Blvd. Miami, FL 33137-5028

Phone: 305-573-8511 www.bacardi.com

Bank Of America Helping customers fulfill their dreams every day.

100 North Tryon St. Charlotte, NC 28255

Phone: 866-887-3259 www.bankofamerica.com

Bertram Yacht, Inc. Builder of sportfishing boats from 39 to 67 feet.

3663 NW 21st St. Miami, FL 33142

Phone: 305-633-8011 www.bertram.com

Blue Water Shirt Club For those who enjoy finding interesting and unique Tees.

1826 Sally Hill Farms Blvd. Florence, SC 29501

Contact: Chris Lynch Phone: 843-679-0045 www.bluewatershirtclub.com

Costa Del Mar Manufacturer of premium performance sunglasses.

2361 Mason Ave. Suite 100 Daytona Beach, FL 32117

Phone: 386-677-3700 www.costadelmar.com

El Cid One of Mexico’s finest resort destinations.

Av. Camaron Sabalo S/N PO Box 183 Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico 82110

Contact: Geronimo Cevallos Phone: 011-52-669-916-3468 www.elcid.com

Los Sueños Resort and Marina Costa Rica’s premier resort and marina.

PO Box 25635 Miami, FL 33102-5635

Contact: Ashley Bretecher Phone: 866-865-9759 www.lossuenosresort.com

Marina Pez Vela Costa Rica’s newest full-service marina project.

International Sales 5349 SW Running Oak Circle Stuart, FL 34997

Contact: Glen Mumford Phone: 772-342-1240 www.marinapezvela.com

Mercury Marine Manufacturer of boat engines, propellers and racing products.

PO Box 1939 Fond du Lac, WI 54936

Phone: 920-929-5040 www.mercurymarine.com

Release Marine Manufacturers of custom fighting chairs and accessories.

2100 Roger Lacy Ave. Savannah, Georgia 31415

Contact: Jimmy Dewberry Phone: 800-603-4448 www.releasemarine.com

Viking Yachts Sportfishing boats from 45 to 74 feet

Route 9, “On the Bass River” New Gretna, NJ 08224

Contact: Peter Frederiksen Phone: 609-296-6000 www.vikingyachts.com

XMWX The leader in mobile weather display software and receivers.

430 Research Drive Huntsville, AL 35805

Phone: 800-985-9200 www.wxworx.com

XOJET, Inc. Industry-leading provider of jet aircraft services

959 Skyway Rd. San Carlos, CA 94070

Paul Jablon Phone: 949-887-1825 www.xojet.com

YachtPath Providing global yacht transpot services to the world’s most popular destinations.

2401 PGA Boulevard, Suite 155 Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410

Krista Kersey Phone: 561-784-6700 www.yachtpath.com

Yamaha Motor Corp. Manufacturer of two- and four-stroke outboard engines.

1270 Chastain Rd. Kennesaw, GA 30144

Contact: Mike Dixon Phone: 770-420-5800 www.yamaha-motor.com

2009 WBS World Tour Standings

Sil ve r

Boat Name Rude Awakening Big Oh Miss Annie Osprey Debaitable Chips Ahoy The Natural Miss Annie Miss Britt 1 Masque Miss Annie Osprey Priority Goin Raptor Masque Sandra T Big Oh Miss Annie Chips Ahoy Lady Lane Stormrider Juel Marie Sandra T Chips Ahoy

200 0 0 275 350 350 0 0 575 0 0 0 125 125 0 50 0 0 275 500 0 0 0 200

575 575 0 350 275 425 0 0 0 575 0 0 425 425 425 0 0 0 275 0 0 0 0 200

125 0 0 0 0 200 0 0 125 125 0 0 0 0 0 0 125 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

350 575 1175 500 275 0 875 800 0 0 650 650 0 0 125 500 425 575 0 0 500 500 500 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

ADDITIONAL PARTICIPATION POINTS

Angler Rudy Polselli Jr. Gray Ingram Greg Bogdan Lamont Harris Molly Flemming Mark Wodlinger Anthony Rizzo Mark Donahue Dave Dickerson Bob DeGabriel Frank Naparano Chip Valley Jim Vaughn Nick Cardella Mark Schwartz Serena Wilson Kevin Paul Barry Weshnak Keith McDonald Rob Lane Paul Scopinic Chris Martin Chris Santisuki Tony Cummings

Sa ilfi sh De Jup rb y ite To r B ur ill na fis me h nt Bu c Sa cane ilfi er sh C Re up lea se We st Sa Pa ilfi lm sh B Cla eac ss h Fo ic rt Bil Lau lfis de h T rda ou le rn am El en Pe t To sca ur do na B me ill nt fish Ne w Bil Sm lfis yr h I na nv Be ita ac tio h na l

Treasure Coast Division

0 100 50 0 150 0 0 50 100 0 50 0 100 100 100 100 100 50 0 50 50 0 0 100

1250 1250 1225 1125 1050 975 875 850 800 700 700 650 650 650 650 650 650 625 550 550 550 500 500 500

Boat Name Wound Up Get Lit Uptight Miss Costa Native Son Qualifier Mar Azul Rockstar Chasin Tail Country Cookin Titanium 5.0 Priceless Miss Britt 2 Ventolera Team Costa High Standards Contender One Hard Way Jichi Get Lit Qualifier Tag Line High Standards Qualifier

275 200 425 50 650 350 425 125 425 650 0 200 275 275 350 275 0 275 275 0 0 125 200 200

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1250 1025 800 1025 425 650 575 850 500 275 800 650 575 575 500 550 800 425 500 725 725 575 500 500

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

ADDITIONAL PARTICIPATION POINTS

Angler Warren Sands Peter Miller Jeffrey Fiorentino Bill Danko Jamie Bunn Trey Claus Nicole Portuondo Jorge Piedra Angel Pinero Jose Perdomo John Barber Mead McCabe John Burke Jorge Ramirez Charmain Rosher Josh Miller Joe Neber Daryl Deka Luis Isaias Kitt Toomey Tyler Claus William Flynn Frankie Villasante Jenene Claus

IS ail fis h

Kic ko ff

Ch e Pr eca es Lo ide dg nt e ial Sa M ilfi iam sh iM ay or â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ca Cu pt. p Bil Bo lfis b L h C ew ha is M lle iam ng e To i B ur ill na fis me h nt Th eS ail fis hT ou Isl rn am . Sw ora or d a dfi sh M To iam ur n. Sw i or dfi sh To ur n.

Southeast Division

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 50 0 0 0 0 0 0 100 0 0 0 0 0 0

1525 1225 1225 1075 1075 1000 1000 975 925 925 850 850 850 850 850 825 800 800 775 725 725 700 700 700

Billfishing Magazine

2009 WBS WORLD TOUR DECEMBER 11 – 13, 2008 Miami, Florida FYI Sailfish Kickoff Anthony Albelo (305) 461- 2700

FEBRUARY 26 – MARCH 1 Miami, Florida Capt. Bob Lewis Billfish Challenge Janice Sands (305) 525-8941

MAY 25 – 29 Marsh Harbour, Bahamas HMY-Boat Harbour Billfish Blast Mike Dickman (954) 926-0400

JANUARY 1 – 3, 2009 Palm Beach, Florida Palm Beach Sailfish Classic Pat Ross (561) 818-6095

MARCH 14 – 16 Sydney, Australia Broken Bay GFC Phil Epthorp 011 0407 237 414

JUNE 2 – 5 Boat Harbour, Bahamas BBC Boat Harbour Championship Brenda Fletcher (954) 920-5577

JANUARY 7 – 10 Palm Beach, Florida Silver Sailfish Derby Tom Twyford (561) 832-6780

MARCH 24 – 29 Raiatea, Tahiti Tahitian International Billfish Tourn. Dominique Goche 011 689 60 05 45

JUNE 3 – 7 Biloxi, Mississippi Mississippi Gulf Coast Billfish Bobby Carter (228) 436-7928

JANUARY 14 – 16 Jupiter, Florida Jupiter Billfish Tournament Scott Nichols (561) 262-6424

MARCH 20 – 22 Samara, Costa Rica Presidential Challenge of Costa Rica Joan M. Vernon (305) 361-9258

JUNE 7 – 12 Abaco, Bahamas Treasure Cay Billfish Tournament Jim Brown (561) 603-3101

JANUARY 15 – 17 Islamorada, Florida Cheeca Lodge Presidential Sailfish Liz Hill (305) 451-5094

APRIL 2 – 5 Miami, Florida Miami Billfish Tournament Judy Layne (305) 598-2525

JUNE 9 – 14 St. Petersburg, Florida Old Salt Loop Tournament Tom Verdensky (727) 867-9388

JANUARY 21 – 24 Los Sueños, Costa Rica Los Sueños Signature Series #1 Ashley Bretecher A.Bretecher@lossuenosresort.com

APRIL 14 – 17 Bimini, Bahamas BBC Bimini Championship Brenda Fletcher (954) 920-5577

JUNE 11 – 14 Venice, Louisiana New Orleans Invt’l Billfish Tourn. Gino Rendeiro (504) 529-5100

JANUARY 21 – 24 Singer Island, Florida Buccaneer Cup Sailfish Release Gary Caputi (732) 899-9988

APRIL 28 – MAY 2 Treasure Cay, Bahamas BBC Central Abaco Championship Brenda Fletcher (954) 920-5577

JUNE 16 – 19 Treasure Cay, Bahamas BBC Treasure Cay Championship Brenda Fletcher (954) 920-5577

JANUARY 22 – 25 Miami, Florida Miami Mayor’s Cup Anthony Albelo (305) 461-2700

MAY 7 – 10 Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Puerto Los Cabos Billfish Classic Harvey Hunnicutt (714) 259-4899

JUNE 16 – 21 Sandestin, Florida Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic Shawna Meisner (866) 505-4458

FEBRUARY 4 – 8 Black River, Mauritius Marlin Masters Mauritius JP Henry Charters info@blackriver-mauritius.com

MAY 7 – 10 Miami, Florida The Sailfish Tournament Richard Peeples III (305) 672-3807

JUNE 21 – 24 Marsh Harbour, Bahamas Abaco Billfish Tournament Amy Withers (205) 934-0505

FEBRUARY 5 – 8 Ft. Lauderdale, Florida Ft. Lauderdale Billfish Tournament Kitty McGowan (954) 523-1004

MAY 19 – 22 Eleuthera, Bahama BBC Cape Eleuthera Championship Brenda Fletcher (954) 920-5577

JUNE 23 – 26 Baja California Sur, Mexico Palmas De Cortez Billfish Classic Harvey Hunnicutt (714) 259-4899

FEBRUARY 25 – 28 Los Sueños, Costa Rica Los Sueños Signature Series #2 Ashley Bretecher A.Bretecher@lossuenosresort.com

MAY 22 – 25 Orange Beach, Alabama Mobile BGFC Memorial Day Tourn. Robert Weaver (251) 978-5454

JUNE 24 – 27 Charleston, South Carolina Charleston Harbor Billfish Tourn. Deidre Menefee (843) 345-0369

www.FishWBS.com

SCHEDULE AT A GLAN CE JULY 2 – 5 Pensacola, Florida Pensacola Int’l Billfish Tourn. Greg Whibbs (850) 324-3265

AUGUST 5 – 8 Sarasota, Florida Sarasota Slam Leslie Weed (941) 412-9696

OCTOBER 22 – 24 Bahia del Sol, El Salvador Pres. Challenge of El Salvador Joan M. Vernon (305) 361-9258

JULY 3 – 5 Perlas Islands, Panama PCCA Panama Joan A. Vernon (305) 361-9258

AUGUST 10 – 14 Manteo, North Carolina Pirate’s Cove Billfish Tournament Harry Hindmarsh (252) 473-1015

OCTOBER 24 – 31 Queensland, Australia Lizard Island Black Marlin Classic Bob Lowe 011 612 9546 854

JULY 4 – 6 St. Thomas, Virgin Islands VIGFC July Open Jeffrey Kreiner (404) 580-4126

AUGUST 16 – 21 Cape May, New Jersey Mid-Atlantic $500,000 Bob Glover (609) 884-2400

NOVEMBER 11 – 14 Mazatlán, Mexico Mazatlán Billfish Classic Harvey Hunnicutt (714) 259-4899

JULY 8 – 11 Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands A.H. Riise BVI Billfish Tournament Lawrence Wheatley (284) 495-8002

AUGUST 28 – 30 Islamorada, Florida Islamorada Swordfish Tournament Richard Peeples III (305) 282-1006

NOVEMBER 13 – 15 Guatemala City, Guatemala Pres. Challenge of Guatemala Joan M. Vernon (305) 361-9258

JULY 8 – 11 Charleston, South Carolina HMY – Viking Megadock McKenzie Hutaff Estes (842) 278-4920

AUGUST 28 – SEPTEMBER 3 San Juan, Puerto Rico San Juan Int’l Billfish Tournament Gonzalo M. Ferrer (787) 727-7700

NOVEMBER 18 – 21 Los Sueños, Costa Rica Los Sueños Marlin Invitational Ashley Bretecher A.Bretecher@lossuenosresort.com

JULY 15 – 19 Panama City, Florida Bay Point Billfish Invitational Scott Burt (850) 235-6911

SEPTEMBER 18 – 20 Marina Portofino, Venezuela Caribbean Cup Joan M. Vernon (305) 361-9258

NOVEMBER 20 – 22 Mazatlán, Mexico Puerto Vallarta Billfish & Tuna Classic Harvey Hunnicutt (714) 259-4899

JULY 22 – 25 Orange Beach, Alabama Outcast Blue Marlin Classic Tommy Holmes (850) 457-1450

SEPTEMBER 24 – 27 Miami, Florida Miami Swordfish Tournament Richard Peeples III (305) 282-1006

DECEMBER 8 – 12 IGT Grand Championship Harvey Hunnicutt (714) 259-4899

JULY 29 – AUGUST 2 Orange Beach, Alabama Orange Beach Billfish Classic Sarah Armstrong (251) 981-4207

SEPTEMBER 30 – OCTOBER 3 Charleston, South Carolina The Sailfish Slam McKenzie Hutaff Estes (843) 278-4920

JULY 30 – AUGUST 1 Morehead City, North Carolina N.C. Ducks Unlimited Bob Lichauer (336) 454-5493

OCTOBER 2 – 4 St. Augustine, Florida El Pescado Billfish Tournament Dennis Rosa (904) 642-0210

JULY 30 – AUGUST 2 Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic 3rd Int’l Fishing Tourn. of the North Coast Ambra Attus (809) 200-8004

OCTOBER 8 – 11 New Smyrna Beach, Florida New Smyrna Beach Billfish Invt’l Jon Zeller (386) 290-4181

AUGUST 3 – 7 Ocean City, Maryland White Marlin Open Jim Motsko (410) 289-9229

OCTOBER 10 – 13 Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Puerto Los Cabos World Cup Harvey Hunnicutt (714) 259-4899

DECEMBER 2 – 5 WBS GRAND CHAMPIONSHIPS Los Sueños, Costa Rica Sam White (727) 864-4400

The World Billfish Series reserves the right to make changes in the schedule, including additions and deletions of events, at any time during the course of the year. Please call us at 727-864-4400 or visit www.fishwbs.com for the most up to date tournament information. Billfishing Magazine

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