Highlights from the Pacific Region

Highlights

FROM THE PACIFIC REGION

Team Robalo Breaks Record at 38th Annual Saipan International Fishing Tournament

The Saipan Fishermen’s Association organizers held another historical event July 16, 2022. With 88 vessels, a tournament record of 106 pounds (held for 32 years) was broken by a 125.5-pound yellowfin tuna caught by Team Robalo, captained by Ivan Ilmov and crew: Jeff Morggexa, Christbino Rapugpai, Jordan Tagabuel, Albert Emananpiy, Henry Maiuwelau, Mano Piyalal and Frank Retanluk. The Robalo headed out around 5:30 am and straight for the nearest fish aggregating device. With no result, the team headed north and by 12:05 pm the battle began. After a 45-minute struggle, Team Robalo landed a giant yellowfin near Banzai Cliff.

(L-R) Henry Maiuwelau, Carlos, Ivan Ilmov, Harmony Atkins and Christbino Rapugpai. Photos: Ivan Ilmov. Holy marlin! Already a grander has been caught off of O‘ahu during the Hanapa‘a Shootout June 11, 2022. Butch Farm and team landed a 1,168-pound monster to win the tournament. Photo: Richmond Young.

Congratulations to Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council member alumni Michael Goto who was featured in MidWeek O‘ahu July 27, 2022! As auctioneer and assistant vice president of United Fishing Agency (in charge of the Honolulu Fish Auction), Goto describes life within the commercial fishing industry that is responsible for 80-90% of the local food production in Hawai‘i. Check out the full story at: www.midweek. com/michael-goto.

7/29/22, 3:40 PM MidWeek - July 27, 2022