A once-popular tournament revived by the Marianas Visitors Authority and co-sponsors last year, the event attracted visitors to the tropical island at three well-known fishing sites — As Matmos, Malilok, and Pona Point. The derby attracted 22 anglers from Saipan, Rota, and Guam.
“This month’s (September) derby was another opportunity to draw visitors to Rota,” said MVA’s community projects manager Martin Duenas.
“Rota is a jewel in the string of the Marianas, and this year’s event sponsors worked diligently to prepare for the weekend — the Rota Mayor’s Office, Rota Municipal Council, the Rota Legislative Delegation, and Guam Ambros, Inc.”
Taking first place in the “Biggest” category was Andrei Mendiola with a 6.95 lb. titan trigger fish, followed by Isidro Pabeda with a 6.6 lb. keeled-needle fish, Redentor Devilla with a 6.56 lb. red snapper, and Mel Balaan with a 6.07 lb. red snapper.
Mansueto Nava reeled in the “Most Weight” with 49.45 lbs., followed by Rio Cayetano with 33.66 lbs., Brian Richards with 15.04 lbs., and Olen Jacob with 14.82 lbs.
Cayetano also topped the “Most Variety” category with 30 species, followed by Nava with 25 species, Jacob with 16 species, and Pabeda with 14 species.
Winners received cash prizes during the awards banquet.
