Marianas Visitors Authority’s Frank Tudela said they have registered over 50 entries from Guam, Palau, Saipan, Tinian an Rota but they are still receiving more entry forms.
He said there were seven to 10 entries from Guam where anglers want to challenge this time the defending champion from Saipan.
The 25th Annual Saipan International Fishing Tournament on Saturday and Sunday will mark the silver anniversary of the longest running fishing competition in the CNMI.
Anglers are expected to go for a two-day trolling in the waters off Saipan and top prizes await the three biggest fish in five categories: bill fish, yellow fin tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi and skipjack. Additional prizes will be awarded for the highest total weight and for the first participant to break the derby record of landing a 624.34 lb. marlin.
“The Saipan International Fishing Tournament draws both local and international competitive sport fisherman for a great weekend of fishing, and we’re looking forward to this year’s anniversary having a strong turnout,” according to MVA managing director Perry Tenorio.
“We’re already expecting at least 60 boats.”
Registration is $150 per boat, inclusive of a captain and one angler. The fee for each additional angler is $25. Registration will be conducted on July 17 at Smiling Cove Marina in Garapan.
Boat launching on both days of competition will be from 6-8 a.m. at Smiling Cove Marina, Fishing Base in Garapan, or Sugar Dock in Chalan Kanoa.
Last year, over 50 participating teams from Guam and CNMI participated in the event.
Spearheaded by the Saipan Fishermen’s Association, the tournament held on Aug. 9 and 10 ran in the same number of categories plus the competition for the heaviest total weight.
The fishing method in the tournament will be trolling which is primarily used in the pelagic fishery.
And as a requirement, the Department of Public Safety’s Boating Safety Unit will conduct boat safety inspections a week prior to the event. So individuals wanting to have their boat inspected during the week should contact Boating Safety at (670) 322-9182 for appointment.
The boats that fail to undergo prior inspection will have to go through full inspection before launching in the first day of the event.
The event is organized by Saipan Fishermen’s Association and MVA. For more information or a registration form from MVA, contact Ed Diaz at [email protected] or Frank Tudela at [email protected] or call 1.670.664.3200.
