WITH Ed Diaz at the helm and Ed Diaz II and Liam Pangelinan Sablan on board, the Nibbler won both the Biggest Catch and Total Weight titles to top the 7th Annual I Sanhalom Laguna Anglers Association Mafuti Derby on Saturday at Smiling Cove Marina.
The Nibbler, which has claimed multiple titles over the years, secured this year’s victory by catching the largest mafuti, weighing 5.95 pounds, earning the Biggest Catch title. Combined with the rest of their haul, the crew also won the Total Weight title with a combined 7.5 pounds.
In an interview, young crewmates Liam Pangelinan Sablan and Ed Diaz II said they were thrilled to be named champions again. When asked about their fishing spots and secrets to success, they simply laughed and replied, “Secret!”
The Nibbler took home the championship trophy, $1,000 for Biggest Catch, $700 for Total Weight, and several prizes from sponsors.
In second place for Biggest Catch was Team Reelly, captained by Lufu Babauta, with a catch of 4.9 pounds, earning $700 and additional prizes. Third place went to Sunrisers, captained by Tom Tudela, with a catch of 3.20 pounds, taking home $500 and other prizes.
“This year, we lost one of our members, Ton ‘Apa’ Deleon Guerrero — it’s for Ton and it’s for Mike,” said ISLA President James Roberto. “Seven years strong — every year we try to push and make it better.”
Roberto added that this year’s event faced some challenges due to the economy, but despite fewer supporters, the derby had a strong turnout with 50 boats going out and 50 returning.
ISLA extended their gratitude to all sponsors for their continued support.
Crewmembers of the Nibbler celebrate their 1st place Biggest Catch win with ISLA members at the awards ceremony of the 7th Annual Mafuti Derby, held Saturday at Smiling Cove Marina.
The crewmembers of Reelly pose with the 2nd Place Biggest Catch trophy alongside ISLA members during Saturday’s 7th Annual Mafuti Derby awards ceremony at Smiling Cove Marina.
The crewmembers of Sunrisers pose with the 3rd Place Biggest Catch trophy alongside ISLA members during Saturday’s awards ceremony of the 7th Annual Mafuti Derby at Smiling Cove Marina.
