Cast a line in annual tournament

Richard Payne

Local fisherman are being encouraged to dust off the rod, cast a line and reel in a whopper as part of this weekend’s seventh annual Shellharbour Open Game Fishing Tournament.

With more than $20,000 in prizes and giveaways, the Shellharbour tournament has grown into one of the biggest and most recognised competitions on the east coast, attracting anglers statewide.

Competition organisers are extremely confident of a good showing with more than 40 boats entering this year’s tournament.

“This year is our biggest ever already,” Shellharbour Game Fishing Club secretary Darren Horton said.

“We have several boats entering from Sydney and the South Coast regions, and many from the three Illawarra game fishing clubs. However, many locals are not even aware that it is on.

“If we can attract just 20 boats from the local area it will ensure that our tournament is a success and from there we can increase its potential each year.”

Shellharbour residents not taking part in the competition are welcome to attend the weigh station at Shellharbour boat ramp from 4pm on Saturday and 2pm on Sunday to witness the presentation and the weighing in of what is expected to be a very large and diverse catch.

Tournament registration will be held at Shellharbour Workers Club tomorrow (Friday) from 6pm with a briefing set down for 7:30pm.

Entry into the tournament also includes a three-course tournament dinner at Shellharbour Workers’ Club on Saturday night.

Entrants must be affiliated with the NSW Game Fishing Association, but temporary memberships will be available.

For further details, please contact Darren Horton on 0408 408 066 or visit the club website at www.shellharbourgamefishing.com.au and download an entry form.