Bald Head Island Fishing Rodeo
Lures Anglers from Coastal Region
Anglers from up and down the North Carolina coast will compete in Bald Head Island's 17th Annual Fishing Rodeo May 29-31.
"We're right on target with our projected number of entries," said tournament chair Wendy Irick. "Many of the folks who enter this tournament have been with us several times since it first started. It's not so much about winning a big prize as it is about the sport of fishing and the pleasure of just being on the island," she commented.
An early entry deadline, May 22, earns a discount, but entries are accepted right up until May 29, with registration required by 7:30 p.m. — just in time for the welcome dinner and captains' meeting. Early entry fee is $700 and regular entry fee is $800. If a participant brings a referral boat into the tournament, there's a 20% discount on the entry fee. All proceeds from the tournament benefit the Old Baldy Foundation.
Two new platinum sponsors, Coca-Cola and Tommy Bahama Rum, have joined other contributors this year, according to Wendy, and based on approximately 30 boat entries, the tournament will be able to award over $20,000 in prizes. In addition, the winner of the billfish category, a tournament with its own separate entry fee, will be awarded the entire prize pool, a change from past tournaments. First- and second-place winners will receive trophies.
For generations, sport fishermen have found the waters in and around Bald Head Island unsurpassed in the variety and bounty of fish, as evidenced by the number of tournaments that are scheduled each fall and spring in the island's vicinity. Since its beginning 17 years ago, the Bald Head Island Fishing Rodeo has become one of the most popular of these events.
Alan Toomer of Wrightsville Beach says the unique factor about this rodeo is that everyone's together in the same place. "Since most everyone docks at the island's marina, it gives us a chance to get acquainted and visit with other fishermen and their families. I like to bring the whole family to the tournament because there's so many other activities on the island they can enjoy," said Alan.
Island accommodations are available at a special 15% discount for tournament participants and their families. Even though participants may launch from any nearby marina, most like to reserve a slip at the Bald Head Island Marina. Docking space is limited, so it's a good idea to reserve a slip by calling 1-800-234-1666, ext. 7380, or VHF Channel 16.
An entry form and details about the tournament are available at www.bhirodeo.com. Additional information is available by calling the Shoals Club Recreation Department at 1-800-234-1666, ext. 3705.
