The event will be held during the first 2 weeks of May which is traditionally known as being one of the best times to fish for flounder locally. This is a family oriented tournament which focuses on enjoying the outstanding flounder fishing opportunities that exist around Chincoteague Island.

The registration fee is $35.00 per angler. Deadline for online or mailed Registrations is 5PM, May 6th, 2010; walk-ins 7AM, May 7th, 2010. Participating boats may carry only registered anglers while fishing. Fishing is limited to creeks and coastal bays of the area with no ocean fishing during the tournament. Anglers may fish any number of days. An optional calcutta will be available, based on the heaviest 3 flounder weighed in per angler during 9 day period.

Weigh-ins for the event will occur daily at 4:00 PM at Capt. Bob’s Marina with the final weigh in on Sunday, May 16th, 2010 at 3:00 PM. Tournament winners will be determined by the total daily weight of three fish or less. Prize amounts are based on entry fees with cash prizes awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Place. Additional prizes include: 4th Place – a one year slip rental at Capt. Bob’s ($850.00 value), 5th Place – an Ugly Stik rod and reel Combo and a multi-fish payout for trout and croaker.

The tournament will feature several extras, including:

- Free boat launching and parking for paid participants, discounts on slip rentals, boat rentals and local lodging.

- Bait, ice, fuel, food, beverages and tackle will be available for sale at the shop.

- Free tournament t-shirt with each paid entry prior to April 7, 2010.

- Free waterway map

For details and official tournament rules, visit www.captbobs-marina.com or call 757-336-1010 or 757-824-5033.

                          

The event will provide an opportunity for mariners to meet some of their local enforcement officers, ask questions and learn about new and existing regulations.

Regardless of whether mariners operate a commercial, charter, or recreational vessel; subject matter experts will be on hand to answer questions about recreational and commercial fishing, or questions about laws pertaining to safety gear.

Boaters without specific questions are invited to come and listen to the discussion or pick up information on Boating Safety, Commercial Fishing Vessel Safety, Fishing Regulations, or to come and schedule a Courtesy Marine Examination.

The following are participating agencies and agency departments:

* U.S. Coast Guard Station Chincoteague

* U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

* U.S. Park Service (NWR)

* Virginia Marine Resources Commission

* National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

* U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Boating Safety Instructors and Courtesy Marine Examiners

* U.S. Coast Guard Sector Hampton Roads Commercial Fishing Safety Examiners

The session will be held at Tarr Hall, in the Galley Facility, located on the base.

source: USCG press release