The 2018 Young Anglers’ Tournament event took place under sunny skies on Saturday August 11th at Shelter Island Pier.  More than 100 anglers pre-registered for the tournament and another 94 registered on site. Participants and their families came from all over San Diego county including Escondido, San Marcos, Oceanside, Del Mar, Coronado, Alpine, Santee, Spring Valley, El Cajon, National City, Chula Vista, San Ysidro, Ramona and Imperial Beach. Others came from Riverside, Pomona, El Centro and Pauma Valley, California and Las Vegas, Nevada.

The fish were cooperative all day long from the tournament start at 8:30 AM to the tournament close at 12 noon.  In the days catch were calico and sand bass, mackerel, opal eye, halibut, bat rays and an octopus.  A lunch of hot dogs, chips, fresh fruit from Specialty Produce and Tommy Gomes’ famous fish tacos were served up for anglers and their families. Informational displays were provided by CA Dept of Fish & Wildlife and US Fish & Wildlife Service. Assistance with fishing tackle and scoring were provided by members of San Diego Anglers, San Diego Rod & Reel Club, San Diego Fly Fishers, United Pier & Shore Anglers and California.

There were 10 age group winners from 6 to 15 years old.  The winners received rod & reel combos and fishing trips aboard San Diego half day boats from H&M Landing, Point Loma Sportfishing and Fisherman’s Landing. All were presented with beautiful embossed IGFA certificates documenting their accomplishments. The prize for Top Angler went to 13-year-old Jeremiah Ninonuevo of Chula Vista whose name will be engraved on the tournament perpetual trophy. Jeremiah additionally received a beautiful hand-made fly presented for display by Paul Woolery of the San Diego Fly Fishers.

Between the tournament close and the award announcement the San Diego Harbor Police fire boat provided a spectacular water display in front of the pier to the delight of anglers and their families.

More photos of the days action is available through this link.