One of the fishing season’s more important dates was announced this week. The 23rd annual Martha’s Vineyard Rod and Gun Club Fly Rod Striped Bass Catch and Release tournament will be held the night of Saturday, May 31, club president Bob DeLisle announced.
Tournament co-chairman Cooper Gilkes said the date was selected to take advantage of a dark moon, good tides, and, hopefully, the arrival of plenty of striped bass. More than 130 fishermen, many from off-Island participated, in last year’s event, which raised money for a variety of club youth activities and generated a sizeable donation to the Wounded Warrior’s Project.
There are three prize categories: the Roberto Germani Trophy, for the most striped bass caught and released by a team; the Sonny and Joey Beaulieu Trophy, for the largest striped bass caught and released; and the Arnold Spofford Trophy, for the most fish caught and released by a team using one fly per team member. The club will host a breakfast in the high school cafeteria Sunday morning, June 1, followed by an awards ceremony at 9:30 am.
The entry fee is $35. For tournament information or to contribute prizes, contact Cooper Gilkes at 508-627-3909.
