Anglers enjoy annual Make-A-Wish Tuna Challenge

SAN DIEGO — More than 400 anglers participated in the annual Make-A-Wish Tuna Challenge hosted by Silver Gate Yacht Club Aug. 28-30.

The annual three-day fishing tournament that is known as the largest tuna fishing tournament in the continental United States raised $240,000 for the foundation. Proceeds from the event over the last 26 years total more than $3.2 million raised fro Make-A-Wish, according to event organizers. Funds from the event help to grant wishes for children with life threatening medical conditions in the San Diego community.

The tournament concluded with a post-tournament banquet on Aug, 30 at Silver Gate YC that included awards, lunch, raffles, live and silent auctions and a grand raffle for a new Mazda.

A total of 412 anglers comprised of 18 juniors, 35 ladies and 359 men fished on 91 boats. This year’s tournament saw sunny weather with light wind and great conditions. Teams weighed in 50 dorado, two yellowtail, 12 bluefin, 84 yellowfin, 18 skipjack, and one spearfish.

2015 Tournament Results

Richard Thomas Memorial Grand Prize (Top Angler) Winner: Brandon Nelson, 62.20-pound yellowfin, Mi Panga.

Top Lady Angler Winner: Judy Hirsch, 47.40-pound yellowfin, Green Bee.

Small Boat Division (Team Total): E Fish N Sea, 155.60 points (976-Bite); El Patron, 85.30 points, (no club affiliation); Joey J, 79.80 points,(no club affiliation).

Large Boat Division (Team Total): Mi Panga, 236.60 points; Baja Viking, 195.80 points; Pez Luchador, 193.20 points

High Boat Overall: Mi Panga, 236.60 points; Baja Viking, 195.80 points; Pez Luchador, 193.20 points.

High Club Award: Southwestern Yacht Club Anglers, 205.50 points; San Diego Marlin Club, 191.10 points; 976-Bite, 155.60 points.