Kids fish for free at Shelter Island’s Young Anglers’ Tournament

SAN DIEGO ― The 15th annual Young Anglers’ Tournament takes place on Shelter Island Pier, Aug. 12. Children, between the ages of six to 15, fish for free and compete for prizes.

Winners are determined in each age group by how many different fish are caught and released. An overall winner is recognized on the tournament trophy. Rods and bait are available while supplies last, so children are encouraged to bring their own gear.

Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. at the pier on the day of the event. The fishing competition starts at 8:30 a.m. and concludes at noon with prizes given out at 1 p.m. Tournament and raffle prizes include hats, shirts, fishing gear and deep sea fishing excursions.

Hot dogs, chips and sodas are provided to all registered youth anglers courtesy of Stump’s Village Market of Rancho Santa Fe and Tommy Gomes from Catalina Offshore Products and Specialty Produce.

Organizations involved in putting this event together include Port of San Diego, San Diego Sportfishing Council, International Game Fish Association, and Tidelands Activation Program. United Pier and Shore Anglers Club, San Diego Rod & Reel, and the San Diego Anglers will be keeping a tally and assisting the children. Gear, tackle and bait are provided by Okuma Fishing Tackle, Anglers Distributing, and Friends of Rollo. OKUMA Fishing Tackle, West Marine, Anglers Distributing, De-Fishing Soap, Friends of Rollo, Point Loma Sportfishing and H&M Landing are sponsoring prizes.

Gary Graham photo