PORT Stephens is currently enjoying some of the hottest marlin action it has seen for many years so competitors should see some impressive numbers of fish tagged & released during the Luhrs Billfish Shootout.
NPSGFC President, Peter Simpson told us “The Luhrs Billfish Shootout has grown to be one of the largest Club tournaments in Australia because of its unique format and the onshore activities for the whole family to enjoy. Some boats are even travelling from as far away as Mooloolaba (400 nautical miles) for the Tournament.” The tournament has grown from 40 boats & 180 anglers in 2005 to around 100 boats & over 400 anglers competing today.
The onshore program for this tournament is diverse and includes weekend markets and activities on the foreshore, a Classic and Veteran Motorbike run and show, and there will be exhibits from a range of organisations including a free shower head swap from Hunter Water plus static displays from a range of community groups. The Tournament will also raise money for Camp Quality Newcastle. “Camp Quality literally puts laughter back into the lives of children living with cancer and we’re proud to be able to fundraise for Camp Quality at this event” says Tony Poole of BlueWater Power Yachts, the major sponsors and distributor of Luhrs Boats in Australia.
The Tournament format is unique in a number of respects. Marlin is the only species targeted. The Tag & Release section offers cash & prizes back to 10th place. The only prize for a captured marlin carries the proviso that the fish must weigh over 150Kg to qualify which limits the number of fish captured over the weekend to a bare minimum. Isuzu Australia will provide a cheque for $10,000 to the winner of the heaviest marlin category. In addition, there are a number of Junior prizes plus Merit & Hard-Luck Awards.
The most prestigious & hotly contested award though, will be the $10,000 winners cheque from BlueWater Power Yachts awarded to the team that Tags & Releases the most marlin over the 2 days. This team will also win eligibility to enter the Offshore World Championships in Cabo San Lucas in Mexico.
For further information visit www.npsgfc.com or call 02 4981 0021.
