The Whitsunday Game Fish Club's Billfish and Tuna Rally, held last Sunday, saw junior anglers taking centre stage and proving their prowess on the water, much to the surprise of their seasoned competitors. In perfect conditions, ten teams took to the seas, but it was the young guns who outshined the veterans.
Junior angler Jasmin Smith, fishing aboard her dad’s boat Lay Low, made headlines by tagging and releasing a Sailfish on an 8kg line, earning her the top-scoring Billfish of the day. Not to be outdone, her younger brother Benson also had an impressive showing, tagging and releasing a Long Tail Tuna on a 10kg line to win the Tuna section. Benson capped off the day by landing a stunning Mahi Mahi, solidifying the siblings' dominance in the competition.
Despite the challenging Sailfish conditions, all teams enjoyed a day of fishing and camaraderie. With the rally wrapped up, the club is now turning its attention to the highly anticipated Ben Doolan Light Tackle Tournament, set for October 10-13. This year's tournament is shaping up to be bigger and better than ever, thanks to a dedicated committee and the support of both long-standing and new sponsors.
The event kicks off with a compulsory briefing on Thursday, October 10 at 6 p.m followed by a fun Calcutta auction of teams at 8 p.m. All tournament nominations must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Monday, October 7. The action begins on Friday, October 11 with a sailpast of all competing boats at 7 a.m., and fishing will commence at 8 a.m. The tournament runs through the weekend, with the presentation dinner scheduled for Sunday evening at 6 p.m. at the Clubhouse in Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale.
One team to keep an eye on will be the group of junior anglers, with their dads stepping in as crew. These young competitors have already vowed to give the veterans a run for their money, making the Ben Doolan Light Tackle Tournament an event not to be missed!
Contributed with thanks to Ashley Moore
Jasmin Smith (centre) with Sailfish for quick photo before release.
Benson Smith (left) with his Mahi Mahi.
Benson Smith with Tuna trophy.
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