05 Sep Fishing For the Future kids tournament is largest yet

CCANC hosted it’s third Annual Fishing For the Future youth tournament in August at Swansboro, the largest kids event yet.

“We had a huge interest,” said tournament organizer and Executive Board member Shelley Smith.  The tournament has grown exponentially in each of its three years. “We ended up with 178 kids registered compared to 34 the first year so we had a great turn out,” she said.

“All participants registered prior to the July 31 deadline received a free ‘Captain Bag’ with sponsor goodies including stickers, t-shirt, tackle, toys as well as a rod and reel,” Smith continued. This was all made possible by the donations of local companies and individuals.

The tournament had another great year of support from local businesses with Viking Turbines, Smith Custom Homes Inc., Transportation Impact, Dudley’s Marina, and Image Builders being the biggest supporters.  “All financial support was from small local businesses and Academy Sports. Academy even sent out some employees and a corn hole game for fun in the park between fishing and awards presentation,” she said.

A 48-inch redfish caught by Troy Bates was the largest redfish in the 12 and under age group and was definitely the talk of the afternoon.  Chase Barnes, Troy’s cousin, hooked the longest flounder for 12 and under.  “Even better, their grandfather was fishing in the adult Hook & Bones Redfish Open held simultaneously and placed second,” Smith said.

On the girls’ side of the competition, Scarlett Futrell retained her 12 and under Lady Angler title from last year by hauling in a 26-inch red drum. For more information about the tournament, please visit https://www.facebook.com/events/355670108291473/.

Fishing for the Future Tournament results:
12 & under:
Longest Redfish, Troy Bates 48″
Lady Angler Longest Redfish, Scarlett Futrell 26″
Longest Flounder, Chase Barnes, 18″
Most Fish, Arabella Molfetto, 34 fish
Most Unusual Fish Caught, Sydney Brady, American Eel

13-17 Year Olds:
Longest Redfish, none
Longest Flounder, Kalle Powell, 14.5″
Lady Angler, Kalle Powell, 14.5″ flounder