Savai’i tourney lands marlin

04 May 2017, 12:00AM

The inaugural Savai’i Fishing Tournament is well underway.

Launched at the the Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge on Tuesday, over 100 people attended the opening and a lot of excitement came when anglers grounded their boats with their catches of the day, in time for the weigh-in. 

The tournament was blessed by Pastor Konelio of the Catholic parish in Auala. This was followed by an Ava ceremony, acknowledging all the anglers, skippers and deckers of each boat. 

The event is organised by the Savai’i Fishing Association and Samoa International Game Fishing Association (S.I.G.F.A). 

“The Savai’i Fishing Association is overwhelmed about this competition,” a statement from the organisers said yesterday.

“Since it is a first in history to be located in Savai’i, and so far, the weather has permitted a successful opening.  Previous Fishing tournaments typically take place as a series of competitive events in Apia with specific rules applying to each event, but this week anglers from all over Samoa have a chance to experience and compete in the salt waters of Savai’i.”

Up until today, fishermen competed for prizes based on the total weight of a given species of fish caught between predetermined times. This sport evolved from local fishing contests in Apia. 

And this particular competition is sponsored/donations from our local business community, major sponsor being Taula Beverages Company Limited, and they have helped in funding the prizes and the organizing of the event here in Savai’i. 

The majority of competitors are professional fishermen supported by commercial endorsements.

This derby, include 13 officially registered boats: Taumafai, King Fisher II, Free Spirit, Lady Saele, Pure Indulgence, Razze, Seemu, Aolele, For Sale (Trophy), Neemo, Sail Fish, and the biggest of the vessels is the Yellow-Fin II. 

A score is awarded for each fish caught. The points awarded depend on the fish’s weight and species. And this is what all the competitors are aiming for, the biggest catch of the day, and highest species regarded for those extra points! 

After the first day, Aolele “Team Lober” was 1st place with 60.4 points, Double Barrell “Fish Pirates” was 2nd place with 38.8 points, and Se’emu “Team Savai’i” placed 3rd.

04 May 2017, 12:00AM
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