Matlacha Mariners fishing tournament attracts 43 anglers
Saturday morning the Matlacha Mariners held its annual fishing tournament and fish fry for its members.
“The rain today didn’t dampen the spirits of the Matlacha Mariners,” Larry Schamberger said. “Forty-three anglers entered the tournament this year and that’s eight more than last year.”
The weigh-in took place at Seven Seas Bait and Tackle across the street from Bert’s. Martin Yaffey, Mariners’ member, conducted the weigh-in. There were seven place winners from the tournament.
Bill McKee caught the biggest fish (redfish) at 6.26 pounds and 29 inches long. Bob Bock took second place with a redfish at 6.18 pounds and 25 inches long. Third place went to Roger Black with a redfish at 6.12 pounds and 25 inches long. Fourth place went to Mike Peplinski, fifth place Greg McKee, sixth place John Barone and seventh place Dewey Duchaine
“The day didn’t produce as many fish but still produced some good sized fish,” Schamberger said. “These events are successful because of the generosity of the local community.”
On Oct. 19, the Mariners will help out the Matlacha Hookers with its annual fishing tournament to be held at the Olde Fish House Marina.
The Mariners will hold the Matlacha Mariners Music Festival on Saturday, Nov. 22 ,at the KOA Campground.
“We’re bringing this event back to Pine Island and we need Pine Islanders to support this event,” Schamberger said. “All proceeds from this event goes back into the Pine Island Community.”
On Feb. 21, the Mariners will hold the Seafood Festival and Car Show at Sun Splash in Cape Coral. This event gives people an opportunity to sample a variety of the best seafood Southwest Florida has to offer. There will also be live music, crafts and entertainment. All proceeds go back to Pine Island.
The Matlacha Mariners is a 501c (3) non-profit men’s organization devoted to supporting the charities that help Pine Islanders in need.