Insider's Guide to the Derby |
A Derby for Everyone
When the bluefish are running, you don't have to be a seasoned fisherman to net one of the Grand Prizes at the 64th Martha's Vineyard Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby through October 17th.
The whole family can join in. Register at the committee headquarters, on the waterfront at Edgartown harbor or at:Captain Porky's Bait and Tackle Shop, Larry's Tackle Shop, Dick's Bait and Tackle, Shark's Landing Bait & Tackle, Coops Bait & Tackle and Mememsha Texaco. While you're signing up, stock up on all you need, including your free tournament hat and badge! (Keepers!)
Or rent a rod for a day, pick up some bait and even charter a boat. Or, you can go Squid Jigging off the dock for your own bait, and go fishing off one of the Vineyard's picturesque beaches. Whether you are simply casting dockside, or planning to charter from one of a number of charter companies on the island, it is a memorable way to spend a day or two.
The One That
(Almost)
Got Away
“I couldn’t
believe it!
I tried to
wade in
... but the fish
was too big &
swam
off with my
[new, $300]
rod,”
reports a local fisherman.
A couple
hours later,
his friend
battling with an equally strong
catch,
managed to
wrestle it
to the beach
... along with
the missing rod. |
Great Prizes
Compete for the thousands of dollars in prizes that include daily prizes for the largest Striped Bass, Bluefish, Bonito and Albacore in all categories (Shore, boat, fly or all tackle). If you win, you could have your shot at a new 24’ EASTERN Center Console powered by 135HP Honda, with trailer, compliments of Eastern Boats or a 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, compliments of the Clay Family Dealerships.
Best T-Shirt Quote:
Frankly scallop, I don't give a clam." |
Win or not you will have shared an unforgettable experience with the family. Make an evening of it by taking your catches down to be weighed at committee headquarters between 8 an 10 pm (or again between 8 and 10 am each morning). Want to donate your fish? You'll watch it being filleted on the barge alongside, to be distributed later among the Islands appreciative senior citizens.
TIPS:
- Have a go at squid jigging - it's easy and it's fun.
- Take an early morning trip down to Memorial Wharf in Edgartown for a glimpse of some serious fishermen coming in with their catches.
- Read the book of regulations you are given on registration. They are important.
- Remember to remove all trash, including lines and carcasses from the beach when you leave.
- Please, release some fish back into the water for the next day.
- Don't forget your derby badge if you have a catch to weigh in.
