The upcoming 66th Annual Martha’s Vineyard  Bass and Bluefish Derby is a mega-event for those who fish. But even those who watch from the sidelines, the month-long Derby spawns a whole raft of exciting events to enjoy.

Martha's Vineyard Businesses Celebrate the Derby
In the art world, the Old Sculpin Gallery in Edgartown kicks off the fishing frenzy with a group exhibit “By the Sea,” saluting the 66th Annual Fishing Derby.  Scheduled from September 9th through September 16, the gallery is located at Dock Street Edgartown, next to the Chappy ferry just a stone’s throw from where much of the Derby doings happen.  In Oak Bluffs, the Dragonfly Fine Art Gallery invites you to its Plein Air Derby where 25 Vineyard artists paint in the gentle September light and deliver their daily ‘catches’ now through September 25th.

CB Stark Jewelers offers up bass and blues as motif cuff links, money clips, charms and pendants in both silver and gold and and assortment of sizes.  Visit their Martha’s Vineyard locations in both Vineyard Haven and Edgartown or shop on-line.

For those who prefer their fish in a pan and not on a hook, Island restaurants step up to the plate:

Fisherman are being invited to bring their catch to the newly opened Ken ‘n Beck restaurant in Oak Bluffs where they can enjoy their fish expertly cooked to order with their choice of side dishes from the menu.  Beer, wine and cocktails are also available.

Up in Menemsha, the Island’s grand-daddy of all seafood restaurant, the Home Port, will be open until Columbus Day weekend this year serving their extensive menu of fresh fish and shellfish.

Next door to the Clarion Inn in Edgartown (where a Derby discount is being offered), the Grill on Main offers grilled swordfish among its selections for its 3-course prix fixe dinner.  Appetizers feature its satisfying quahog chowder.

Hook Up Here for Special Deals
Billing itself as ‘base camp’ for Derby contenders the Beach Plum Inn offers its own version of the Derby Challenge: Daily winners can claim a free night’s stay.  If you win the Derby your entire stay is on the Inn. Additionally, The Beach Plum Inn once again celebrates the Martha’s Vineyard Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby by generously hosting  a group of wounded service personnel during the event who are treated to two days of fishing,  a reception in their honor, and beach BBQ.  For more information contact the Beach Plum Inn.

Derby participants and fans are being invited to experience this quintessential Martha’s Vineyard event at the Mansion House Inn where the staff will happily provide assistance arranging a charter, provide fishing tips and store your catch. And … guests who stay 3 days get the fourth non weekend night free.

Lodging opportunities also include Oak Bluffs’ Capricorn House which offers midweek and walk-in deals. The Doctor's House of Martha's Vineyard in Vineyard Haven offering  10% off  for 2 night minimum  stays; breakfast included. The Jonathan Munroe House, located an easy stroll to the weigh-in station in Edgartown, offers Derby participants 10% off on mid-week stays, early morning hot coffee and bagels. Tucker Inn Rentals welcomes fishermen with discounted fall rentals.

Fueling up for Fishing on Martha's Vineyard
Fishing sure makes you hungry so stock up on snacks and lunches to go at the Black Sheep. Spend $25+ and get a 10% discount on charcuterie, lunches and more at their downtown Edgartown location.  If a craving for something sweet strikes while you’re waiting for the big one, stop in at Murdick's Fudge where you’ll save 15% off your order when you show your Derby button. 

Among other businesses offering special deals on lodgings, services and shopping on the Derby’s website are Revive by Sarka and Wayfarer Charters; showing your Derby button will net you 10% off merchandise at  Edgartown Marine.

Check the Martha’s Vineyard Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby website for details and coupons for these and other Derby deals.