Young anglers ages 6 through 15 will again compete in the free ninth annual Young Angler Tournament at the Shelter Island Pier on Saturday, Aug. 13. The saltwater event, which takes place at 1776 Shelter Island Drive, is sponsored by the San Diego Sportfishing Council, the International Game Fish Association (IGFA) and the Port of San Diego.?The tournament will feature a points system to allow for catch and release. Winners — one in each age category between 6 and 15 — will be determined by adding up points for various fish caught. The angler with the most points overall will be recognized on the tournament’s perpetual trophy. IGFA representatives and volunteers from the United Pier and Shore Anglers Club, San Diego Rod & Reel and the San Diego Anglers will be on hand to assist young anglers and to tally points. Young anglers in the competition are encouraged to bring their own gear, although a limited number of loaner rods will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Small quantities of bait will be provided each angler while supplies last. Registration begins at 9 a.m., with fishing from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Prizes are awarded by 2 p.m. Hot dogs, chips and sodas will be served to all registered anglers. Prizes and raffle drawing items include rods and reels, hats, T-shirts, fishing gear and deep-sea fishing trips. The San Diego Sportfishing Council, a nonprofit corporation, hosts the event to promote San Diego sportfishing as an attractive marine recreational activity, to increase awareness of sportfishing opportunities from San Diego Bay, to increase the availability of “how, when and where” information and access to sportfishing opportunities. For more information, call 619) 234-8793, or visit www.sportfishing.org.
