Organisers, still struggling to get sponsors, said they expect a huge turnout.
Among the many prizes on offer is the award for the group that lands the heaviest fish. Women participants are also expected to increase their attendance, as they seek to make their mark in the competition, where they have shown an increased interest.
“The ladies have previously proven their competitive edge, Mandy Ferreira previously landing a magnificent 10,210 kg in the 2002 tournament,” said event spokesperson, David Whitehead.
Among the competition rules that are set to be maintained this year is the ban on pre-baiting and practicing between 6am on Monday, September 17 and the same time on Saturday, October 13, 2012, as a way to provide a level playing field for competitors.
The 2011 edition of the international competition was graced by 143 teams that came from more than six countries, but the 2000 edition still holds the record for the biggest catch of 9 945,18kgs – with a total catch of 4,788 fish.
The biggest fish to come from the tournament in its 49-year-old history was scored by Martinhus Van Rensburg in 2009, weighing in at 12,735kg. Sandra Pienaar caught a 10,550Kg fish on the same day. The current record Tiger Fish was caught by Jenni Daynes and weighed in at 16,1Kg outside of the tournament on December 9, 2001. The tournament is recognised as one of the greatest Game Fish tournaments in the world and is a qualifying round of the IGFA Inshore World Game Fish Championships.
Post published in: Sport