Dana Wharf Celebrates Successful Annual Catch And Release Tournament

DANA POINT, CA — Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching announced the conclusion of its annual Catch and Release Bass Tournament, which wrapped up on Aug. 31.

This year, the tournament welcomed 691 participants and raised a total of $3,455 for the California Conversation Association.

"We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our customers who joined in on the excitement," Dana Wharf Co-Owner Donna Kalez told Patch. "Each angler practiced catch and release, contributing to a vital sand bass research project being conducted by both the CCA and the Sportfishing Association of California."

The tournament commemorated the spirit of fishing and celebrated monthly winners, Kalez said.

In August, Gary Williams took home the title with a 2.4-pound calico bass. July's winner, Brandon Guido, claimed second place overall with a 3-pound, 14-ounce sand bass, while the overall champion and winner for June was Alex Samala, whose catch weighed in a 6 pounds, 8 ounces.

Samala received a prize pack from the tournament's sponsors, which included Turner's Outdoorsman, Costa Sunglasses, Daiwa USA, MC Swim Baits, Bass Pro Shops and Hogan's Bait and Tackle.

Residents interested in learning more about the annual Catch and Release Tournament can visit Dana Wharf's website.