50th MDR Halibut Derby a big fish success

50th Marina Del Rey Halibut Derby Concludes with Remarkable Success

Celebrating the Spirit of Competition, Conservation, and Community

The Marina Del Rey Halibut Derby, the longest-standing tournament on the West Coast, concluded this weekend with a resounding triumph. Hosted by the Marina Del Rey Anglers Fishing Club and President Myles Blatt, the highly anticipated two-day event, on May 31and June 1, brought together anglers, families, and marine enthusiasts from all corners of the region. This was not just a competition, but a celebration of our shared love for the ocean and its treasures. Held against the picturesque backdrop of Marina Del Rey Harbor and Santa Monica Bay, the event celebrated its 50th anniversary, showcasing the skill, camaraderie, and commitment to environmental stewardship that define this celebrated tradition.

A Thrilling Weekend of Fishing Excellence

This year's event drew participation from 127 anglers representing 33 teams, who entered multiple divisions ranging from seasoned anglers to enthusiastic newcomers. With lines cast and spirits high, competitors vied to reel in coveted prizes, creating an electrifying atmosphere of skill and determination. This year's derby featured new categories and numerous memorable catches, including an impressive 31.9-pound derby-winning Halibut.

Community Engagement and Festivities

Beyond the competition, the weekend provided a rich tapestry of events for both participants and spectators. After the day two weigh-in, competitors, their families, and interested parties enjoyed delicious taco catering. Following dinner, an incredible trophy presentation coupled with sought-after raffle prizes and a fabulous silent auction, thanks to the generous donations by our numerous outstanding event sponsors.

Cheered on by proud parents and a supportive crowd, young anglers showcased their burgeoning skills, underscoring the importance of fostering the next generation of sport fishing enthusiasts and instilling a love for the ocean and its treasures.

Marine Conservation at the Heart of the Derby

The Marina Del Rey Halibut Derby has long been committed to promoting marine conservation, and this year was no exception. Representatives from the HUBBS-Seaworld Research Institute and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife were on hand to collect crucial scientific data from Halibut and White Seabass catches.

Recognition and Awards

This fun-packed contest represents much more than a Halibut Derby. During the lively award ceremony, top anglers across multiple divisions were recognized for their achievements, including:

• Top Shore Angler Kevin Gacia 1.0 lb. Yellowfin Croaker

• Top Sport Boat Angler Miguel Campos 31.1 lb. Halibut (The Betty-O)

• Top Women's Angler Wendy Tochihara 26.35 lb. Halibut (Alive Release

25% Bonus)

• Top Rockfish Tom Decker 8.3 lb. Vermillion Red

• Top Ling Cod Paul Yamasaki 8.6 lb.

• Top Sand Dab Russel Taylor 0.9 lb.

• Top Sculpin Steve Duncan 1.1lb.

• Top White Seabass Dennis Yamamoto 46.5 lb.

• Top Saltwater Bass Limit Vallerie Handzus 21.0 lb. (5-Spotted Bay Bass Alive,

2x Weight Bonus for Spotted Bay Bass)

• Top Halibut Daniel Ahman 31.9

• Top Youth Angler Finneas Day 15 lbs. Saltwater Bass

Youth Fishing

The top youth angler Finneas Day, who will be to old to fish as a youth by next year’s derby, gave a significant part of his top prize to a very young 2nd place youth angler, Lucas Smith, who is wildly into fishing for his tender years. The future of fishing is looking bright for these fine youth anglers. MDRA wants to encourage the kids and for more Mom’s and Dad’s to take their kids out fishing anywhere they can.

All MDR Halibut Derby Proceeds benefit Youth Fishing, Veteran Fishing, and the White Seabass Grow-Out Hatchery Program, making a significant impact on our community. The Marina Del Rey Anglers are proud partners with the Coastal Conservation Association of California,
https://ccacalifornia.org/

Looking Ahead

As the Marina Del Rey Halibut Derby wraps up another successful year, the organizers extend their gratitude to all participants, volunteers, sponsors, and community members who made the event possible. The derby continues to serve as a cornerstone for building connections, celebrating the sport of fishing, and advocating for marine conservation. Mark your calendars for next year's derby, promising even greater adventures and opportunities to connect with the sea, the sport, and the Marina Del Rey community. Stay tuned for updates and highlights from the derby, the Marina Del Rey Anglers, and join us in celebrating the beauty, bounty, and importance of our oceans.

Thank you to everyone that came out to fish. Join us next year.

Or join our fishing club if you love saltwater fishing. www.MDRAglers.com

The fishing club is open to everyone that likes fishing. From shore anglers to charter anglers and all in between. Small boaters from Kayakers to sportfishing boaters. Our membership comes from all around Los Angeles County. We are centered here in the crown jewel of the California boating scene, Marina Del Rey Harbor.