NOTE:  THE FOLLOWING REPORT WAS PROVIDED BY
THE CHESAPEAKE-ANGLER MAGAZINE

Derby Expected to Fill Field by Tournament Time

Andy Kauders, Tournament Director for Smith Point Sea Rescue’s 25th Annual Bluefish Derby, indicated that tournament officials have high expectations that the maximum of 300 boats for the 25th Annual Reedville Bluefish Derby will be reached before the June 12th cutoff.

This will be the 25th year for the grandfather of Bay tournaments and will be held on June 13th and 14th at Buzzards Point Marina in Reedville, Virginia.  Eligible species, which will qualify for over $32,000 in cash and prizes are, bluefish, striped bass and croaker.

The increased interest in fishing the derby is a result of adding Norview Marina on the Rappahannock River as the third location where fish can be turned in for weighing.  Norview joins Smith Point Marina and Buzzards Point Marina.  This change will mean that those fishing the lower Bay will not have to travel up to Reedville to turn in their catch.  Tournament officials will ice down the fish and transport them to Buzzards Point for weighing. 

Weighting and Release

For those who are not fishing there is still a lot going on to enjoy on the derby grounds.  Watching the boats bringing in their catch is fun for the whole family.  For those who enjoy shopping for unique items a number of vendors will be selling their goods under the pavilion Friday and Saturday afternoons and evenings.  The very popular band FAB which will be entertaining both Friday and Saturday nights beginning at 8PM.

Smith Point Sea Rescue is a totally volunteer rescue unit which serves boaters from the Potomac River south to the Rappahannock River and across to the eastern shore.  The organization receives no governmental monetary support and depends solely on the proceeds of this derby and donations to fund their operation for the year.  The support of sponsors, including Coors Distributing, Tri-Star Supermarket, and Buzzards Point Marina together with many others helps make this event possible.

Applications can be obtained on line or contact Jett’s Hardware in Reedville at 804-453-5325.