The Grand Strand Fishing Rodeo: A Great Catch

It’s time for some fun in the sun with the 55^th Annual Grand Strand Fishing Rodeo Competition! The event is sponsored by the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce and runs from April 1^st thru October 31^st.

Prizes awarded will total over $17,000 and your catch can earn shoulder patches, monthly decals, cash and merchandise. Awards are given for Fish of the Month, Largest of Species, and Outstanding Catches including men’s, women’s and children’s groups. Wouldn’t it be great if your catch of the day earned you the $2000 grand prize?!

Over 20 varieties of fish will be included in the competition, including Blackfin Tuna, Bluefish, Flounder, Grouper, King Mackerel, Trout and Yellowfin Tuna. You just might catch the Yellowfin Tuna that breaks the state record of 241.12 lbs! Or the Bluefish that beats the state record of 21 lbs.

No matter what your catch, you’ll enjoy a fantastic day on or near the water here in the Grand Strand.You can fish anywhere in the coastal waters from the North Carolina line at Calabash southward to the South Santee River.If you are boating, be sure to depart and return to port within the areas mentioned.

This is all for fun! The Grand Strand Fishing Rodeo promotes recreational fishing along the Grand Strand.Awards are presented to recreational fisherman only.

Some important events to keep in mind are the Spring 2008 Pier Kind Mackerel Tournament (June 13-15), the 2008 Fall Mackerel Tournament (September 19-21) and the Take a Kid Fishing Tournament (October 25.)

The Take a Kid Fishing Tournament is designed to introduce our youth to the sport of fishing and is a great opportunity for parents, relatives or friends to spend a day with a child.Fishing is a great way to teach kids to associate the outdoors with fun and excitement (especially if the fish are biting.) A day spent out on a boat, the pier, or the chance to play knee-deep in water will be fun-filled and enjoyable for both you and your child.

There is no registration fee, but it’s important to be registered by October 13, 2008.The registration has to be filled out by an adult and can be picked up at any of the Grand Strand fishing piers.Additional information is available at www.GrandStrandFishingRodeo.com .

With three divisions, it’s a great day for kids of all ages!There’s a group for younger anglers who are 6 years old and under,7-11 years old and young adults 12-18 years.

No equipment? No problem.Each child/adult team can bring their own equipment or complimentary equipment will be provided at the pier.

Fishing is a great sport and a fantastic way for a family to spend some time together! You just can’t beat a day relaxing on the water and enjoying the warm South Carolina Sunshine.The Grand Strand Fishing Rodeo is a great way to enjoy the sport.Be sure not to overlook this great activity when planning your leisure or vacation time here in the beautiful Myrtle Beach area.