Some anglers seek solitude, others the thrill of competition. Some like to fish from shore, others from boats. All find what they’re looking for in Dukes County, a fishing paradise.
The diversity of fishing derbies on Martha’s Vineyard, the largest island in the Dukes County chain, reflects the Vineyard’s reputation as a New England fishing capital. The contests offer something for everyone, from kids catching stocked trout to adults battling 500-pound sharks.
Here are the derbies, as they occur during the year.
MAY
Kid’s Trout Tournament
One day in May, sponsored by the M.V. Rod and Gun Club
Dick’s Bait and Tackle Tournament
Memorial Weekend
Call Dick’s Bait and Tackle (508-693-7669) for more information
JUNE
Fly Rod Striped Bass Catch & Release Tournament
Saturday evening through Sunday morning in June, sponsored by the M.V. Rod and Gun Club
Bass and Bluefish Fishing Tournament
A Saturday in June, sponsored by the Pink Squid Yacht Club
JULY
Oak Bluffs Monster Shark Tournament
Mid July, sponsored by Boston Big Game Fishing Club
Fluke Tournament
July 9-10, 2005, sponsored by Veteran’s of Foreign Wars Post #9261
Registration at several local tackle shops
For more information call Peter Herrmann at 508-627-8476
AUGUST
Oak Bluffs Top Gun Marlin & Tuna Shoot Out
Late August, sponsored by Boston Big Game Fishing Club
SEPTEMBER
Martha’s Vineyard Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby
60th annual tournament Sunday, September 11 – Saturday October 15, 2005
Martha’s Vineyard Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby – kids derby
A Sunday in mid-September at the Oak Bluffs Steamship Wharf
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