The inaugural Marathon Fire Rescue Benevolent Wahoo Tournament brought a new level to fall fishing on Nov. 7 and 8, drawing 139 anglers across 30 boats. The tournament raised over $60,000 toward the purchase of a fire pump for the department’s new fire boat.

With sunny skies and nary a breeze, conditions were ideal. The American flag flew from the extended ladder of truck 14 above the weigh-station at Marathon’s Oceanfront Park as anglers returned with their catches. In total, 20 wahoo, four kingfish and two blackfin tuna were brought to the scale.

Special tournament honors included the George Steinmetz First Responder Award, the Jenni Cameron Lady Angler Award and the Ben Segard Junior Angler Award, each recognizing the local spirit and purpose behind the event.

Tournament organizers are already planning next year’s contest, with dates to be announced.

Photos by NATALIE DANKO/Keys Weekly

THE WINNERS

1st place wahoo – Snow Man III: captain BJ Meyer.
2nd place wahoo – Snow Man III: captain BJ Meyer, angler Bill Blum.
3rd place wahoo – Headin’ South: captain Marty Lewis, angler JW Drott.

George Steinmetz First Responder Award: Jesse Fossum of Team Valhalla.

Jenni Cameron Lady Angler Award: Natalie Lancaster of Team Bluegrass Roots, captain PR Lancaster.

Ben Segard Junior Angler Award: Savannah Drott of Headin’ South, captain Marty Lewis.

Biggest blackfin tuna: Team Viva, captain Fred Kaufman, angler Todd Prince.

Biggest kingfish: Bluegrass Roots, captain and angler PR Lancaster.