5th annual fishing tournament in Maine last weekend
On July 16, fishing fanatics from all over gathered for the Saltwater Kayak Fishing Tournament in West Bath, Maine. The three-day event is now in its fifth year, and was hosted by Seaspray Kayaking, with sponsorship by a number of other fishing retailers and organizations, including Maine’s Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, Ocean Kayak, and Wilderness Systems.It may be a tournament, but don’t let the honest spirit of competition scare you away. All were welcome, especially when the festivities started off with Free Kayak Fishing Friday. Fans got a chance to try out equipment offered by the tournament’s sponsors, including new kayaks. Representatives were on hand to demonstrate the goods.The actual fishing began as soon as teams were registered that night, and it continued until 11 in the morning on Sunday, July 18. On Saturday, early birds took advantage of the delicious free breakfast sponsored by Dunkin Donuts, which started on the dot at 5 a.m.In fact, there was no charge for anything in the tournament, unless you wanted to rent one of Seaspray Kayaking’s fine boats for 20 a day, or 10 per half day. A partner was required to ensure safety and fair play, but those without one of their own were matched up by the tournament leaders.If you’re a kayaking and fishing fan, or if you’re just looking for a way to enjoy the beautiful fishing sites of the New Meadows, Androscoggin, Kennebec, and Sheepscot rivers, the Kayak Fishing Tournament is well-worth checking out next year. Just make sure to bring a friend with you.