In addition to the 25 tarpon either weighed (6) or released (19) at the back of the boat with leader swivel in hand, there were another 40 to 45 fish on (visibly tarpon).

Twenty (20) boats had 65 to 70 tarpon hookups, with 25 being official weigh-ins or releases.

Thank you to the team entrants, generous sponsors and hard working volunteers that helped make this event a tremendous success!

With appreciation,
The Officers, Directors and Members of the Boca Grande Fishing Guides Association

1st PLACE
Capt. Lamar Joiner Jr. aboard the "Searene"
Team Leader: Rich Edwards
Angler: Rich Edwards

115.8 lbs
$33,000.00

2nd PLACE
Capt. Sandy Melvin aboard the "Boca Blue"
Team Leader: Bob Melvin
Angler: Bob Melvin

102.2 lbs
$19,800.00

3rd PLACE
Capt. Lamar Joiner Jr. aboard the "Searene"
Team Leader: Rich Edwards
Most Releases: 5

$13,200.00

Photos by Coco, BGFGA web designer, and Daniel, courtesy  of the Boca Beacon Newspaper of Boca Grande

FIRST TARPON WEIGHED: $1,000 to Capt. Dumplin Wheeler aboard the "Chico"  

LAST TARPON HOOKED and CAUGHT: $1,000 to Capt. Lamar Joiner, Jr. aboard the "Searene"

TOTAL TARPON WEIGHED: 6 (weighed in wet sling…tarpon swam away)

TOTAL TARPON RELEASED: 19 (tarpon at back of boat, leader swivel in hand at release)