JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Little kids plus big fish equals lots of smiles at the annual Junior Angler tournament at Sisters Creek Marina Tuesday.
140 kids under the age of 16 participated in the annual tournament. The goal was to catch the biggest kingfish you can, but after a day on the water with family, the kids say that is the best part.
"I just like fishing and hanging out with family," said Kaitlin Wiles, who finished in 3rd place with a 24.55lb. kingfish. "It's just a good experience overall to be able to be out on the water having a good time.
It was all about family on the "Just N Time" from Yulee with captain Dallis Turner. He took his wife and 3 kids under the age of 6 out for their first Junior Angler tournament. "We did it this year with the kids. Usually we just fish the regular tournament, but they are getting big enough, so we brought them out and it was awesome."
From Junior Angler rookies to veterans of several years, these captains have taught their anglers the most important thing about tournament fishing; Do not tell anyone where you caught it.
"They said I couldn't tell you," said 10-year old Shelby Hudson. Shelby caught a 6.9 lb. kingfish Tuesday and was quick to tell us what her favorite part of fishing is:
"The slime on the fish is my favorite," said Hudson.
The winner of the Junior Angler tournament was Blaine Parry aboard the "Bottoms Up" with a 28 lb. kingfish. Parry takes home a 13-foot boat with motor and trailer.
The general tournament returns to the old two-day format, starting this Thursday and Friday.