Virginia Beach tuna fishery takes its turn in the summer tournament season
The 18th annual Virginia Beach Tuna Tournament hit the ocean today, with 107 teams vying for what could be a total prize payout of more than $290,000 - both event records.
Mega Byte won last year’s $270,000 event with a three fish total of 282.3 pounds and took home $28,565.
Only five boats - including last week’s Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament winner Marcenaria - are fishing today.
The good news for the combatants is that more and more yellowfin have moved into Virginia’s offshore waters. Teams will also be targeting larger big eye tuna in hopes of a higher total weight and a better chance of winning.
The event is hosted at Southside Marina, staring straight down the entrance of Rudee Inlet. Weigh stations are available at the Virginia Beach Fishing Center in Rudee and Long Pay Pointe Marina inside Lynnhaven Inlet.
After payouts, proceeds will benefit the McLesky Memorial Marlin Tournament and Hooked on Hope.
The first tournament was held in 2005 and featured a $52,000 payout.
Organizers aren't surprised by the growth.
"I mean, yeah, absolutely we knew it was going to grow," founder Bob Sinclair said. "We've done everything we could to make it grow and now it's a staple in the fishing community."
