Port Douglas Marlin Challenge Lures Lucrative Tourist

Nov. 8, 2012 - PRLog -- Tourism Port Douglas and Daintree executive officer Doug Ryan said a number of vessels had begun arriving for the event, which will run from November 7 to 11. “This is pencilled in the calendar as the must do blue ribbon tournament by the best in the industry.”

As a result, Mr Ryan said the tournament was also a great economic driver for the destination. “The Marlin Challenge brings into the region top end clientele who have one of the highest spends in the region,” he added.

Now in its third year, tournament director Lynton Heffer said organisers were expecting a field of around 20 vessels, which have travelled from as far as Sydney to take part. “We have the best marlin fishing ground on our doorstep. Statistics show 85% of the world’s 1000 pound marlins are caught in our local waters.”

Mr Heffer said not only does Port Douglas boast the best access to marlin fishing, but was also a destination that not only appealed to crews travelling on these vessels, but also anglers, friends, partners and those keen to catch a glimpse of these super size fish.

He said the event would not be possible without the support of major sponsors FNQ Lager and Hickory – Build for Life. “We have a great range of prizes up for grabs, which include wall mounted trophies for the winners as well as beer product, fishing reels, game fishing tackle, gift vouchers and more.”

The tournament is open to all members of clubs affiliated with the Game Fishing Association of Australia or the International Game Fish Association. It is also strictly tag and release, in which the angler attaches a tag to the marlin and records data such as date, time, place, size and approximate weight.

“By tagging and releasing we play an important and vital role in monitoring the movements of marlins and the information that we can provide is integral to long-term survival of these species,” Mr Heffer said. For more information on The Port Douglas Marlin Challenge contact Lynton Heffer on 0409 610 869.

ENDS  

For more information, please contact :

Doug Ryan

Executive Officer

Tourism Port Douglas & Daintree

Phone:  07 4099 4588 / 0417794875

Email:  eo@visitportdouglas.com (mailto:eo@tpdd.com.au)

Web:   www.visitportdouglas.com (http://www.tpdd.com.au/)