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Follow on Google News |  24th Annual Suncoast Kingfish Classic Highlights Spring Fishing SeasonThis year there are more ways to win than ever before. There’s a Guaranteed First Place cash prize of $10,000 cash for the single largest kingfish (king mackerel). This prize is not dependent on the number of participating boats in the tournament. There is also a new Single Engine Division (outboard motors only, up to 300hp) that will pay out $1,000 in cash plus an 8ft Power Pole that’s also a guaranteed prize. Fifth place will win cash plus a boat lift and pilings valued at $3,500, tenth place will win $1,000 and 24th place will take home $1,500. The closest king mackerel to 24 pounds (but not under) will win a custom boat wrap worth $2,500 too. One place will be paid for each ten boats entered and teams will win cash and prizes. There will be prizes for both ladies and junior anglers too. The Captain’s Meeting takes place Thursday, April 9th with registration opening at 5:00 p.m. All tournament functions will take place at John’s Pass Marina, which is just to the east of Gator’s Cafe and Saloon in Treasure Island. The Captain’s Meeting will also feature raffle drawings, specials on food and drinks, live music, sponsor vendors and even a boat show sponsored by Central Marine and Yamaha for participants and spectators. The entry fee is just $300 per team before April 4th and $350 after. There are optional jackpots available and even a Spanish Mackerel division for $55. Returning for the spring Suncoast Classic is the Gene Turner Nearshore/Offshore Division. Gene Turner was a legendary figure among Tampa Bay area anglers, particularly those pursuing kingfish during their annual spring and fall migrations. This division will feature an entry fee of just $175, making it one of the most affordable tournament entries found anywhere in the world. The boundaries, from Cedar Key in the north to Boca Grande Pass to the south and offshore to a point roughly 30 miles west of the John’s Pass sea buoy, will ensure a fair and friendly competition to just about anyone regardless of the size of their vessel. There’s also a guaranteed $2,500 first place prize up for grabs for the winner, and will pay three places plus there will be prizes for Ladies and Junior Anglers as well. Teams may participate in the “Gene Turner Division” as well as the concurrent Suncoast Kingfish Classic although the boundary requirements will be those of the Gene Turner if they choose to do so. The tournament is also part of the Southern Kingfish Association’ Tournament fishing will commence on Saturday, April 11th for the one-day shootout, and the weigh-in will take place at John’s Pass Marina from 3 p.m. through 5 p.m. on Saturday. Boats must be checked in by 5 p.m. and the awards will be immediately following the weigh-in. Spectators are cordially invited to attend: cheer on your favorite teams and watch all the excitement of a world-class tournament weigh-in. “We’re very excited with this year’s spring Suncoast Kingfish Classic,” says tournament coordinator Capt. Ryan Farner. “This year we’ve got a terrific lineup for our anglers including our primary sponsors Yamaha, Central Marine, Miller Lite, Papa’s Pilar rum and Three Olives vodka so it’s going to be a great weekend of fun and fishing at John’s Pass!” Farner also said that the timing should coincide well with the annual spring run of big kingfish just off the western coast of Florida. So get your team together and make plans today to fish the 24rd Annual Suncoast Kingfish Classic, April 9-11, 2015 at John’s Pass Marina, Treasure Island, Florida. For more information visit www.suncoastkingfishclassic.com. End
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