MBTS Fishing Tourni: Thanks

To the Editor,

I’m writing to share the phenomenal success of our recent fishing tournament, which brought together 138 local anglers for a weekend of community and friendly competition. The enthusiasm was contagious, with lines staying in the water until the very last minute at noon, resulting in 258 fish logged!

The most heartwarming sight was the increased youth participation -- 29 kids under 11 (21% of participants, up from 15% last year) and 20 junior anglers aged 12-17.  These numbers prove that our local fishing tradition is alive and well in the next generation!

This event wouldn’t be possible without our generous sponsors at every level.  Our “Striper Level” sponsors deserve special recognition:  The Hooper Fund, Crocker’s Boatyard, Metaxas Brown Pidgeon LLP, Cell Signaling, Tomo’s Tackle and Kelly Automotive Group. Our “Mackerel Level” supporters include Michelle Baer Designs, Manchester Marine, Manchester Harbor Boat Club, Three Lanterns, Sugar Shells Custom Cookies and Active Site Partners.  And let’s not forget our “Pogies” sponsors: Standley’s Garage, Fisherman’s Outfitter, Ceramica Del Mar, C.K. Pearl, Bravo By the Sea Pizza, SynkerPlugs, and Butchie Built.

A big thank you to The Hooper Fund for helping make fishing more accessible by subsidizing starter tackle kits.  New anglers can now get essential gear (including fish gripper, de-hookers and various hooks) for just $30 instead of $86 -- that’s making a real difference in getting more kids out on the water!  These will be available for purchase and local pick up on our website (www.mbtsfishing.com) year-round.

What really sets this tournament apart is its welcoming atmosphere.  It’s the community spirit that makes this event special.  None of this would happen without our dedicated volunteers who do everything from hanging banners to counting and folding shirts, distributing rulers, collecting prizes and beyond.

Here’s to growing this wonderful tradition and welcoming even more anglers next year!

With gratitude to the angler community,