Despite the short notice, it was great to see 70+ entrants take part in the inaugural Tin Can Bay Easter Fishing Classic. Good weather greeted the competitors with excellent recent reports of the three target species: bream, whiting and mud crab.

Saturday afternoon saw a procession of anglers and onlookers visiting the weigh in board. By Sunday afternoon’s 4 o’clock final weigh in, crowds had started to swell with the score board being the centre of attention. With blue skies and an all-day sausage sizzle, it wasn’t long before people started arriving with eskies all holding quality fish. Some would arrive and check the fish already weighed in and then would disappear to try and better the ‘board’.

Once the weigh in was complete it was time for the raffles. Well-known local auctioneer identity Alan Henderson soon had control of the crowd with fishing gear, crabs and prawns all going under the hammer, the small but enthusiastic gathering being generous in their bidding ensuring a good outcome for the Angel Flight and the Coast Guard beneficiaries.

In fishing competition standards this was a ‘minnow’ size event, but considering the short amount of time it was organized in, the event was a huge hit. This is thanks to Darryl Lee local identity and manager of Lee Fishing Company, who worked tirelessly to pull it off.

Likewise, without the support of sponsors these events would not happen, so many thanks to major sponsor Fisherman’s Warehouse & Lee Fishing company, Queensland Fishing Monthly, Tin Can Fishing and Boating and Top Tackle. Also to all those who helped out during the competition.

Catch of the weekend, but unfortunately not an eligible species, was a 9.3kg golden trevally caught by Bill McKechnie on a herring at the mouth of Schnapper Creek. Bill donated the fish to the auction and his kind gesture raised $50 to the cause.

With the success of this first Easter competition, Darryl is already planning next year’s. With more time to plan and the addition of more species, we look forward to another enjoyable event.

The real winners on the day where Angel flight and Tin Can Bay Coast Guard who both received $1,500 each - well done Darryl. – Tin Can Bay Classic

The major winners were:

1

Bill McKechnie with his 9.3kg golden trevally, unfortunately it wasn’t an eligible species.

2

The small but enthusiastic crowd at the raffle.

3

A shy but excited Emme Muggleton receiving her QFM subscription for the smallest fish.

4

Major winner Darcy Moorehouse scooped the pool with his whiting.