Ralph Craft, owner of Crafty One Custom Rods took to their social media channels to make a big announcement regarding the wildly popular one day tournament. First Craft spoofed his shop by saying that the ‘big announcement’ would be that the Portsmouth, RI tackle shop where they build their amazing line of custom rods would, “continue to not sell bait!” But then quickly changed gears to announce that the RI Tog Classic would ride again in 2023 and the big day is set for October 8.
For those who are unfamiliar with the event, Ralph and his crew put on one heck of an amazing tournament in an effort to raise money for a chosen charity; in 2021 they raised money for the Gabe’s Got This Charity and in 2022 the proceeds went to the Three Angels Fund, both charities in some way benefit victims of cancer and their families. As of press time, a beneficiary had not been announced for the 2023 Classic and the tournament website was under construction. Keep your eye on our digital editions this month and our Weekly Fishing Forecast on YouTube for more details as they become available.
The event itself is a ton of fun. Toggers from all over New England and as far south as Georgia converge on rocky little Rhody for a one-day blackfish throw down. With categories for shore, boat, kayak and youth, there are many ways to win. The after-party at the Portuguese American Citizen’s Club (35 Power Street in Portsmouth, RI) is almost as much fun as the fishing! With live music, great food from some of the area’s best food trucks and a raffle so big it’s hard to wrap your head around it! Last year the entry fee was $100 and you can probably expect the fee to be in that ballpark again this year. Togging is always a ton of fun, but togging for a cause is even better, so whether you want to win or just enjoy the after-party and buy as many raffle tickets as you can afford, you simply do not want to miss this awesome, once-a-year event! Check out www.ritogclassic.com for more information.
