If you’ve never heard of the RI Tog Classic, it is an incredible tournament. The tournament has been run by Ralph Craft of Crafty One Customs, a local custom fishing rod builder and tackle shop owner in Portsmouth, RI. The tournament started in 2019 and has grown significantly over the last five years. Last year the tournament drew over 800 attendees from 11 states, as far away as California.
In association with the tournament is an incredible raffle both online (starting weeks before the actual fishing) and in person with all manner of items from local businesses including an incredible assortment of the latest and greatest fishing gear, more than you could ever want or need, with a total value of all the prizes exceeding $50,000. The raffle digs much deeper than fishing gear though, local businesses make sure there’s something for everyone, from massages and manicures to a supped-up electric toy truck, to weekend getaways, to fine-dining experiences at local eateries, it truly is a raffle of epic proportions.
When the fishing is over, a wonderful dinner and social event that includes a live band at the Portsmouth Portuguese American Club is open to all participants. This of course includes the awards ceremony where the bounty of awesome prizes is given out. Sadly, after last year’s awards ceremony, Ralph announced that there would not be another RI Tog Classic.
In the months that followed, Francine Karp and John Tait from Harborlight Software, the same group responsible for the AnglerCatch app stepped up to take over the RI Tog Classic. They were looking for a new and innovative way to expand the use of their app while providing important data to the RI Division of Marine Fisheries in order to help sustain our precious marine resources.
And the Tog Classic was back on! AnglerCatch, with help from RIDEM’s Division of Marine Fisheries, and the RI Saltwater Anglers Association, have brought the Classic back to the people and it’s slated for October 13, 2024. The awards ceremony will again be held at the Portsmouth Portuguese American Citizens Club located at 35 Power Street, Portsmouth, RI and Ralph Craft will continue his involvement as the Tournament Director for 2024.
This year, participants will log their catches in real time using the AnglerCatch app. This is not your ordinary fishing app. Touted as, “a fisheries logbook with a purpose,” the mission is to blend the thrill of fishing with meaningful contributions to fisheries management. There will once again be prizes galore, from the largest tog (blackfish) to the most creative fishing selfies, we’ve got prizes that will make your catch of the day even more rewarding. And yes, there www.ritogclassic.com will be epic bragging rights up for grabs along with awesome prizes in four divisions; adults, kids, shore and kayak.
The Rhode Island Tog Classic isn’t just for seasoned anglers. There are activities for the whole family, from kids’ games and delicious local food to musical entertainment by a great band you all know! Whether you’re a competitive angler or just looking for a fun day of fishing, the Rhode Island Tog Classic is an event you won’t want to miss. Get ready to cast your line into an unforgettable fishing adventure!
For more information, visit or call 800-548-0670.
Tight lines and see you there!
