It’s hardtail season again and the only way to make this momentous time of year more exciting is to spice it up with some competition! The Albie Shootout is back for 2024 and the stage is set for a bigger turnout with the same level of competition in divisions for shore, fly and boat/kayak—with awesome prizes for the top three anglers in each category. The event will remain a catch-photo-release format, but this year, participants can enter one fish per day. Prizes will then be awarded by lottery. So more albies means more chances to win! The entry fee is $25 per angler, available for purchase in-store or on their website, the proceeds will be donated to the Albie Project.
The Albie Shootout will officially kick off this Saturday, the 21st, at sunrise and the last casts will be made at sunset on October 14. The tournament is open to anglers fishing the waters of New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts, with the only qualifying requirement being that you sign up before you begin fishing (signups will remain open for the duration of the event) and that you hold a valid saltwater fishing license (or reciprocal equivalent) for the state or states in which you intend to fish.
Anglers will record their catch with a “selfie” style photo, and all qualifying photos will have to show the tournament keyword that will be announced on September 21 and on a weekly basis after that. Participating anglers should know ahead of time that their photos will be posted to the tournament Instagram account @swetournaments. They may also find themselves used in promotional material or blog posts on the company website. And make sure you compose nice photos, because there will be a prize for the best albie photo for you camera buffs! For more information and to sign up please visit www.saltwateredge.com.
Albie season is saltwater fishing’s version of a double shot of espresso. When you take on the challenges of a competition, it’s like a Red Bull, spiked with a 5-Hour Energy Drink. Hang onto your hardtails, ladies and gentlemen. Come join us this year and add a little edge to your albie run!
