Enhancing their efforts to support local communities and a sustainable bluefin tuna fishery, three Maine tuna tournaments have joined forces to create a new series called the Gulf of Maine Grand Slam. Vessels that register for all three tournaments will be eligible for additional prize money, part of which will go to a charity of the winning captain’s choice.
The series kicks off July 13 with the Bluefin Benefit Battle in Portland. “The Bluefin Benefit Battle is an inspiring event. Year after year, it continues to bring the community together, to not only support local fisherman but to support each other in the fight against cancer,” says Courtenay Needham, Director of Development of Northern New England. “The dedication of our volunteers and our sponsors’ commitment to the American Cancer Society embodies the ‘local fish, local fight’ motto and we are grateful for their efforts to raise money and awareness to help local Maine families affected by cancer.”
The second leg begins July 21 with the Bailey Island Fishing Tournament in Bailey Island. Hosted by the Casco Bay Tuna Club, the tournament includes opportunities for adult and youth anglers. “The Casco Bay Tuna Club’s Bailey Island Fishing Tournament is thrilled to be a part of the opportunity for fishermen to participate in a Grand Slam,” said tournament president Monique Coombs. “This marks our first year back after a short hiatus, and it’s more important than ever for tournaments to collaborate in demonstrating their steadfast commitment to sustainability and the health of the Gulf of Maine ecosystem. We can achieve this by working together to encourage fishermen to responsibly handle their catch and promoting strong values rooted in stewardship and conservation.”
The third and final leg is the Casco Bay Bluefin Bonanza, July 27-August 2 in South Portland. Entering its sixth year, the Bonanza raises funds for Maine community college scholarships and internships and bluefin tuna research at the University of Maine’s Pelagic Fisheries Lab at the Gulf of Maine Research Institute. It features a Youth Day event, 4 fishing days and a fundraising auction and dinner where over $50,000 in prize money will be awarded. “I think this new initiative is a great way to demonstrate unity among the tournaments and how we’re all working together to benefit our communities,” said Bluefin Bonanza president Bob Humphrey.
In order to qualify for the grand prize, vessels must be registered in all three tournaments. The captain and crew who accumulate the most points will receive a trophy, a cash prize and the privilege of proclaiming themselves the top tuna team in Maine!
