Francis Nunes Jr. made many important contributions to sport fishing in Antigua and Barbuda over the years, and to celebrate, the association which promotes the sport is hosting the 3rd Annual Francis Nunes Jr. Memorial Fishing Tournament and Seafood Festival. The event takes place in Nelson's Dockyard this weekend, on Saturday, September 25th. The Captain's Briefing begins a day earlier on Friday evening and all boats must be at Nelson's Dockyard Marina by 6PM for registration.  

There's all kinds of technical fisherfolk stuff that goes on during the day, but the public gets a chance to join in the fun during the very popular weigh-in which takes place from 3-4:40PM.  Then the public's invited to jump in and select the finest fish to take home for around $12EC/pound intact (cleaned) or sliced.

Prize-giving begins at 6:30PM with awards given in the categories of largest dolphin (aka mahi-mahi), wahoo, kingfish and tuna;  best male, female, youth, and youngest angler.  The champion boat prizes go to the vessels which capture the most fish measured by poundage - 25 feet and under, and +25 feet.

Throughout the day it's time to manger, nyam and eat!  And based on previous years' offerings, fish lovers are in for a serious treat at the seafood festival liming that follows.  Any way you can think of to serve the fruits de la mer, and you'll get it at the festival; fried fish, seafood rice, sushi, carpaccio, chowder, lobster, crab and more, and it's as fresh as it comes.  So get down to English Harbour after 2:30 PM before it all goes.  Here's a tip, grab the seafood chowder wherever and whenever you can…it will disappear fast.  Don't say you weren't warned!

And on the libation tip, along with all the usual liquids for types who like to tipple, this year there's a special sport fishing beverage which we're sure will have some variation of rum and lots of it! 

Click here to learn more about the Antigua and Barbuda Sport Fishing Association.  If you haven't yet registered to enter for this year's tournament, email basicblue@candw.ag.

Happy fishing!