Fifteen anglers entered into the regional IFA tournament at Surf City on May 23rd. Fishing began at first light on Sunday morning and anglers were greeted with the best weather and water conditions seen yet during the IFA Kayak Tour series. A light wind and clear skies made sight fishing an easy chore for the entire day. Kayak anglers were greeted by several schools of hungry redfish with one angler, Justin Carter from Charleston, landing as many as eight from a school while sight fishing from his Hobie Pro Angler. The largest of his catch, 30.75″, won him the Biggest Redfish and $200.
In the end it was those four anglers who caught trout that separated them from the other eleven competitors. Nathan Raycroft of Morehead City won First Place with a 29.75″ redfish and a 16″ trout. He took home a Hobie Pro Angler and $200. Allen Caine from Wilmington, and representing the local Great Outdoor Provision Co., took Second Place and Largest Trout with a 26.5″ redfish and an 18.5″ trout. Allen was able to fish the tournament, catch his aggregate, AND make it back to the shop to begin his 12:00 shift! Allen took home a Hobie Outback for his quick work.
Scott Inge from Raleigh took Third Place with a 24″ redfish and a 17.5″ trout and went home with a Hobie Quest for his accomplishment. Congrats to everyone and thanks for participating in the IFA Kayak Tour. I’d like to wish Nathan Raycroft and Scott Inge good luck as they make their way to Georgetown, SC on September 26th to participate in the final and third leg of the IFA Kayak Tour Atlantic Division. Nathan currently has 390 points and Scott has 389 points after the Surf City event.
Ashley Williams
GOPC Kayak Fishing Team
Weigh in @ Wilmington Shop