Kids' Fishing Tournament Promises a 'Reel' Good Time!
“Fishing with friends and family creates lifelong memories and experiences that are as vivid for me now as they were when I was six years old,” shared Fred Danziger, organizer of the annual Daniel Island Kids’ Fishing Tournament, which will take place on Saturday, June 17 this year.
For Danziger, a member of the Daniel Island Inshore Fishing Club, the organization that has hosted the tournament at Smythe Lake since 2011, the memories are always his biggest catch of the day.
“People are starting to know that this tournament takes place every year on the weekend before Father’s Day,” Danziger said. “Word is out that it’s one of the most enjoyable outdoor family events on the island!”
The 7th annual day of fish and family fun is expected to draw a large crew of anglers and guests as well as sponsors. This year’s tournament hopes to attract 100 fishermen, but since two-thirds of participants sign up the day of, Danziger said this year’s numbers could climb even higher. Scout Boats will continue to serve as the presenting sponsor of the tournament, and Sea Tow of Charleston, Longshore Boats, and Publix are also onboard to help.
“There’s something for everyone who loves the outdoors here,” Danziger added. “For example, if kids are beginners or afraid of live bait, we’ll help them learn to fish with lures.” Among other attractions, this year’s festival goers are invited to test their skills at the DNR’s popular virtual “Fish Simulator” game.
Children of families who reside or work on Daniel Island are invited to take part in the catch and release tournament. All anglers must be accompanied by an adult. Catches eligible for prizes are largemouth bass, bream (pan fish), and mullet. There is also a mystery fish category for other species found in the lake, such as eel or the elusive spot-tailed bass.
Awards will be given for the first, second, and third longest fish caught in the three primary categories, in addition to a prize for the longest mystery fish of any other species caught and for any tagged largemouth bass.
“Every kid who is registered has already won a prize,” said Danziger. “We have 21 different sponsors who have donated something great.” Prizes will be provided by Orlando’s restaurant, DI’s new Refuel station, the Charleston Riverdogs, the Charleston Battery, and more.
A Grand Champion Award will be given to the angler who nets the longest fish of the three eligible species. The winner will receive a half day fishing trip with Captain Greg Peralta.
Peralta said he has loved being a part of tournaments past. “These young anglers have a been a real pleasure to fish with. I love to see the kids fishing with their families.”
Danziger commended the Daniel Island Property Owners Association for not only donating the use of Smythe Park for the event, but also for keeping the lake stocked with fish.
“We are so lucky to live in a paradise like Daniel Island and our POA does a terrific job of keeping it that way,” said Danziger.
The 2017 Daniel Island Kids’ Fishing Tournament will benefit the Berkeley County Chapter of the SC Department of Natural Resources. Registration forms and tournament instructions can be found at several locations on Daniel Island, including Publix and the Daniel Island Property Owners Association offices, as well as on the host organization’s website: http://danielislandinshorefishing.com.