Salmon Derby winner
March 31st, 2013

Salmon Derby winner

Burlington resident Scott Fowler stepped to the stage at the Anacortes Salmon Derby big tent early Sunday afternoon to accept a plaque and a $15,000 check as top fisherman in the 2013 event with a 21.52-pound fish. Fowler said he will donate $500 back to the Anacortes Salmon Derby Scholarship Fund. Monday, April 1 press release:

Anacortes – This year’s derby contestants experienced good fishing, good times, and glorious weather as over 1,100 registered anglers took to local waters during Easter weekend in the hopes of catching a piece of the $25,000 in cash prizes.

Open Division: Landing a winning fish to collect the top prize of $15,000, Scott Fowler of Burlington, WA anxiously watched as his 21.52 pound fish, which led all fish caught on Saturday, remain atop the leader board as the weigh-in closed Sunday at noon. As he was standing on stage holding the winner’s check, Fowler stated “We fish bait, and it takes bait to catch big fish.” Fowler’s fish was one of 256 total fish boated during the two day contest – which represented the most fish caught to-date during this event.

Also Ran(s): Rich Olson of Everett, WA won $5,000 for his 2nd place finish with a 19.42 pound fish, barely edging out Jay Murphy of Puyallup, WA who took home $2,500 for 3rd place finish with his19.1 pound entry.

I’ve Got A Secret: Jerry Schmidt of Olympia, WA was in the right place at the right time and saw his 7.2 pounder come closest to a pre-determined weight in the Secret Weight category worth $2,500.00. When accepting his prize, Jerry humorously remarked “… Skill played a very important role.”

Ladies First: Jennifer Payne of Friday Harbor won the Women’s Division bracket with a 14.69 pound fish – disappointing all other contenders – and took home an new fishing rod and reel, as well as the trophy for her winning effort.

Young Guns: Seth Baumgarten of Mercer Island was the best-of-the-best in the Youth Division (14 years and under) with his impressive 16.52 pound fish, beating out 40 other youthful hopefuls for the top prize. Each and every youngster took home some very nice prizes including custom-made participation medals, and assuredly, some fond memories.

GAFFF: The 1st Annual, Great Anacortes Fishing Film Festival, was well received as the 500 folks in attendance were treated to some exciting video footage of some wide-open fishing action. The winner of the Pro Division was Charter Captain and radio show host Rob Ensley of Gig Harbor and Craig, AK. Winning the Amateur Division was Jim Ramos of Sedro Woolley, WA, while Steve Chamberlin was the people’s choice for the Silver Horde Anglers’ Choice Award. “I think it was a good success and a great beginning to an event-within-an-event that has the potential to rival the fishing portion of the derby in terms of popularity” said Derby Board Chairman, Jay Field. He went on to say “I hope others watching were inspired to submit entries for next year’s show.”

It’s A Wrap: “I know I say it every year … this year’s event was the best one to date” said 2013 Event Chairman, Terry Nemeth. “Everyone I’ve talked to this weekend was having a great time … many indicated that this was their favorite fishing derby in the series. This event is the result of hundreds and hundreds of hours of planning and effort by the Board of Directors of the Anacortes Salmon Derby and members of the host organization: the Fidalgo-San Juan Islands Chapter of the Puget Sound Anglers.” Nemeth went on to say: “This charitable community event could not take place without the ongoing support from the Port of Anacortes, the generosity of local businesses, those businesses with ties to the fishing community, and an all volunteer staff.

The proceeds from this derby fund scholarships to benefit young adults pursuing a career in fishery management and related fields. The Derby has disbursed over $163,000 in scholarships and grants in the past six-years. For more information and pictures, please go to: www.anacortessalmonderby.com

Steve Berentson

About Photographer Steve Berentson

A fourth generation Skagit County native who was moved kicking and screaming from this island community in 1960. I finally reclaimed an Anacortes address in 1980, and I have been in constant celebration of my return since that time. Many of us who call Anacortes home love Fidalgo Island for its natural assets: among them are rugged beaches, pristine lakes, thousands of acres of forestland and some awesome views of the Skagit Valley and surrounding islands. Another element of my love affair with this community is its people, both natives and immigrants. They will “star” in many of my journal entries.

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PRINTS
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PHOTO LICENSING
Photos are available for use as prints and online use. Please contact me for pricing.

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