Cape Hatteras Anglers Club will Celebrate its 60th year of its Annual Invitation Surf Fishing Tournament

According to a history of the Anglers Club, the first tournament took place Oct. 23, 24 and 25, 1958 under the auspices of the Surf Anglers Clubs Association and only member clubs of the association could fish the tournament. The tournament also was open to organized teams of the U.S. Military. Nineteen teams from six states fished the first tournament, with headquarters at Bert’s Seafood Market, now the location of Diamond Shoals Restaurant.

Winning teams in that first tournament were the “Onized” Surf Club that took first place; Merchantville Fishing Club, second; and Tri-State Anglers Club, third. Merchantville Fishing Club still fishes the tournament and will compete again this year.

This year 120 teams comprised of six members each will compete Thursday, Nov. 2, and Friday, Nov. 3, for prizes in the tournament. The tournament draws fishermen from throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Along with 50-60 judges, and families and friends, the tournament will draw around 800 persons to Hatteras Island for the week.

Catch and release is practiced during the Tournament. Judges are stationed within sight of all entrants and are immediately available to score hooked fish.

The tournament will kick off Wednesday, Nov. 1, with a long-distance casting seminar by competitive distance casting champion Tommy Farmer. The seminar will feature hands-on demonstrations and advice from Mr. Farmer. It is scheduled for 10 am to noon at Ramp 34, just north of Avon. The seminar is free and open to the public.

Thursday evening, Nov. 3, the Anglers Club will throw open its doors to the public for its annual Tackle Show. The show will feature manufacturers’ representatives presenting their latest fishing tackle and accessories, plus displays by local sponsors.

The tournament is authorized by a special use permit issued by the National Park Service. No fishing stations are located at Cape Point or Hatteras Inlet, which allows other fishermen access to these popular spots.