20th Annual Wahine Fishing Tourney Set for Saturday

The Huggo’s Wahine Fishing Tournament has become a Kailua-Kona tradition, mixing in fishing, fun, and charity.

Now in its 20th year, the annual women’s fishing tournament is coming up on Saturday, July 20 at Kailua Bay.

A team of four anglers, a captain, and crew will start fishing around 8 a.m. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top crew that can bring in a marlin over 300 pounds. A trophy will be awarded to the biggest fish caught in each of the following three categories: tuna, ono, and mahi mahi.

Creativity is also being rewarded at the tournament. Cash, merchandise, and gift certificate awards are being handed out for the best decorated boat and the best team costumes.

This year’s tournament theme is “South Pacific Decadence.” Participants are invited to wear the most colorful or over-the-top Polynesian attire to celebrate the event.

Once again, Family Support Hawai’i is receiving a monetary donation from the tournament. The Hawai’i Island United Way agency, formerly called Family Support Services of West Hawai’i, has netted almost $100,000 in donations from the event.

Tournament events kick off with a registration and team briefing at Huggo’s on the Rocks on Friday, July 24, beginning at 6 p.m. On the day of the tournament, all crews will check in at 7 a.m., an hour before the start is given. All teams will have until 4 p.m. to bring in their top catches.

Immediately after crews are done fishing, weigh-ins will commence at Honokohau Harbor’s Fuel Dock and Charter Desk. Awards will be handed out on Sunday, July 26, also at Huggo’s on the Rocks. The awards presentation will start at 7 p.m. and entertainment will follow at 8 p.m.

For more information, call 987-9734 or 329-2840.