2011 Luhrs Billfish Shootout

The annual Port Stephens Luhrs Billfish Shootout was a huge success, with a record number of 80 boats competing. Luhrs Australasian distributor BlueWater Power Yachts provided $10,000 for the Champion Tag and Release Team and this year the $10,000 Isuzu Heaviest Marlin prize jackpotted to $20,000 because no fish reached the minimum 150kg in 2010. It was a sure bet that the heavy tackle would be out and a majority of boats would be heading wide hunting bear.

In the lead up, the fishing was inconsistent, with some boats struggling to find a couple of fish per day. Many areas up and down the shelf had patches of bait with the ever popular 'Car Park' probably the most consistent area. However, by the first sked on Saturday morning, things had obviously changed. Capt. Tim Dean at the helm of Calypso, was off to a flying start by releasing two fish within the first hour; meanwhile others enjoyed early success including talented junior angler Connor Craven onboard Capt. Bill Billson’s Viking II, and Born Free skippered by Geoff Leonard.

But by days end it was Calypso that had the lead with eight tags including a 'grand slam' followed closely behind by Viking II on six. Only a couple of fish were captured with one blue marlin making the minimum weight by 9.5kg. However, this fish was subsequently disqualified due to the leader being over-length. It was an expensive mistake as this fish would have won the $20,000 Isuzu Heaviest Marlin prize. No doubt there will be much closer attention paid to the rules and lengths by this team in future tournaments.

Day 2 was near perfect as the fleet left early and made their way to their Secret Spots. Within the first two hours, many boats were hooked up during the early bite. As the tags were called through, many boats converged to one area, making it difficult to fight a fish. Team Calypso took advantage of their lead by adding another tywo tags; whilst the battle for the minor placings saw a charge from behind from boats including Greg Plunkett’s Lone Wolf who had a fantastic day releasing six and Craig Frith’s Frito 1 made a comeback releasing seven. Born Free, who were in third place on the first day, managed a double header on 15kg and released both successfully to keep up with the field.

With the Isuzu $20,000 still up for grabs after lunch on Sunday it soon became apparent that many boats were chasing the money. In the end, it was lucky angler Mark Foy, fishing onboard Seaka skippered by Geoff Thompson, who won the $20,000 Isuzu Heaviest Marlin prize with a 157kg Blue Marlin. In this tournament there is only one capture prize for one fish, and it must be over 150kg.

By days end, the ever-consistent and skilful Capt. Tim Dean had clinched a well deserved victory for his crew aboard Calypso winning champion boat T&R with 10 fish to take home the $10,000 from Luhrs/BlueWater Power Yachts. Tag and Release prizes were paid back to 10th place with Frito I (eight tags), Viking II (seven tags), Born Free, Lone Wolf, Gunrunner, Chianti, No Moor, and Gametime sharing a combination of cash and prizes from Club Marine insurance, Zacatak Lures, Costa & Flying Fisherman Sunglasses, Mavericks on the Bay, and Eastern Creek Raceway. 

2011 Champion Junior Male Angler is Connor Craven fishing onboard Viking II and Champion Junior Female the talented and consistent Kiera McMahon fishing with Capt. Jason Lee onboard Gunrunner. The Peter Goadby Encouragement Award went to Game Plan a well presented trailer boat that was towed down from Mooloolaba for the weekend.

With entries limited because of space at the Bay, and so many boats missing out this year (over 40), the 2012 Luhrs Billfish Shootout will be sure to attract another record crowd. The dates are 18th and 19th February 2012. Details at www.npsfgc.com or by phoning the club on (02) 4981 0021.