Isaac Molt remains the frontrunner in the weeklong Casco Bay Bluefin Bonanza tuna fishing tournament, bringing in a 635-pound bluefin on Monday. Last year’s winner, Joey Pinkham, caught a 756-pound fish. The tournament, organized by Bob and Jane Humphrey, raises scholarship funds for students in trades at Maine’s community colleges. The event also offers internships and collaborates with researchers from the University of Maine System.
This year’s catch includes a 591-pound bluefin by Max Bogdonovich and crew, 575 pounds by Rusty Parmenter, 576.5 pounds by Erik and Kurt Christensen, 523.5 pounds by Linda Greenlaw, and more in the 400-, 300-, and 200-pound ranges. The tournament only allows local rod and reel fishermen to participate in a sustainable fishery.
Participants also have the chance to win a grand slam by participating in other fishing tournaments. Fish buyers purchase the tuna, with higher-quality fish being shipped to Japan and smaller ones sold domestically. Despite challenging weather conditions, the fishermen are determined to continue the tournament and hope for kinder weather on Thursday.
The Bluefin Bonanza tournament aims to build a better community, with a focus on conservation, education, and supporting local fishermen. With the competition coming down to the wire, excitement is high as anglers compete to catch the largest bluefin and secure the victory.
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