Melvin, Vaughn take first in GIFT tourney

First place team of Capt. Sandy Melvin and Michael Vaughn

It was a beautiful fall day for a fishing tournament on Tuesday, Nov. 22 as nine boats dipped lines in the water in search of redfish, for the 18th annual Gasparilla Island Fishing Tournament.

In first place was Capt. Sandy Melvin and angler Michael Vaughn. Second place was taken by Capt. Bob Melvin and his angler, Ron Walker.

The two-man teams fished from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. to benefit the Gasparilla Island Maritime Museum, located next to Whidden’s Marina. In all, about $3,600 was raised.

In keeping with what’s become a tradition, both teams donated their winnings back to the Gasparilla Island Maritime Museum. “It was beautiful weather for fishing,” said Capt. Sandy, the tournament coordinator. “We had high tides and a little wind, which made sight fishing a little difficult. But it was a great time.”

The winning redfish was 19 3/4 inches long.

“We had a great party the night before, and had some amazing prizes donated by local businesses,” Melvin said. “The grand prize was an Orvis 9-weight flyrod. PJ’s did a great job hosting the party, and we are more than grateful to all the businesses that contributed raffle prizes.”

Donations for the raffle were provided by PJs Seagrille, Betsy Joiner, Grapevine, Pink Pony/Dolphin Cove, Hudson’s, Barbara Anne’s, Ariel, Barnichol, Sun Porch, Fresh Produce, Boca Grande Outfitters, Temptation, Loose Caboose, Aqua and the Antique Boutique.

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