COVID may have curtailed last year’s Blue Water Open fishing tournament, hosted annually by the Exchange Club of Sebastian, but not even rough seas could keep anglers ashore this time around.
A fleet of boats carried hardy fishing enthusiasts out for an adventure on the high seas during the 27th annual Blue Water Open Charity Offshore Fishing Tournament to benefit various children’s charities supported by the Exchange Club, many of which focus on the prevention of child abuse.
An enthusiastic crowd of anglers and sponsors had gathered the night before for the Friday evening Captain’s Meeting in the Ramp Lounge and Sand Bar at Captain Hiram’s. In addition to gearing up to challenge the fish and the elements, participants purchased 50/50 chances and raffle tickets, dropping the latter into buckets in hopes of winning a sea of prizes, and bid on live-auction items, including a trip valued at $4,600.
Anglers also shared fish tales – some increasingly growing taller – while enjoying drinks and live music before heading home for a good night’s sleep. All needed to be ready to drop their lines bright and early Saturday morning in the hunt for the biggest dolphin, wahoo, kingfish, amberjack and grouper.
Having done their utmost, anglers returned their boats and their catches to Capt. Hiram’s for the afternoon weigh-in, lining up along the dock. They were cheered on by a crowd gathered along the shoreline, who watched as the fish that had been landed were weighed and measured, each angler hoping to claim their share of the $20,000 purse.
“Fifty percent of what we raise goes specifically toward the prevention of child abuse,” said Eva Chapman, event chair. “The other 50 percent goes to Americanism programs, other youth activities and community service.”
Over the years, the tournament has raised more than $750,000 to support charitable organizations. The Exchange Club also offers scholarships to local students and contributes to school programs and such nonprofits as Youth Guidance, Boys & Girls Club, Yellow Umbrella and Sebastian Youth Soccer.
Chapman noted that the programs they support highlight the Exchange Club’s four pillars of service – Americanism, community service, youth programs and child abuse prevention.
“We’re having a banner year with sponsors. Everybody is trying to make up for last year,” said Chapman. “There was so much need last year, but people weren’t able to help. We had a lot of generous people donate, but nothing like what we get through the tournament, so we weren’t able to give away the money we normally do. The people that we help are hurting, and there’s more need than ever.”
For more information, visit fishingforcharity.org.
Photos by Kaila Jones
