Photo Credit IGFA

Press Release

Gary Graham
760.522.3710
ggraham@sportfishing.org
April 29, 2009

San Diego, California…IGFA Representative Catherine Miller of San Diego celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Port of San Diego’s 30th Annual Day at the Docks® which honors San Diego’s Sportfishing Fleet on April 19, 2009. Catherine Miller, the producer of Day at the Docks, along with the San Diego Port, has worked tirelessly for over 30 years to produce this major San Diego event which introduces the general public to one of the world’s largest sportfishing fleets.

One of the highlights of the day was when Catherine, a San Diego native, was honored by International Game Fish Association Trustee, Michael Farrior, who presented her with a Special Achievement Award for her efforts in promoting sportfishing through the annual Day at the Docks which has become the most significant one-day sport-fishing event in California and is the largest of its kind according to Stephen Cushman, Chairman of the Port Commission.

The pride of San Diego, the fleet is the largest, most modern in the world. Captains were on board many of the 70 renowned, modernized sportfishers docked at the landing, eager to share their vast fishing knowledge as well as their schedules and perspectives on the upcoming season with the public.

Row after row of booths of the industry’s leading manufacturers provided displays of the latest in fishing tackle. Marine artists, local fishing clubs and food vendors also lined the docks with their displays.

Many of West Coast’s well-known experts and manufacturers’ reps presented seminars throughout the day. Topics varied from boating safety, fishing techniques, rod selection, rigging, knot tying and kayaking to cooking and sushi preparation.

Local clubs, including San Diego Rod and Reel Club and San Diego Anglers, provided expert assistance at the Kid's Fishing Adventure, helping kids enjoy an opportunity to fish for free from the docks. The Kid’s Fishing Adventure was sponsored by West Marine, Okuma Fishing Tackle and Bioline Fishing Line.

Live entertainment on three stages, tackle and trip giveaways, casting and knot tying contests entertained visitors throughout the day.

Local sportfishing boat owners, exhibitors, area businesses including West Marine, an Anglers’ Legacy sponsor, Tommy’s Fish Taco Stand and Captain Andy Cates, gave generously of their time and resources. Proceeds from the dunk tank, taco sales and raffles benefited San Diego Burn Institute, Monarch School, and Friends of Rollo.

San Diego Sportfishing Council with support of the San Diego Unified Port District and the County of San Diego, producers of the event, announced that the 31st Annual Day at the Docks will be held on April 18, 2010.