What’s Happening At The 2007 Version Of ‘Day At The Docks’ ?

Contributed By Catherine Miller
San Diego Sportfishing Council

The Port of San Diego’s “Day At The Docks” is a sportfishing showcase, designed to appeal to a broad audience.  The day is full of fun, hands-on activities, displays, presentations, entertainment and an open door to the world of ocean sportfishing. With the Port of San Diego, we invite Arizonans to discover this attraction of San Diego’s Big Bay.

Now let’s get down to what's happening.  It runs Sunday, April 22nd from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and it's absolutely free! You'll find plenty to see and do while you visit the San Diego Sportfishing Landings. Here are some of the highlights:

KID’S FISHING ADVENTURE — Sponsored By Okuma Fishing Tackle, West Marine and Everingham Brothers Bait Company — From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. one of the most popular attractions of the day, Kids’ Fishing Adventure provides hands-on experience for young anglers 4-12 years old. 

Everingham Brothers Bait Company has filled our pens with feisty mackerel.  Okuma Fishing Tackle has supplied rods and reels and expert assistance is provided by members of the San Diego Rod & Reel Club and San Diego Anglers.  To minimize waiting in line, pick up a free ticket for a reserved time to fish at the San Diego Rod & Reel Club or San Diego Anglers booths.

CATCH, PREP & COOK CENTER New! — Learn to make the mostof your fresh-caught fish. Get tips on handling fish from the time it’s brought over the rail to its presentation on the table. Learn easy canning and smoking techniques, see sushi prepared and take home delectable recipes to try with your next fresh catch.

LONG RANGE EXPO PAVILLION — An entire area set aside for San Diego’s premier long-range fishing fleet.  Long-range boats will have displays and knowledgeable staff available to discuss their multi-day trips that target fishing grounds along the Baja Peninsula and beyond.  Seminars specifically about “long-range” topics will be presented on the Long Range Expo Stage sponsored by Point Loma Community Bank from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. 

FISHING SEMINARS — From entry level introductions to saltwater fishing through advanced topics covering specific species and techniques, our seminar schedule is packed with interesting and useful information presented by San Diego fleet skippers and sportfishing pro staff personnel. 

GOURMET GALLEY —There is great variety to choose from — seafood, Thai, Chinese, Mexican, barbecue, and more.  Many local restaurants around Shelter Island will also be serving up Day at the Docks specials on and around Shelter Island.

BOAT RIDES ON THE BIG BAY — The whole family will want to take a boat ride around San Diego Bay and it only costs $1.  Trips run continuously throughout the day from the three sportfishing landings.

CASTING CONTEST — You've got to try your hand at this true test of an angler’s natural skill. If you have never cast a line in your life, don't worry; this competition is for everyone, pro and novice alike. Competition is set for 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.  Sponsored by Seeker Rods and Avet Reels, winners receive a rod and reel combination and an open-party fishing trip. 

HOT TACKLE — Find out what's hot on the fish-equipment market.  All the top manufacturers will be there to show off their latest.  Be prepared this season with the latest and greatest!  You’ll find some great bargains on fishing tackle from exhibitor retailers and in the Landing tackle shops.

LOTS OF BOATS — You’ll find boats of all shapes and sizes.  The modern sportfishers in the San Diego fleet will be hosting a grand open house.  You are welcome to climb aboard and look around.  Joining the fleet for the day will be a U.S. Coast Guard Cutter, Coast Guard Patrol Boat, Harbor Police Fire Boat, Vessel Assist, Sea Tow, fishing kayaks, trailerable boats, and the Maritime Museum’s Pilot.

MARINE ART — Check out the work of some special marine artists: the paintings and prints by the late Chuck Byron, Marine Art by Glory Giffen, Japanese fish printing GYOTAKU by Cheri Sweig, hand-carved fish sculptures and bronzes by David Wirth, the gold artistry of Jon Petty and other fine artists.

There's plenty more to see and do at the Port of San Diego’s Day at the Docks 2007. We hope to see you there on the 22nd and often throughout the upcoming season.

Editor’s Note: Look for the Arizona Boating & Watersports booth at the event; stop by and say hello to Jim Allen, our publisher. Allen, now of Scottsdale, lived for many years on his Chris-Craft, moored in San Diego Bay. He has been a big fan of Day at the Docks each April since 1998.