Chesapeake Bay News

On September 18, 2009 Lt. Governor Anthony Brown presented approximately $30,000 in prizes to lucky anglers at the 2009 Maryland Fishing Challenge finale. Approximately 1,000 people – including sponsors, anglers and their guests – attended the contest’s fifth annual closing ceremony held at Sandy Point State Park.

“Here in Maryland, recreational fishing is an important part of our culture, our heritage and our quality of life,” said Lt. Governor Brown. “I want to thank our generous sponsors for their support of these efforts, and our anglers for continuing to make a major contribution to our state’s economy and play a significant role in the stewardship of our waterways and our aquatic life.  Together, we are committed to making sure fishing in Maryland remains affordable, accessible and memorable.”

Nearly 1,500 anglers from as far away as California qualified to participate in today’s grand prize drawing. As an added youth component, children participating in various fishing rodeos across the State qualified for a unique category for the chance to win a guided fishing trip.

Walking away with the grand prize today was David Wilhelm of Perryville, Md. Wilhelm’s catch of a 40.8-inch striped bass off of Tilghman Island on May 10 won him a boat, motor and trailer from Bass Pro Shops and Tracker Boats.

“My family and I attended last year’s finale event and didn’t win anything, not even a door prize,” said Wilhelm. “I’m definitely glad that I came back for this year’s finale. I’m so excited about this new boat and I can’t wait to get out on the water.”

Additional winners included Greg Howell of North East, Md. who won a prize package worth $1,500 from Bill’s Outdoor Center. Dan Baker from Millersville, Md. and Norm Bogarde from Mt. Airy, Md. won $1,000 prize packages each, also from Bill’s Outdoor Center. Joan Putt of Lebanon, Pa. received $500 from Bass Pro Jewelry.

In addition, during this year’s contest, six lucky anglers also caught specially tagged rockfish.  John Sparrow of Waldorf, Md., Russell Knapp of Galesville, Md., David Short of Fishing Creek, Md., Chery Duffy of Sterling, Va. and Dolan Hurley of Cambridge, Md. received checks for $500 each for their catches, who were confirmed as Diamond Jim imposters. Mike Lyons of Denton, Md. – who caught the last Diamond Jim tagged striped bass in the contest – learned at the event that he too had caught a $500 Diamond Jim imposter.

Lucky young anglers from across the State were awarded guided fishing trips:

* Caleb Williams of Baltimore, Md. and Krista Josenhans of Mandela Springs, Md. will receive guided fishing trips on one of Maryland’s trout streams sponsored by Mid Atlantic Trout Unlimited;

* Edward Kramer of Baltimore, Md. and Connor Poole of Little Orleans, Md. each won a bass fishing trip courtesy of the Maryland Bass Federation;

* Joshua Green of Salisbury, Md. and Emily Mills of Delmar, Md. will each receive a Chesapeake Bay fishing trip from the Maryland Saltwater Sportfishermen’s Association;

* Theotis Shenett of Baltimore, Md. and Chris Probst of Ridgely, Wv. each won a fishing trip of their choice from the Coastal Conservation Association of Maryland;

* Rachael Wolfkill of Baltimore, Md. and Alijah Metz of Cumberland, Md. each won a trophy rockfish fishing trip off of either Annapolis or the Eastern Shore courtesy of the Maryland Legislative Sportsmen’s Association; and

* Matt Utrera and Kijia Davis, both of Baltimore, Md., won a Chesapeake Bay fishing trip made possible by the Maryland Charter Boat Association.

“This year we opened the competition to hundreds of young anglers through fishing rodeos held all over our state, and it’s especially inspiring to see so many kids out here today,” said DNR Deputy Secretary Eric Schwaab. “Over 17,000 miles of waterways in our state beckon for us to take part in this great outdoor tradition with our friends and neighbors, and most importantly, our kids. When you take the time to spend time with a child outdoors — whether it’s fishing, camping, or a weekend hike — you are part of this movement, helping to inspire stewardship among tomorrow’s leaders.”

Lt. Governor Brown also presented Lois Burton, wife of the legendary outdoor writer and angler Bill Burton, with a framed copy of this year’s Challenge poster. Burton, who was instrumental in both establishing the original Diamond Jim tournament in the 1950s and its return in 2007, recently passed away in August. This year’s Challenge celebrated his life and work, and recently the Board of Public Works voted to name the Choptank River Bridge fishing pier Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park in his honor.

Created to promote recreational fishing in Maryland, recognize angler efforts and inspire natural resources stewardship, the 2009 Maryland Fishing Challenge started June 1 and ran through Labor Day, September 7, 2009.

Three batches of 50 specially tagged striped bass – one genuine Diamond Jim and 49 imposters — were released into the waters of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries this summer. Diamond Jim’s value increased each month from $10,000 if caught in June, $20,000 is caught in July and $25,000 if caught in August, and the 49 Diamond Jim imposters are worth $500 each for the duration of the contest.

Through the citation component, more than 60 species of fish were eligible for the grand prizes, including large and smallmouth bass, trout, walleye, musky and panfish in the freshwaters of Maryland; rockfish (striped bass), bluefish, drum, sea trout and perch in the Chesapeake Bay; and tuna, marlin, flounder, kingfish and sea bass caught in Maryland waters off the Atlantic Coast.

“Catch a fish” is one of the Maryland Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights, issued by Governor Martin O’Malley in April. The Bill is part of the Maryland Partnership for Children in Nature, an initiative to ensure all Maryland young people have the opportunity to connect with their natural world and grow to become informed and responsible stewards.

source: DNR press release

Mike Lyons of Denton, MD will find out if his recent striped bass catch is worth $500 or $25,000 at the 2009 Maryland Fishing Challenge Finale on September 19, 2009. Lyons caught the fifth tagged striped bass in the Fishing Challenge while trolling off Benoni Point in the Choptank River near the mouth of the Tred Avon River.

“I want to congratulate Mr. Lyons as a winner in the 2009 Maryland Fishing Challenge,” said Governor Martin O’Malley. “Our State’s wonderful, recreational fishing opportunities are accessible to and affordable for all Maryland families, and a great way for everyone to enjoy and connect with our great outdoors.”

The Fishing Challenge started June 1 and ran through Labor Day, September 7, 2009. Throughout the summer, three batches of specially tagged striped bass – each including one authentic Diamond Jim and at least 49 imposters – were released into the waters of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. By the end of the Challenge five stripers were caught; all but the most recent have been verified as imposters, carrying a $500 prize.

Lyons will also be entered in the grand prize drawing at the award ceremony during the finale. The grand prizes include a boat, motor and trailer from Bass Pro Shops and thousands of dollars in prizes from Bill’s Outdoor Center on Deep Creek Lake. All eligible winners will receive their rewards at the ceremony in September.

“I thought it was joke [when I pulled in the striped bass]. I’ve never seen a fish a tagged like that,” said Lyons. “[Fishing is] supper on the table, but it’s good to get away. I’ve fished most of my life.”

Through the citation component, more than 60 species of fish were eligible for the grand prizes, including large and smallmouth bass, trout, walleye, musky and panfish in the freshwaters of Maryland; rockfish (striped bass), bluefish, drum, sea trout and perch in the Chesapeake Bay; and tuna, marlin, flounder, kingfish and sea bass caught in Maryland waters off the Atlantic Coast.

Anglers making qualifying catches took their fish to any of the 88 official citation award centers located across Maryland. Fish are then measured and certified, and anglers receive documentation for their award citation. Anglers are then automatically entered in the contest final awards ceremony and are listed on the DNR website.

For a complete list of citation centers and entrants go to http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/fishingchallenge/index.asp.

As an added youth component, children participating in various fishing rodeos across the State qualified for a unique category and win a guided fishing trip.

“Catch a fish” is one of the Maryland Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights, issued by Governor Martin O’Malley in April. The Bill is part of the Maryland Partnership for Children in Nature, an initiative to ensure all Maryland young people have the opportunity to connect with their natural world and grow to become informed and responsible stewards.

source: DNR press release

Virginia woman catches $500 fish; $25,000 Diamond Jim still on the Loose!

Chery Duffy from Sterling, VA, has caught the fourth tagged striped bass in the 2009 Maryland Fishing Challenge, The Search for Diamond Jim. Duffy was fishing off Breezy Point aboard a charter boat called “Back Draft” out of Deale, MD, when Chery caught a striper tagged in July. Chery’s catch is worth $500, which means the $25,000 Diamond Jim is still on the loose!

Over the summer, three batches of specially tagged striped bass – each including one authentic Diamond Jim and at least 49 imposters – were released into the waters of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. Currently there are more than 150 imposters swimming through the bay and one Diamond Jim worth $25,000.

Created to promote recreational fishing in Maryland, recognize angler efforts and inspire natural resources stewardship, the 2009 Maryland Fishing Challenge will run through Labor Day, September 7, 2009. Duffy—and any angler who catches a prize fish – will also be entered into the final awards ceremony on September 19 at Sandy Point State Park. The grand prizes includes a boat, motor and trailer from Bass Pro Shops and thousands of dollars in prizes from Bill’s Outdoor Center on Deep Creek Lake. All eligible winners will receive their rewards at the ceremony in September.

“This is a great catch for the charter boat industry,” said DNR Biologist Marty Gary. “For those who would like to experience the great fishing on the Chesapeake, but do not have their own boat, charter boats are a great way to obtain instant access and expertise to the best fishing grounds and techniques”

Through the citation component, more than 60 species of fish are eligible for the grand prizes, including large and smallmouth bass, trout, walleye, musky and panfish in the freshwaters of Maryland; rockfish (striped bass), bluefish, drum, sea trout and perch in the Chesapeake Bay; and tuna, marlin, flounder, kingfish and sea bass caught in Maryland waters off the Atlantic Coast.

Anglers making qualifying catches can take their fish to any of the 88 official citation award centers located across Maryland. Fish are then measured and certified, and anglers receive documentation for their award citation. Anglers are then automatically entered in the contest final awards ceremony and are listed on the DNR website.

For a complete list of citation centers and entrants go to http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/fishingchallenge/index.asp.

Grand prize winners will be randomly selected at a closing ceremony in mid-September.

As an added youth component, children participating in various fishing rodeos across the State may qualify for a unique category and win a guided fishing trip. Last year 12 children won trips donated by Maryland charter boat captains, which are currently being scheduled and will take place throughout the summer.

“Catch a fish” is one of the Maryland Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights, issued by Governor Martin O’Malley in April. The Bill is part of the Maryland Partnership for Children in Nature, an initiative to ensure all Maryland young people have the opportunity to connect with their natural world and grow to become informed and responsible stewards.

John Sparrow from Waldorf, MD has caught the second tagged striped bass in the 2009 Maryland Fishing Challenge. Sparrow was fishing in Cove Point when he hooked the prized rockfish, which could be worth up to $20,000!

“I want to congratulate Mr. Sparrow as the second winner in the 2009 Maryland Fishing Challenge,” said Governor Martin O’Malley. “Mr. Sparrow shows a love for fishing which is what the Fishing Challenge is about: encouraging families to spend time outdoors enjoying the Bay and experience our State’s natural resources.”

Over the summer, three batches of 50 specially tagged striped bass – one authentic Diamond Jim and 49 imposters – are being released into the waters of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. Since June’s Diamond Jim eluded capture during its validity period, the current Diamond Jim — which was released on July 1 — is now worth $20,000. Also still on the loose are nearly 100 imposters worth $500 each. If July’s Jim is not caught, a newly tagged Diamond Jim released in August will carry a $25,000 price on its head.

“We were racing for the net, we were hoping it was him,” said Sparrow. “We’ve been talking about the Diamond Jim contest all summer, even the non-fishermen are talking about it.”

Sparrow – and the rest of Maryland – will find out July 30, at a ceremony during the August tagging in Solomons, MD, whether he snagged the $20,000 Diamond Jim or a $500 imposter, when the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) gives him the prize envelope matching the tag on his fish.

Created to promote recreational fishing in Maryland, recognize angler efforts and inspire natural resources stewardship, the 2009 Maryland Fishing Challenge will run through Labor Day, September 7, 2009. Sparrow—and any angler who catches a prize fish – will also be entered into the final awards ceremony in September, and will be eligible for the grand prizes including a boat, motor and trailer from Bass Pro Shops and thousands of dollars in prizes from Bill’s Outdoor Center on Deep Creek Lake. Short will receive his reward at the August release of Diamond Jim in Solomons.

More than 60 species of fish are eligible for the grand prizes, including large and smallmouth bass, trout, walleye, musky and panfish in the freshwaters of Maryland; rockfish (striped bass), bluefish, drum, sea trout and perch in the Chesapeake Bay; and tuna, marlin, flounder, kingfish and sea bass caught in Maryland waters off the Atlantic Coast. Grand prize winners will be randomly selected at a closing ceremony in mid-September.

As an added youth component, children participating in various fishing rodeos across the State may qualify for a unique category and win a guided fishing trip. Last year 12 children won trips donated by Maryland charter boat captains, which are currently being scheduled and will take place throughout the summer.

“Catch a fish” is one of the Maryland Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights, issued by Governor Martin O’Malley in April. The Bill is part of the Maryland Partnership for Children in Nature, an initiative to ensure all Maryland young people have the opportunity to connect with their natural world and grow to become informed and responsible stewards.

Complete Rules are available online at www.dnr.maryland.gov/fishingchallenge and Marylanders can also follow Diamond Jim at www.facebook.com/diamondjim_md or www.twitter.com/Diamondjim_md

Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) staff, with the help of more than a dozen students from across the state, tagged 50 new rockfish for prizes in the 2009 Maryland Fishing Challenge, The Search for Diamond Jim. The fifth annual Challenge – which also includes a citation component — kicked off June 1 and has already drawn hundreds of participants.

“Whether experienced anglers or first-timers, Marylanders of all walks of life can participate with their families in the Fishing Challenge,” said Governor Martin O’Malley. “This is a great opportunity to introduce a new generation to one of Maryland’s greatest traditions, the sport of fishing.”

This week 50 specially tagged striped bass – one genuine Diamond Jim and 49 imposters — were released into the waters of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. The real Diamond Jim is now worth $20,000 cash if caught by midnight July 31, 2009, and the 49 Diamond Jim imposters are worth $500 each for the duration of the contest. DNR will release additional tagged fish at the beginning of August, at which point any previously released and uncaught Diamond Jim will become an imposter. The newly released Diamond Jim’s value will increase to $25,000 in August, if the preceding Jims remain on the loose.

The Diamond Jim component of the 2009 Fishing Challenge is a reincarnation of the popular tournaments of the 1950s. Bill Burton, who has reported on outdoor recreation and Chesapeake Bay issues for more than 50 years, was influential in bringing Diamond Jim back to the new contest.

“This is the first time in a couple of years that I’ve gone fishing,” said Tyler Price, a student from C. Milton Wright High School. “My dad fishes and I’ve always been kind of interested in fishing. I’m having a good time.”

Created to promote recreational fishing in Maryland, recognize angler efforts and inspire natural resources stewardship, the 2009 Maryland Fishing Challenge will run through Labor Day, September 7, 2009. Any angler who catches a citation-qualifying fish and enters the challenge becomes eligible to participate in the grand prize drawing, which includes a boat and trailer package from Bass Pro Shops and thousands of dollars in fishing gear and trips from Bill’s Outdoor Center.

“We could not hold the contest without the generous help of our sponsors,” said DNR secretary John Griffin. “We appreciated what they have contributed despite tough economic times.”

More than 60 species of fish are eligible for the grand prizes, including large and smallmouth bass, trout, walleye, musky and panfish in the freshwaters of Maryland; rockfish (striped bass), bluefish, drum, sea trout and perch in the Chesapeake Bay; and tuna, marlin, flounder, kingfish and sea bass caught in Maryland waters off the Atlantic Coast. Grand prize winners will be randomly selected at a closing ceremony in mid-September.

As an added youth component, children participating in various fishing rodeos across the State may qualify for a unique category and win a guided fishing trip. Last year 12 children won trips donated by Maryland charter boat captains, which DNR is currently scheduling and will take place throughout the summer.

“Catch a fish” is one of the Maryland Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights, issued by Governor Martin O’Malley in April. The Bill is part of the Maryland Partnership for Children in Nature, an initiative to ensure all Maryland young people have the opportunity to connect with their natural world and grow to become informed and responsible stewards.

Complete Rules are available online at www.dnr.maryland.gov/fishingchallenge.