Fish for a Cause with the Y

Flats Fishing Classic and Captains' Party

The YMCA of the Suncoast is calling all professional and amateur anglers for the Flats Fishing Classic on Friday, April 14. The fishing classic is preceded by the Captains' Party and Benefit Auction at the Carlouel Yacht Club on Thursday, April 13.

The Flats Fishing Classic is hosted by the Clearwater YMCA and this is a catch-and-release tournament. Only photos of caught fish will be accepted at the check-in and the event is open to all anglers conforming to Florida Fishing regulations.

Amateur contestants may put their boats in the water by 6 a.m. on Friday, April 14, and the professionally guided boats leave at 8 a.m. Check-in is at the Carlouel Yacht Club between 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Fishing is permitted anywhere in the West Central Florida region and the scoring will emphasize three main species of fish: snook, redfish and trout. Prizes for first through third place in the Amateur Category include gift certificates from $75-$250.

Angler's that have their own boats can put their line in the water for $50 and professional guides are available for up to three fishermen per craft. The deadline for a professional guided boat is Thursday, April 6.

All registered anglers for the Classic are invited to the Benefit Auction and Captains' Party on Thursday, April 13, from 6-10 p.m. Non-anglers can purchase tickets for $25 per person. The party includes a buffet dinner, live and silent auction and plenty of YMCA gift bags.

To register download a brochure with the official rules, call the Clearwater YMCA (727) 461-9622 or visit us at 1005 South Highland Avenue in Clearwater.