May 2002 Table of Contents

ABACO BONEFISH CHAMP Jack Hardy

On 4th April four professional bonefishing guides squared off for the title of Abaco Bonefish Champion. Each man was accompanied by an observer and could choose his own fishing area. Taking part were Maitland Lowe (observer, Hank Davis), OĠDonell McIntosh (observer, Amos Weatherford), Buddy Pinder (observer, Pete Brubaker) and Justin Sands (observer, Don Cornish).

It was a mostly sunny day and all competitors said the visibility was excellent. A few thunderstorms brought brief r ain but on such a warm day that was probably a good thing.

The scoring system was one point for a bonefish under 20 inches, two points for 20-25 inches and three points for over 25 inches. The results were as follows:

1. Justin Sands 46 caught, 46 points
2. Buddy Pinder 25 caught, 27 points
3. Maitland Lowe 7 caught, 7 points
4. O'Donell McIntosh 6 caught, 6 points

Justin Sands' excellent tally almost certainly will qualify him for the International Championship which will be held in Exuma in October. Taking part will be the top five island champions and five international bonefishermen. Justin said it was the best day's bonefishing of his life.

Congratulations to all the participants and to those dedicated observers who had to watch somebody else fish all day.

May 2002 Table of Contents