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NWKA Angler of the Year 2016 Kickoff
Sponsored by
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-160216122112-5107241.jpeg)
Kayak Shed (http://www.kayakshed.com/) | (http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-160216122112-510954.jpeg)
Next Adventure (http://nextadventure.net/) |
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-230216162522-5117252.png)
Kokatat (https://kokatat.com/) |
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-160216120607-4986534.png)
Cabela's (http://www.cabelas.com/) |
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-160216121136.png)
NEMRods Custom Rods (https://www.facebook.com/fishNEMRods/) | (http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-160216120610-51051616.jpeg)
Stillwater Fly Shop (http://stillwaterflyshop.com/) |
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-160216120610-51061166.jpeg)
YakAttack (http://www.yakattack.us/) |
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-160216120607-5101681.jpeg)
Hoo-rag Bandanas (https://www.hoorag.com/) | (http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-160216120608-51031192.png)
Lancer Jigs (http://www.lancerjigs.com/) |
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-230216162522-51161262.png)
RAM Mounts (http://www.rammount.com/activity/kayak_mounts) |
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-230216162521-5115173.jpeg)
Lucid Fishing (http://www.lucidfishing.com/) |
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-230216162523-5118175.jpeg)
Gig Harbor Fly Shop (http://gigharborflyshop.com/) | (http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-230216162520-5114443.png)
Stealth Rod Holders (http://www.stealthrodholders.com/) |
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-260416101332-51522495.png)
Gin Optic (http://www.facebook.com/ginoptic) | (http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-260416101333-51531998.jpeg)
Pro-Cure Bait Scents (https://www.pro-cure.com/) |
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-030516161815.jpeg)
Big Hammer Swimbaits (http://www.swimbait.com/) | |
Huh? (What is Angler of the Year?)
AOTY is a regional, year-long kayak fishing competition in which participants earn points per inch for target species of fish caught. The top 10 species for each angler count towards your total. To submit a catch a photo must be taken of the fish on a measuring device. For full rules and restrictions, please see the AOTY home page: http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/
At the end of the day, AOTY relies on contestants’ decency and honor. Contestants found to be knowingly cheating will be disqualified from the tournament without refund and may be mocked publicly on the forum.
Take my money! (How do I sign up?)
Step 1: To sign up for AOTY, go to the NWKA home page (http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/), scroll down a bit, and on the left side there is a box titled AOTY 2016 - you can figure it out from there. Payment is by PayPal only. The fee for 2016 is $25.
Step 2: If this is your first time signing up, go the AOTY homepage (http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/) and in the upper right side of the page, click "Sign Up". If you have signed up before, do the same thing but click Log In.
Who’s on the payroll? (Where does my money go?)
All tournament proceeds go to 501(c)(3) nonprofit Heroes On the Water (http://heroesonthewater.org/). From their website:
Heroes on the Water helps our Nation’s warriors and veterans from all branches of the United States military unwind using the therapeutic qualities of fishing from kayaks. What looks like a day trip of paddling and fishing is in fact something much deeper and long-lasting.
I encourage everyone to learn more about HOW and contribute your time to HOW-related events.
What’s new? (Are there any changes for 2016?)
The only rule change for 2016 is that we are allowing sails to be used. All other craft restriction still apply, so please familiarize yourself with the competition rules. (Rules will be updated shortly for the addition of sails.)
We now (or should I say, again) have a Facebook page where we can communicate about the event: https://www.facebook.com/nwkaaoty/ The NWKA forums are still HQ for the tournament, but if you're like me you check FB all the time, so this should be useful.
We are adding several more judges from Washington which should help speed up the approval process for Washington entries. There’s no commitment at this time regarding how fast we will get approvals done but I can say that with the extra help in Oregon in 2015 no entries sat for more than a week or two at most.
Just in general I'm hoping to increase the communication about the event, and communication with participants regarding entries as needed. I'm hoping to increase participation and keep the stoke strong.
I want stuff! (What are the prizes?)
I am working with sponsors to line up prizes right now. As I am new to this and did not start until mid-December the process is ongoing. I will update this post with more information as time goes on.
We have quite a few sponsors on board now - you can see their logos above and on the leaderboard.
My goal is to have a prize pool that covers the top 10 spots, and hopefully in addition to that a few side-challenges as well. Side-challenges have been announced and you can see them on the AOTY pages. Anyone signed up for AOTY 2016 will be eligible for all side challenges as well.
What about… (I have more questions!)
Great! Ask them below and we’ll figure it out together.
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I presume it's OK to enter a second larger fish of a species should one come along later in the year. Or is this a one-entry-per-species competition?
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Don't forget about the Facebook page! It would be cool to see recent catches posted up on the page, as well as current leader board standings.
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I presume it's OK to enter a second larger fish of a species should one come along later in the year. Or is this a one-entry-per-species competition?
Yes! As many as you want. No problem with continuing to "upgrade" throughout the the year.
Thanks for all the hard work, Lauren!
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Thanks for all YOUR hard work, Noah. Great to see HOW benefitting.
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Nice work for a very worthy cause, guys. This will be my first year entering AOTY so expect some stout competition. At least, in my dreams...
Thanks to all who are helping to put this together for 2016.
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Thanks for all YOUR hard work, Noah. Great to see HOW benefitting.
Agree! Noah has been really helpful especially answering questions for me. The other admins (RevJCP, Lee, bsteves) have been too.
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Don't forget about the Facebook page! It would be cool to see recent catches posted up on the page, as well as current leader board standings.
Great point! Added that to the original post.
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I'm happy to announce that Cabela's will be sponsoring AOTY this year. I don't have exactly what prizes they will be donating at this time, but they are on board.
http://www.cabelas.com/ (http://www.cabelas.com/)
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I'm happy to announce that Cabela's will be sponsoring AOTY this year. I don't have exactly what prizes they will be donating at this time, but they are on board.
http://www.cabelas.com/ (http://www.cabelas.com/)
Outstanding
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I'm happy to announce that Cabela's will be sponsoring AOTY this year. I don't have exactly what prizes they will be donating at this time, but they are on board.
http://www.cabelas.com/ (http://www.cabelas.com/)
Excellent. That's a big one. Nice job!
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Do you have enough warm bodies to have a roster yet?
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I recall last year there was a request for members to send a note to the organizers with their screen name when they paid so it would be easier for them to match the payment to the proper member. Is that still the case?
Also, if you are lurking and on the fence about joining, do it! I found it to be an amazing way to learn about new fisheries and species. Most of the fish I entered last year were the very first time I had caught that species ... And that was very rewarding.
Prizes are fun too ;)
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I'm happy to announce that Cabela's will be sponsoring AOTY this year. I don't have exactly what prizes they will be donating at this time, but they are on board.
http://www.cabelas.com/ (http://www.cabelas.com/)
Excellent. That's a big one. Nice job!
The captain knows how to fish :headbang:
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I'm in ;D Should be fun to try for some new kayak fish species.
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I recall last year there was a request for members to send a note to the organizers with their screen name when they paid so it would be easier for them to match the payment to the proper member. Is that still the case?
Also, if you are lurking and on the fence about joining, do it! I found it to be an amazing way to learn about new fisheries and species. Most of the fish I entered last year were the very first time I had caught that species ... And that was very rewarding.
Prizes are fun too ;)
There is a field in the PayPal form on the site for your aoty username. If you enter it there you should be all set.
I'm a bit behind on getting the 2016 AOTY Website set up. Hopefully tomorrow, but definitely this week.
Brian
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I'm in too. The AOTY committee has a few last minute changes (nothing major so calm down) that I think will spice this year up a bit. Also a lot of the big dogs are retiring, so I can guarantee we'll have a new champ in 2016.My goals for AOTY are the following:
1-Win the baby cup (I just invented this). Qualifiers need to have at least one child under two years old during some part of 2016. If you are a new parent you may only enter fish after the arrival of the kiddo in the baby cup. Nate, I'm coming for you ;) Winner gets a beer variety pack from John's market. Anyone else in? Yaktastic?
2-Have an average score higher than Langcod. I plan to take a quality over quantity approach this year, the opposite of his usually approach ;)
3-Have fun, fish with friends.
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I may just have to sign up this year for AOTY. Not that I got a chance to place but just for fun and HOW of course ;D
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I may just have to sign up this year for AOTY. Not that I got a chance to place but just for fun and HOW of course ;D
You can also make it a personal challenge to improve over last year, or catch X number of new species. Or just to beat your buddy :)
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I may just have to sign up this year for AOTY. Not that I got a chance to place but just for fun and HOW of course ;D
You can also make it a personal challenge to improve over last year, or catch X number of new species. Or just to beat your buddy :)
That to me is the coolest aspect of AOTY or DOTY...can document your PB scores, PB fish etc and compare how you stack up against yourself year after year....
For example, I can look back and see that:
In 2014 I got my PB Verm and Butt...
http://doty.norcalkayakanglers.com/catches/1320
http://doty.norcalkayakanglers.com/catches/1168
In 2015 I got my PB Cab and Sheep:
http://doty.norcalkayakanglers.com/catches/1884
http://doty.norcalkayakanglers.com/catches/1986
Got a nice butt in 2015 as well but not a PB:
http://doty.norcalkayakanglers.com/catches/1793
I love being able to look back using the software...yes, I'm kind of a dork.
8)
Sincerely,
Jim
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I may just have to sign up this year for AOTY. Not that I got a chance to place but just for fun and HOW of course ;D
You can also make it a personal challenge to improve over last year, or catch X number of new species. Or just to beat your buddy :)
My biggest motivator in AOTY is to compete with my buddies!
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This thread should probably replace the sticky post for the 2015 AOTY...
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I'm in too. The AOTY committee has a few last minute changes (nothing major so calm down) that I think will spice this year up a bit. Also a lot of the big dogs are retiring, so I can guarantee we'll have a new champ in 2016.My goals for AOTY are the following:
1-Win the baby cup (I just invented this). Qualifiers need to have at least one child under two years old during some part of 2016. If you are a new parent you may only enter fish after the arrival of the kiddo in the baby cup. Nate, I'm coming for you ;) Winner gets a beer variety pack from John's market. Anyone else in? Yaktastic?
2-Have an average score higher than Langcod. I plan to take a quality over quantity approach this year, the opposite of his usually approach ;)
3-Have fun, fish with friends.
A July baby won't give me much time but I might give it a go.im just wondering how much fishing I can do without getting in trouble lol.
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I'm in too. The AOTY committee has a few last minute changes (nothing major so calm down) that I think will spice this year up a bit. Also a lot of the big dogs are retiring, so I can guarantee we'll have a new champ in 2016.My goals for AOTY are the following:
1-Win the baby cup (I just invented this). Qualifiers need to have at least one child under two years old during some part of 2016. If you are a new parent you may only enter fish after the arrival of the kiddo in the baby cup. Nate, I'm coming for you ;) Winner gets a beer variety pack from John's market. Anyone else in? Yaktastic?
2-Have an average score higher than Langcod. I plan to take a quality over quantity approach this year, the opposite of his usually approach ;)
3-Have fun, fish with friends.
A July baby won't give me much time but I might give it a go.im just wondering how much fishing I can do without getting in trouble lol.
Ha! I hear you on that one. Although Nate has already taken his kid steelhead and sturgeon fishing by two months old. Mamma will need some breaks ;)
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Ha! I hear you on that one. Although Nate has already taken his kid steelhead and sturgeon fishing by two months old. Mamma will need some breaks ;)
[/quote]
Car seat on the Hobie or hitch the T13 to the revo.
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So I've signed up to give it another try, Hope to do a bit better then a few years back, With lots of life changes maybe some time to fish again, Did I see something about allowing Sails? my kayak Doesn't have one but that could be interesting. But then I saw the No sail on the rule list so ??? jeff
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So I've signed up to give it another try, Hope to do a bit better then a few years back, With lots of life changes maybe some time to fish again, Did I see something about allowing Sails? my kayak Doesn't have one but that could be interesting. But then I saw the No sail on the rule list so ??? jeff
We are a little slow getting the front page updated. Yes, sails are allowed this year, as long as all other craft restrictions are followed.
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Ha! I hear you on that one. Although Nate has already taken his kid steelhead and sturgeon fishing by two months old. Mamma will need some breaks ;)
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Car seat on the Hobie or hitch the T13 to the revo.
[/quote]
It could totally work. The motion would totally put the newborn to sleep. We would just need INSAYN to invent some sort of ejection mechanism in case the kayak were to huli.
So I've signed up to give it another try, Hope to do a bit better then a few years back, With lots of life changes maybe some time to fish again, Did I see something about allowing Sails? my kayak Doesn't have one but that could be interesting. But then I saw the No sail on the rule list so ??? jeff
Good to see you back. What's the current kayak? I seem to recall you having to sell off your old one?
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An Insayn design car seat that always self rights like the new coastguard boats maybe? Some kind of gyro around the hull that always keeps the car seat on top no matter how many times it rolls with a wet release system on the bottom of said car seat in case of total swamping?
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Signed up for my 1st time, figure it's a great donation. I do have a couple of questions regarding fish points, bluegill aren't listed separately or included as a panfish, yet is mentioned in "Tiny Fish" contest, am I just confusing myself again? Bull trout?, thought those were illegal to catch in Oregon, or am I misreading the rules. Thanks for help in clarifying my meager little mind.
John
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Bluegill are considered panfish.bull trout are legal to keep(24" or more I think) in lake Billy Chinook and lake simtustus.they are the only Oregon fisheries that you can keep any.not sure about Washington.
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EDIT: This may change, check AOTY page for current rules.
Yep - for AOTY, panfish = yellow perch (not saltwater perch), crappie, bluegill (and other sunfishes, such as pumpkinseed, etc.)
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Thanks for the info.
John
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I updated the sign up instructions in the first post to include what to do after you pay.
I've got a couple of soft "yeses" from a couple more cool sponsors... just waiting for the green light to post details.
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I'm happy to announce that local custom rod builder NEMRods is now a sponsor! He's going to post up some pictures at some point but I can tell you this is one of the coolest hard commitments we've gotten so far.
He's building up a custom salmon rod on a Lamiglas Certified Pro Salmon and Steelhead | 8'6" | 15-30 lb. | 1/2 - 1 3/4 oz. | Mod-Fast Action | Extra Heavy Power blank with some nice hardware. I'm looking forward to seeing the results!
https://www.facebook.com/fishNEMRods/ (https://www.facebook.com/fishNEMRods/)
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Components are on the way. Will hopefully have some build pics next week. Including HOW and NWKA rod decals
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Super stoked to see you guys getting sponsors and support and enthusiasm for your AOTY!!!! 8)
Our award ceremony down here is set for 2/6 and we are busy getting all our prizes, awards, plaques, beer etc together for the 2015 winners. ;D
http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php?topic=70136.msg795786#msg795786
Looking forward to watching the NWKA comp this year!!!
If you guys ever have any questions for me or the NCKA committee just let me know!
:)
Sincerely,
Jim
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Thank you for the continued support, Jim, much appreciated! Sometime we need to do a combined NCKA/NWKA event! :)
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And the sponsor list keeps growing! I received a nice box of goodies today from our friends at YakAttack. If you're a kayak fisherperson and you don't know what YakAttack is, do yourself a favor and check out their website. I've personally ordered hundreds of dollars worth of geartracks and accessories from them (which I love!) and their customer service has been really good when I needed help. Check it out:
http://www.yakattack.us/ (http://www.yakattack.us/)
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-210116162343.jpeg)
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For all our kayaking fly fishermen and women out there, we've got Oregon's own Stillwater Fly Shop on board as a big sponsor of this event! They have a big online presence with anything you could want for fly fishing from Central Oregon to just about anywhere. Their customer loyalty program is pretty awesome too - check it out:
Shop: http://stillwaterflyshop.com/ (http://stillwaterflyshop.com/)
Blog: http://blog.stillwaterflyshop.com/ (http://blog.stillwaterflyshop.com/)
They are going to be the contributing sponsor for a new way to win this year. Details will be coming soon...
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-280116152138.jpeg)
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Well I just threw my hat in! So everybody needs to very afraid. Now I just need to remember to take more pictures?
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Well I just threw my hat in! So everybody needs to very afraid. Now I just need to remember to take more pictures?
Can i get a refund?
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(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-160216120607-5101681.jpeg)
The good folks at Hoorag have pledged support for our event. I've had several different "skull socks", "buffs", etc. and I like my Hoorag really well. It's held up, it looks cool, and it's protected my face and neck from a lot of sunshine. Check 'em out!
UPDATE: The top 10 spots in AOTY and the top 2 spots in each "slam" will receive a Hoorag! Thanks Hoorag!
https://www.hoorag.com/
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(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-160216122112-510954.jpeg)
I've been holding back while I've working on the details with everyone involved, but I want to get it out there that Next Adventure is going to sponsor our tournament this year! CJ over at Next is really excited about sponsoring us and contributing to the event and he's been really great to work with.
Having both of the premier paddle sports shops in the Portland area sponsor our event is awesome. More details coming soon!
http://nextadventure.net/
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Thanks for all the hard work Lauren. We better start catching some fish now.
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I would love to get in on this! Are the sign ups open throughout the year. I wont be able to get on the water until mid-March
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I would love to get in on this! Are the sign ups open throughout the year. I wont be able to get on the water until mid-March
Yes, you can sign up any time, but you need to sign up before you start registering fish. Looking forward to having you on board!
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Do you have to keep the fish in order to get AOTY points? I'm assuming catch, photo, then release is OK.
If for some reason the caught fish is not legal to keep (like slot limits for certain bodies or water or catching a species out of season) then would that be denied eligibility for AOTY points?
Not like I have any points yet...
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Do you have to keep the fish in order to get AOTY points? I'm assuming catch, photo, then release is OK.
If for some reason the caught fish is not legal to keep (like slot limits for certain bodies or water or catching a species out of season) then would that be denied eligibility for AOTY points?
Not like I have any points yet...
The fish must be legal to retain but can be photographed and released
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Do you have to keep the fish in order to get AOTY points? I'm assuming catch, photo, then release is OK.
If for some reason the caught fish is not legal to keep (like slot limits for certain bodies or water or catching a species out of season) then would that be denied eligibility for AOTY points?
Not like I have any points yet...
The fish must be legal to retain but can be photographed and released
This is a really important rule to highlight for newbies. I lost out some decent points in 2014 because of a slot limit fish. This also applies to situations where you've kept your limit for the day and then catch your monster.
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" Legal to Retain", I have kind of an odd question, only because I fish some fly fish/barbless hooks only, catch and release waters. Does a fish from a "C & R" lake count if it is photo'd and released?
Davis Lake is a catch and release lake for trout, but not for the large mouth bass that inhabit the water, would those bass count for AOTY points?
Not trying to make things difficult, I really don't care how the rule is applied, just would like a little clarification. Not that it probably matters, but my preference would be that fish from C & R areas don't count, less chance of inadvertently killing a fish.
Thanks for all the work you folks do.
John
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The trout would not count but if you can keep the bass it would count. It must be legal to keep and kill the fish you wish to enter in AOTY.
Similarly if you are fishing for a sturgeon in a C&R area and happen to catch a salmon during an open season then that salmon would count even though you were targeting a C&R fish.
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If you can legally keep the fish (i.e. kill it and take it home) then it's eligible for AOTY. If you cannot, then it isn't. So a trout from Davis Lake would not be eligible, but a bass would.
I understand your concern about waters that are generally C&R. Hopefully anglers can be good stewards of the resource and target bass (in the Davis Lake example) in ways that minimize impact to trout. It is exactly because we want to foster good stewardship that we only allow fish that could be legally kept.
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Sorry to double-post on you there, Fungunnin! :)
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That's the way I read the rules, just wanted to make sure. Although, much like Yaktrap stated in the AOTY 2015, my goal this year is to learn, have fun, meet some of my fellow anglers.
Thanks
John
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I would love to get in on this! Are the sign ups open throughout the year. I wont be able to get on the water until mid-March
Yes, you can sign up any time, but you need to sign up before you start registering fish. Looking forward to having you on board!
Awesome! I will defintly be joining when i arrive in Oregon. I will be moving on 2/27-2/28. However my work has me flying back to San Jose for my dirst week :(. Hope to get out on the water for my birthday, 3/15.
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You want more sponsors, anyone? 'Cause we got more sponsors! Sorry for the delayed update, but I've been sick. We've been blessed with 5 new sponsors coming on board in the last couple of weeks including...
Kokatat
https://kokatat.com/ (https://kokatat.com/)
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-230216162522-5117252.png)
Who is donating one of their brand spanking new fishing PFDs, check it out:
Bahia Predator PFD (https://kokatat.com/product/bahia-predator-pfd-lvubap)
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/medium_5792-240216163043-51192040.jpeg)
The winner will choose the size and color.
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Redbeard, you are doing a great job. As the sponsor list grows, what do you think needs to happen from the membership/ participants to help take this to another level? Have ideas been brainstormed behind the scenes? Or is the obvious answer... Just GO FISHING!
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Redbeard, you are doing a great job. As the sponsor list grows, what do you think needs to happen from the membership/ participants to help take this to another level? Have ideas been brainstormed behind the scenes? Or is the obvious answer... Just GO FISHING!
Great question. I think there can be a lot of answers. For the short-term I'm just focused on increasing interest through finding sponsors. What type of things are you talking about with regards to "taking this to another level"? I.e. bigger prizes, more aspects to the competition, more competitors, etc.?
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Growth of the competition seems symbiotic between the competitors and the sponsors... So the better the participation and the more competitive it is the more sponsors (perhaps that means better prizes... Heck... A dream trip seems like a great ultimate prize someday:) ... Or Perhaps some notoriety in the fishing world ... An article profiling a great catch etc). Seeking sponsors is great as a way to generate more interest, we should see an increase in participation for all your legwork. Great job and thank you. Now we all need to fish and make it competitive and rope in our friends.
To say you were the top five in a field of 50 is a lot more rewarding than a field of 20.
There are a lot of guys who write about kayak fishing for their sponsors... Maybe we can get a write up on the competition itself that can circulate the online blogs/social media to increase participation.
I also know there are a bunch of guys who used to compete that no longer compete... I wonder why? Perhaps growth eventually would look like two divisions.
Maybe there can be a tournament or two that are actually sponsored by the AOTY where you can win a side challenge as well as catch something toward your yearly talley. I know nwka members love their events. Maybe host it at a some known trophy hotspots?
Anyhow, I'm fully aware that these are not likely new ideas and they are easily subject to the "been there done that" reaction... I'm just throwing thoughts out there.
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I like some of those ideas really well! I really like the idea of a day-tourney that is focused on an AOTY species. I've considered doing something like that for smallmouth on the Willamette.
As far as side-challenges in general, I'm working on a post right now giving more information about the side-challenges we've implemented this year, but they are all year-long endeavors. That said, bsteves has indicated that it's no trouble to have a shorter time-based side event, so that's definitely an option.
(It's worth noting just to avoid confusion: Anything you catch in a day tournament, like ORC for example, that would otherwise be eligible can count towards AOTY as well.)
I really like your point that it's a symbiotic relationship with the sponsors. I would really like to have the sponsors see some ROI for their contributions. I'm not sure what that looks like other than advertising for them on our points of presence (the forum, the leaderboard, the Facebook group), so I'm open to thoughts on that. I also like the idea that some of the folks who have their hands in the publishing side of things <cough><cough> could give us a mention in an article on a good catch or a tactic or location. But I'm not really in that circle, so someone would need to work on that.
One thing I think that could help is if anyone who wins something in AOTY this year makes it a point to Facebook it and tag the company who donated, or in some other way reach out to the company. I think that thing can make a big difference with keeping a sponsor on for the next year.
I appreciate your (and every else who has spoken up) kind words regarding the work getting sponsors together. But I can't take all the credit by any means. I really appreciate the help from bsteves and Noah on everything, and spot has helped with a key sponsor as well. Mojo jojo has been a great ally as we trade sponsorship notes, and the whole AOTY committee came up with great ideas for the side challenges. We've also gotten great tips and donations from NWKA members NEMRods, yaktastic, and Ling ling, herro.
All that said, probably working on the sponsorship side is about as much time as I can donate this year (I mean, a man's got to fish! ;D ) so if people are willing to step up and help in other ways, as you are suggesting, it will make it a better event for everyone. Like you said, one of the most straightforward things people can do is encourage their kayak fishing friends to sign up.
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I agree that there are plenty of paths the AOTY could go, but I'm in favor of the path it's on right now. It has to grow at a grass-roots level and generating sponsor interest and a growing field is the best way to get that type of growth. It could be hyped up with lots of publicity but if there is no substance behind it (lots of involved participants) then all the window dressing won't help it grow.
I believe it will expand this year, and will branch off into side events that attract even more participants. The possible analogies to a growing plants are just endless here... ;D
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I look forward to seeing the side challenge post and a smallmouth event would be awesome.
yes... I picked up my Chum in last years slay ride event.
I agree about the publicity push not being too aggressive... But there are some unique qualities about this competition to celebrate that are worth a mention here or there... Particularly how well rounded you must be/become by participating. Freshwater saltwater large, small... Etc
I'll keep encouraging folks to join in. Last year was my first year and I did better than I ever expected... I literally had never fished for most of the species I caught last year. And the other thing I'll do is compete to win this year... And if everyone who signed up does that... It should be really exciting in the 4th quarter.
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I'm happy to add Lucid Grips to the prize list! NWKA OG Polyangler is setting us up with a pair of Lucid Fishing fish grips. Where will this prize land? Maybe for the saltwater slam? We'll figure it out eventually as sponsors keep coming in.
http://www.lucidfishing.com/
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-230216162521-5115173.jpeg)
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Awesome sponsors and prizes! NICE!!!
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Well we've been talking about it some of the other threads, but just to make it official - Stealth Rod Holders already sent a package of 6 rod holders as prizes for AOTY!
First impressions: I am sincerely impressed with the fit and finish on these rod holders. Everything manufacturing-wise looks really smooth and tight. I am going to put my personal one through the paces this weekend on the water and I'm looking forward to it.
Check 'em out!
http://www.stealthrodholders.com/ (http://www.stealthrodholders.com/)
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-230216162520-5114443.png)
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I am going to have to fish more seriously this year.
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Was debating on whether or not to do this but why not lol. It'll force me to go after other species. Looking forward to this!
Jason
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Was debating on whether or not to do this but why not lol. It'll force me to go after other species. Looking forward to this!
Jason
That's what I like to hear man! Glad you're going to join up. Check out the Salmon Slam - seems right up your alley.
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Nice ad for AOTY in this Month's NW Sportsman magazine. Good stuff!
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Nice ad for AOTY in this Month's NW Sportsman magazine. Good stuff!
Indeed! That's really awesome. Go grab a copy and check it out, page 100. And as usual, a great article about kayak fishing by Mark.
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Someone correctly pointed out that I have failed to share the love with Gig Harbor Fly Shop - MY BAD!
We're stoked to include Gig Harbor Fly Shop as a sponsor. They are one of the northwest's premier kayak and kayak fishing shops. They are giving us two slots in their intro to fly-fishing class!
http://gigharborflyshop.com/
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-230216162523-5118175.jpeg)
Do you think it would be better to give the class out as a prize for the fly-fishing category, or for one of the other categories (since people who place in the fly fishing category probably already know how to fly fish, with me as the exception!)?
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Why not split them? Or better yet, make it a combo pack for father/son, father/daughter, spouse/spouse, mom /son, mom/daughter? Willing to bet there's aspiring fly rodders in the group with family who want to learn too.
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Why not split them? Or better yet, make it a combo pack for father/son, father/daughter, spouse/spouse, mom /son, mom/daughter? Willing to bet there's aspiring fly rodders in the group with family who want to learn too.
I like the pair idea. Actually I had planned to split them - 2 separate prizes - and I just meant I wondered if people would like it as a fly-fishing specific prize or if other people might enjoy it more. But I like the pair idea.
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Finally posted a fish to AOTY yesterday. The AOTY rules put Crappie under Panfish, but both are listed in the submission pick list. So I picked the more specific "Crappie."
Let me know if I need to move it to "Panfish" to be counted.
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Finally posted a fish to AOTY yesterday. The AOTY rules put Crappie under Panfish, but both are listed in the submission pick list. So I picked the more specific "Crappie."
Let me know if I need to move it to "Panfish" to be counted.
Yeah, sorry about that. We split the yellow perch out of panfish this year and were playing around with the idea of doing the same with crappie, but we didn't. I went ahead and reclassified your crappie as a panfish and now you show up on the AOTY leader board with some points.
Brian
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How do I find out why a fish was not scored for AOTY?
I recently posted two fish (different species), only one fish was "verified"and posted with points, the other is "pending". Just curious?
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Hi Barb. The committee is discussing the other fish. It falls into a bit of a gray area and we're waiting for a few other members to weigh in before making a decision. Sorry for the delay.
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I registered and paid up on Monday. Looking forward to getting some fish on the board!!
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I registered and paid up on Monday. Looking forward to getting some fish on the board!!
Sweet! I love hearing about new people signing up!
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How awesome is it that we have two women in the top 10 right now?! Way to represent, ladies!
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Any reason why there's no ability to comment on catches?? I am sure it saves some trouble and squabbles over points and mouth pinching, but it would also be sort of fun... Just curious as I am sure there's reasoning behind it.
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It's a home-built system by one of the NWKA admins, so it's only as complicated as it needs to be... feel free to comment here (link to entry) or make a topic as you see fit. :)
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That makes perfect sense! Just figured I would ask. Having built a number of websites and working in IT I can totally appreciate it for what it is already.
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk
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Any reason why there's no ability to comment on catches?? I am sure it saves some trouble and squabbles over points and mouth pinching, but it would also be sort of fun... Just curious as I am sure there's reasoning behind it.
Yeah, I guess I could have built in a comment section. However, I did recently set the AOTY site up to automatically post validated catches to the NWKAAOTY Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/nwkaaoty
Feel free to like that page and comment on/squabble about catches there.
Brian
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Any reason why there's no ability to comment on catches?? I am sure it saves some trouble and squabbles over points and mouth pinching, but it would also be sort of fun... Just curious as I am sure there's reasoning behind it.
Yeah, I guess I could have built in a comment section. However, I did recently set the AOTY site up to automatically post validated catches to the NWKAAOTY Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/nwkaaoty
Feel free to like that page and comment on/squabble about catches there.
Brian
I did see that - and hardly anyone comments so I guess it really is unnecessarym, which is just fine ;D
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I'm really stoked that NWKA forum member and all-around good guy "bwon" (aka "B") has decided to support AOTY by donating a sweet Daiwa Ballistic bass rod (711HFB)! He handed the rod off to me and it's a single-piece heavy action flippin' rod, and I can't help but wonder if it wouldn't make a really fun nearshore rockfish rod... I promise not to use it, but it's going to be hard. I guess I'll just have to win it ;D
B is in the process of putting the finishing touches on his local (Portland) business: Gin Thai Brasserie. He will sell high-end sunglasses, Daiwa, Shimano, and G-Loomis, and it's also a Thai restaurant - how cool is that? Come for the fishing gear, stay for the food.
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-260416101332-51522495.png)
https://www.facebook.com/GinOptic/
Check out the pictures below and follow B's Facebook page. I'm looking forward to dropping by the shop once it is open and saying hi and getting some food and checking out the inventory.
Gin Thai Brasserie
3176 NW 185th
Portland, OR 97229
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/medium_5792-260416101310-51501292.jpeg)
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/medium_5792-260416101310-51511445.jpeg)
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/medium_5792-260416101309-5149582.jpeg)
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A Fishing store and a restaurant?!? That is great.
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And now I'll formally welcome Pro-Cure Bait Scents to the fold - they sent a box of a few popular flavors for prizes. Many of us already use and enjoy their products. I was skeptical years ago... I am not anymore! It has made a noticeable difference both for smallmouth and rockfish/lingcod for me.
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-260416101333-51531998.jpeg)
https://www.pro-cure.com/ (https://www.pro-cure.com/)
They are frequent supporters of HOW events and other kayak fishing tournaments, and I'm really happy to have them on board - thanks Pro-Cure!
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Well my effort on finding sponsors is drawing to a close (don't get me wrong, happy to accept more if anyone knows someone who is willing to help), but I'm really happy to announce Big Hammer Swimbaits as a sponsor this year!
I personally use Big Hammer baits on triangle heads in the ocean and in fact it is in my top 3 go-to lures for rockfish and lingcod. There are plenty of other swimbaits on the market but something about these just catches fish.
Around these parts we typically think of them just as saltwater plastics but they can work great for freshwater fish too. I'm adding Big Hammer baits to my smallmouth arsenal this year and I know a few of the heavy hitters in the PacNW use them for largemouth as well. Check 'em out!
(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-030516161815.jpeg)
http://www.swimbait.com/ (http://www.swimbait.com/)
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Thank you for all the hard work in finding sponsors and helping to make AOTY a good one this year Captain, I know we all appreciate it!
Just wondering if there's a formal BBQ or get together or something to close out the AOTY in January or February? Hand out awards and what not and we can all tell fish stories.
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No plans yet, but I would really like to do something like that. The difficult part is that we have members all over the place. But I still think that would be a really good time. We should make it happen.
EDIT: And I really appreciate the feedback, makes it all worth it! I hope we can get a few more folks signed up this year.
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Big Hammers are awesome. They have a lot better action than other swimbaits ive used. The smaller ones work great for rockfish and I caught a nice Mackinaw on one last year. I like their jigheads also, but I wish they made them larger. I think the biggest is 1.5 oz. A 3 oz would be nice. Thanks for the hard work Captain
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One more question since I seem to be the king of questions in this thread... But it is the question thread after all ;D
Why is Grayling on the list? My guess is to give the Alaska guys another species (which makes sense.) But unless I am looking at it incorrectly none have ever been caught (at least for AOTY points.) I guess it doesn't really matter... Just curious.
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One more question since I seem to be the king of questions in this thread... But it is the question thread after all ;D
Why is Grayling on the list? My guess is to give the Alaska guys another species (which makes sense.) But unless I am looking at it incorrectly none have ever been caught (at least for AOTY points.) I guess it doesn't really matter... Just curious.
There are several examples of species that are not found in every AOTY state. Good luck catching a lingcod in Idaho or a pink salmon in Oregon. There are many species to choose from and in the end we'll take your 10 best species scores.
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One more question since I seem to be the king of questions in this thread... But it is the question thread after all ;D
Why is Grayling on the list? My guess is to give the Alaska guys another species (which makes sense.) But unless I am looking at it incorrectly none have ever been caught (at least for AOTY points.) I guess it doesn't really matter... Just curious.
There are several examples of species that are not found in every AOTY state. Good luck catching a lingcod in Idaho or a pink salmon in Oregon. There are many species to choose from and in the end we'll take your 10 best species scores.
And I totally get that, but what's the point if no one is catching them?
It doesn't really matter - was just curious is all.
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One more question since I seem to be the king of questions in this thread... But it is the question thread after all ;D
Why is Grayling on the list? My guess is to give the Alaska guys another species (which makes sense.) But unless I am looking at it incorrectly none have ever been caught (at least for AOTY points.) I guess it doesn't really matter... Just curious.
There are several examples of species that are not found in every AOTY state. Good luck catching a lingcod in Idaho or a pink salmon in Oregon. There are many species to choose from and in the end we'll take your 10 best species scores.
And I totally get that, but what's the point if no one is catching them?
It doesn't really matter - was just curious is all.
They were added due to requests to have 10 available species to target in Alaska. I would imagine at some point someone up there will get serious about AOTY and catch one.
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Thanks Noah!
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk
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Lots of submissions coming in now. I just wanted to say I really appreciate how this year AOTY is being run. The processing times this year are a lot faster and seeing the new catches on the Facebook feed is great! The side challenges are also exciting to follow this year now that we have a variety.
Anyways thanks again!
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Lots of submissions coming in now. I just wanted to say I really appreciate how this year AOTY is being run. The processing times this year are a lot faster and seeing the new catches on the Facebook feed is great! The side challenges are also exciting to follow this year now that we have a variety.
Anyways thanks again!
Yeah, that! Thanks Captain Redbeard for all your hard work! Not to mention the awesome prizes he's lined up.
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Lots of submissions coming in now. I just wanted to say I really appreciate how this year AOTY is being run. The processing times this year are a lot faster and seeing the new catches on the Facebook feed is great! The side challenges are also exciting to follow this year now that we have a variety.
Anyways thanks again!
Agree!
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Thanks everyone, I appreciate it! I do want to mention that there's a lot of people involved to make this happen - truly at team effort. We all appreciate the feedback.
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We just approved some pretty nice fish! Make sure you're checking out the "Slam" leaderboards.
Overall Leaderboard:
Some new names a top the leader board with some old ones lurking below with big avg scores! This is shaping up to be a pretty interesting year. It's certainly not too late to get your hat in the ring.
http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/leaderboard/list (http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/leaderboard/list)
Saltwater Slam:
This is pretty interesting as well. As a reminder, your top 4 fish are counted on this board and it's no shock to see rawkfish in the top spot. However, he's only ahead by 4 points over whakamomoka! And there is a certain high flying yaker (Langcod) with the highest average score lurking below. Anchored by a 214 point halibut he's got an excellent chance at knocking off the saltiest guy I know.
http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/leaderboard/saltwater_slam (http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/leaderboard/saltwater_slam)
Freshwater:
Not currently a close race but some really nice fish posted so far by crackergraham
http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/leaderboard/freshwater_slam (http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/leaderboard/freshwater_slam)
Fly Fishing:
Super cool to see some fish on here already and 4 solid fish posted by surf12foot
http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/leaderboard/flylist (http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/leaderboard/flylist)
In case you're not paying attention to the leadboard or AOTY facebook (like us) feed here are some of the recent fish:
(http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/catch/image/2601/img_0346_1_-medium.jpg?1463383384)
(http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/catch/image/2614/p5130597-medium.jpg?1463720118)
(http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/catch/image/2592/20160513_161328-medium.jpg?1463188882)
(http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/catch/image/2610/img_2986-medium.jpg?1463507869)
(http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/catch/image/2582/image-medium.jpg?1462412879)
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Woo-hoo! I'm on the "on the fly" board! More to come... it's been harder than I expected - a fun challenge.
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Congratulations on scoring on the fly!
Cap'n, where do striped bass fit in the species/scoring?
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We don't currently score striped bass due to their limited range in the Pac NW. We discuss the species list each year; I can bring it up if you want, but I'll be honest - it's probably not likely.
That said, you want to take me kayak fishing for striped bass and I'll find a way to get down there :)
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Yeah, striped bass isn't a likely addition
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Anything is possible. Start slaying them and we can talk!
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The Unicorn of Oregon fishes! They don't exist everybody knows that. On the upbeat side of things It has been a banner year so far for Unicorns... Lauren way to go on the first fly caught rockfish!!!!
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An Oregon striper, my bucket list fish. They are out there but in a pretty narrow range. There was that one that made it up the Bonneville dam and then got caught in a gill net last year or the year before.
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Fine. Be like that. :angel:
We used to catch them around San Francisco Bay too many years ago to mention. I didn't know their West Coast range was still so limited.
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Lauren way to go on the first fly caught rockfish!!!!
Thanks man, bigger ones coming soon, I hope!
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I caught a Cabezon this weekend at PC Oregon. I think I know the answer, but wanted to clarify. I can't enter the fish because the season doesn't open until July?
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I caught a Cabezon this weekend at PC Oregon. I think I know the answer, but wanted to clarify. I can't enter the fish because the season doesn't open until July?
Correct, it has to be legal to retain in order to count.
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You guys are on top of it - awesome. I feel your pain, I've caught a couple of decent cabezon this year and as soon as July 1 hits I bet I won't! ;D
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You guys are on top of it - awesome. I feel your pain, I've caught a couple of decent cabezon this year and as soon as July 1 hits I bet I won't! ;D
I know it... Of course I catch the first decent sized rainbow of the year in a lake in which I couldn't retain it :evil5:
Also it looks like UplandSandPiper got stuck with the same deal with his cutthroats from Omak since it's not open for retention yet.
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Thanks for the clarifications even if it wasn't what I wanted to hear. I was pretty sure I read it right. There's always got to be rules, Dang it! Haha. Hope I can catch some more after July.
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Here's a question I am sure has been answered before but I just want to be sure it's good... Can fish caught in a tournament be used for AOTY as well, for example an AOTY participant catches a 16" Smallmouth at BBB this weekend, can that catch be used for both AOTY and also BBB? It doesn't look like either thing has a rule against it, I just want to be sure.
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Here's a question I am sure has been answered before but I just want to be sure it's good... Can fish caught in a tournament be used for AOTY as well, for example an AOTY participant catches a 16" Smallmouth at BBB this weekend, can that catch be used for both AOTY and also BBB? It doesn't look like either thing has a rule against it, I just want to be sure.
Absolutely yes.
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Here's a question I am sure has been answered before but I just want to be sure it's good... Can fish caught in a tournament be used for AOTY as well, for example an AOTY participant catches a 16" Smallmouth at BBB this weekend, can that catch be used for both AOTY and also BBB? It doesn't look like either thing has a rule against it, I just want to be sure.
Absolutely yes.
Thanks Jeff! I had assumed that was the case but wanted to be sure.
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From the AOTY Committee:
We HATE disqualifying your fish! Please take quality pictures to ensure there is no question the exact measurement of your fish. There have been two main issues we've seen recently that has either lead to a DQ or come very close to it. Please read rule #2 below.
2. Photographic evidence of fish size (total length) against a measuring device must be provided. Photographs must be clear, with measurements easily read. It is recommended to use a sharpie on measuring devices that are not clearly marked. All entries must be rounded down to the nearest quarter inch. The ENTIRE fish must show on the measuring device in at least 1 picture. Missing portions of the head or tail will result in a disqualification of the fish. Any fish that has the appearance of possibly being not qualified for entry (such as the appearance of an adipose fin from a non native retention body of water) will be disqualified. Participants are responsible for ensuring the pictures are of sufficient quality to demonstrate the legality of the catch as defined by the laws of the respective state. Fish may NOT be gutted, have their throat cut or ripped through, or manipulated in any way prior to photographs being taken. Cutting of gills is permitted. Tails may be pressed together or tilted. All entries this year will have admin approval before appearing as official entries. There may be a few days lag between the time you post a picture and the time it appears on the AOTY site.
General tips:
1-Take an overhead picture directly above the fish. Even if it is hard to read we can generally zoom in for the measurement. Then take a tail close up shot that shows the measurement. DO NOT MOVE THE FISH BETWEEN SHOTS.
2-Get out those sharpies! Now that the sun has come out it doesn't take much to have the reflection of the sun blow out the picture. Contrast is your friend.
3-Use a hog trough type of measuring device if the fish fits. If it doesn't use a standard yellow tape measure that is stiff on a flat surface.
4-Review your photos to make sure you have at least one good shot of the whole fish
Good:
(http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/catch/image3/2632/dscf0033-medium.jpg?1464314139)
(http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/catch/image/2626/010-medium.jpg?1464047755)
(http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/catch/image/2642/img_0432-medium.jpg?1464750501)
(http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/catch/image/2601/img_0346_1_-medium.jpg?1463383384)
(http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/catch/image/2616/p5140614-medium.jpg?1463720281)
(http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/catch/image/2533/img_0870-medium.jpg?1455957037)
Bad:
-Not the whole fish
(http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/catch/image/2569/image-medium.jpg?1460587420)
Fish not on measuring device, device should have a raised corner if possible.
(http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/catch/image/2610/img_2986-medium.jpg?1463507869)
-Blown out
(http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/catch/image/2609/img_2983-medium.jpg?1463507757)
Tape is not flat
(http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/catch/image/2621/img_3022-medium.jpg?1463847022)
-Okay but really should be overhead
(http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/catch/image/2641/img_0436-medium.jpg?1464750288)
Thank you for reviewing. It is out hope we DQ no further fish this year and continue to see the great catches coming in!
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I swear it was 16" even, trust me.
(http://i.imgur.com/HhE9DV9.jpg)
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Just a reminder that fish caught in conjunction with the Oregon Rockfish Classic also qualify for Angler of the Year (all rules still apply).
The winner of ORC could very easily win the saltwater slam as well - might be worth it to sign up for both!
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I just approved a nice Lake Trout for Merz. Mr. Merz is charging up the leader board with a 177 point average. Fat sucker! Evan, how do those things eat? Do you catch them trolling? Nice fish!
http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/catches/2671 (http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/catches/2671)
(http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/catch/image/2671/mac1-2-medium.jpg?1467085115)
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Ive only fished for them 5 or 6 times, so I'm no expert, but I've been successful each time. i jig for them the same way I jig for bottom fish. All of the fish have come on either Lancer jigs or Lead fish. They are in deep water and hang out on the bottom, so jigging works well. A lot of people troll for them, and i trolled for a while this last time trying out my new downrigger, but had no luck and switched to jigging.
This fish is in the smoker right now. Its only the 3rd mac Ive brought home. I smoked the first one and it was pretty good. It stayed very moist and oily, even compared to a fat chinook I smoked with it. The second fish I just pan fried and it was ok. Im not a big fan of any trout or even steelhead, but if you like trout, you would probably like macs also. I've heard the smaller fish eat a little better, but the lake has a 30 inch minimum, so this is the smallest one i've kept.
Im planning on heading over for a 3 day weekend later this summer and will post an open invite if anyone is interested.
(http://i.imgur.com/48gZnrV.jpg) (http://imgur.com/48gZnrV)
https://youtu.be/6CGHbFr8UIA
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Hahaha. ...great video,Evan!
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Ok, that was pretty funny!!
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Rawkfish just made a big jump into third with a great pair of salmon.
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Hey if anyone is participating in Angler of the Day this weekend but has not signed up for Angler of the Year, consider that a good showing at the tourney would put you in a strong position in the Saltwater Slam side-challenge:
http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/leaderboard/saltwater_slam
Also, I have been trying since mid-July to get the prizes sorted out so I can announce what positions will get what, ahead of a hopefully awesome fall season of points fish. Apologies for the delay as I have been doing a bunch of other things. After AOTD I will get that sorted out and announce it.
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Interested to see how Mrs. Redbeard climbs the standings after AOTD ;D
Lots of catches were approved today so be sure to check it out and see where you're standing!
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Interested to see how Mrs. Redbeard climbs the standings after AOTD ;D
Lots of catches were approved today so be sure to check it out and see where you're standing!
Indeed! I also just approved a bunch of on the fly fish, some make sure you also check out that leader board.
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Yeah she's going to bump up past me... a cabezon plus 2 upgrades... ;D
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Ah, I think "Mrs. Redbeard" needs her own, fierce, fish fighting name on this board. Clearly kicking ass on the fish for quite a while now.
Sorry, Lauren. I had to mention this. Does not have to be a poll but could be very entertaining!
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I didn't twist her arm - she can call herself whatever she wants. :)
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I didn't twist her arm - she can call herself whatever she wants. :)
Mrs. Redbeard has a certain ring of dominance over the mister that sounds delightful. Good for you, Christine, Mrs. Redbeard or whatever you'd like us to use to revere your name. You ROCK!
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Great submissions for AOTY points this month, guys! Was just checking out the standings and the new fish. Hope to see some fall chinook points soon.
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BOOM!
Merz jumps into 1st place with a dandy of a Chinook!
(http://aoty.northwestkayakanglers.com/catch/image3/2742/king3-medium.jpg?1474604739)
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WOW MERZ.... That's how to do it.
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We have an exciting seesaw battle on our hands folks. Crackergraham has reclaimed the lead with an excellent channel cat!
This is shaping up to be a competitive final quarter of AOTY. You guys are getting me stoked to go fishing.
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Nice Cat :o It was fun being in first for a couple hours :D
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Thanks.... Even better Nook you brought in!
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Congratulations! Merz, with nine fish and a high average can still do it.
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Thanks! Not sure what Im going to do about the 10th species, since Coho is closed in the rivers here. Maybe i can get out and find a Cabezon.
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Nice Chinook Merz. I was curious about your tenth too. You can still fish some of the lakes for Coho right? I think the state record came from one of them.
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Nice Chinook Merz. I was curious about your tenth too. You can still fish some of the lakes for Coho right? I think the state record came from one of them.
There are a few lakes near here that are open. Ive fished them the last few years without much luck. Im going to give it a try again but am not too optimistic with the lower predicted returns and increased pressure with the rivers closed. I still have a week to try and catch one in the ocean also if i can find time and the conditions are ok.
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Nice Chinook Merz. I was curious about your tenth too. You can still fish some of the lakes for Coho right? I think the state record came from one of them.
There are a few lakes near here that are open. Ive fished them the last few years without much luck. Im going to give it a try again but am not too optimistic with the lower predicted returns and increased pressure with the rivers closed. I still have a week to try and catch one in the ocean also if i can find time and the conditions are ok.
Wait a month and then take a drive north for a big snaggle toothed chum.
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Nice Chinook Merz. I was curious about your tenth too. You can still fish some of the lakes for Coho right? I think the state record came from one of them.
There are a few lakes near here that are open. Ive fished them the last few years without much luck. Im going to give it a try again but am not too optimistic with the lower predicted returns and increased pressure with the rivers closed. I still have a week to try and catch one in the ocean also if i can find time and the conditions are ok.
Wait a month and then take a drive north for a big snaggle toothed chum.
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Theres a good idea. I'd be willing to make the drive but i've never fished for them, so I'll have to do some research or find someone to tag along with. I see Crackergraham got a nice one last year. Not sure he will want to help me out though, haha.
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HOW has done a Chum tourney the last several years ... not sure if they are planning another. All the Washington HOW guys are chum slayers
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HOW has done a Chum tourney the last several years ... not sure if they are planning another. All the Washington HOW guys are chum slayers
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I'm there, if they do it. Seems like they would have started planning it by now though.
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Definitely make the trip. I'll show you the ropes. Slayride is a great time... No matter what the weather decides to do. I'll teach you the chum fishery if you teach me your chinook spot next year.
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Definitely make the trip. I'll show you the ropes. Slayride is a great time... No matter what the weather decides to do. I'll teach you the chum fishery if you teach me your chinook spot next year.
Sounds like a deal. I'll get in touch when the time comes
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(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-160216120607-4986534.png)
Well I had completely written off Cabela's. After they initially quickly responded that they would support our event I heard nothing for months, in spite of reaching out to them several times. Then out of the blue last week I got an email from my contact saying that we had a package ready at the store.
It turns out they had a nice package of goodies for us: 3 IM7 "Tourney Trail" graphite spinning rods with Pflueger reels (each combo valued at $90-$100), 4 tackle bags, and some goodies inside the tackle bags.
Thank you, Cabela's for your support!
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Great prizes from Cabellas.
Looks like some folks are still jostling for position. I'm waiting to see merz, rawkfish, and snopro make their moves. It could happen.
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Im wondering what Crackergraham has up his sleeve. I know hes in first already, but he doesnt have a Chinook, Coho, Chum or Steelhead. All of which are available the rest of the year. He could end the year like he started it and blow this thing wide open.
I'll get my 10th species eventually. Got one already actually but am trying for a bigger one this weekend. Hopefully its enough. Im not going to get a chum now because the Slayride is during my elk season.
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Mmm elk season. Mine ended a month and a half ago. :-P
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(http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/gallery/5792-160216120607-4986534.png)
Well I had completely written off Cabela's. After they initially quickly responded that they would support our event I heard nothing for months, in spite of reaching out to them several times. Then out of the blue last week I got an email from my contact saying that we had a package ready at the store.
It turns out they had a nice package of goodies for us: 3 IM7 "Tourney Trail" graphite spinning rods with Pflueger reels (each combo valued at $90-$100), 4 tackle bags, and some goodies inside the tackle bags.
Thank you, Cabela's for your support!
SWEET!!! :o
Great job on all the awesome prizes!!!!
Stoked for you guys!
:)
Sincerely,
Jim
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This is going to be an interesting finish! Merz just posted his 10th fish to jump into the number one spot. Smokey angler and crackergraham are going to have to put in some work with upgrades to catch him. They're neck and neck in the 2nd and 3rd spots, so continue to watch them fight back and forth. And then we have Mr. Rawkfish lurking down in 5th place with 9 fish and a 181 point average. My bet is that he's got a plan to finish strong. Stay tuned folks!
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And then there's that darned Snopro who keeps posting chunks! ;D
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Nice to be in first for now. Wish I could say that I feel safe. Must keep fishing!
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And then there's that darned Snopro who keeps posting chunks! ;D
Says the guy who just caught Dogzilla! That must have been a battle.
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And then there's that darned Snopro who keeps posting chunks! ;D
Says the guy who just caught Dogzilla! That must have been a battle.
Ha! Yeah, that thing let me know fairly quickly that he had no intention of taking it easy on me. ::)
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quick question from a non-competitor in the AOTY this year, who was calculating what his score might have been, totally for fun- does a CA Halibut, which is a left eye flounder, score under Halibut or Flounder?
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quick question from a non-competitor in the AOTY this year, who was calculating what his score might have been, totally for fun- does a CA Halibut, which is a left eye flounder, score under Halibut or Flounder?
Halibut.
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quick question from a non-competitor in the AOTY this year, who was calculating what his score might have been, totally for fun- does a CA Halibut, which is a left eye flounder, score under Halibut or Flounder?
Halibut.
dang... ;D ;D ;D congrats to everyone on the leaderboard!
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quick question from a non-competitor in the AOTY this year, who was calculating what his score might have been, totally for fun- does a CA Halibut, which is a left eye flounder, score under Halibut or Flounder?
Halibut.
dang... ;D ;D ;D congrats to everyone on the leaderboard!
Ive been wondering that for a couple years now. if I ever caught a Cali Hali, I was going to try submitting it as a flounder. They are listed under flounder in the regulations.
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Moving to north Idaho in the fall squashed my attempts in the AOTY tourney this year but it was still fun following it. Some impressive fish submitted by this year's leaders and I am really impressed "SurfFoots" points on fly only.
I really appreciate how much better organized the tournament was this year and I look forward to participating more aggressively next year. My goal is to place in the top 3 without any saltwater submissions in 2017.
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Captain Redbeard deserves all the credit. Thanks for all the hard work, Lauren!
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Captain Redbeard deserves all the credit. Thanks for all the hard work, Lauren!
Lots
Yes, thanks CRb!
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Thank you Lauren, and judges and other helpers, for doing a great job at AOTY 2016. It was my first year of participation, but it probably won't be my last! Hope I can actually get out fishing more in 2017 and not forget to measure my fish.
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My goal is to place in the top 3 without any saltwater submissions in 2017.
Definitely possible. Look at Snopros scores from the last few years. He won in 2014 with all freshwater. Pretty amazing.
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I dont know if I am going to be able to get out on the kayak fishing any more before the end of the year. Participating in AOTY has been really fun. I met my goal for the year and look forward to participating again next year.
If you have never tried AOTY I would suggest you try it. For me it was a motivation to try catching different species that I normally didn't fish for. When someone would catch a nice fish and bump me down a place I would always look to where I could go to try to get that place back. Considering the competition, I am happy placing where I did.
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I'm not one to count eggs and call them chickens, but the Cap'n was such a great AOTY coordinator this year the he even let me stay one place ahead of him in the On the Fly side challenge. Thank you, Lauren.
I'll do it again next year. The proceeds are for a great cause and although I couldn't buy a second salt water species, AOTY got me out there for the first time and kept me going many more times after.
Special thanks to the Cap'n - and thanks to all who help put it together.
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Yes Lauren did a spectacular job. After a year off from it I'm ready for 2017.
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Hey thanks everyone for the kind words, I really appreciate it! Communication on the committee is understandably a little slow this time of year, but as far as I know we are continuing on next year in similar fashion to 2016 - I can't wait!
I'm a little bummed that I won't be in the top 10 this year but have been enjoying watching the race. I missed too many saltwater days to some other important stuff. I hope that I can crack the top 10 again in 2017, but I guess we'll have to see what opportunities life affords me. It's been really fun watching the standings and competing with my lovely wife. I can honestly say that fishing side by side with someone has taught me (counter-intuitively, perhaps) that fishing has more to do with skill than luck. Every time she's outfished me it's because she's made different choices than I did that paid off.
As far as the fly fishing, man I've got to admit, I thought that I could get 5 or 6 species "no problem" and so that has been a very humbling experience for me this year. But also something that I can invest time into in 2017 to try to improve. Catching my first on-the-fly saltwater fish - a dinky black rockfish - was one of my favorite moments of the year.
I'll start a new thread about the New Year, but just as a reminder: Per the rules you have 2 weeks to register fish, so the 2016 AOTY will officially close in mid-January after we're sure no more entries are coming in. You may start fishing for 2017 immediately on Jan 1, 2017, even if everything on the website isn't set up yet. We'll honor your catches once you're paid up, assuming that you don't want a long time to sign up.
Cheers and on to 2017!
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This is the first year I've known about and followed the AOTY, and the first year I've decided to not wrench on the old Grady White and buy a kayak instead. I'll be selling the boat. Looking back at past AOTY's some of you have been at this for a long time!
Thank you to all who paved the way and all who are a part of this, you're all really inspiring! I can't wait to put some fish on the board in 2017!
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Hope everyone has a Safe and Happy New fishing year, This was a ruff year for me as my mom in Shelter cove pasted away, and many other life dealings that kept me off the water, But I will be back next year looking forward to it and some time on the water, and Congratulation to all the top Kayak Anglers.
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I'm ready try AOTY finally. I'm working on getting some of our HOW TEAM and possibly some of our Vets that recently purchased their own kayaks.
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Just want to congratulate all of the AOTY participants this year. Had fun fishing with some of you and look forward to meeting the rest of you. Good luck in 2017.
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Thanks to Captain Redbeard and everyone else involved in making the AOTY 2016 the great event it was. Your hard work is greatly appreciated. Congratulations to all of the competitors! I had fun fishing with friends for many different species of fish that pushed me out of my comfort zone. I caught a lot of fish with Lucky ( Jed ) and won"t forget the generosity of Nobaddays and others. That's what I love about kayak fishing. I was blessed to be able to fish in 3 states. I caught a couple steelhead during the brutal cold at the end, but they couldn't be counted because they were wild. I can't wait to try again in 2017. If anyone is on the fence I recommend signing up. You will have a good time and the money goes to a good cause.
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Thanks to everyone involved. As usual, it was fun to see the standings progress over the year and see all the fish everyone caught. I sucked at the salmonids this year but actually caught two species I had never caught before on the same day. I was actually targeting both.
Don't be shy about signing up. It's good clean fun. Let's get 50 folks involved this year.
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I may need to try this again. I just don't catch any fish other than Kings and Halibut which is pretty lame for me to complain given I fish year round even in Alaska. lol.
Can someone help me out with this ruke'
10. Use of motherships is prohibited. "Mothership" is defined as arriving by and launching from a boat. Use of a vessel(e.g. water taxi, ferry, or privately owned boat) to travel to a destination for overnight or multi-day trips is not considered mothershipping. Camping on boats is permitted and kayaks may be launched from the boat, as long as the vessel was moored overnight and the kayaks are launched from the overnight mooring location.
Two questions.
A) I was considering taking a powered vessel to a location. Land on shore. Then start from shore and land back on to the shore. Same day. That is legal or not legal?
B) Less likely but this seems to imply that as long as I "overnighted" on a moored boat, I can launch and land off a powered vessel?
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Great questions!
A) I don't know. I will ask the committee.
B) Yes, you are reading that correctly.
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While the final 2016 placement is public knowledge I'm trying to get the time together to put up a 2016 wrap-up post, so bear with me - it's coming!
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A) I was considering taking a powered vessel to a location. Land on shore. Then start from shore and land back on to the shore. Same day. That is legal or not legal?
I discussed this with another committee member:
Since the rule stipulates an overnight stay for mothershipping, this would not be legal, even if you launch/land from shore once you get to your destination.
I understand why you'd want to do this in Alaska! But I think the rule is good as-is.
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OK. I'm fine with any rule. But I better not catch the other folks using a ferry from Seattle to get to Olympic peninsula and fishing the same day. Lol. Seems sorta kinda similar. Haha.
Thanks for the clarification!
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OK. I'm fine with any rule. But I better not catch the other folks using a ferry from Seattle to get to Olympic peninsula and fishing the same day. Lol. Seems sorta kinda similar. Haha.
Thanks for the clarification!
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It is the exact same thing .... using a motorized vehicle to cross water instead of your kayak ....
I think the rule should be broadened to include driving over bridges and then fishing afterwards.
Kinda absurd that you can fly to Kodiak and then go fishing but if you were to take a water taxi that then becomes mother shipping.
Hell let's eliminate cars too .... if you use any motor vehicle to transport your kayak you are cheating!
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OK. I'm fine with any rule. But I better not catch the other folks using a ferry from Seattle to get to Olympic peninsula and fishing the same day. Lol. Seems sorta kinda similar. Haha.
Thanks for the clarification!
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It's similar, but different, because the Ferry goes to a known location on a regularly traveled route and you generally continue driving afterwards. If you're able to select the destination and get dropped off just to fish from your kayak, that puts you at an advantage. Now, if it's a regular route that isn't put there specifically for you and would have gone there with or without you, it's good to go IMO.
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I'm going to put all of my apologies and excuses here so as not to jam up the (soon to be) new thread...
Just want to say thank you to everyone for your patience... wrapping up AOTY 2016 has been more work than I expected, and that has collided with a busier January than I expected.
The good news is that I should be putting up a post "real soon" (tonight/tomorrow likely) with the official recognition of the top finishers and prize announcements and all that good stuff, and following that we'll get a 2017 kickoff post going too.
I'm also happy to announce that Next Adventure is our first confirmed sponsor for 2017 and I expect a lot of our other sponsors to return too.
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I'm going to put all of my apologies and excuses here so as not to jam up the (soon to be) new thread...
Just want to say thank you to everyone for your patience... wrapping up AOTY 2016 has been more work than I expected, and that has collided with a busier January than I expected.
The good news is that I should be putting up a post "real soon" (tonight/tomorrow likely) with the official recognition of the top finishers and prize announcements and all that good stuff, and following that we'll get a 2017 kickoff post going too.
I'm also happy to announce that Next Adventure is our first confirmed sponsor for 2017 and I expect a lot of our other sponsors to return too.
You're the man
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