2016 AOTY

With 2015 nearly in the books the AOTY committee would like to solicit your feedback on any changes you'd like to see made for 2016. We're generally of the feeling the fish and point scales are where they need to be but would certainly listen to your input.

We're also seeking a few more volunteers to add to the committee. You'd be responsible for approving fish and generally taking part in AOTY related discussions. Bonus points if you have a good grasp of the WA regulations. Please PM myself, Bsteves, or Lee if you would like to be considered.

As a reminder, we've moved away from soliciting prizes. So please don't suggest we give away a free kayak and tons of swag unless you're willing and able to solicit then for the competition. Thanks and tight lines!

Bump - I'd love to hear from people doing AOTY for the first time what their thoughts are, as well as the people that are more experienced with it.

I've got a question - Is there any interest in a sail-powered division? (cough, Ling Ling, cough IslandHoppa)

I noticed that NorCal Kayak Anglers has a sail division and I'm curious if there's enough folks up here that would be interested to make it worth doing.

I was going to opt out in 2016 because I'd like to do a lot of sailing. I'd be down if there was a sailing division.

I've always thought sails should be allowed, even in the regular division. Anyone can rig up a sail on any kayak. I cant imagine someone winning it all just because they use one occasionally.   

Also, I know this has been brought up before, but I would love to see the "recent catches" column brought back. I know I can click on aoty and "most recent", but it was nice to see it just while browsing nwka, and I feel like other members being able to see it might get them interested in/signing up for AOTY. I cant remember if there was a specific reason it went away. I apologize if there was.

I've always thought sails should be allowed, even in the regular division. Anyone can rig up a sail on any kayak. I cant imagine someone winning it all just because they use one occasionally.   

Also, I know this has been brought up before, but I would love to see the "recent catches" column brought back. I know I can click on aoty and "most recent", but it was nice to see it just while browsing nwka, and I feel like other members being able to see it might get them interested in/signing up for AOTY. I cant remember if there was a specific reason it went away. I apologize if there was.

I agree. If the AOTY had a higher profile, maybe more people would sign up. The fee is very reasonable.

I'm good with removing the no sail restriction. It might be a fun new twist. I don't think we need a separate category for sailing, as I can only think of 2-3 guys that sail.

I'm good with removing the no sail restriction. It might be a fun new twist. I don't think we need a separate category for sailing, as I can only think of 2-3 guys that sail.

I think this is a great idea. I might even bust out my sail once in a while

I don't think we need a separate category for sailing, as I can only think of 2-3 guys that sail.

Agreed. if you look at the sail division on NCKA, there are only 4 fish total on the leaderboard.

Also, I think most people are fine with not having prizes, but If we wanted to do something besides just cash, the plaques we got a couple years ago were really nice. Its nice to have something to hang on the wall and bring back some good memories when we get too old to fish.

I'm also willing to help out with anything you guys need. just let me know.

Also, I think most people are fine with not having prizes, but If we wanted to do something besides just cash, the plaques we got a couple years ago were really nice. Its nice to have something to hang on the wall and bring back some good memories when we get too old to fish.

I heartily agree with this as well. In the past we've brought up some options (maybe I'm thinking of other contests too) like t-shirts, belt buckles, hats, etc. For me a plaque would probably be my #1 choice.

Does anyone else have any thoughts on this?

I'm fully down for a sails allowed for AOTY 2016.

There was a thread started that had some great ideas for different categories but I can't find it.
I think someone mentioned something about teams, I wish I could find it. There were some other sweet ideas too.

I would fish hard for a custom title belt. The entry fees could cover the cost. I think a title belt would be sweet for ORC and AOTD too.
Picture a someone strolling through ORC camp with their belt slung over their shoulder. 

http://www.wildcatbelts.com/

Sails are fine with me.  I wouldn't try to create more divisions.  Keep it as is and just update the rules to allow sails.

A belt buckle would make a great grand prize.  It would be a good conversation starter to introduce others to NWKA and AOTY.  I'm sure Ling can pull off a WWE style belt but I don't have enough swagger.  I'd suggest a smaller daily wear sized one with a unique NWKA/AOTY design and integrated bottle opener.  Keep it inexpensive so at least 90% of the fees go to HOW.

I'd like to see the number of participants increase.  More entry fees = more money to HOW.  Currently I don't have any ideas on how to do it.

We still have AOTY?

16th place should get a ball cap.