More than $25,000 in prizes up for grabs during this year’s fishing challenge
The hunt continues! The Diamond Jim component of the 2012 Maryland Fishing Challenge entered its second phase when teams of youth anglers and Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) biologists caught, tagged and released more than 100 striped bass into the Chesapeake Bay. One of today’s tagged fish is the official Diamond Jim worth $20,000 to the angler who catches it between July 1 and midnight July 31. The other tagged rockfish will be known as imposters worth at least $500 each if caught and registered before September 3, 2012.
“The Maryland Fishing Challenge provides the perfect opportunity for seasoned and novice anglers, children and adults, and everyone in between, to get outdoors, enjoy our State’s great fishing opportunities and forge lasting memories,” said Governor Martin O’Malley.
This year’s challenge honors the life and times of world renowned fly-fishing legend Lefty Kreh. Over his remarkable 75-year career the Maryland native has shared his enthusiasm and skill for fishing through his columns, books and presentations. He is also known for his commitment to Maryland’s natural resources, promoting conservation and clean water, and giving back to the outdoors. Kreh was honored by Governor Martin O’Malley at the dedication of the Lefty Kreh Fishing Trail in the Hereford Area of Gunpowder Falls State Park on June 11.
Over the summer, as many as 600 imposters worth at least $500 each and one genuine Diamond Jim will be pursued by anglers. Each month Diamond Jim goes uncaught the bounty increases ? from $10,000 in June, to $20,000 in July, and $25,000 in August.
The contest features a guaranteed $25,000 payout: If one of the three authentic Diamond Jims is not caught by Labor Day, the cash prize will be split equally among the anglers who catch imposters this summer. Additionally, if an angler catches the August Diamond Jim they will receive a set of one-carat total weight, round, brilliant diamond stud earrings from Zachary’s Jewelers in Annapolis. Zachary’s is also providing five- to six-carat blue topaz charms for anglers who catch imposter fish.
Now in its eighth year, the Maryland Fishing Challenge showcases Maryland as a premier sport fishing destination with accessible, affordable, diverse and high quality sport fishing opportunities for anglers of all ages. The fishing challenge would not happen without the help of several corporate sponsors, including Bass Pro Shops, Tracker Boats, Bill’s Outdoor Center, the World Fishing Network, and Under Armour.
“We are very thankful to our sponsors and our recreational fishery stakeholders,” said DNR Secretary John Griffin. “Without their con
