TWO of Port Stephens finest young anglers experienced a huge thrill when they competed in the prestigious Garmin Billfish Shootout last weekend.
Sean Leeman and Noah Tubman demonstrated their fishing prowess against world class anglers in Australia’s premier game fishing competition.
The outstanding duo from the Newcastle and Port Stephens Game Fish Club (NPSGFC) were rewarded for their impressive form on the ocean with selection in the Garmin Billfish Shootout Junior Team for the annual three day event in Port Stephens.
They were two of six promising NSW anglers named to fish on board “Tantrum”.
Other top juniors to compete were Jack Cunneen from the Port Macquarie Game Fish Club, Flynn Vernon (Sydney Game Fish Club), Kai Delaney (Canberra Game Fish Club) and Jye McDonough (Shellharbour Game Fish Club).
The popular event shone a spotlight on the next generation of Australian game fishers with the dedicated Junior Team representing the future of the sport.
NPSGFC President Troy Radford told News Of The Area that the chosen six had represented the junior anglers with “pride, respect and good sportsmanship on and off the water.”
“They put in the work, learned from experienced crews and stepped up with the confidence and curiosity that defines the Shootout spirit,” he said.
“The team was taken out to compete by Karen and Glenn Wright, whose generosity and commitment to supporting young anglers make opportunities like this possible.
“All six performed well and achieved results and showed great ability and enthusiasm for fishing.
“They did their clubs proud. The Shootout is renowned for its professionalism, sportsmanship and international profile and the inclusion of a Junior Team highlights the strength and sustainability of the sport going forward.”
A highlight for Team Tantrum was young Leeman hauling in a 92.80kg marlin blue on the opening day of competition – an incredible feat.
The capture came only days after Tubman tagged an 80kg black marlin on the eve of the event.
By Chris KARAS
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