Derwin Chang wins Tidelands Toys for Tots Tournament
Posted: Wed Dec 19, 2018 7:26 pm
Tournament Director Aaron Knowles and the So Cal Kayak Anglers held their Tidelands Toys for Tots tournament on the San Diego Bay on Saturday, 12/8/16. This was the final event of the season and a benefit tournament to support the Marine Corps Reserves annual Toys for Tots toy drive to provide Christmas presents to children in need.
An impressive field of 64 anglers came out to support the cause and to enjoy the beautiful Southern California weather while catching feisty bay bass. Anglers reported some of the best fishing they have ever experienced in the bay, some catching as many as 50 fish. Knowles reported that the incoming high tide turned on the bite and the action was fast and furious for many.
The tournament format was a 3 fish limit (catch, picture, release) but they must be one of 3 types of bass (barred sand bass, calico bass, or spotted bay bass). 56 of the 64 anglers boated a limit. The primary baits used were swimbaits on jig heads, drop shot, under spins, and spoons.
Derwin Chang of San Diego brought home the win with a 48.5-inch limit of sand bass. He was reported to be fishing a 5” swimbait on a ¾ oz jig head in the middle of the channel in 40 to 50 feet of water.
Here’s your top 10:
1. Derwin Chang – 48.5 inches
2. Chad Gierlich – 43.5 inches
3. Kerry Peeler – 42 inches
4. Evan Morgeson – 41.25 inches
5. Tim Collin – 40.75 inches
6. Mike Stames – 40.5 inches
7. Steve Buechner – 40.25 inches
8. Tim O’Connor – 40.25 inches
9. Daniel Martinez – 40.25 inches
10. DJ McKnight – 40 inches
“Best of all, over $500 and 118 toys were donated to the cause. A special shout out to Luc O’Field for going above and beyond to make this event such a huge success”, said Knowles.
Well done anglers!