What makes the annual Shellcracker Tournament so popular?

It is all about the thrill of the hunt and the playful competition. What a rush when we are faced with this adventure, because nothing can beat the feel of that telltale tug on your line, or the adrenaline rush that hits you when you are pulling in shellcracker after shellcracker. Why fishermen come from all over just to crank up their boats and dig down deep into their tackle boxes.

This year’s tournament will be no less exciting than those of the past. Competition will be on Saturday, April 23.

Contestants will be launching from Seminole State Park this time. Registration fee is $20 and will be held from 6 a.m. to 6:50 a.m. An entry will entitle you to have your name in the drawing for one of the many prizes that local businesses have donated. As in past years, they will be a great win. You will be smiling.

The rules of engagement will be read from 6:50 a.m. to 7 a.m., with start time 7 a.m. The weigh-in will commence at 2 p.m.

Prizes for the tournament are wallet popping.

First place is $500, second place is $250, while the third-place money is $150. This year’s biggest fish will pull in $100.

As in the past, children in the fishing tournament will be treated very special. Their event, the fishing rodeo, will be held on the dock that goes out into Seminole State Park lagoon.

The contest will be for kids 12 years of age and under. Each child will receive a free T-shirt and a trophy as well as other prizes. The grand prize for this competition will be a shiny new Zebco rod and reel along with a tackle box. Just imagine your budding angler using this fishing gear!

These first prizes are given in memory of Mr. I.J. Whittaker, who was a long time fisherman and supporter of the Shellcracker Tournament. Mr. I. J. was a very family-oriented man and always took joy in seeing the small children learning the thrill and techniques of good fishermen.

The Lion’s Club has added some new events to increase the fun of this year’s tournament. One is the duck race. Ticket prices are one duck for $5 or five for $20. Top prize for the first duck to hit land is $500. There are also prizes for some runner-up spots.

We are not done yet!

This year they have also added food vendors as well as scrumptious goodies that the Lion’s Club will have for sale. You know that our ladies are famous for their command of the culinary arts. They will make your mouth water.

Also on the schedule are the famous arts and craft booths, which are great for browsing and buying. Ladies, you know what fun these are!

The Lion’s Club is well known for its help and support for those who have eyesight problems. They have helped many of our friends and neighbors see better and keep their sight. Now, we can help too.

Seminole State Park is located off of Spring Creek Road (State Route 253), just before the intersection of State Route 39.

Remember, the tournament is now launching from Seminole State Park, so mark your calendar. Come and enjoy a great day for all. Hope to see you there!