Bluefish Opens the Derby as the Island Tradition Begins Again
Tom Neadow, with son McCabe, left, and Harper Gilkes with his shore caught bluefish.
Tom Neadow, with son McCabe, left, and Harper Gilkes with his shore caught bluefish.
Onlookers documented the first weigh-in of the 79th Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby.
Onlookers documented the first weigh-in of the 79th Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby.
Derby president John Custer thanked volunteers and supporters.
Derby president John Custer thanked volunteers and supporters.
Opening bell of the derby was rung by Island fishing icon Janet Messineo.
Opening bell of the derby was rung by Island fishing icon Janet Messineo.
Always a crowd for the morning weigh-ins.
Always a crowd for the morning weigh-ins.
Mr. Neadow with his 5.98 pound bluefish.
Mr. Neadow with his 5.98 pound bluefish.
Mr. Custer weighed the fish and marked his tail.
Mr. Custer weighed the fish and marked his tail.
McCabe Neadow exits headquarters with first fish, donated to the derby filet program.
McCabe Neadow exits headquarters with first fish, donated to the derby filet program.
Showing off his bluefish with his kids Daisy and McCabe.
Showing off his bluefish with his kids Daisy and McCabe.
At 7:59 a.m. John Custer stood outside derby headquarters and slid open the door to reveal a derby legend: Janet Messineo. Ms. Messineo rang the official derby bell to start the 79th edition of the beloved Island tradition.