Planning under way for Matlacha Hookers’ event
The Matlacha Hookers, a 501c3 women’s organization, will be hosting its17th Annual Fishing Tournament & Derby Sunday, Oct. 11, at the Olde Fish House and Marina & Restaurant in Matlacha.
“This year’s tournament will be dedicated to, and in memory of, John Skorupski. John and his wife, Ginny, owned the Olde Fish House Marina until 2012 and welcomed the Matlacha Hookers to hold their tournaments there from 1998 until 2011,” Hooker Arlene Stornello said. “Since 2012, the new owners, Lisa and Darrell Dence, have graciously continued the tradition that John and Ginny began 18 years ago.”
Even though October seems like a long way off, the wheels are in motion to make this another successful tournament to benefit Pine Island Elementary school. To do so, the Matlacha Hookers are once again calling on Greater Pine Island and surrounding communities for their support.
“In the past our businesses have donated gift cards or certificates, baskets filled with their business items, art work, plus many sponsors have donated cash to help cover the costs of the tents, rods and reels for the kids, site permits, supplies, etc,” Stornello said.
“Our sponsors are recognized the day of our tournament and also during the weeks before the event in our local newspapers.”
This year, all sponsors donating $500 or more by Aug.15 will be honored with their place of business printed on a special banner that will be displayed during the event. All $100-plus donators will be mentioned numerous times throughout the day.
Please leave a message or text message with our event Chairpersons, Sandy Kerr at 305-849-1539 or Theresa Kramer at 239-560-9687, or an email at missmatty@matlachahookers.org with any questions or to donate.
The fishing tournament for adult anglers includes cash prizes and fish fry while the derby for kids K-5th grade includes trophies and lunch plus other fun activities.
Keep watching the Pine Island Eagle for more information as we get closer to this fun-filled exciting event.
The Olde Fish House Marina is at 4530 Pine Island Road in Matlacha. For more about the restaurant, call 239-282- 9577 or visit www.oldfishhousemarina.com.