LCEC’s 27th annual fishing tournament set for Sept. 9
One of LCEC’s largest fundraising events is coming up fast and the power company is looking for anglers to join in the fun.
Angler registration is now open for the 27th annual LCEC Fishing Tournament to benefit the United Way. The catch and release tournament will take place on Saturday, Sept. 9, from sunrise to 3 p.m. at D&D Bait and Tackle in Matlacha.
Laura Puerto, senior public relations specialist at LCEC, said after lower attendance caused by the pandemic, she expects to field to be at or close to what they had before COVID, which was as many as 100 boats.
“We’re back to having a big after-party where we’ll have a silent auction, awards, raffle prizes, food and lots of fun for anyone who wants to come,” Puerto said.
Fish will be measured and photos submitted using the FishDonkey app.
Puerto said the event has raised around $50,000 for the United Way, and expects this year’s event to surpass that again.
“We’re close to that right now, but I’m not sure. The goal is to make $50,000, but the main goal is to have a great time and provide something for the community that’s safe for the estuary and a great way to raise money.
Karen Ryan, who chairs the event, said this is one of her favorite events, thanks to all the anglers and sponsors who have come out over the years, and especially this one after the hurricane last year where everyone had to pitch in.
“The team that volunteers is passionate about putting on a good event while also bringing the community together and helping those in need,” Ryan said. “Our sponsors really stepped it up this year because they know that our area was hit so hard by Hurricane Ian and they wanted to help as much as they can.”
Information on the Captain’s Meeting, which happens the night before the event, tournament rules and more can be found at uw.lcec.net.
Contact fish@lcec.net or 656-2204 with questions. All proceeds from the tournament will benefit the United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades.
To reach CHUCK BALLARO, please email news@breezenewspapers.com