OISFT

That's the Ocracoke Invitational Surf Fishing Tournament which kicked off Wednesday night with a gathering at Howard's Pub. This is the 24th annual tournament, and teams of anglers return year after year for some of the best surf fishing on the East Coast, as well as a rollicking good time. Sixty-six teams (including more than two dozen all female teams) compete all day Thursday and all day today.

Last night the Ocracoke Rockers entertained them at Howard's Pub until midnight. This evening at 5:30 the tournament hosts a pig pickin' under the tent at the Community Center. Afterwards judges will hand out awards, then everyone heads back to the Pub for another party. You can't say these folks don't know how to have fun.

But in addition to fishing and partying, the OISFT sponsors several local causes. Last year the board presented the Ocracoke school a $500.00 check for the Sigma Willis Memorial Scholarship Fund, donated $3000.00 to the Ocracoke Volunteer Fire Department, $500.00 to the Ocracoke/Hyde County Rescue Squad, and $500.00 to the Ocracoke School Booster Club.

Good luck to all the fisherfolk!

This month's newsletter discusses the planned replacement of the seven bridges on Ocracoke Island in early 2008, and explains some of the issues we will face. You can read it here.