Inaugural catfish tournament a success
Published 4:53 pm Wednesday, June 15, 2016
A rare sight took place over the weekend, with a catfish tournament being held in the area.
Judson Akin and friends hosted a catfish tournament at Higgins Ferry, which began on Friday and ended 24 hours later on Saturday.
It was the inaugural event and something that Akin hopes to have the support to continue on for years.
“It went a lot better than we thought for it being the first time,” Akin said.
According to Akin, a total of 14 boats entered the competition, a higher number than was expected.
After the 24-hour tournament ended, Rick Glass, Courtney Glass and Kevin Morris finished in first place with a total of 111.6 pounds from three fish, while Cody Turner, Spencer Moore and Chris Whittle were second with 95 pounds and Heath Oglesby, Jud Steed and Bucky Stevens wrapped up third place with 88.8 pounds.
Also awarded was a “Big Fish” prize that was won by Andy and Hannah Gore who caught a 42-pound blue catfish.
According to Akin, the weigh-in area was a popular spot throughout the tournament.
“We had about 75 people that just showed up during the contest, wanting to be involved in some way or another,” Akin said.
By the end of the tournament, $375 had been raised that will be donated to Through the Grace of God Ministries.