Two STAR tagged redfish caught in Brevard County in first two weeks of STAR statewide event – unregistered anglers miss out on new truck or boat packages.

Orlando, FL – June 4, 2018 – CCA Florida STAR, presented by Yamaha, has had two catches in the signature Tagged Redfish Division during the event’s first two weekends, but unfortunately doesn’t have a confirmed winner.  An unregistered angler caught a 21” redfish (tag FL133) while wade fishing during opening weekend, and a second unregistered angler caught a tagged redfish (tag FL267) on June 2, both in Brevard County, one of STAR’s three Destination Counties.  Both anglers were aware of CCA Florida and STAR but not registered, and therefore ineligible for their choice of a prize in the division, which includes a new Conley Buick GMC Sierra Pickup or one of several Yamaha-powered boat packages including a Contender 22 Sport, a Pathfinder 2200 TRS, a Hewes Redfisher 16, a Carolina Skiff 21 Ultra and a Cottonmouth Aluminum Bay/Flats boat.

“We’ve seen this happen so many times over the event’s last few seasons – anglers never think it will happen to them, and don’t register, then catch a tagged fish and miss out on phenomenal prizes,” said Brian Gorski, CCA Florida Executive Director.

With 17 divisions and 11 species included in the event, and most winners determined by random drawing, anglers of all ages and skill levels have opportunities to win.  Registration is $40 for current CCA Florida members, or $75 for non-members, which includes CCA Florida membership.  Kids ages 6-17 can register for free with their current ($10) CCA Florida youth membership.

“We are encouraging every angler who is going fishing to register for STAR, and we want to give away prizes” said STAR Director Leiza Fitzgerald.  “STAR is the longest and least expensive competition available, but boasts some of the biggest prizes, which includes $100,000 in scholarships for youth anglers in our Youth Scholarship Division presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors.”

Unlike traditional fishing tournaments, STAR focuses on conservation and the social media-based event educates the public on the importance of protecting Florida’s marine resources.  Recognized as a ‘catch, photo and release’ competition, STAR’s smart phone app eliminates the requirement for anglers to harvest or capture and transport fish.  All entries must be photographed with the official 2018 CCA Florida Measuring Device, which is now available free of charge at various locations throughout the state, including all Florida West Marine stores, the preferred distribution location.  For a full listing of measuring device locations, visitccaflstar.com.

For more information on STAR, or to register, visit the Facebook page or ccaflstar.com.

Contact: Teresa Donaldson| 407.923.3530 | tdonaldson@ccaflorida.org

The Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) was founded in 1977 after drastic commercial overfishing along the Texas coast decimated redfish and speckled trout populations.  One of 19 state chapters, CCA Florida became the fifth state chapter in 1985.  A 501(c)3 non-profit, the purpose of CCA is to advise and educate the public on conservation of marine resources.  Through habitat restoration projects, water quality initiatives and fisheries advocacy, CCA Florida works with its over 18,000 members including recreational anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to conserve and enhance marine resources and coastal environments.  Join the conversation on Facebook or learn more atccaflorida.org.