Volunteer, Angler and Participant Alum Chris Thompson checks in with an update on the upcoming Cape Lookout Albacore Festival being held October 19-21, 2017 in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina
Since 2014 the Cape Lookout Albacore Festival has been promoting the sustainable, recreational, fall fishery for False Albacore on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina. Over 120 anglers, and many more friends and families, have visited the Cape Lookout area in search of our target species. Each year we’ve experienced additional growth, bringing visitors from further locations to our lovely home.
Despite the success of the tournament, and presentation of the coveted copper Albacore trophies, the highlight of the event has unquestionably been the support of our Veterans. The festival chose Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, Inc., who provides fly fishing, fly tying, and rod building to Disabled Veterans and wounded Active Duty Servicemembers, as our charity. Over the past three years, in excess of $50,000 cash and in kind support has been donated to support their noble mission. Equally impressive, over 50 of our local area guides and fishermen have donated their boats, fuel, equipment, and time to take nearly 100 Project Healing Waters participants on the water to chase our beloved Albies, Spanish Mackerel and Bluefish.
This year the festival is making a change to include a more diverse group of anglers. An inshore tournament is being added allowing those who enjoy the pursuit of Redfish, Speckled Trout and Flounder. We hope to provide more opportunities for our Project Healing Waters participants during the event, and to attract more support for our charitable endeavors. Anglers may compete in either or both categories in this year’s Cape Lookout Albacore and Redfish Festival.
Follow us on Facebook to learn more about the changes, events, and special guests at this year’s festival. We continue to work towards making the Cape Lookout Albacore and Redfish Festival the premier fly fishing tournament/festival on the East Coast. We hope to see you this Fall!
Visit us at https://www.facebook.com/CapeLookoutAlbacoreFestival and http://www.capelookoutalbacorefestival.com for the most up to date information.