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The success and growth of the Red Snapper Saltwater World Championship proves what we here have always known - the Alabama Gulf Coast is a great fishing destination. Anybody - pro or the occasional angler - can catch a wide variety of fish just about any time of year.

The First Annual Orange Beach Saltwater Series will include 11 prize fish, both inshore and offshore, and more that $150,000 in total prizes. By implementing this new spring tournament in conjunction wtih the Fifth Annual Red Snapper World Championship, now moved to late summer, we think we have hit a home run with a broadened appeal to all types of anglers.

We remain committed to the purpose and goals upon which the tournament was founded - helping to protect the rights of recreational fisherman and nurturing the largest artificial reef program in the world.

Here is the crux of the matter: Our fishing privileges are being threatened by well organized environmental groups applying pressure to the federal governement. This year we have seen a crack down on recreational red snapper fishing. Next year it could be any other species. Recreational anglers and the fishing industry must band together and fight to protect our rights. Although environmentalists may see us as selfishly unconcerned about the environment, we are truly conservationists who do not wish to see our fish stocks depleted. However, we believe fishing regulations must be based on valid data, not arbitrary political whims. The tournament will continue to provide valid data through catch records and harvested fish to the Alabama Marine Resources for research purposes.

The tournament organizers strongly believe that it is our responsibility to help in the building and nourishment of Alabama's unique artificial reef system. Since its inception, tournament donations have helped fund the deployment of 864 artificial reefs and two large barges. We have also helped fund representation of the recreational fishing sector at legislative levels. We will continue to support the rights of recreational anglers and view the tournament as balancing the enjoyment of fishing with the responsibility of protecting our resources.

We offer a sincere thanks to our many sponsors, local charter boat captains and all participating anglers whose support has made the success of the tournament and accomplishment of its objectives a reality.

Tony Kennon
Red Snapper World Championship Tournament Director

Tony Kennon (right) with Clinton Cochran, 2007 Winning Angler