Big Kahuna nets Resurrection Derby’s top prize | Fishing

They call themselves the Big Kahuna. And after two days on the water, four fisherman from Marysville landed a prize equal to their name by reeling in the biggest fish in the inaugural Resurrection Derby, sponsored by the San Juan Islands Chapter of Puget Sound Anglers.

By Scott Rasmussen • December 8, 2010 11:13 am
Resurrection Derby competitor Jace Rinker hoists his catch onto the scales at San Juan Seafoods on Dec. 4
Resurrection Derby competitor Jace Rinker hoists his catch onto the scales at San Juan Seafoods on Dec. 4

They call themselves the Big Kahuna.

And after two days on the water, four fisherman from Marysville landed a prize equal to their name by reeling in the biggest fish in the inaugural Resurrection Derby, sponsored by the San Juan Islands Chapter of Puget Sound Anglers.

The derby took place Dec. 2-4 in Friday Harbor.

Skippered by Lance Husby, the Big Kahuna bested all comers by landing a 19.29-pound king salmon, a fish stout enough to net the grand prize of $10,000 in cash.

Fifty teams, with up to four anglers each, competed in the debut of the three-day fishing derby. A total of 120 fish were deemed worthy enough to make it onto the scales at the official weigh-in.

Proceeds from the event benefit the chapter’s salmon enhancement and habitat restoration projects.

Second place went to Mount Vernon-based Team Makai, captained by Greg Baylis, which reeled in a 17.90-pound salmon for $2,500 in prize money.

Skipper Dale Nelsen and Team Blue 52 of Bellingham took home $1,500 for finishing third with a 17.34-pound salmon.

The $1,000 prize for the event’s “mystery weight” went to Bellingham’s Tom VanWingerden, with a 12.71-pounder.