Tropical Storm Cindy was by no means a hurricane. She didn’t even pack much of a punch. But what she did bring to the Gulf Coast, besides some squally rain bands, was a high level of uncertainty. And when you’re planning a world-class fishing tournament like the 15th annual Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic, uncertainty creates all kinds of scheduling headaches. Which is why fishing will now begin at 3 p.m. on Friday, after the boats check out from the Destin Pass bridge.
“It’s been a fun and challenging week so far,” says Tournament Director Adam Alfonso. “We’ve constantly consulted numerous weather sources and they’re showing by the time the boats leave Friday the seas will be laying down to safe levels. So we’re optimistic we’ll have two great days of fishing and we’re excited to see what the fleet brings in to the scales. We certainly appreciate all the teams that are hanging in there with us and hope more will commit to fish before lines go in the water.”
Schedule Changes
Because of the adjusted schedule, teams will be able to register and enter optional cash categories up until 3 p.m. Friday afternoon. Entries can be made on line (www.fishecbc.com) or at the Marina Bar & Grill at the Baytowne Marina on Friday. Lines can go in right after the official start. Scales will be open until 9 p.m. on Saturday and 10 p.m. on Sunday. Boats must be under the Destin Pass Bridge before 8 p.m. and 6 p.m. respectively to weigh entries.
Sea conditions look very good for Saturday and Sunday, with new moon tides, steady barometric pressure and light winds. The lingering effects