Lionfish tournament at BIOS next Saturday

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4: The second annual lionfish tournament is to take place, “rain or shine”, next Saturday.

Originally due to take place in August, bad weather has plagued the event which will now take place on November 12 at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences from 6am until 9pm.

While it is hoped the tournament will bring in large numbers of lionfish, the aim is to raise awareness of the threat, to help to educate the public about lionfish as a healthy food option and to even give people the opportunity to taste the fish at the weigh-in and after-party.

All are invited to the free after event — those who do not participate in the tournament should turn up to BIOS any time after 1:30pm weigh-in.

Entry forms and information can be found online at www.reefspect.com. Forms and entry fees should be dropped to Marine Locker on Gorham Road, Hamilton or to Triangle Diving at Grotto Bay (in cash).

Anyone who does not have a lionfish cull permit must adhere to government’s sport diving regulations. There are no weight or size restrictions for lionfish nor are there any restrictions in method besides spearing on scuba.

All fish must be caught a mile from shore and only two of the same species may be caught. All lionfish should be put on ice so they can be cooked by the head chef at Butterfield Bank Chris Malpas at the weigh in and BBQ at 3pm.

The Ocean Support Foundation will be present as will representatives from  tournament organizers and environmental charity Groundswell.

The tournament takes place at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences. If the weather disrupts the actual tournament, the party and lionfish sampling will still take place.

Co-founder of Growndswell Matthew Strong, a founder of Groundswell, said “I’m looking forward to it we have 170 people signed up and 60 are participating in the tournament. Even if you don’t want to get wet come along, taste some lionfish and show your support. Rain or shine the after party will go ahead, unless it’s gale force winds. Keep an eye on our face book page at Groundswell Lionfish Tournament.”