Excitement Fishes Out in Port Royal’s Southern Redfish Cup
Port Royal came alive over the weekend as it hosted the thrilling Southern Redfish Cup, a professional fishing tournament that had everyone on the edge of their seats. Under the excitement of the early morning sun, teams of two fishermen took to the waters, ready to reel in their best catches. And oh boy, did they deliver! With a nail-biting conclusion, less than an ounce determined the champions from a pack of 36 fierce competitors vying for the coveted grand prize of $8,000.
High Stakes and Close Calls
This year, the competition was fierce, with the champions, Beaufort’s own Bradley Brown and Travis Malphrus from Team Nomad, managing to catch redfish that totaled 13.5 pounds. What’s even more exciting is that their weight was only 0.06 ounces heavier than the second-place duo—North Carolina’s Jason Dail and Allen Jernigan, who are professionals and have a history of success in this tournament.
The rules of the tournament are simple yet thrilling: the team that catches the three largest redfish between legal lengths of 15 to 23 inches walks away with the title. This year’s championship saw Brown and Malphrus’s fish averaging over 4 pounds, which is quite a healthy size and an impressive feat!
A Tie for the Big Fish Prize
In a twist of fate, the excitement didn’t stop at just the top spot. The competition for “big fish” was equally riveting. Both Brown and Malphrus tied with Tyler Rudd and Jack Trolan, as they all caught fish weighing 4.76 pounds. Rather than just one team walking away with the big fish prize, these teams decided to share the wealth, splitting a nice tidy sum of $1,200. It was a moment of camaraderie amidst the fierce competition, something that truly reflects the spirit of fishing in the Lowcountry.
Local Flavor and Professional Talent
Most of the participating teams came from nearby states, mainly North Carolina and Georgia, with a notable presence from South Carolina. Many of the competitors were local anglers just trying their luck alongside seasoned professionals. It was a fantastic mix, which added to the overall fun and excitement of the day.
Tribute to a Local Legend
This year’s tournament also had a special touch—the event was dedicated to the memory of Chuck Lather, a beloved Beaufort angler who passed away in 2021. His spirit was felt throughout the event as participants and spectators alike reminisced about his contributions to the fishing community. The gathering was hosted by Shellring Ale Works, providing a warm, welcoming atmosphere for everyone involved.
The Tidal Dance of Success
Chris Condon, the owner of the Southern Redfish Cup, shared his excitement about the tournament, saying, “When it is this close, it’s pretty exciting.” Many teams found their success early on during the low tide, making the most of their time near the docks in Port Royal. The strategic planning and a little bit of luck certainly played a significant role in the day’s happenings.
Looking Ahead
The Southern Redfish Cup series continues its adventure with upcoming stops in Georgetown on October 26 and Isle of Palms on December 14. Whether you’re a local or a professional angler, the competition promises to be just as thrilling as the one we witnessed this past weekend.
In the end, this year’s Southern Redfish Cup not only highlighted the skills and determination of the anglers but also brought the community together, celebrating a sport that seamlessly blends competition and friendship. Here’s hoping for even more excitement in the tournaments to come!
