This year, the Consultants Invitational Fishing Derby is coming to Sooke on Saturday, July 26.
While the event is still months away, the organizers are currently casting their rods for volunteer skippers, who are key to the ultimate success of this non-profit annual event.
According to organizing committee member Jerrod Pinder, "The biggest success for our derby comes from the support of volunteer skippers, and our sponsors."
The way it works is that the derby organizers get the local public within the sports fishing community to take their guests out. The skippers donate the use of their boat and their services, and in return they get a free ticket to the event.
"That allows you to participate in the awards dinner, entertainment, and a chance at our prize table," explained Pinder. "We simply will connect you with who you will be taking out, and you can make arrangements with them."
"The purpose of the event is to build relationships within the Engineering community, host a great event that contributes to the business/sports fishing sector in the Sooke area, and generate donations to charity to keep our sport fishing sector going," said Pinder. "For example, Jack Brooks Hatchery in Sooke has been one of the main recipients for our funding."
So far, they have donated over $80,000 in the last eight years. Last year's highlights included donations of $7,500 to the Sooke Salmon Enhancement Society, $5,000 to the Juan de Fuca Salmon Restoration Society, and $4,000 to Esquimalt Anglers Association, as well as prizes for each and every participant.
It will be held at the Prestige and if you are interested in participating or volunteering, please contactcarl@consultantsinvitational.ca.