By Cullen Lea
Intern
Fishermen from Ohio, Pennsylvania and along the Eastern Seaboard will gather in Wrightsville Beach for the 10th annual Johnnie Mercer’s Pier Dogfish Tournament. Anglers will line the landmark fishing pier from 1-8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, hoping to hook the cunning dogfish shark, which is known for its two types: spiny and smooth. The entry fee is $5 per fishing rod plus the $8 per rod pier fee.
“We expect over 100 anglers to visit us this year,” said Al Baird, tournament organizer. “Our tournament is one of the few during the winter months, so we expect people from all over to enter and get their fishing game back.”
Traveling to the tournament in January is the only impediment for the die-hard northern anglers. The tournament has become a tradition during the past decade, and despite its competitive moniker, the event has the tone of a relaxed, social setting.
“Our tournament is a great social event for anyone age 19 to 92,” said Johnnie Mercer’s Pier owner Matt Johnson. “This is a happening that all fishers can enjoy.”
The tournament includes an open raffle, featuring custom fishing rods, tackles, T-shirts, sweaters and hats. All proceeds will go toward Animal Life, Inc., a North Carolina nonprofit animal rescue organization. The drawing will occur at 4 p.m.
“Our raffle benefits animal shelters in the area,” Johnson said. “People also like to bring dog food, treats and make monetary donations.”
Johnson likes to describe the tournament as a “mirage in the winter” as most piers during this time period are vacant while his is full. This anomaly benefits hotels in the area as people fill rooms during an uneventful season.
There’s also good news for the attendees: inclement weather is expected the day of the tournament. In the past, overcast, rainy skies have produced more than 500 fish. If the weather report holds steady, anglers can expect a bounty.
“For the first two years few people showed up and only a few fish were caught,” Johnson said. “I never thought the tournament would work, but people love to fish no matter what. Our tournament is built around tradition and camaraderie.”
For more information about the annual Johnnie Mercer’s Pier Dogfish Tournament, visit the pier’s Facebook page.
