Despite a relatively slow fishing day, the 8th annual Brett T. Bailey Mako Rodeo proved to be a success once again. The tournament raised over $20,000 for State of New Jersey National Guard and Reservists serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, and provided a nice chunk ‘o change in the winner-take-all purse. ‘Benchmark’ landed a 360 pound Thresher shark, taking home $17,275.

No eligible Mako sharks were caught by the fleet of 41 boats participating. Although several smaller fish were released and it is estimated that over 350 blue sharks were also caught and released. As per the tournament rules, if no eligible Makos qualify, all the tournament prize money is awarded to the largest thresher.

Other notable catches included a 260lb thresher caught by the ‘Kingfisher’ and a 185lb thresher weighed by the ‘American Mustang.’ Until BTBMR09, please visit www.btbmakorodeo.com for more info on the tournament and the Brett T. Bailey Foundation.