Snook tournament, "reel" science

Fish for science during the Snook Shindig — a research-based catch, sample and release tournament targeting snook released by Mote Marine Lab and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission — on Sarasota Bay.

This tournament, on Nov. 13-14, helps support vital studies focused on enhancing and replenishing wild fisheries. Mote researchers document snook caught during the tournament to identify individual hatchery-reared snook they previously tagged and released. Data from tournament-caught snook can be used to adjust release protocols. Past tournament results have revealed that changes in snook-release strategies, based on Mote pilot studies, have improved survival of stocked snook by as much as 200 percent.

People of all ages can participate. Adults ages 16 and older can register $35 per person. Youths ages 15 and younger can register at $10 per person.

Registered anglers are eligible for prizes. Snook Shindig entry fee includes entry in the tournament, barbecue dinner, an event T-shirt, voluntary participation in raffles and lots of fun.

To register only for the 5:30 p.m. Awards Dinner on Nov. 14, purchase a dinner ticket for $30 per person ages 6 and older. Children under 5 can eat for free.

Learn more and register at mote.org/snookshindig