The 71st Annual Texas International Fishing Tournament is in the bag and it was an exciting angling adventure. 1222 registrants, 466 boats and two days of fishing resulted in 41 billfish caught. Nine Blue Marlin were caught, one weighed in; 22 White Marlin caught, two weighed in; ten Sailfish were caught and three weighed in. A total of 32 billfish were released. But the most exciting offshore action was Francis Knapp, Jr.'s 670# Blue Marlin catch aboard the 37' Bessie Belle! Mr. Knapp's catch earned him the Most Unusual Fish, Heaviest Blue Marlin , the perptual Heaviest Blue Marlin trophy and first place Blue Marlin! And the action wasn’t just in the offshore division as species ranging from snook, redfish, trout, drum and the popular piggy perch made their way dockside to the weigh ins on Friday and Saturday. A complete winners list can be found on here www.tift.org/2010-winners.pdf.

The 71st Annual event was once again highlighted by the outstanding weather and great fishing! All eyes in the Valley are focused on TIFT during the five days of fun filled activities, with live coverage provided by KGBT Channel 4's Richard Moore, Valley newspapers and local radio stations.

TIFT anglers represent an extremely desirable market group. Most are residents of the Rio Grande Valley with disposable income and a genuine enjoyment of outdoor activities. During their five day stay in the Port Isabel - South Padre Island area, they have a direct spending effect in excess of $1.5 million — not including tournament expenses. In addition to the actual number of TIFT registrants, thousands of spectators will also turn out to view weigh-in activities during the two days of actual fishing.

Francis Knapp and Bessie Belle team with their 670# Blue Marlin landed during the first day of fishing at the 71st Texas International Fishing Tournament!

Originally instituted to promote the Rio Grande Valley as a whole, TIFT has become a family tradition that exemplifies the best the Valley has to offer. With registration participation increasing annually, and over $100,000 in scholarships awarded, it is our sincere intent to continue improving and growing our event through the help of corporate sponsors and businesses such as yours. If you'd like to be a part of one of Texas' oldest and most established fishing tournaments, join in the TIFT tradition today. Bring your message to the more than 1,500 registrants expected at the 71st Texas International Fishing Tournament and don't miss the action.