The 86th annual Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo is underway on Dauphin Island, opening at 5 a.m. Friday with the traditional blast of a cannon.
Organizers estimate 3,700 anglers will be on the water over the next three days, competing for the biggest catch and a prize pool valued at more than $1 million.
The World’s Largest, and Volunteer-Run
The rodeo has been recognized as the largest fishing tournament in the world since 2011. It is staged entirely by volunteers, a fact organizers say is the most remarkable part of the operation.
“The amount of effort that goes in with the group of guys, that’s what makes it special to me,” said Cory Quint. “We’re all volunteers that just happen to put together the world’s largest fishing tournament in our spare time.”
Competition continues through the weekend on Dauphin Island.