On Friday, June 2, 2006, anglers gathered in Boca Grande eager to participate in the Raymond James Boca Grande Tarpon Fishing Tournament. Representatives of Raymond James hosted a private dinner for some of the top sponsors of the tournament including Republic Services, SBA Communications and Tech Data. Anglers were told prior to arriving “no slacks or jackets—shorts and flip flops were required”. All necessary supplies were provided by the event host—including lip balm and sunscreen. Teams were decided on by the event host and rules were reviewed during dinner…..including those that would result in a fine. After great food and wine, the small intimate group went to event host Jeff Fordham’s hotel where the festivities continued with the introduction of a special “Raymond James Punch”.

Better get to bed …. We need to be ready to leave the docks at 6:30 in the morning!!! No, the fish don’t sleep in on Saturdays! The tournament started right on time with many, many boats already on the water by the time we arrived. Things were active, but not everyone was catching! The boats took a break for lunch and the fishermen returned to the water shortly after. If it was up to Neil Seidman, there would not have been a lunch break! The fish did not seem to be biting as much the second session of fishing and the boats were forced to return to the docks because of rain showers. The fishermen said the rain felt like hail as it was pounding them. Afternoon showers did not last long and most returned for the third session of fishing. The bone team ended their fishing thinking they would win the tournament. But, event host Jeff Fordham would be woken up from a deep sleep to find that the winner was not who he thought… :: Read More