Harry nets biggest catch

Although the life of a fisherman is filled with uncertainties and fraught with danger, Fisherman of the Year 2008 Winston Harry cannot envision life away from the sea.{{more}}

The 27-year-old Rose Place resident out fished the competition with the heaviest single fish weighing 48 pounds, the largest number of fish: 89 heads, and the heaviest catch of 873 lbs to hook the top spot in the Class 1 category.

Harry told SEARCHLIGHT that he became a full-fledged fisherman seven years ago after he was laid off from his plumbing job at Public Works. “Since then is no looking back and no regrets”, he said.

Harry said that he comes from a fishing family as his grandfather was a fisherman, but it was his uncle who taught him the art and now he is teaching his two younger brothers. Harry also said that he would like to see more young persons get involved in the fishing industry as it’s a decent and honest way to make a living.

Last November 7th, Harry said that he and his two-man crew escaped death after their boat capsized about 37 miles off Brighton Head. They were not rescued until over an hour later. “All the struggles have been worth it”, he chuckled.

For the competition, Harry and his three-man crew set out at 4:30 am and returned at 2:15pm with their catch. They fished about 41 miles south east of Balliceaux where they met a wooden pallet floating. They realized that this would be a good place to fish as the moss which grows on pallets attracts the fish, Harry said.

A grand prize of a 75 horsepower Yamaha outboard engine, engine oils, life jackets, cases of drinks, a radio and cash were awarded to the Fisherman of the Year.

Harry said that his plans include upgrading his equipment, getting his own boat and to keep on fishing.