Seasoned anglers took to the flats under perfect weather conditions during the Islamorada Invitational Fall Fly Bonefish Tournament that ended Sept. 17, with Miami’s Paul Nute, a tournament newcomer, winning top honors in the prestigious event.
Guided by Captain Bou Bosso of Jupiter, Fla., Nute scored three releases, besting 22 other anglers from the U.S. and as far away as London, England, to cinch the win.
The tournament’s runner-up grand champion was Rick Orcutt of Weston, Fla., guided by Eric Herstedt of Coral Springs, Fla.
Frank Juliano of Ft. Lauderdale landed the largest bonefish award for his 12.13-pounder. He fished with Islamorada’s Captain Mark Gilman.
Together, the 34th annual tournament’s participating anglers tallied 19 releases and four weight fish.By: Andy Newman/Carol Shaughnessy
