Troy Pruitt of Naples, Fla., took top honors at the Jim Bokor All-Tackle Spring Bonefish Tournament that ended April 13, also scoring the tournament’s most releases title.
Named to recognize the flats-fishing prowess and untiring support for Keys angling of Jim Bokor Sr., the tournament adopted an all-release format this year, requiring the larger bonefish be measured, photographed and quickly released. The protocol is less stressful on the fish and welcomed by the group of passionate bonefishermen who participated.
Pruitt, guided by Brian Helms of Homestead, Fla., tallied 12 releases and four weight fish to earn the victory.
Frank Delucas of Plantation, Fla., placed second with nine releases and two weight fish, poled by Islamorada Captain Mark Krowka.
Last year’s grand champ and veteran tournament angler Jim Bokor Jr., of Buffalo, N.Y., caught the largest permit at 33.86 inches, with Key Largo’s Captain Jared Raskob at the helm.
A field of seven boats released 38 bonefish, including nine weight fish of more than 8 pounds.By: Andy Newman/Carol Shaughnessy
