The Fifth Pahang Billfish International Challenge held in waters off Rompin recently drew the participation of 200 local and foreign recreational anglers.

They pitted their wits and skills against each other to land and release the sailfish (genus istiophorus platypterus) - a pelagic game fish known for its prowess, grace and power.

The abundance of sailfish in waters off Rompin has put Pahang on the world map as a top fishing spot with recognition from the International Game Fishing Association (IGFA).

In a showcase of sportsmanship, the anglers competed in teams to catch and release the fish 30km off Rompin in the South China Sea.

According to Pahang Tourism Action Council general manager Idros Yahya, the competition was among the highlighted events in the East Coast Economic Region masterplan to promote economic activities through recreational fishing initiatives in tourism.

Idros said the annual event held in August drew participation from around the world, thus elevating the state’s reputation globally as a prime destination for marine sports.

“The competition is recognised as an event in the qualifying series for the offshore world championship tournament sanctioned by IGFA.

“Winners qualify for the final round of the international game fishing association championship in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, next year,” Idros said.

At an entrance fee of RM2,000, the event, he said, had the potential to create economic activities for the service sector in the local community.

The Malaysian Angling Association estimates that an angler spends an average of 15 days a year on recreational fishing. The industry’s value is estimated at RM1.5bil annually.

To preserve sailfish stock, 18 artificial reefs were placed in waters off Rompin at locations believed to be stopovers for the migratory (March to September) marine species between Peninsular Malaysia’s east coast and Australia.

In the team event, team Xzoga A comprising Dennis Lee, Tan Wee Sien from Johor and Steven Chong from Pahang, beat 32 other teams to take first place with 9,000 points.

They caught and released 15 sailfishes to bag the RM15,000 cash prize.

Singapore’s team Xzoga B with Ho Hee Fong, Celement Ng and Tan Hock Seng came in second with 6,600 points. Their effort earned them RM6,000.

In third place was Singapore’s Hook On C ADC-Les Orignale which earned RM3,000 with 6,000 points.

Lemax Pro Team’s Lim Yue Lean topped in the individual’s event and became RM10,000 richer while Singapore’s Patrick Ng came in second to take the RM5,000 prize with fellow countryman Andy Ro coming in third to take home RM2,500.

Rompin District Officer Datuk Roslan Harun gave away the prizes during the closing ceremony.

The challenge was organised and sponsored by Pahang Tourism Action Council, Tioman Development Authority, Petaling Garden Berhad, The Season Tackles Sdn Bhd and Serai Beach and Golf Resort among others.

Source from The Star Online