Fishing Photo Entries Due Soon

A fishing photo contest is under way through Sept. 2 to find images that best express the rewards of sustainable fishing in America’s national marine sanctuaries.

Sponsored locally by Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary and Conservation International’s Hawaii Fish Trust – in partnership with Sportfishing Conservancy – the 2013 Sanctuary Classic will award 10 $100 weekly prizes nationally (based on online voting) and $1,000 scholarships to the final four photos that “best exemplify youth fishing, family fishing or conservation in a sanctuary.”

Created in 1992 by Congress, Hawaii’s sanctuary is a vast expanse of whale habitat that borders all major Hawaiian Islands, lying within the shallow, warm waters (less than 600 feet). Around Oahu, the sanctuary is concentrated along the island’s North and the South shorelines. All photos must be taken within the sanctuary and depict pono fishing practices.

“This is a great opportunity for families to go out fishing together and experience the bounty that Hawaii’s ocean has to offer while strengthening the culture of sustainable fishing,” said Hawaii Fish Trust director Jason Philibotte.

For details and to submit photos, visit sanctuaryclassic.org. For more information, call 1-888-55-WHALE.