The Problem: Invasion of the Lionfish The Lionfish is an invasive species to the Caribbean and Roatan waters. As an opportunistic feeder with a voracious appetite, the Lionfish poses and immediate threat to our reef system, tourism, and the lifestyle of the Bay Islands. Lionfish, if left unchecked will destroy or fish populations and the reef itself. This will have enormous impact to the tourism industry we all rely on for our way of life and livelihoods. The Short and Long-Term Solutions We are holding the 2nd annual Roatan International Lionfish Tournament (RILT) 2019 on October 6-11, 2019 on Roatan, Bay Islands. Our objectives include:
x Educate the public about the Lionfish invasion and the impact to the reef system.
x Immediate reduction of Lionfish Populations Island wide.
x Educate public that Lionfish is both safe to eat and delicious when prepared in many ways.
x Demonstrate the economic benefits of Lionfish while reducing pressure on overfished species.
x Educate local fishermen to opportunities for commercial harvest and sale.
x To bring Tourist to the Island in a historically slow season to fill Hotels, Resorts, Dive Shops, Restaurants, Tour Operations, and other support services to bring financial opportunities.
The Tournament Hunters are invited to enter teams up to 4 hunters as well as individual entry over the 4.5 day hunt. Grand prize for the most Lionfish by a team will earn $2,500.00. Check in stations will be available Island wide open 4-6pm daily. There will be a daily $50.00 prize for the largest fish of the day in addition to over $2,800.00 in cash prizes for Men’s and Ladies Largest and smallest categories. Rules and Registration will be announced July 31, 2019. The Lionfish Cook-off Fortunately Lionfish is delicious as it is invasive. All chefs, restaurants & home cooks are invited to compete in Entrée and Appetizer categories for cash prizes. Cook-off is Friday Oct. 11, 2019 at Las Palmas Resort. Cooking demonstrations as well as tastings will be available to the public as part of our Awards Party celebration. Sponsors RILT will be the largest Lionfish Tournament in Bay Island’s history. We don’t want you to miss this opportunity to be a leader in the community, demonstrate your support, and be a part of the solution to this invasion that threatens us all in one way or another. Cash awards, more gear prizes, and better competition will attract the attention of local and international divers, hunters, and the general public. Sponsors will be identified in all RILT 2019 digital, print, radio, and event media relating to the tournament. Sponsorship levels in USD include Diamond level- $2,500, Platinum- $1,000, Gold- $500, Silver$250, Bronze-$100, and Associate level $50.00. Raffle and silent auction donations are also appreciated. Join us in the fight against the Lionfish Invasion and help bring economic opportunities to Roatan while benefitting local charities Cattleya, ROAR, and RMP Protect Our Pride. For further information please contact Buck Beasely +504 3394-0164 or captainbuckbeasely@yahoo.com . Thank you for your support!
