The Maryland Saltwater Sportfishermen's Association (MSSA) concluded its 19th Annual Tuna-ment on Sunday with nearly $13,000 to be awarded.

The tournament kicked off Friday, June 20th with weigh stations located at Sunset Marina, Ocean City; Captain Bob's Marina, Chincoteague, VA; and Seaside Marina, Wachapreague, VA. Anglers from all over the region showed up to test their skills and possibly win some cash.

The main tournament consisted of Division I and Division II including four Skill Levels, $50, $100, $200, and $300. Along with the main tournament and skill levels were two other special categories in which you could win, the Dolphin and Bluefish categories.

This year's big win went to Dale Dirks of Edgewater, MD for hauling in a 175lb. Bluefin Tuna. This secured 1st place in Division II worth $1,054 as well as three other skill levels worth $4500, bringing his total winnings to $5,554.

George Wendling of Severna Park, MD barely hooked first place by 2.9lbs. in Division 1. Wendling brought in an 89.6lb Tuna winning him $686 as well as winning the $50 skill level with a combined weight of 138lbs. putting his total winnings at $756.

While the number of boats were down the enthusiasm and passion for fishing surfaced and at the end of the day these anglers were competing for bragging rights.

The MSSA would like to thank all of its members who volunteered and helped out at the Captain's Meetings, weigh stations and in all other logistics. MSSA gives special thanks to all the marina's who graciously volunteered their space to accommodate this tournament. And last but not least the MSSA would like to thank the anglers who participated in this year's event. We understand the increased costs associated with off-shore fishing and appreciate all of your hard work in order to compete.

For a complete list of all the Tuna-ment results please visit http://www.mssa.net/.