Sunlight reflected off the waters at Stingaree Marina as over 100 enthusiastic young anglers gathered at the docks for the 2026 Hardhead Haul-In, a highlight of the annual Saltwater Slam Fishing Tournament. Armed with rods, reels, and bright new t-shirts provided to every participant, the kids lined the waters from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. for a morning of friendly competition and outdoor fun.
For many of the young participants, the two-hour event marked their very first time casting a line. While the primary goal was hauling in the heaviest hardhead catfish to earn coveted trophies and cash prizes, the competition also featured special awards for the smallest fish of the morning and the heaviest non-hardhead species.
Highlights from the Docks
- A Diverse Catch: The weigh station was a hive of activity as kids proudly brought up their catches, which ultimately spanned 11 distinct species.
- Standout Catch: The crowd buzzed when one young participant landed an impressive 7.4 lb redfish, setting the benchmark for non-hardhead catches.
- Lifetime Rewards: Thanks to very generous sponsors, the awards ceremony included a drawing where two fortunate young anglers won lifetime Texas Fishing-Hunting combo licenses, and four youngsters won lifetime Texas Fishing licenses.
A big Thank You to the dedicated community supporters and sponsors who made the event possible, every child walked away equipped for future fishing trips. With smiles on their faces, proud stories to tell, and a fresh passion for the water, the young anglers made memories at Stingaree Marina that will last long after the season ends.
Heaviest Hardhead
First: tie-Kaydence & Briggs (1.01 lb); Second: Mason (0.73 lb); Third: Mathew (0.69 lb)
(L) Non-Hardhead
Heaviest: Mark (7.41 lb); Lightest: Price (0.04 lb)
(R) Lifetime License Winners
Luke, Caden, Mark, Liam, Kolter
(not pictured: Rafael, Grayson)
