The beach was remarkably busy this weekend, with a bustling Labor Day beach crowd sharing the coastline with the annual Bolivar Beatdown Shark and Redfish Tournament, hosted by Texas Shark Radio. Drawing an impressive turnout of 248 entrants, the event ran from Friday evening through Sunday morning, offering competitors the thrill of the catch, bragging rights, and a share of a total cash payout exceeding $24,000.
Stretching from Bolivar Flats to the High Island curve and beyond, anglers competed across categories that included Largest Shark Stringer (based on the total length of three sharks caught), Largest Redfish, and dedicated Juniors and Kids Division.
While the action unfolded along the surf, Swedes Park maintained a lively expo atmosphere with an array of food and equipment vendors for competitors, families, and friends. The excitement culminated on Sunday at noon when the crowd gathered for the drawing of over 100 raffle items, followed immediately by the awards presentation for the tournament winners.
Amid the high energy and excitement shared by all in attendance, participants and organizers alike wrapped up an memorable weekend and are already looking forward to next year’s Bolivar Beatdown.
WINNERS
First: Robert Santora (175.5 total inches)
Second: Steven Calloway (144.75″)
Third: Chris Skotidas (137″)
Side Pot: Matthew Jones (80″ Bull Shark)
First: Jason Bass (42.5″)
Second: Dusty Henson (42″)
Third: Scott Frederick (41.75″)
Redfish: Jack Collins (39.75″)
Shark: Hunter Tarrant (39.5″)
first: Alice Morawski (20.5″ Catfish)
Second: Southern Schueriemann (19.75″ Catfish)
Third: Lillian Schueriemann (13″ Catfish)
Jordan Corriea (13.5″ Catfish)
