End Of An Era For Bermuda Anglers Club
The Bermuda Anglers Club closed its doors on Friday, February 21, marking the end of an era.
A spokesperson said, “Friday, February 21st, marked the end of an era for the Bermuda Anglers Club [BAC], as members unanimously voted to wind up the organization. As part of this process, the club will distribute funds to a small number of local charities that closely align with its objectives.
“Established in 1938, the BAC has a long and storied history of promoting sport fishing on the island. The club was best known for its International Light Tackle Tournament [ILTT], which originated from a government-sponsored competition between the Bahamas and Bermuda. More recently, the BAC gained recognition for its well-received Junior Fishing Tournament, held annually each summer.
“The BAC took over the organization of the ILTT in 1961, hosting teams from the Bahamas, the United States, Canada, Trinidad & Tobago, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom over the years. In 1982, to celebrate the tournament’s 21st running, the American television network ABC travelled to Bermuda to film the event, featuring a celebrity team comprising Ernest Borgnine, Lynn Swann, and Curt Gowdy.
“The Junior Fishing Tournament evolved from the popular Flybridge Tackle event, which had delighted young anglers for many years. Under BAC’s stewardship, the junior tournament grew into a highly anticipated summer event, with the 2024 edition drawing over 170 participants for a fun, family-oriented day of fishing and conservation education.
“Although the BAC is winding down, the Junior Fishing Tournament will continue under the leadership of Colin Jones, in memory of Niel Jones, whose life was tragically lost over the 2023 Cup Match holiday weekend. Niel served on the BAC Executive Committee for many years, most recently as President.
“The BAC has enjoyed tremendous support from many Bermudian businesses that have sponsored various club events. It has also benefited from a great sense of camaraderie and competition with the well-known Sea Horse Anglers and Blue Water Anglers clubs. While the BAC’s chapter may be closing, its legacy in Bermuda’s sport fishing community will endure as Bermuda Archives have agreed to take over stewardship of club records and artefacts.”
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