Free! Fun!! Fish!!! Just Ahead:

The Port of San Diego's 34th Annual Day at The Docks — a free West Coast public celebration and official start of Southern California's spring saltwater fishing season — is set for April 21, announced Catherine Miller, event director.

The 2013 Day at The Dock's theme of "Hook-to-Table" features the world's largest state-of-the-art sportfishing fleet which offers first-class accommodations while traveling to some of the world’s most prolific fish-filled waters.

Entertainment, Raffles, Contests

“From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the free celebration continues with live local entertainment and raffles of fishing equipment valued at thousands of dollars donated by sponsors and exhibitors. Throughout the day, Avet Reels and Seeker rods will sponsor contests where you’ll be able to match your casting abilities against winners or your knot-tying skills at the Izorline booth against the best, taking home some fantastic prizes," said Miller.

Visitors arrive early and stay late, she said. Parking is at a premium around the Landings but free parking and free round-trip shuttle service to and from the festival is offered from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

For out-of-towners, Ramada Inn, (619) 225-9461 and Best Western, (619) 224-3254 are offering special discounted rates with free parking.

The Latest Displayed

The industry’s leading manufacturers will display the latest in fishing tackle and some of the West Coast’s recognized experts will conduct seminars periodically at the various stages, revealing their secrets on improved fishing techniques and results. Inexpensive introductory bay tours will be available for the entire family along with displays by marine artists and fishing tackle experts, food, entertainment, kid's fishing, contests, prizes with in excess of 200 exhibitors!

Demonstrations

Several times during the day very large fish will be presented by skilled crews who then demonstrate the different ways there are to clean and prep a huge fish.

Captains and crews, aboard their boats, will share their wealth of knowledge acquired over a lifetime; other experts will conduct “how-to-do-it” seminars covering different aspects of sportfishing as well as local chefs will offer tips on how to prepare and cook your catch.

For a complete schedule of Port of San Diego's Day at The Docks activities, visit http://www.sportfishing.org/DAD00/dad2013.html