Although most of you are familiar with the "World's Richest" rules and regulations, allow me to briefly touch upon a few of the most important tournament rules, one which changed this year. Acting on the wishes of a large number of tournament participants, the Chamber has decided to return this year to a traditional fishing style, whereby all boats are required to use live bait. Aside from that, the tournament will play out just as you remember it. We continue this year with our ALL RELEASE system, where tarpon are weighed upon a barge anchored just outside the fleet, and then quickly released to ensure their survival.

The enclosed tournament brochure should help guide you through the myriad of events taking place throughout the tournament. As a participant, you are cordially invited to attend the Captain's Rules Party and the Boca Bay Pass Club, the downtown Silver King Celebration, and the Awards Banquet.

This year's tournament promises to be an exciting one, and I'd like to send out a special thanks to our "World's Richest" sponsors - GTE Wireless, Gulfwind Marine, Englewood Bank, Boca Bay, and the Boca Beacon to name a few - who contribute each year to this exciting event. I look forward to seeing you all in the Pass and wish you lots of luck in the Boca Grande Chamber of Commerce "Worlds Richest" Tarpon Tournament.

Let the game begin!