West Marine to Sponsor the 2018 CCA Florida STAR

West Marine Florida Stores to Serve as Preferred Distribution Locations for the Event’s Official Measuring Devices

Watsonville, CA, May 30, 2018 - West Marine, the world’s premier retailer of boating, fishing, sailing and paddling gear, proudly announced today their corporate sponsorship of the 4th Annual CCA Florida STAR Competition Taking place between Sat., May 26 and Labor Day, Mon., Sept. 3, CCA Florida STAR is designed to educate the public about the importance of conservation of Florida’s marine resources and to engage families and youth in the sport of fishing.

Billed as the “largest fishing competition in Florida,” this year’s event will include 101 days of fishing for prizes and scholarships valued at over $500,000 in 17 divisions. Prizes in the event’s signature Tagged Redfish Division include angler’s choice of a new GMC Truck, or boat, motor and trailer package.

As a key sponsor, West Marine Florida stores are the Preferred Distribution Locations for the official STAR measuring devices. The official device may be picked up at any Florida West Marine at no cost. To see a full list of participating locations, visit https://www.westmarine.com/store-finder and select Florida.

CCA Florida STAR is the largest family-friendly saltwater fishing competition in Florida. Unlike traditional fishing tournaments, STAR focuses on conservation and CCA Florida uses the social media-based event to educate the public on the importance of protecting Florida’s marine resources. Recognized as a “catch, photo and release” competition, STAR’s mobile app eliminates the need to harvest, capture, and transport the fish.

Most division winners are determined by a random drawing, a format that encourages participants of all ages and skill levels. With Florida’s 1,300 miles of coastline and 1.2 million licensed saltwater anglers, CCA Florida attracts thousands of anglers throughout the competition.

“West Marine is thrilled to, once again, be a part of this competition designed to engage seasoned as well as first-time anglers in conservation while rewarding them for their efforts,” says Laura Barry, Director of Marketing Communications for West Marine. “It’s a great opportunity to support the CCA as well as the devoted anglers in the region. Our store teams are excited to play a role in this fun, family-friendly competition.”

“CCA Florida STAR could not be more excited to have West Marine as the Preferred Distribution Location sponsor for the official STAR measuring device,” stated Leiza Fitzgerald, STAR Director. “Their dedication to conservation and our youth is a testament to the type of companies that will make a difference in the future of marine resources.”

To learn more about STAR, visit www.ccaflstar.com

For more information, please visit www.westmarine.com.

About West Marine

Each person has a unique connection to the water. At West Marine, our knowledge, enthusiasm and products prepare Waterlife adventurers to foster that connection and explore their passions. With more than 250 stores located in 38 states and Puerto Rico and an eCommerce website reaching domestic, international and professional customers, West Marine is recognized as a leading Waterlife Outfitter for cruisers, sailors, anglers and paddlesports enthusiasts. Since first opening our doors in 1968, West Marine associates continue to share the same love for the water as our customers and provide helpful advice on the gear and gadgets they need to be safe and have fun. To learn more about West Marine, please visit the West Marine website at westmarine.com

Media Contact

Margo Donohue | press@westmarine.com | 917.679.6945