Awards
Heaviest Fish: $2,000
Second Heaviest Fish: $1,000
Third Heaviest Fish: $700
“George Ailsworth Good Sport Award “Smallest* Legal Fish: $100
“Fingerling” Youth Award: $100
Lady Angler Award: $300
Good Ol’ Boy Award: $500
Calcutta: $100
Reel Lucky Catch Award: $500
* All fish weight must meet 2026 VRMC regulations *
Registration
The James River Striped Bass Tournament
Every November the James River Striped Bass Tournament is hosted by Deep Creek Landing Marina. Registration is online and will be posted in September!
The James River Striped Bass Tournament helps further the YMCA’s mission in teaching all second graders in the city of Newport News how to swim. Every year our loyal sponsors step-up in our community to help ensure the James River Striped Bass Tournament remains the best tournament on the James River!
Kick-Off Party: November 13, 2026 at 5:30pm
Tournament: November 14, 2026, start as early as 6am
2026 Advanced Registration (On or Before October 31):
$135/boat (captain and mate)
$70/additional anglers
$15/youth additional anglers (17 and under)
$135 for jet ski registration
2026 General Registration (After October 31):
$160/boat (captain and mate)
$75/additional anglers
$16/youth additional anglers (17 and under)
$140 for jet ski registration
Calcutta: $100 (must be entered in Main Tournament to enter & all winnings must be properly reported)
Good Ol’ Boy Award: We start at $500.00 and any Donation to the Pot (fishermen/women can pay into this pot)
Entry fees are nonrefundable. Everyone must be registered!
2026 Recreational Fishing Regulations For Striped Bass in Virginia’s Marine Waters
All fish must meet 2026 VMRC regulations.
Need a Slip: Give us a call at (757) 877-9555 and the General Manager will find you a slip for a discounted rate of $1/ft/night.
Calm winds and gentle tides,
Jessica Abbitt Godfrey, Tournament Chairman
Randy Abbitt , Tournament Co-Chairman
Jessica Hardisty, Tournament Director
