MV Derby Question on Chairman's Message 10/4

[Fish On]

Hope all the stripe-bass members are doing well these days! I MISS FISHING!

Anyone know what happened here? I think I'm reading it wrong but the statement seems to say: 1) Accusations made based on witnessing he and many others used false albacore from the barge for bait (I always thought it was only lobsterman that used it). 2) Accusations were unfounded. 3) He removed his false albacore and bluefish from the competition since he did use false albacore for bait. 4) Accusations are false.

Questions: Is using false albacore from the barge illegal? Did he use false albacore to catch fish that were weighed into the derby? Perhaps he took false alborce to bait his lobster traps only? I honestly don't completely understand the statement. Can someone in the know help me understand what happended?

October 4, 2025

Statement from the Derby Chairman:

This past week, over multiple days, executive committee members conducted a thorough investigation into the accusations made regarding the legitimacy of an angler’s false albacore. These accusations were made based on witnessing the angler remove false albacore from the fillet barge which he, like many others, used for bait.

The full executive committee convened the other night to discuss the findings and concluded the accusations were unfounded. All information gathered supports the legitimacy of the angler’s catch. It is never easy to hear that someone is being accused of cheating, let alone someone with a strong moral compass.

The angler has decided to voluntarily remove his False Albacore as well as both of his bluefish (since he used false albacore from the fillet barge as bait), from consideration. For him, his commitment and dedication to protecting the integrity of the Derby far outweighs any notoriety that comes with being on the leader board.

The executive committee also discussed at length the damage these false accusations have caused to the angler’s well being. We stand behind him, support him, and appreciate his true and honest sportsmanship. I am hopeful that this year’s Derby will continue to provide a positive environment for camaraderie through shared experiences, inter-generational connections, a common passion for the outdoors and will continue to foster a welcoming atmosphere for everyone from first-timers to seasoned veterans.

As always, if you would like to discuss anything please reach out to me. Tight Lines,

Joe El-Deiry