The 33rd Annual Port of San Diego's FREE Day at the Docks

Upwards of 25,000 visitors – from tots who never held a fishing rod to seniors who “remember when” – will be on hand for San Diego Sportfishing’s 33rd annual free Day at the Docks on April 15, the unofficial beginning of the 2012 season.   The centerpiece of the event is the world's largest state-of-the-art sportfishing fleet that calls America’s Cup Harbor on San Diego Bay its home port, offering first class accommodations while traveling to some of the world’s most prolific waters teeming with fish. For a complete schedule, visit http://www.sportfishing.org/DAD00/dad2012.html Captains and crews are primed to give a guided tour of their home away from home on the water. Other boats will be available for inexpensive introductory bay tours for the entire family. “How-to-do-it” seminars by the boat captains and crews along with experts covering every detail of sportfishing will be conducted to help improve hook-up and catch rates for both beginners and experienced anglers. Additionally, local chefs will be on hand with tips on how to prepare and cook your catch. Day at the Docks expects more than 200 exhibitors offering unique items and expert advice featuring fishing tackle, marine art, clothing, accessories and services. The 33rd Annual Port of San Diego's Day at the Docks planners are urging visitors to “come early and stay late for this one-of-a-kind San Diego Port District signature event . . . an event that has grown into California’s largest sportfishing exposition,” said Catherine Miller, event director. “From our 9 a.m. opening until closing at 5 p.m., the free celebration continues with live local entertainment, raffles of thousands of dollars of fishing equipment donated by sponsors and exhibitors. You’ll be able to match your casting or knot tying skills, with the winners taking home some fantastic prizes. We’ll have kids’ fishing in stocked mackerel pens, games and drawing contests. There's even a Captain’s Dunk Tank for youngsters and the young at heart,” said Miller. 2012 San Diego Day at the Dock sponsors include H&M Landing, Fishermen's Landing, Point Loma Sportfishing, Unified Port of San Diego, Berkley, Seeker, Everingham Bros. Bait Co., Avet, Okuma, Izorline, and Typhoon sun glasses.