A Family Affair at Sea
The 2025 Keli Wagner Lady Angler (KWLA) Tournament at the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament hosted in Morehead City, NC, showcased a strong presence of women who continue to make waves in offshore sportfishing. Callie Smith and Allyson Smith, both aboard the Carterican, tied for first place with 650 points each in the billfish release category, closely followed by teammate Katie Salter, who secured third with 525 points.
Consistency and Teamwork Win Big
The trio’s outstanding performance helped the Carterican, a 57-foot Gwaltney vessel, clinch the top spot in the boat leaderboard with an impressive 1825 points overall. The team’s unity and tactical approach to the day’s fishing conditions proved key to their success. Their top finishes highlight the growing depth of female talent in competitive saltwater angling.
Setting the Bar High
Callie and Allyson Smith’s shared victory is a testament to skill and strategy. Each release earned critical points in a sport where timing, technique, and teamwork matter. The pair showed that preparation and composure under pressure can pay off on the leaderboard. Salter’s strong third-place finish rounded out a Carterican sweep at the top.
A Rising Tide for Women Anglers
The KWLA continues to celebrate women’s contributions to big game fishing. Events like this not only highlight individual accomplishments but also inspire a new generation of anglers to take up the sport. This year’s KWLA tournament served as a powerful reminder of the talent, precision, and dedication that women bring to the sport.
