Proceeds Will Benefit Jim Caudle Artificial Reef Foundation
North Myrtle Beach, SC–Harbourgate Marina will host the 9th Annual Dixie Chicken “Funament” a multi species fishing tournament and fundraising event during Memorial Day Weekend, May 23rd through May 25th.
The tournament, sponsored in part by Damon’s Restaurant and the North Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce, attracts fishermen from across the country, and features cash and prizes totaling approximately $50,000. In addition to the “Funament” itself, the weekend will play host to several functions including the Fifth Annual Flounder Frenzie scheduled for May 24.
All proceeds from the Dixie Chicken Funament benefit the PA01, Jim Caudle Artificial Reef Foundation.
What is identified as PA01 by the State Department of Natural Resources, is better known to local fishermen as “Jim Caudle’s Reef”. The reef, located a short distance off the Little River Inlet, is easily accessible to all fishermen, and was a favorite spot of Jim Caudle, an avid fisherman who lost his life in early 2000.
In 2003, when the Reef project began, PA01 was the least visited artificial reef in the State of South Carolina. Today, it has the distinction of being the most visited.
According to Robert Martore, Artificial Reef Coordinator with the State Department of Natural Resources, this can be largely attributed to the hard work of Ron McManus and his wife Katharine, friends of Caudle who were instrumental in founding the tournament, and who work diligently year after year to “grow” the tournament in not only the number of fisherman participating, but in the amount of funds generated. “It is this funding and the notoriety of the tournament itself, which have helped PA01 attain its current status.”
According to Martore, the Jim Caudle Artificial Reef (PA01) is twofold in that it enhances fishing and aids fish stocks by creating habitat. “The development and proper management of a system of marine artificial reefs is a long-term investment for the State of South Carolina. Man-made reefs constructed today can still be in place and fully functional easily through the next century. The primary role for artificial reefs is to serve as tools in the proper management of marine fisheries.”
The 45 reefs in South Carolina contribute $83 Million to the State’s economic impact, and employ over 1,000 individuals.
According to Ron McManus, Dixie Chicken Funament Founder and Director, one of the most frequently asked questions in regard to the tournament is how it got it’s name. “The Dixie Chicken Funament is named after Caudle’s boat, The Dixie Chicken, which was docked at Harbourgate Marina for over a decade. Jim Caudle’s vast knowledge of the local fish and their seasons, water temperatures, water color, wind directions and secret fishing spots impressed everyone who knew him. His love of fishing and fun, coupled with his competitive spirit, led to the term “Funament”, as opposed to Tournament.”
“Jim would be proud of the Funament and its role in promoting local fishing,” continued Ron McManus. “His spirit lives among us.”
For more information on the Funament and a complete listing of times and events, call (843) 249-1637. For more information on the Flounder Frenzie call the North Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce at (843) 281-2662.
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