The 22nd annual Bailey’s Bar and Grille Catfish tournament took place on Sunday.
In total, 135 contestants spent Sunday morning trying to catch the biggest catfish in their ability before returning to the popular establishment on Bristol-Emilie Road.
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Families, wives and friends made up the body of people competing. What began as a simple get together for guys in the area has turned into a massive family friendly venture for anyone who wants to participate.
“I can’t explain how many people come up to me telling me how they look forward to this all year,” said Mike Griffin, owner of Levittown-based Griffin’s Wing Sauce, and one of the sponsors and organizers of the competition.
“Bailey’s staff is amazing, everything is running like clock work,” Griffin said. “It’s a lot of stress during the weigh in, but everything else [is great,]” Griffin continued.
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The bolstering establishment was lively with cars wrapping around the building in order to weigh their fish in for the competition. After weighing in, a small pool held the catfish while tournament staff weighed and organized them.
Judge John Kelly of Middletown arrived and weighed the fish.
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The biggest fish ever caught for the tournament was caught by Nick Niatas and weighed about 14 pounds.
The biggest fish in this year’s tournament was caught by Toby Kubitsky. The fish was a little over five pounds. Kubitsky was the grand prize winner and won the $400 grand prize.
Sponsors for the tournament include Sysco, Griffin’s Wing Sauce, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Budweiser and Darby O’Gill’s.
