If you read Soundings each month, you’re familiar with our regular contributors, professionals who produce stories that are as educational as they are entertaining. I know these people work really hard to create engaging copy and I’m proud to have them on our team. But I’m equally appreciative of the way they choose to use their energy when they’re not writing for the magazine. How do they spend that time away from the desk? They like to climb on boats in the same way you do, and sometimes those hours on the water are spent doing good deeds for others.
Take Gary Caputi, for example, a fishing expert who frequently contributes to Soundings—this issue features his story on the Healey family at Viking Marine Group (page 38). Gary volunteers his time and talent to help organize the Manhattan Cup, one of the biggest inshore saltwater fishing tournaments in New York City. It’s not your average angling competition though. This all-release striped bass tournament honors and supports veterans.
It does so in two ways. First, it raises funds for services that focus on their needs. Second, it introduces vets who have never fished before to the joy, serenity and healing power of the sport. “Many of our warrior guests say this tournament helped them to work through the difficult transition to normal life after combat,” says Caputi.
The Manhattan Cup—which was founded by Capt. Frank Crescitelli of Staten Island, New York—celebrates its 22nd year in 2023. The tournament takes place on June 9 out of Liberty Landing Marina in Jersey City, New Jersey, where the spring striper action is typically quite good. The tournament gets a good turnout each year, from recreational and commercial boaters who want to support the cause. And it continues to draw more vets.
“A few years ago, our team of volunteers were deeply troubled to learn that 22 veterans take their lives every day. So, we decided to double our efforts by starting the Catch 22 initiative,” says Caputi. “Our goal is to bring a minimum of 22 at-risk warriors to fish the Cup each year, and we’ve far exceeded that goal.”
If you want to support the event, there are several ways to do so. Captains can donate their boats and services; anglers can enter and fish from their own boats. If you can’t fish but want to help, you can make a donation and sponsor one or more warriors.
“Those who attend will enjoy camaraderie with anglers and a great day on the water with a majestic view of the New York City skyline and Freedom Tower,” says Caputi. “The fishing here can be pretty exceptional, too.”
This article was originally published in the June 2023 issue.
