Epic Kickoff: Cullman Kayak Anglers Present the 7th Annual New Year’s Day Throwdown!

CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman Kayak Anglers (CKA) is gearing up to host its seventh annual New Year’s Day Throwdown on Wednesday, Jan. 1, at Duck River Reservoir. This casual and welcoming contest encourages both experienced anglers and newcomers to partake in a day of kayak fishing. Launch will start at 6:30 a.m., with the lines cast into the water by 7. Participants are expected to finish by 1:30 p.m., followed by a post-tournament gathering and announcement of results at Los Cabos Mexican Restaurant at 2.

Registration costs $30 and will occur at the ramp on the event morning, with participants allowed to launch from both the east and west ramps of Duck River. This fee includes $25 for the prize pool, $3 for the largest fish, and $2 to assist the CKA’s 2025 season. This year’s occasion is designed for anglers of all skill levels.

“This contest presents an excellent chance to ‘get your feet wet’ in competitive kayak fishing,” noted Luke Turner, the event coordinator. “Even if competition isn’t your thing, it’s a fantastic way to connect with fellow enthusiasts.”

Participants must adhere to certain regulations, including the obligatory use of PFDs at all times, employing Ketch measuring boards, and ensuring fish photographs comply with criteria, such as the fish’s mouth closed, oriented to the left, dorsal fin raised, and prohibiting any restraining devices in the picture. The tournament enforces a four-fish limit, with late submissions post 2:30 p.m. facing a penalty of 1 inch for each minute over.

CKA organizes this event to provide an enjoyable and accessible introduction to competitive kayak fishing, while also cultivating a sense of community among local fishermen.

“This is a very laid-back event aimed at familiarizing both newcomers and seasoned anglers with tournament kayak fishing,” Turner remarked. “Feel free to ask questions or seek advice.”

Established in 2017, CKA is part of a statewide network of kayak fishing organizations that hosts a championship at the close of each season. Cullman’s plentiful midsize lakes and reservoirs offer a prime venue for the sport. Each year, CKA also conducts a “super-regional” tournament on Smith Lake, attracting teams from across Alabama for fishing and camping at Smith Lake Park.

For further details on CKA or the upcoming Throwdown event, visit the Cullman Kayak Anglers Facebook group or https://tinyurl.com/throwdown25.

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