The winner of the 'Diplomat' Fishing Jamboree 2025 will be revealed today, Monday, July 7, 2025, as the competition comes to a close at Long Bay Beach, Beef Island. Photo: Facebook/Hon Marlon A. Penn

The 2025 Fishing Jamboree is being held in memory of Ottley Warren Durant, known as ‘Diplomat’. Photo: Facebook

Hon. Marlon A. Penn (R8) said the Fishing Jamboree makes its return after being dormant for years following the hurricanes of 2017. Photo: Facebook

'Diplomat' was a jack of all trades- Hon Marlon A. Penn

This event, held in memory of Ottley Warren Durant, known as 'Diplomat', began on Saturday, July 5, 2025, and is hosted by District 8 Representative Hon. Marlon A. Penn, along with the East End/Long Look Advocates for a Better Community Group. 

In an interview with 284 Media, Hon. Marlon A. Penn stated, “Diplomat, as we call him, was a jack of all trades in the fishing industry. He used to go out to the scenes with the guys to pull the nets, fish pots, and make turtle nets. He had specific skills in fishing and a deep love for the water and the sea. Although he is no longer with us, we felt it was fitting this year to honour him as we reintroduced the tournament to the community.” 

Competition makes a return after years of being dormant

The tournament was once managed by the Ministry and Department of Fisheries, but had not been held since the hurricanes in 2017. 

Hon. Penn explained, “The event was dormant for a while, and the community approached me, asking, 'It's time to revive our fishing tournament. Let’s make it happen.' And we did just that.” 

He added that upon the suggestion of fishermen, the tournament, which typically would have been held on one day, was extended to two days. 

“Fishing begins at 5:00 AM and ends by 4:30 PM for day one, with weighing taking place afterwards. Day two will follow the same timeline, with weighing at Beef Island Beach, where we will tally all the totals and determine the winners for various categories.” 

The District 8 Representative expressed hope for increased participation, anticipating involvement from local fishermen, as this jamboree is a local fishing event that promotes community engagement and attracts participants for a day of fishing.