Hard to believe June is here and that means the countdown has started to the 7th annual Bloody Decks Yellowtail Shootout on June 21st, 22nd and 23rd.

The stage is set for the biggest, best Yellowtail Shootout yet. “The Yellowtail bite is already the best it's been in years, so we are looking forward to a great tournament with lots of nice fish” says Ali Hussainy of BD Outdoors. We will have great prizes, food and fun for all.

Jason Hayashi of Fish Dope and BD said “The yellowtail bite is awesome from Ensenada to Ventura. Many areas within the tournament boundaries have been hot as long as there is current and bait. Fish have been caught as close as three miles so smaller boats have as much chance to win as anyone. Fish are eating surface irons, mackerel and sardines. The fish have ranged from 6 to 30lbs. I believe it will take a 35lb plus yellowtail to win the biggest fish category”.

The directors will introduce a slightly new format to the tournament to enhance the influence of skill over luck.

The rule change dictates that first through fifth places are to be determined by a bag limit of 3 fish. The biggest fish gets a grand prize and can also count towards the 3-fish aggregate.

The 2013 Yellowtail Shootout kicks off with the mandatory Captain's meeting on Friday, June 21st from 6 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at San Diego Boats, located next to the Dana Landing Market on Mission Bay. Mission Bay has a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of free parking. Fishing begins on Saturday, June 22nd and culminates with the "After Party" Awards Banquet on Sunday, June 23rd at 11 a.m.

A $300 entry fee will cover three anglers as well as Tournament Entry, Official Tournament Shirt, Official Tournament Visor, Angler Goody Bag and Full Access to the Awards Party. Additional anglers may be added to the team for $100 each when paid in full by June 14, 2013. After June 14, 2013, the team registration fee will be $375 and $125 per additional angler and includes anglers registered at the captains meeting.

Every team gets a tourney bag, and the contents of each bag are valued at more than $100 of great giveaways from our sponsors. If you like door prizes and raffles, there will be plenty, with some amazing things to win.But if you really want to cash in, take advantage of the optional Winner Take All Jackpots of $100, $200, and $300 per team.

The "After Party" Awards Banquet will be held at San Diego Boats. The “people have spoken”, and we are listening so Phil's BBQ will be catering the awards meal. The After Party will also have a raffle and Vendor Village showcasing all of the gear available from sponsors. Members of the public are welcome at the Vendor Village. The tournament is open to all anglers fishing from private boats. To register or for complete details go to yellowtailshootout.com.