Local fishermen talk about Big Rock controversy

CAROLINA BEACH, NC (WWAY) — The investigation continues into the fishermen that may have lost their nearly $1 million prize all because one crew member did not buy a fishing license.

Andy Thomasson caught the record-setting blue marlin in the Morehead City Big Rock Tournament last week, but a 22-year old mate was cited for fishing without a license.

Some fishermen in Carolina Beach think the winners deserve their prize money.

“In the spirit of the tournament, I know it’s big money and high pressure, but I think they should have just kind of overlooked it and helped those kids out,” Robert Schoonmaker said. “That’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

A $30 fishing license would have reeled in first place and set a record. For now, the tournament is withholding the prize money.