THE OAK BLUFFS "MONSTER SHARK TOURNAMENT"

Vamping up the Shark Hype on Martha's Vineyard 

Oak Bluffs, July 2012--- Ever since the classic 1975 film “Jaws” was shot out on Martha’s Vineyard, a remote island off the coast of Massachusetts, the exclusive summer getaway locale has become a hub for shark fascination and hype.

Over the past few years, the increase in seal population across the Cape and Islands has resulted in a number of shark sightings, further sensationalizing Spielberg’s epic shark fantasy and drawing attention from the national media.

(Far Left) My father on Aquinnah beach last summer & a "Shark Warning, Swim at Your Own Risk" sign; (Top Right) Captain Quint’s boat washed ashore in Menemsha Harbor; (Bottom Right) State Beach in Oak Bluffs, where Jaws’ infamous first human/beach attack was filmed.

So when the annual “Monster Shark Tournament” moseys around in mid-summer, I am always sure to accompany the flocks of tourists, shark-enthusiasts, fishermen and (non-environmentalist) thrill-seekers over to the island for some “fin” and fun.

Necessary traveling accessories:  Pack casually with Vera Bradley luggage gear. Be preppy while staying cool in a classic Lacoste hat, and some Ray Ban Wayferers. Sport some jewelry with the MV island symbol-- be a regular!

The skinny on catching fat fish: The MV tournament turned into a big-time fishing event when it became the subject of an ESPN television special in 2004. In 2005, the tournament attracted 245 boats-- a record number of participants. That same year, the catch of a 1,191-pound tiger shark attracted national press and attention from the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), which mounted a determined effort to oppose the tournament.  

Despite the controversy, the tournament resumed its 25th annual occurence last Thursday with over 100 boats setting out to sea to hunt down the monstrous mammals over the next two to three days. The sport fishermen returned to Oak Bluffs harbor from 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm on Friday and Saturday to weigh in their prized predators on a harborside scale in front of throngs of enthusiastic spectators.

I personally witnessed Jared Burhoe bring in the fourth place, 457 lb. Thresher shark (pictured above) at precisely 6:30 on Saturday evening, which closed out the tournament. The first place winner set a state record this year, reeling in a 630 lb. Thresher.

One can imagine after viewing such things, a libation or two may be in order. So when the tournament concluded, my friends and I set out to boat and bar hop along the happening Oak Bluffs harbor for the rest of the evening.

Where to dine & drink: For the perfect island-vibe, fresh seafood and refreshing cocktails, head to Nancy's. One of President Obama’s favorite watering holes while vacationing on the Vineyard with his family, Nancy’s is a perfect establishment for happy hour, dinner, and a late night bar. Situated on Oak Bluffs boardwalk overlooking the harbor, Donovan- a longtime, beloved bartender- will mix you up a lethal “Dirty Banana” cocktail while the knowledgeable bartenders shuck you up some local oysters at the raw bar.