Hook, line and sinker, hundreds of fisherman hit the coast for the Nineteenth Annual Big Bend Saltwater Classic. As the anglers cast their reels, they also bring in some serious cash for the coastal communities.

Hundreds flock from all over the Southeast to cast their reels into the deep ocean blue.

Chester Reese is a Captain and says, "Birds are flying, we saw flying fish, it's been wonderful, tournaments like this give everyone the opportunity to be enthused to get in there and try and catch a fish."

More than 700 fisherman cast their reels at the Saltwater Classic, record numbers that organizers say rake in serious cash for the Big Bend.

"With all the anglers coming in, the gas the ice and the food sales are through the roof", said Michelle Clarke, Chairman Saltwater Classic.

Caterer Frank Mercy is banking in on the busy weekend as he dishes out classic barbecue and serves up some good old fashioned seafood.

"You get to meet a lot of different people, a lot of times you pick up on business, they like to see how good your food is", said Frank Mercer.

Every tag tightened on the fish tails, brings in money which benefits an important cause.

"What OAR does is deploy reefs throughout the coast, giving fish structure to grow and breath, which increases the fishing population and helps our ocean stay alive and vibrant bringing in more fisherman to the coast", said Clarke.

Organizers say fish enthusiasts should expect big things next year as they head into their 20th anniversary of the event.

The classic continues through the weekend with the final weigh in on Father's Day.