A Community Triumph!

Did ra sechou, Ngeremlengui, Palau -Ongriul! A blel tilbir a Ngerutelchi, Emiuo Mad. A belkul tial tekoi: Melai a temang. From reef to deep sea, the fish were biting – and the community came alive. Whether it was landing a giant yellowfin or laughing over fried banana snacks onboard, the Ongiul Derby was a resounding success.

Thanks to the Ngeremlengui Club, Governor, and a host of dedicated organizers and volunteers, the weekend brought together seasoned fishers, eager youth, and supportive families for a truly memorable event celebrating sport fishing and community spirit.

And the Winners Are…

Tuna Category

1st – Team Mengesebakl (Captain Silas Adolph) – YELLOW FIN 92.0 lbs won Mr. Adolph and Mr. Yamanguchi proudly took home the top prize of $1,200!

Marlin Pot – A Friendly Side Challenge

In true fisher spirit, competitors upped the stakes with a $100 buy-in for the largest marlin. The pot grew to $1,000, and it was Brian Melairei who hauled in the winning marlin and claimed the prize.

In an inspiring act of community giving, Mr. Melairei’s marlin was distributed to the elderly, while the tuna catch was shared with local families and the tuna canners of the Ngeremlengui Co-Operative. Fishing feeds more than mouths—it feeds connection.

Youth Take the Helm – Jr. Anglers Competition

The real action? Two boats. Eighteen junior anglers. Five hours of catch-and-release excitement. There were challenges: one boat was mysteriously overstocked with fried banana snacks (thanks, mom). Officials were contacted—jokingly—but the competition was

already underway. Despite superstition around bananas on boats, the team pressed on bravely.

An off-the-record comment from a Palau Sport Fishing Association (PSFA) board member gave perspective:

“A strong mental game is key. Bananas are no excuse. Team Busonge has fished full derbies with bananas on board and still mlarngi a elderir.”

It’s worth noting that Team Busonge’s captain is none other than Dr. Roberts of Ngeremlengui State.

Jr. Anglers Winners

1st – Ongidobel Lazarus (Ngeremlengui State) with 9.94 lbs The surprise catch? A fish so large—and so partially eaten—it had to be seen to be believed!

2nd – Mystica Rebluud (Ngeremlengui State) with 5.59 lbs of total fish caught and released. Mystica means business. Organizers received plenty of “notes” from her—expect a new playbook next derby.

3rd – Kirk Polycarp (Ngeremlengui State) with 5.83 lbs of total fish caught and released, He didn’t know his uncle would travel all the way from Koror just to cheer him on—and witness him take the podium!

^{ABOUT the Palau Sport Fishing Association (PSFA)
Founded in 1991, the Palau Sport Fishing Association (PSFA) has served as the official body for sport fishing in the Republic of Palau for over three decades. PSFA organizes the country’s premier fishing event—the Annual Fishing Derby featuring the prestigious Etpison Cup—and supports growth in the sport through youth engagement, educational outreach, and community programming.
PSFA’s Junior Angler Program, offshore Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs), and partnerships with organizations such as the Friends of the Palau National Marine Sanctuary, Palau Pacific Resort, IP&E, Budweiser, NECO Yamaha, and Bank of Hawaii have all contributed to the sport’s rising popularity and national pride.
PSFA is proudly affiliated with the International Game Fishing Association and remains committed to tradition, sustainability, and stewardship of Palau’s fisheries.
Supporting the Future of Fishing
As part of its ongoing mission, PSFA deploys Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) to attract pelagic species such as marlin, tuna, and mahi-mahi. In April, PSFA deployed its 5th FAD, though it was unfortunately vandalized by a local commercial fishing operator. Each FAD—anchored by concrete blocks and tethered with buoys—can cost up to $17,500 and attract over 300 species of fish. For over a decade, Taiwan has played a crucial role in supporting PSFA’s FAD efforts.
These tools are not just about better fishing—they represent PSFA’s investment in sustainability and the future of our ocean resources.
Follow PSFA on Facebook and Instagram for photos, updates, and the next wave of junior angler excitement.
Let’s keep fishing fun, competitive, and for everyone.}