'A MOB SCENE EVERY NIGHT': Destin Fishing Rodeo comes to a close with near record number of weigh-ins (PHOTOS)

DESTIN — The Destin Fishing Rodeo is not just about the fishing.

“This rodeo is about the community, the people and the stories,” said fisherman Mike Wright, whose name is on the leader board three times. “This is a great way to support the community and highlight what this area is known for.”

This year, there were 315 boats registered and, as of Monday morning, 1,076 weigh-ins with at least another 30 expected. The rodeo wrapped up Monday evening.

• View a slideshow of Monday's catches. »
• View a slideshow of Sunday's catches. »
• View a slideshow of a gator caught Sunday. »
  

“Every October it seems to be larger,” Wright said. “This year really has been a great year.”

Last year’s total number of weigh-ins peaked at 1,071. Bruce Cheves, weigh master for the rodeo for the past 21 years, said a good year would be any number in the 800s.

This year has seen several firsts – a shark picked up by a paddle boarder; two alligators and several uncommon creatures such as the scorpion fish, cusk eel and oilfish.

Judges and officials credit a large part of the rodeo’s success to the weather.

“That’s one of the biggest factors,” Cheves said. “The way I see it this place is a mob scene every night.”

Helen Donaldson, executive director and secretary with the rodeo, said spectators this season tripled compared to years past. She said merchandise nearly sold out and participation was higher than in previous years.

“We did a lot of good advertising and it really paid off,” Donaldson said. “It has been a phenomenal season.”

Area businesses also have also benefited from the rodeo crowds. The Destin Area Chamber of Commerce said it’s too early for official numbers but many places are reporting a peak in sales during recent weeks.

“It has brought business here especially during the weekend,” said Shane Moody, CEO and president of the chamber. “Everybody seems to be happy with how things have gone on the dock. There was always a crowd.”

Cheves said he keeps telling new participants his mantra of the past 21 years, “Bring me a fish and I’ll make you famous.”

He expects an even better rodeo next year.

“It’s always a surprise. You never know,” he said. “Maybe we’ll need two scales.”