(Cross, SC Feb. 10, 2009 ) Santee Cooper’s incredible lake system is home to some of the countries greatest fishing with 3 world record and 4 state record catches. Hill’s Landing, on the Diversion Canal in Cross, SC previous winter catfish tournaments have all seen monster catfish caught and released. The Spring Fling Catfish Tournament, that offers 100% Payback, blasts off March 7, 2009 at safe light in conjunction with  the spring spawn.  Owner, Jamie Courtney is helping preserve the sport with the Catch and Release Rule. The catches at every years past tournaments proves to be very encouraging. John Guerin of Pendleton, SC . won 1st Place Total Weight at the 6th “Big Cat” tipping the scales with 246.2 lbs. of Santee Cooper Catfish taking home $1550.00.

The 5th “Big Cat” Tournament George Brooks from Comer, Ga. placed 1st with 217.7 lbs of Santee Cooper Catfish. He also caught the biggest fish at 39.5 lbs.

In the 4th Annual Tournament 1st Place went to Junior Bowers topping the scales at 240.1lbs. Youth Awards 1st Place went to Douglas Leggett with an awesome 42.3 lbs catch. Lady Angler Award 1st Place was Christine Rose who caught a 63.3 lbs catfish. Way to show the guys Christine!

Perhaps the most exciting was the 3rd Annual “BIG CAT” Fishing Tournament. Winner, Theo Garland’s 90.03 lbs. Monster Catfish is believed to be the biggest catfish caught and released in a fishing tournament in the Santee Cooper Lakes~ ever!!

The current lake levels are up and are expected to stay up or rise as the melting snows come through the Santee River system. In March, The Fish Lift in St. Stephens allows migratory fish like American shad and blueback herring to move from the Santee River to Lakes Moultrie and Marion and into the Congaree and Wateree rivers during their annual migration.  This opens large areas of spawning and nursery grounds of catfish’s favorite foods.

The restaurant will be open at 5:30 a.m. for you to get a hearty breakfast. Blast off is at safe light around 7:30 a.m.. You can weigh in 10 fish. (five Saturday & five Sunday). Fish must be weighed in by 4:00 p.m. Saturday, November 15th and from 7:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 16th. Winnings and Door Prizes will be awarded following the weigh-in. A team can be 1, 2, 3, or 4 people, or more as long as your boat is legal and everyone is listed. This is a Captain’s Choice Tournament. No weather day. Fishing is at the Captain’s discretion. The Captain will accept full responsibility for his actions. All boats must meet U.S.C.G. and the State of South Carolina safety requirements in order to qualify for competition. South Carolina requires all anglers 16 and above to have a fishing license. Youths who fish will all receive a rod and reel.