News & Updates

April 2, 2026 | Issue 3

Last Call! RO20 / Pure Flats Hopedale Trout Tournament

Time is running out to register for the annual Release Over 20 / Pure Flats Tournament. Join us in Louisiana on April 11 for a fun, casual large trout (and redfish) tournament.

Now is the Time to Act

The winter of 2025-2026 hit our fisheries hard.

Severe cold, heavy snowfall, and prolonged low water temps led to widespread fish kills across Virginia and North Carolina — especially spotted seatrout. While the full impact is still unknown, one thing is clear: spotted seatrout populations have taken a serious hit.

Both states have already closed their fishery through June 30.

Release Over 20 and The Speckled Truth are encouraging anglers to voluntarily release all spotted seatrout — regardless of size — through the entire spawning season (through September).

This simple decision can make a measurable difference in how quickly these fisheries recover — supporting not just the fish, but the guides, tackle shops, and coastal communities that depend on them.

If you’re in, we’ve got something for you.

For those who are willing to participate in this voluntary effort, we proudly offer these #RELEASE2026VA and #RELEASE2026NC decals, designed by our friends at Super-Concious Studio, at no charge as a public service.

Grab yours at the link in our bio (limit 2 per order).

Also available soon at select tackle shops in NC & VA

We’ll share participating locations in upcoming posts.

Let’s protect what we love — and help bring these fisheries back stronger!

GET YOURS NOW

Release Over 20 Mobile App

The new Release Over 20 mobile app lets you log eligible releases in seconds — no ads, no GPS tracking, 100% free.

Every registered release helps support conservation and gives you an entry into our monthly giveaways.

*Note: Upon downloading the app, all users will need to make a new account, even if you have previously registered releases through our website.

Download for iOS

Download for Android

Grand Strand Saltwater Anglers Association's 23rd Annual Chick McDaniel's Memorial Live Release Flounder Tournament

Join us on April 25 in beautiful Murrells Inlet, South Carolina for the only live release flounder tournament in South Carolina (and maybe even the country!). Enjoy a day of competitive fishing, community, and conservation.

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