President's Trophy awarded, after years in hiatus.
- STC Committee
- Jan 13
- 3 min read
Our most revered and valued trophy finally gets to have a new member etched on it.
The presentation of the Club’s prestigious trophies is always one of the most anticipated and exciting moments at our Annual Club Dinners. The 2025 ceremony capped off what was a stellar year for nominations. The depth and quality of entries highlighted the exceptional achievements of members both in Australian waters and around the world, reinforcing why the Club’s trophy program remains such a proud and celebrated tradition.
It has been along time since six of our special trophies have been presented to members on the one night. It's as much a reflection of the amazing fishing season, but also a noticeable run against the tide regarding our member group actively fishing more. This is a very pleasing notion.
In honouring great game fishing achievements by members, a standout performer was Mark Haley, whose remarkable season saw him claim three major trophies – an outstanding achievement. His capture of a 142.7kg Southern Bluefin Tuna in Bass Strait earned him the Don Sargood Trophy, the Tom Bell Trophy, and the President’s Trophy.
Notably, the President’s Trophy is rarely awarded, reserved only for captures of the highest merit, making Mark’s success particularly significant. As angler look to return fish, over capturing, this trophy goes unawarded. Mark's SBT will now be rightfully recognised in the Club;s rich history.
Equally impressive were the achievements of Mark Nantie, whose tag and release efforts not only secured multiple trophies but also helped him complete the coveted Marlin Grand Slam, by successfully capturing a Blue, a Black, and a Striped Marlin across his fishign career– a milestone attained by few anglers worldwide.
Trophies awarded on the night were as follows
The Ian Cutler Trophy
Awarded for tag and release effort of billfish anywhere in the world
Winner: Mark Nantie
Capture: Tag & Release Striped Marlin, estimated 120kg on 24kg line
Date & Location: 7 March – Bermagui
The President’s Trophy
Awarded for tag and release effort of billfish anywhere in the world
Winner: Mark Haley
Capture: Southern Bluefin Tuna, 142.7kg
Date & Location: 13 August 2024 – Bass Strait
The Tom Mitchell Trophy
Awarded for the most meritorious capture of a game fish anywhere in the world on 10kg line or less
Winner: Terry Titchener
Capture: Yellowtail Kingfish, 22.45kg on 6kg line
Location: Bay of Islands, New Zealand
The Don Sargood Trophy
Awarded for the most meritorious capture or contribution to tag and release of game fish caught in Victorian waters
Winner: Mark Haley
Capture: Southern Bluefin Tuna, 142.7kg
Date & Location: 13 August 2024 – Bass Strait
The Tom Bell Trophy
Awarded for the heaviest game fish caught in Australian waters
Winner: Mark Haley
Capture: Southern Bluefin Tuna, 142.7kg
Date & Location: 13 August 2024 – Bass Strait
The Vida Trophy
Awarded for the most meritorious Tag & Release contribution anywhere in the world
Winner: Mark Nantie
Capture: Striped Marlin, estimated 120kg on 24kg line
Date & Location: 7 March – Bermagui
Please the note current game fishing season for trophy fish nominations awarded by the Club commenced on July 2025 and runs until June 30 2026. More information on how to submit nominations and the trophies themselves can be read here on our website.
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