Local Anglers Keep Trevor Smith’s Memory Alive

There are times in life when we lose someone special to a senseless act of violence that takes them suddenly, and all too soon, from their families, friends and community.

Such was the case with Trevor Smith, who was lost to the Marco Island community on December 2, 2014. Trevor’s family and friends were determined that his love of life and giving back to others would live on after his death. They rallied to create a tribute to the young man to both keep his memory alive and provide support to the community he loved. 

As part of that effort, the Trevor Smith Memorial Foundation was created. Its main source of funding revolves around Trevor’s love of fishing, with the annual T-Rex One Last Cast Tournament. With the assistance of a volunteer board, those funds are distributed to organizations promoting services for children and families.

This year, the Captains Meeting was held at the Rose Marco River Marina the day before the tournament to provide participants with updated event rules and a safety briefing. Early Saturday morning, June 11, as the sun began to break the horizon, eager mariners ventured out into the Gulf of Mexico. They sought their own special spots where they hoped to catch the best fish that would bring them a cash prize.

As the 17 boats returned to the docks at Rose Marina, friends and family gathered to enjoy some light refreshments. Volunteers from Kretch’s Restaurant manned the grills as the teams swapped stories and mingled, awaiting the final results. The event was celebrated with music by Gator Nate, which entertained everyone throughout the day.

The magic time had arrived, and Trevor’s brother, Wes Smith (with the assistance of Gator Nate) announced the winners in the various categories.

• The Kolkata (Calcutta) went to the team “My Captain” for a $1,500 prize. 

• Heaviest Fist went to the team “Rock-N-Roll” at 27.37 lbs. for a $1,500 prize.

• Fourth Place Prize went to the team “Screamin Seamen,” weighing in at 36.47 lbs. for $1,500.

• Third Place went to team “Horse Conch,” weighing in at 39.72 lbs. for $3,000.

• Second Place went to team “South-Paw,” weighing in at 40.34 lbs. for $5,000.

• The Grand Prize went to team “Reel Deal,” weighing in at 47.02 lbs. for $10,000.

Wes Smith said that he wanted to be sure to reach out to everyone who has helped to make this event a success since its inception. 

“I just can’t say enough about all of the wonderful folks that have come together these last three years to keep the passion my brother had for reaching out and doing for others, while we seek to keep his love for our community and his memory alive. My family, Trevor’s friends and all those that continue to come forward to help with this Foundation and the wonderful work that these funds have done in our community represent the spirit that burned everyday inside of him, and we can never say thank you enough,” said Wes Smith, who with his team looked forward to catching their breaths and relaxing for a few days.

For more information about the Trevor Smith Memorial Foundation, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit corporation and the T-Rex Tournament, visit https://t-rex1fish2fish.com.