Despite rain and strong winds that whipped up high waves along the Outer Banks, a record amount of fish was caught during the 2005-North Carolina, Lions ‘V.I.P. Fishing Tournament’.

The tournament is an annual event for the visually impaired persons in the U.S. This year marked the 21st year that it was being held in the Outer Banks. Over 520 people representing 76 North Carolina counties participated in the event.

One volunteer was assigned to each three participants, placing the worm on the hook and removing the fish once caught.

"Everyone appeared to have a great time, particularly when it came to the day of fishing. A little rain didn't dampen their spirits," said William W. Hood, President of the tournament's board of directors.

The tournament was sponsored by North Carolina Lions and organised by the First Flight, Manteo, Nags Head and Wanchese Lions clubs.

Along with fishing, participants took part in seminars that provided them with information on important changes in Medicare and Social Security.