Tournament director Dan Jacobs is hopeful despite the economic climate that this year’s Bermuda Billfish Release Cup will be as competitive as years past.Estimating roughly 10 to 15 boats will take to the waters this weekend for the annual competition, Jacobs said that reduced fees and good weather could encourage a late surge in entries, with the registration deadline lurking this afternoon.“This year is a tough call based on the economic climate,” said Jacobs. “My best guess is we will see 10-15 boats competing, and I am hoping that based on the weather, reduced entry fees for the game fish division and the tuna fishing going on now we will see more local participation.“Most of the international boats that are in town should fish and a few charter boats might also join the fun.“We will ultimately know what our field will be after tomorrow(today) nigh’ts final registration kick-off party.“The conditions for fishing on Saturday and Sunday couldn’t be better with light winds and calm seas forecasted, and yes the fish are biting with record numbers of yellowfin tuna around the Island and plenty of billfish hot on their tails. “The Release Cup is a tune-up event for the Bermuda Triple Crown Billfish Championship that benefits the youth Bermuda Sloop Foundation.Entry fees are $1,000 for the Billfish category and $500 for the Tuna/Wahoo division.Fishing days are tomorrow and Sunday, with the awards ceremony being held on Sunday evening.The tournament will offer cash and prizes and hold a silent auction on Sunday evening with all proceeds going to the Sloop Foundation’s Adam Goodwin scholarship fund.To learn more about the foundation go to www.bermudasloop.org.The winner of the tournament will receive an application to compete in the 2012 IGFA Offshore World Championships.For all the information on the tournament go to www.BermudaReleaseCup.com.