State Sen. Ralph Northam (D-Norfolk) announced last week that he will introduce an amendment to Gov. Bob McDonnell’s budget that would restore approximately $200,000 in funding to the Virginia Saltwater Fishing Tournament. The governor proposed eliminating funding for the program earlier this month, according to a press release issued by Northam’s office.

"The Virginia Saltwater Fishing Tournament is a huge part of why recreational angling contributes so much to Virginia’s economy," Northam said. "The well-run citation, expert and master angler and annual species awards programs greatly enhance the draw of fishing in Virginia for natives and visitors alike. That means tourism revenue and jobs—two things that we should be looking to create, not destroy."

"These are tough economic times, as everyone knows," said John Bull, spokesperson for the Virginia Marine Resources Commission, the organization that oversees the tourname...