Those lucky enough to have beach plans this weekend should count on seeing some sharks.

No, not while you're swimming. Fingers crossed. Over at the Ocean City Fishing Center where the annual OC shark-fishing tournament gets under way today. Spectators are invited to watch the weigh-ins at 3:30 p.m. today through Saturday for free. On Sunday, the awards ceremony starts at 1 p.m. (You do have to pay fees to enter the tournament.)

I can't pretend to know a lot about shark fishing because, frankly, if I spot one I'll be shark running, but this report highlights efforts the tournament is making to further emphasize catch and release this year. That seems to make sense in our sustainable world.

It was almost 5 years ago that the Humane Society pressed OC officials for an end to the tournament, calling the fishing techniques "barbaric." Organizers say more sharks are released offshore than are mounted as trophies.

New this year for the tournament is a webcam located dockside that will begin broadcasting today at 3 p.m.

Also on tap this weekend is the Arts Alive! at Northside Park. The 11-year-old juried art show and sale features more than 100 artists, live music and an Artist's Cafe.

Visitors can expect to see  a large variety of artwork from a dozen categories ranging from ceramics to printmaking to sculpture, and much more. The outdoor event is free and takes place 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, rain or shine.