Daniel’s tournament-topping catch anchored her team’s winning total of 38.2 pounds, earning them $11,591 and the championship trophy. The victory came despite challenging conditions with moderate winds and 6-foot seas that had anglers reporting “hundreds of fish but no big ones” throughout the day.

The competition proved intense, with second-place Team “Nuff Said” weighing in just six minutes later at 37.9 pounds, a razor-thin margin of just 0.3 pounds separating the top two teams.

Tournament Results:

• 1st Place: Team “The Reel Deal” - 38.2 lb total - $11,591
• 2nd Place: Team “Nuff Said” - 37.9 lb total - $5,620
• 3rd Place: Team “Three Little Birds” - 23.7 lb total - $1,969
• Largest Single Fish: Marina Daniel - 21.1 lb Mahi
• Top Male Angler: Travis Phelps - 16.3 lb Mahi
• King of Fish (Blackfin Tuna): Justin Matson - 24.2 lb

The three-day event brought together over 350 fans, anglers, and UM Hall of Famers to Islamorada, combining championship fishing with Hurricane pride. Weekend festivities included a Thursday night gathering at UM Hall of Famer Gary Dunn’s Ocean View Inn, where over 100 attendees, including coaching legend Jimmy Johnson and celebrity athletes, enjoyed beachside dining alongside Sebastian the Ibis, UM’s recently inducted Mascot Hall of Fame member.

Friday’s Fan Fest at Three Waters Resort and Marina featured raffles, auctions, and family activities. At the same time, Saturday’s fishing action targeted mahi, blackfin tuna, kingfish, and wahoo. Families enjoyed complimentary access to Theater of the Sea while anglers battled the elements.

Justin Matson’s 24.2-pound blackfin tuna aboard Captain Brian Cone’s “Contagious” earned the King of Fish award, while the same team claimed an additional $6,450 for their multi-species Masters of the Ocean prize with a combined total of 72.0 pounds.

UM Sports Hall of Fame President Mark Drobiarz and Hall of Famer Mike Ward presented awards at Saturday evening’s beachside ceremony, with legendary Hurricanes announcer Jay Rokeach serving as master of ceremonies.

The University of Miami Sports Hall of Fame & Museum’s Celebrity Fishing Tournament will return to Islamorada from June 25 to 27, 2026.

For more information, visit CanesFish.com.

High-resolution images, captions and photo credits are available at this link. 

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Sixteen-year-old Marina Daniel (Key Largo, FL) beams with her trophy for her 21.1-pound mahi, the tournament’s largest fish, helping “The Reel Deal” clinch first place. (Photo by Jeff Jarboe Photography)

Captain Luis Jimenez and Team “The Reel Deal” celebrate their first-place win, earning $11,591 with a three-fish total of 38.2 pounds, anchored by Marina Daniel’s 21.1-pound mahi. (Photo by Jeff Jarboe Photography)

Captain Cecil Everett and Team “Nuff Said” earned second place with 37.9 pounds, finishing just 0.3 pounds shy of the top spot and taking home $5,620. (Photo by Jeff Jarboe Photography)

Team “Three Little Birds” shows off the mahi catch that secured their third-place finish and $1,969 in prize money. (Photo by Jeff Jarboe Photography)

Justin Matson and Team “Contagious” celebrate their Masters of the Ocean win with a combined 72 pounds of multi-species catch, earning $6,450 in prize money. (Photo by Jeff Jarboe Photography)

: University of Miami Hall of Famers and Canes mascot Sebastian the Ibis join fans and anglers at the UM Sports Hall of Fame & Museum’s 2025 Celebrity Fishing Tournament in Islamorada. (Photo by Jeff Jarboe Photography)

Executive Decision’s Captain Chris Ware of Alva, Florida would lead his team to victory with the largest fish of the tournament, weighing in at 14.8 pounds, captured by Jill Paglia from Ocala, Florida. Jill fished with her husband John along with Mike Kasten of St. Petersburg, Florida, and Captain Ware. The team weighed two more fish at 6.1 and 5.7 pounds for a total of 26.7 pounds, winning the Caribee Boat Sales and Yamaha Outboards first place awards and a check for $9,000. 

The second largest fish, only one tenth of a pound less than Jill’s fish, was weighed by Joey Murphy of Islamorada while fishing with Captain TJ Zinkand, also of Islamorada, and Juan Roman from Florida City, Florida, aboard the Heavy Guns. The team took home the second-place awards sponsored by Regan Roth Insurance and CBT Construction with their three-fish combined weight of 23.5 pounds.

Travis Bennett and Andy Cone from Tavernier, Florida, along with Don DeLeon from Miami, Florida, took third place. The team was fishing with Captain Brian Cone aboard his Islamorada charter boat Contagious. They weighed three fish, 6.0, 7.0 and 7.9 pounds for a total of 20.9 pounds winning his own Travis Bennett DDS and Live Action Charters sponsored awards.

All the tournament’s anglers, captains, mates and sponsors are excited and ready to be a part of next year’s event which will be held in the Islamorada Fishing Club’s impressive new building that is nearing completion. 

For more information on the tournament and the Islamorada Fishing Club, call the club at 305-664-4735 or visit www.theislamoradafishingclub.com

High-resolution images, captions and photo credits are available at this link.  

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Captain Chris Ware and Team Executive Decision won first place and $9,000 with the largest fish of the tournament and a total catch of 26.7 pounds. (Photo courtesy of Islamorada Fishing Club)

Jill Paglia of Ocala, Florida landed the tournament’s largest fish at 14.8 pounds, helping Team Executive Decision secure first place and $9,000. (Photo courtesy of Islamorada Fishing Club)

Captain TJ Zinkand and Team Heavy Guns earned second place with a total of 23.5 pounds, missing the largest fish title by just 0.1 pound. (Photo courtesy of Islamorada Fishing Club)

Captain Brian Cone and Team Contagious took third place with a three-fish total of 20.9 pounds, earning Caribee Boat Sales and Yamaha Outboards third place awards. (Photo courtesy of Islamorada Fishing Club)

When the scales closed at 5 p.m., Team Heavy Guns took the crown, or in this case, the tiaras, along with $3,000 in cash, first-place prizes, and sponsor-filled swag bags, all presented at a festive awards dinner honoring the “Queens of the Fishing World.”

Tournament Results:

• 1st Place: Team Heavy Guns - Leah Maurer (Key Largo, FL) Zyla Zinkand (Key Largo, FL), Samantha Ellis (Key Largo, FL), and Jenny Nopp (Islamorada, FL) with Captain TJ Zinkand - 30.1 lb Dolphin
• 2nd Place: Team Angler Eddy’s- Maegan Cabrera (Tavernier, FL), Jess Ball (Tavernier, FL), Pam Simon (Tavernier, FL), and Peyton Sujat (Tavernier, FL)  with Captain Eddy Cabrera & Mate Cole Tristram - 23.8 lb Dolphin  
• 3rd Place:  Team Time Out- Jenny Mason (Islamorada, FL), Morada Mason (Islamorada, FL), and Lauren Marciano (Sunrise, FL) with Captain. Mike Mason & Mate Jeremy Sizemore – 23.1 lb Dolphin
• Largest Dolphin: Jenny Nopp (Islamorada, FL) – 21.4 lb Dolphin
• Junior Angler Award: Morada Mason (Islamorada, FL) – 4.8 lb Dolphin

With an aggregate scoring format, the tournament emphasizes strategy, teamwork, and consistency in a supportive, high-energy setting. The target species’ speed, vibrant coloration, and schooling behavior add to the thrill. Found near weed lines and floating debris, they strike fast and often, creating nonstop action and a thrilling target for both seasoned anglers and enthusiastic newcomers.

Rooted in camaraderie, community purpose, and giving back, the tournament has raised approximately $200,000 over the last 11 years, said tournament director Dianne Harbaugh. 

“The Elks are proud to support local charities like our children’s therapy van and summer camp for Keys students,” she said. “This tournament brings people together, raises funds for great causes, and gives back to the community we love.”

The event also blends sportfishing with sustainability, encouraging anglers to release non-weighed fish and recycle used fishing line. Many choose to donate their catch, which is transformed into meals for lodge gatherings that raise additional funds.

For next year’s tournament updates, membership info, or info on the Elks’ charitable efforts, visit: www.floridakeyselks.com or stop by mile marker 92.6 bayside.

High-resolution images and captions are available at this link.  

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Captain TJ Zinkand and the Heavy Guns crew celebrate their first-place victory at the 11th Annual Ladies Dolphin Tournament of the Florida Keys. Anglers Leah Maurer (Key Largo, Florida), Zyla Zinkand (Key Largo,FL), Samantha Ellis (Key Largo, FL), and Jenny Nopp (Islamorada, FL) reeled in a winning three-fish total of 30.1 pounds, earning tiaras, trophies, flowers, and a $3,000 top prize for their outstanding performance on the water. (Photo by Ed Cale Photography) 

Top lady angler Jenny Nopp (Islamorada, FL) holds her tournament-best 21.4-pound dolphin aboard Heavy Guns, securing the heaviest fish of the day during the 11th Annual Ladies Dolphin Tournament of the Florida Keys. Her catch earned her a $1,000 prize from Tackle Center of Islamorada and a gold sailfish pendant from DePaula Jewelers. (Photo by Ed Cale Photography) 

Junior angler Morada Mason (Islamorada,FL) proudly displays her Top Junior Angler trophy at the 11th Annual Ladies Dolphin Tournament of the Florida Keys. Her 4.8-pound dolphin earned her the title, along with a handcrafted David Wirth fishhook sculpture and a sparkling tiara. (Photo by Ed Cale Photography) 

Team Angler Eddy’s celebrates a second-place finish at the 11th Annual Ladies Dolphin Tournament of the Florida Keys. Anglers Maegan Cabrera (Tavernier, FL), Jess Ball (Tavernier, FL), Pam Simon (Tavernier, FL), and Peyton Sujat (Tavernier, FL) brought in a three-fish total of 23.8 pounds and were awarded trophies, local prize packs, and a $1,500 check. (Photo by Ed Cale Photography) 

Team Time Out earned third place at the 11th Annual Ladies Dolphin Tournament of the Florida Keys. Anglers Morada Mason (Islamorada, FL), Jenny Mason (Islamorada, Florida), and Lauren Marciano (Sunrise, FL), fishing with Captain Mike Mason (Islamorada, FL) and mate Jeremy Sizemore (Islamorada, FL), weighed in three dolphin for a total of 23.1 pounds. Morada also received the Top Junior Angler Award for her 4.8-pound catch. (Photo by Ed Cale Photography)

The tournament allowed teams to weigh two dolphin per day, with the best three-fish total deciding the winners. In the end, it was Team Dream Weaver from Naples, Florida, that claimed the top prize.

Anglers Brian Weaver, Gerry Kelly, Sam Pence, and Digger Rodamer (all of Naples), along with Raleigh Kelley (Austin, Texas), brought in a combined 63.3 pounds of dolphin to secure first place and a payout of $33,360. Their winning stringer included a 34.1-pound bull caught by Brian Weaver, which also earned the team an additional $9,130 for the largest fish of the tournament on Saturday.

Second place went to Team Reel Deal, captained by Alex Debogory. Anglers Sean Lue (Medley), Richard Williams (Southwest Ranches), Luis Jimenez (Homestead), and James and Marina Daniel (Key Largo) posted a three-fish total of 56.7 pounds, winning $18,770. Richard Williams took home another $3,000 for the second-largest fish on Sunday (24.5 lbs), and $1,000 as the top Senior Angler for his 29.4-pound catch.

Team Pescadito, made up of Alex Sawley (Key Largo), Fernando Larrosa (Homestead), and Miami-based anglers Javier Martinez and Milton Tinoco, took third place with 55.4 pounds and earned $5,000.

Fourth place honors went to Team Capcon, captained by Carlos Padron with anglers Nicholas Perez, Manny Lemus, and Alex Murphy (all of Miami). Their total of 53.6 pounds earned them $6,180, and Perez added $4,395 more for the third-largest fish on Saturday.

Team Nuff Said, led by Cecil Everett and featuring anglers Brandon Kaskie, Bobby Everett, Jimmy Moore, Hanna Barkley (Inverness), and Travis Phelps (Citrus Springs), landed 52 pounds for fifth place and took home $3,090.

Sixth place went to Team Mahi Mania, captained by Mark Miller (Key Largo) with angler John Mayo (New Baltimore, Michigan), who caught a total of 45.8 pounds for a $500 prize. Mayo also earned $500 for the third-largest fish on Sunday, a 22.5-pound dolphin.

Other notable catches included:

·       Joe Maura (Princeton, FL) won $6,830 for the second-largest fish overall at 22.9 pounds, caught aboard Charisma, captained by Chris Dillon.

·       Melissa Hughes (Deland, FL) earned $2,000 for the largest dolphin by a lady angler (20.6 lbs) aboard Locked In.

·       Stephanie Schank (Coral Gables, FL) took second in the lady angler category, winning $1,000 on H-Blue O.

The Junior Angler Division featured tight competition:

·       1st Place: Mason Carlton (Thomasville, GA), 15.9 lbs on Hurricane II – $500

·       2nd Place: Mason Born (Key Largo, FL), 15.8 lbs on Deep Green – $250

·       3rd Place: Marina Daniel (Key Largo, FL), 15.9 lbs on The Reel Deal – $100

Anglers also competed in the “fun fish” category:

·       Brayden Daubs (Key Largo, FL) of Zero Line Fishing caught a 14-pound wahoo.

·       Shawn MacMullin (Key Largo, FL) of Prime Time landed a 16.8-pound tuna.

Both anglers received $750 and a King Sailfish trophy. No kingfish were recorded, so the designated prize will be donated to Mote Marine Laboratory.

The weekend kicked off with a seafood-filled welcome party sponsored by Gus’ Toy Box. The awards celebration featured whole roast pig and classic Keys hospitality, closing out another unforgettable tournament at Skippers Dockside.

For full results and future tournament updates, visit SkippersTournaments.com.

High-resolution images and captions are available at this link.  

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Team Dream Weaver dominated the 11th Annual Skippers Dolphin Tournament with a combined three-fish total of 63.3 pounds. Anglers Brian Weaver, Gerry Kelly, Sam Pence, and Digger Rodamer (Naples, Florida), along with Raleigh Kelley (Austin, Texas), won first place and a $33,360 check. (Photo by Mary D Griffin Photography)

Brian Weaver (Naples, Florida) of Dream Weaver holds the tournament’s largest dolphin, a 34.1-pound bull, caught on Day 1 of the 11th Annual Skippers Dolphin Tournament. The fish earned the team an additional $9,130 prize on top of their first-place winnings. (Photo by Mary D Griffin Photography)

Team The Reel Deal, captained by Alex Debogory, claimed second place at the 11th Annual Skippers Dolphin Tournament with a total of 56.7 pounds. Anglers included Sean Lue (Medley), Richard Williams (Southwest Ranches), Luis Jimenez (Homestead), and James and Marina Daniel (Key Largo). The team won $18,770 for second place, plus $3,000 for the largest fish on Day 2, and $1,000 for Richard Williams as the top Senior Angler. (Photo by Mary D Griffin Photography)

Team Pescadito celebrates a third-place finish at the 11th Annual Skippers Dolphin Tournament. Anglers Alex Sawley (Key Largo, Florida), Fernando Larrosa (Homestead, Florida), Javier Martinez, and Milton Tinoco (Miami, Florida) caught 55.4 pounds of dolphin, earning a $5,000 prize. The team also received a $1,000 check for the second-largest fish on Day 1. (Photo by Mary D Griffin Photography)

Melissa Hughes of Deland, Florida, took home top honors in the Ladies Division at the 11th Annual Skippers Dolphin Tournament. Her 20.6-pound dolphin earned her the title of Largest Fish Lady Angler and a $2,000 prize aboard Locked In. (Photo by Mary D Griffin Photography)

Marina Daniel (Key Largo, Florida), of The Reel Deal, placed third in the Junior Angler Division at the 11th Annual Skippers Dolphin Tournament. Her 15.9-pound dolphin earned her a $100 cash prize and a custom trophy. (Photo by Mary D Griffin Photography)

Hosted by the nonprofit Ladies Let’s Go Fishing Foundation, the event is more than just a tournament—it’s an open door for women and families to dive into the world of fishing. Designed especially for beginners and those looking to level up their skills, it offers a fun, inclusive, and educational experience on and off the water.

“Screamin’ Reels welcomes casual anglers into a fun and supportive tournament where nearly any legal offshore or inshore species is fair game,” said founder Betty Bauman. “It’s perfect for women who’ve never imagined entering a tournament.”

The weekend kicked off in style at the Tavernier Elks Club with a festive welcome party and a special guest appearance by Miami Vice star and fishing aficionado Olivia Brown (a.k.a. Trudy). Out on the water, anglers landed mahi, wahoo, tuna, amberjack, and more—finishing the tournament with a spirited awards at Whale Harbor Marina.

Top Tournament Results:

Offshore Division:

• 1st Place: Kat Farese – 15.8 lb. Wahoo on Marlin Darlin (Dania Beach, FL)
• 2nd Place: Michelle Mobley – 12.45 lb. Blackfin Tuna on Sea Horse (Orlando, FL)
• 3rd Place: Kelly DeNone – 10.8 lb. Wahoo on Poppa Wahoo (Tavernier, FL)

Offshore Jack Division:

• 1st Place: Melissa Vickers – 30.1 lb. Amberjack on Miller Time (Cocoa Beach, FL)

Dubbed the “No-Yelling School of Fishing,” the Ladies Let’s Go Fishing Foundation has been empowering women and families since 1997 through seminars, hands-on training, and tournaments across Florida—all while championing conservation and ethical angling.

The group returns to the Keys October 17–19 for a full-day seminar followed by two days of fishing, and again January 30 – February 1, 2026, for the Islamorada Women’s Sailfish Tournament. Early registration is encouraged.

For more information, contact Betty Bauman | 954-475-9068 | info@ladiesletsgofishing.com.
www.ladiesletsgofishing.com

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Anglers from Poppa Wahoo show off their catch during the 2025 Ladies Let’s Go Fishing Screamin’ Reels Tournament. (L-R): Barbara Socarraz (Plantation, Florida), Anna Tassia Butler (Islamorada, Florida), Kelly DeNone (Tavernier, Florida), Teresa Baker (Key Largo, Florida), Barbara Joyce (Key Largo, Florida), and Kim DenBesten (Key Largo, Florida).

Melissa Vickers (Cocoa Beach, Florida) on Miller Time reeled in first place in the Jack Division of the 2025 Ladies Let’s Go Fishing Screamin’ Reels Tournament that took place May 16–18 out of Islamorada.

Hosted by local legend Captain Jack Carlson of Two Conchs Sportfishing Charters, the event kicks off with final registration and a drop-in Captain’s Meeting on Friday, June 13 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Two Conchs,11499 Overseas Highway. Lines go in at 8 a.m. Saturday, June 14, and it's game on for dolphin in waters from Key West to North Key Largo until 3:30 p.m. 

These acrobatic, fast-growing pelagic fish, also known as mahi-mahi or dorado, are showing up in better numbers and bigger sizes, lighting up the deep blue with their signature electric greens and yellows. And with the Gulf Stream hugging the reef and bringing nutrient-rich waters, the big fish are within striking distance, with reports of some bulls tipping the scales at 30 or more pounds. From seasoned offshore captains to weekend warriors, the word is the same: “Dolphin are running strong and the bite is hot.” 

Participants weigh their catch from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Two Conchs Bait, Tackle & Marina, 11587 Overseas Highway, followed by an awards banquet at 6 p.m. at Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters, 11710 Overseas Highway, with cash prizes for the top four adults and rod and reel combos for junior anglers. 

Anglers can register online at fathersdaydolphintournament.com. ;Early entry fees are $150 per person until June 6 and $195 after that. Registration for junior anglers age 15 and unis $50. For more information, contact Capt. Jack Carlson at twoconchstackle@gmail.com or 305-481-0495. 

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Registration is open for the 39th Annual Father’s Day Dolphin Derby, set for Saturday, June 14. The popular Marathon tournament brings together families, friends and fishing fanatics for a laid-back celebration of dads and dolphinfish, with big prize payouts for anglers. Visit fathersdaydolphintournament.com. FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY (Photo Courtesy of the Father’s Day Dolphin Derby)

This spirited team tournament invites women anglers of all levels to compete for glory — and team tiaras — while raising funds for local charitable programs serving veterans, youth, and families in need across the Keys. The action kicks off on Friday, June 6 with final registration that starts at 5 p.m. and a captain’s meeting at 7 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 92600 Overseas Hwy. 

Lines go in the next morning at 7 a.m. and then it’s game on for dolphin (mahi-mahi), with weigh-in scheduled from 3 to 5 p.m. sharp. Each team is allowed to weigh three fish of legal size, with the winner determined by the combined weight of the three fish. Cash prizes are to be awarded for the first three teams and for the largest fish of the tournament. The day wraps up with a cocktail party and awards dinner that starts at 6:30 p.m., held in the Elks Lodge ballroom overlooking stunning Florida Bay sunset views.

Over the past 11 years, the Elks have raised approximately $200,000 through this event to support local student scholarships, the Elks Drug Awareness campaigns, the Vets on the Water program, a local children's therapy van, and camp scholarships to the Elks Youth Camp.

“The tournament has always been about comradery while raising money for good causes,” says event organizer Dianne Harbaugh. “This event promotes fishing but also teaches how to be proper stewards of our environment, encouraging the release of fish that aren’t weighed in, recycling fishing line, and other environmentally responsible actions. Many participants even donate their catch, which is prepared and served at lodge events — raising additional funds for Elks charities.”

The event has drawn upwards of 130 local and visiting participants across 60 vessel teams each year. Anglers can register online at floridakeyselks.com/registration-form. Early entry fees are $220 per person through May 31, and $250 thereafter. Junior anglers (16 and under) may register for $100. Whether you're in it to win or just fishing for fun, this is a chance to enjoy the legendary waters of the Keys, bond with fellow anglers, and support important programs.

For registration or sponsorship details, contact Dianne Harbaugh at (305) 522-4868 or ditournaments@aol.com. 

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“This tournament is more than just a fun day on the water,” said Christine Todd Young, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of the Middle Keys. “Every dollar raised will directly fund construction costs for a new duplex on 105th Street here in Marathon.” 

Presented by Liechty Marine of Marathon and Suzuki, the tournament wrapped up with a lively awards banquet at the Marathon Yacht Club, where anglers were recognized across four competitive divisions. Top tournament winners include: 

Lady Division: 

● 1st Place: Bennett Sheltra – 24.4 lbs (Indiantown, Florida) 

● 2nd Place: Erika Goodman – 14.2 lbs (Marathon, Florida) 

● 3rd Place: Kristina Helms – 13.4 lbs (Grassy Key, Florida) 

Junior Division: 

● 1st Place: Justin Torro – 15.8 lbs (Virginia Gardens, Florida) 

● 2nd Place: Damian Santana – 11.4 lbs (Key West, Florida) 

● 3rd Place: Caidyn Young – 3.4 lbs (Marathon, Florida) 

Weekend Warrior Division: 

● 1st Place: Nate Duncan – 25.0 lbs (Key West, Florida) 

● 2nd Place: Donna Hart – 23.8 lbs (Big Pine Key, Florida) 

● 3rd Place: Jonathan Flatt – 18.4 lbs (Big Pine Key, Florida) 

Pro Division: 

● 1st Place: Ethan Wohlers – 21.8 lbs (Marathon, Florida) 

● 2nd Place: Chase Johnson – 20.0 lbs (Summerland Key, Florida) 

● 3rd Place: Steve Bellovich – 18.6 lbs (Key West, Florida) 

The event has become a beloved tradition in Marathon, blending the thrill of fishing with a heartfelt cause, with this year’s tournament dedicated to creating safe, affordable places to call home for those who live and work in the community. 

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Bennet Sheltra of Indiantown, Florida, pictured with her family and tournament organizer Christine Todd Young, celebrates her big win in the Lady division of the 19th Annual Mother’s Day Dolphin Tournament. Organized by Habitat for Humanity of the Middle Keys, the event raised $59,000 for affordable housing projects.

The Salt Water Sportsman National Seminar Series is to be hosted by George Poveromo and Captain Mark Schmidt, with a faculty comprised of other Florida Keys angling experts.

“We’re going to help people crack the code for fishing floating debris including techniques aimed at catching mahi-mahi, tripletail, wahoo and other gamefish,” said Poveromo, host of "George Poveromo's World of Saltwater Fishing" on Discovery network. “We’re also going to reveal secrets for navigating and catching fish in the shallow waters of Hawk Channel, which runs along the Atlantic side of the Florida Keys.

"Our panel of experts are Florida Keys authorities on fishing the entire island chain’s inshore, nearshore and offshore waters,” Poveromo said. “Therefore, the information to be provided at the seminar is unparalleled for those seeking angling success throughout the Keys.”

Set to join Poveromo and Schmidt is a diversified group of South Florida and Keys professionals including Bruce Davis, Jimmy Gagliardini, Armani Garcia, Chris Hanson, Lee Lavery, Andrew Tipler, Diego Toiran, Mike Weinhofer, Alan Wenzel, Jim Willcox and David Wicker. Also on the faculty is Islamorada marine artist and recreational angler Pasta Pantaleo.

The $65 ticket price covers instruction, a 2025 course textbook, a one-year subscription or extension to Salt Water Sportsman magazine, one Roff's Ocean Fishing Forecast Analysis, boat care products, a Bass Pro Shops discount card and chances to win thousands of dollars' worth of door prizes, including a guided Florida Keys fishing trip with accommodations and a Mako Pro skiff.

An after-seminar reception is set for attendees beginning at 4 p.m. Saturday at World Wide Sportsman, MM 81.5 bayside in Islamorada.

To purchase tickets and learn more about the seminar, visit nationalseminarseries.com.

The Monroe County Tourist Development Council is among the sponsors of Poveromo’s television show.

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Trophy Hunter anglers Mark and Brandon Mitchell and Kenneth Padgett, all from Charlotte, North Carolina, with Travis Bennett and Andy Cone from Tavernier, landed in the Presidential winners’ circle for their eight sailfish releases.

Captain Marty Lewis of Marathon, Florida, guided his Main One/Main Attraction team of anglers to second place with seven releases. The team included Mark Busch from West Lake, Ohio; Robbie Hiro of Downingtown, Pennsylvania; Danny Lombardo from Islamorada; Alex Lewis and Ben Zdan of Marathon; and Mike Cangemi from Jupiter, Florida.

Cangemi also took home the top male anger award, releasing three sailfish before anyone else. The team’s Alex Lewis received the top junior angler award.

Third place went to team LFISH with six releases. Led by Marathon’s Captain Mike Taute, the team’s anglers were Lance and Leo Doire, Blake Alexander, James Hardin and Todd Picariello — all from Marathon — and Josh Riddle of Chesapeake, Virginia. Taute tagged four of the six sailfish caught by the team to win the Most Tagged division.

The top lady angler award went to Robin Hall of Orange Beach, Alabama, fishing aboard DirtyBoat 2.0 skippered by Islamorada’s Captain Kit Mobley.

The Cheeca Lodge and Spa Presidential Sailfish Tournament hosted 61 anglers, who caught and released 44 sailfish over the two-day event.

The Presidential was the final of three tournaments in the Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship Series. Killbox claimed the grand champion award for the series and the winning captain, Cody Darby of Marathon, received the first-ever custom sailfish jacket.

Killbox scored nine sailfish releases in the Islamorada Sailfish Tournament, nine in the Islamorada Fishing Club’s Captain’s Cup Sailfish Tournament and four in the Cheeca Lodge challenge for a total of 21 releases.

In addition to receiving Gold Cup trophies and a check for $13,000, the team will have its name engraved on a perpetual trophy displayed at the Tackle Center of Islamorada.

Killbox angler Clint “Digger” Rodamer from Marathon won the coveted championship ring with a total of eight releases during the series.

Second place in the Gold Cup series went to Trophy Hunter with six releases in the first tournament, five in the second and eight in the third, for a total of 19 sailfish releases.

Skipjac Fishing Team took third in the series with a total of 18 releases — eight each in the first two tournaments and two in the final event.

Money raised from the Gold Cup series benefits the Islamorada Charter Boat Association.

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The Back in Business team released nine sailfish on the contest’s single day of fishing, edging out four other teams that each tallied eight releases, to land the winner-take-all prize of $12,000.

The winning team’s anglers included John Watson of Parkland, Florida; Matt McLean from Naples, Florida; and Audrey Koocher and Brooks Gregory from Islamorada.

The nail-biting competition saw the teams on Main One/Main Attraction, Kalex, Skipjac, Killbox and Back in Business tied with eight releases with just 18 minutes of fishing left. Then Collins called in the ninth release for his team, achieved by Gregory, giving Back in Business the win.

Ending the tournament in second place based on time was Main One/Main Attraction, with eight sailfish releases, helmed by Captain Marty Lewis of Marathon, Florida. The team’s anglers were Mark Busch from West Lake, Ohio; Mike Cangemi from Jupiter, Florida; Ben Zdan from Marathon and Islamorada resident Danny Lombardo.

Third place was awarded to Captain Alex Adler of Islamorada and his team aboard Kalex, also with eight releases. The team included Indiana anglers Chris and Sam Chastain, Allen Sutkowski and Nathan Burns.

The tournament drew 12 boats and 46 anglers, who released a total of 68 sailfish during the close competition.  

Established in 1950, the Islamorada Fishing Club embraces core values of conservation, recreational fishing and strong family and community bonds among avid fishermen. The IFC Sailfish Tournament is the second leg of the annual three-event Florida Keys Gold Cup Championship series.

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The high-energy tournament, filled with camaraderie and fun with other like-minded tarpon anglers, mandates that teams fish with a different captain each day. Teams also rotate among the three major bridge channels in the Middle Keys — the Seven Mile, Long Key and Bahia Honda bridge channels — so any potential "hot spots" are shared among all anglers.

Tarponians are set to gather Saturday, April 26, for the tournament’s 6:30 p.m. kick-off and meet-the-captains party at Tranquility Bay Tiki Bar, 2600 Overseas Highway.      

Fishing is to get underway Sunday and Monday, April 27-28, with lines-in at 4 p.m. Lines-out is to be called at 8 p.m. There is no tournament fishing Tuesday.

The third and final fishing day is Wednesday, April 30, with 4-8 p.m. fishing followed by a 9 p.m. awards banquet at Florida Keys Steak and Lobster House, 3660 Overseas Highway.

Entry fee is $1,500 per angler for three-person teams or $2,250 per angler for two-person and four-person teams. Tournament fees cover fishing, banquets, shirts and prize money. Prize payouts are to be determined depending on the total number of teams participating.

The tournament is filling quickly so interested anglers should contact the event’s director as soon as possible. To register or for more information, call or email David Breznicky at 267-210-1952 or dbreznicky@breznickyassociates.com.

Marathon visitor information: fla-keys.com/marathon or 1-800-262-7284

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All anglers are welcome to compete and are not required to hire a professional guide to participate. Many Keys backcountry guides climb down from their poling platforms and pick up fishing rods each year to join fellow angling competitors.

Headquartered at the Safe Harbor Angler House, mile marker 80.5, the event benefits the Florida Keys Fishing Guides Foundation and the Guides Trust Foundation — organizations that assist fishing guides who can’t work because of serious injury or illness.

The registration and kick-off party is set for Friday, Jan. 31, at the host location, beginning at 5 p.m. with the pick-up of scoring packets and measuring devices. Participants can enjoy refreshments, visit the online silent auction and listen to live music.

The online auction is to feature fishing and boating gear, artwork, guided fishing trips and other items that appeal to anglers and landlubbers alike. Tournament participants and the public can start bidding on items when the auction link, 32auctions.com/SGB2025, goes live Jan. 29, according to organizers.

Lines-in for anglers is 7 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 1, and they can launch from anywhere between Key Largo and Marathon, excluding Flamingo. Lines-out is to be called at 3 p.m. and final check-in with the scorekeeper is set for 5 p.m.

The awards “ball” begins Saturday at 6 p.m. with cocktails, followed by the awards program at 7 p.m. at Safe Harbor Angler House.

Tournament registration information can be found at fkfga.org/swamp-guides-ball/#!form/2025SGB. Entry fee is $400 per two-angler boat team, $200 per two-angler youth (age 17 and under) team and $300 for a team of junior angler plus adult.

Tournament information: fkfga.org/swamp-guides-ball/#!form/2025SGB

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The 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. educational event is to cover “how-to” and “where-to” aspects of catching the Florida Keys’ inshore, nearshore and offshore saltwater gamefish.

Set to preside over the event are George Poveromo, host of “George Poveromo's World of Saltwater Fishing” on Discovery network, and Captain Mark Schmidt, a Key West light tackle guide and International Game Fish Association world record holder.

"With 37 years under our belts, the seminar series has become the nation’s longest-running and most popular educational course on recreational angling tactics and techniques," Poveromo said. "Its success has always been about the vast amount of cutting-edge and pertinent how-to information shared on catching more and bigger game fish within the waters at each respective Seminar Series stop.

“This information is explained in detail by some of the best saltwater anglers, and each session is backed by elaborate visuals that include video, technical- and action-oriented images and onstage demonstrations,” he added.

Set to join Poveromo and Schmidt is a diversified group of South Florida and Keys professionals including Bruce Davis, Jimmy Gagliardini, Armani Garcia, Chris Hanson, Lee Lavery, Andrew Tipler, Diego Toiran, Mike Weinhofer, Alan Wenzel, Jim Willcox and David Wicker. Also on the faculty is Islamorada marine artist and recreational angler Pasta Pantaleo.

The $65 ticket price covers instruction, a 2025 course textbook, a one-year subscription or extension to Salt Water Sportsman magazine, one Roff’s Ocean Fishing Forecast Analysis, boat care products, a Bass Pro Shops discount card and chances to win thousands of dollars’ worth of door prizes.

The grand prize, to be awarded at the conclusion of the seminar, is a guided Florida Keys fishing trip with accommodations. The super grand prize, to be awarded several weeks after the conclusion of the 2025 series, is a new Mako Pro Skiff 17.  

An after-seminar reception is set for attendees beginning at 4 p.m. Saturday at World Wide Sportsman, MM 81.5 bayside, in Islamorada.

To purchase tickets and learn more about the seminar, visit nationalseminarseries.com.

The seminar series and Poveromo’s fishing show is sponsored in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council.

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The tournament kickoff party, silent auction and raffle are set for Friday, Jan. 31, at Islamorada’s Safe Harbor Angler House, mile marker 80.5 bayside. Women anglers are to fish either from their own boats or with charter captains. Men are allowed to serve as captains or mates.

Fishing is set for 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 2. Anglers are to gather Saturday evening for a social networking event at Sea La Vie boutique, mile marker 80.3 oceanside. An awards ceremony is planned for 6:30 p.m. Sunday at Safe Harbor Angler House.

Awards await the first-, second- and third-place teams, as well as the high-point angler and the captain and mate on the first-place team. Other awards are to be given for the top mahi-mahi, tuna and kingfish. 

For teams fishing on their own boat, registration is $295 for the first angler and $225 for each additional angler. For other options and more information, visit ladiesletsgofishing.com/islamorada-womens-sailfish-tournament.

Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing is dedicated to attracting women and families to fishing while encouraging conservation and responsible angling. The organization conducts immersion-based educational programs throughout Florida, with classroom presentations and hands-on practice followed by fishing from boats or on land.

Tournament information: ladiesletsgofishing.com/islamorada-womens-sailfish-tournament

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Jonathan Bickett and Steve McLaughlin, both from Charlotte, North Carolina; with Islamorada residents Jimmy Hendrix, Ramiro Hildalgo-Gato, Doug Mientkiewicz and Hudson Wampler; and Brandon Simmons of Marathon, Florida, fished their way to victory with a total of 18 sailfish releases to claim a cash prize of $30,240.

Team members also received original artwork by Islamorada artist Pasta Pantaleo.

In addition to contributing to the Carolina Reel Men team award, Hendrix won top male angler honors and the Bill Hirni Memorial High Point Angler award with his six releases.

Now in its 61st year, the tournament kicks off the renowned triple-crown Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship Series.

Logan Spaulding, fishing on the Res Ipsa Liquidur with Captain KC Spaulding, released two sailfish to take the top lady angler award. Both are residents of Islamorada.

Hudson Wampler, fishing on Carolina Reel Men, released three sailfish to earn the top junior angler title in the tournament — the only Gold Cup event with a junior angler division for entrants age 18 or younger at the start of the tournament.

Team Legasea, with Islamorada’s Captain Joey Spaulding, placed second on time with nine sailfish releases. Legasea’s anglers were Ben Bruhn and Daniel Mesaros from Delray Beach, Florida; Ricardo Linale of Islamorada; Cole Tristram from Tavernier, Florida; and Nick Maszaros from Marathon.

Killbox, with Captain Cody Darby and anglers Tyler and Jordan Kelley from Bartow, Florida; Corbin Buckley of Islamorada; and Marathon residents Joe Marina and Clint “Digger” Rodamer, took third place with nine releases.

Based at Whale Harbor in Islamorada, the tournament drew 76 participants, according to organizers. Collectively, they released 87 sailfish out of 100 hookups called in.

The Gold Cup Sailfish Championship series’ next leg is the Islamorada Fishing Club Sailfish Tournament set for Jan. 14-15, followed by the Cheeca Lodge Presidential Sailfish Tournament Jan. 17-19. The Florida Keys Gold Cup champions are to be crowned at the Presidential tournament’s awards ceremony.

The Islamorada Sailfish Tournament is the primary fundraiser for the Islamorada Charter Boat Association. 

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The event takes place in the waters where sizeable king mackerel, also called kingfish, gather each year before their annual migration. The 2025 tournament highlights a single open division that welcomes all interested teams.

The winning team in the 2025 tournament is to receive a  $75,000 prize. Prizes of $25,000 and $20,000, respectively, await the second- and third-place teams. Prize structure and award amounts are based on a field of 30 registered boats.

Events kick off Wednesday, Jan. 15, with a 5-7 p.m. final registration at The Perry Hotel & Marina, located at 7001 Shrimp Road on Stock Island. A captains meeting is set for 7:30 p.m.

Teams are to fish on two of the three following days (Jan. 16-18). The schedule of fishing days and the designated “lay day” is to be determined at the captains meeting based on anticipated weather conditions.

Tournament rules mandate that each boat team can weigh one kingfish on each of the two fishing days. The weigh-in location is at the Perry Marina.

To be eligible to weigh their fish, boat teams must check in with the tournament committee by 5 p.m.

Awards are to be presented at 10 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 19, at The Perry Hotel & Marina.

The entry fee is $5,000 per team. Any number of anglers can make up a team.

Event details: meatmayhemtournaments.com/event/key-west-kingfish-mayhem-2022/

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Jan. 7-9: Islamorada SailFly Tournament. Islamorada. Teams gather for the 25th anniversary of this challenging and exciting competition to fly fish for Atlantic sailfish. Captains slow-troll with live baits with no hooks to raise and tease the sailfish, so fly anglers can cast to the fish. Visit islamoradasailfly.com or call Capt. Randy Towe at 305-394-2667.

Jan. 14-15: IFC Captain’s Cup Sailfish Tournament. Islamorada. Presented by the Islamorada Fishing Club, the event is the second leg of the three-pronged Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship trifecta, attracting teams of elite sport fishermen. A total winner-take-all cash payout for a full field at the IFC Sailfish Tournament could reach $25,000. Visit theislamoradafishingclub.com or email ditournaments@aol.com.

Jan. 15-19: Key West Kingfish Mayhem. Key West and the Lower Keys. Headquartered at The Perry Hotel & Marina, this competitive tournament event takes place in the waters where sizeable king mackerel, also called kingfish, gather each year before their annual migration. A single open division welcomes all interested teams, and the winning team is to receive a  $75,000 prize. Visit meatmayhemtournaments.com/key-west-kingfish-mayhem/schedule/.

Jan. 17-19: Cheeca Lodge Presidential Sailfish Tournament. Islamorada. One of the most prestigious offshore tournaments in the Florida Keys, the Presidential serves as the final leg of the three-pronged Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship. Visit cheeca.com/presidential.

Jan. 26-27: Islamorada Bartenders Sailfish Open. Islamorada. Headquartered at the Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar, this fun fishing event is open to actively employed Keys bartenders and restaurant employees. Trophies are awarded to individual anglers as well as the bar a team represents, with the perpetual trophy and year-long bragging rights going to the winners. Contact Dianne Harbaugh at 305-522-4868 or ditournaments@aol.com.

Jan. 31–Feb. 1: Swamp Guides Ball. Islamorada. In this annual all-release competition organized by the Florida Keys Fishing Guides Association, anglers target bonefish, redfish and snook. The tournament benefits the Florida Keys Fishing Guides Foundation and the Guides Trust Foundation — organizations that provide funds to people in the local fishing industry in times of need. Visit fkfga.org.

Jan. 31–Feb 2: Islamorada Women’s Sailfish Tournament. Islamorada. This light-tackle challenge celebrates its 40th year along with its new affiliation with the Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing organization. Instruction on how to sailfish will be provided to those who request it via an online meeting. Awards await the first, second and third place teams plus awards for high point angler, captain and mate on the first place team. Other awards are to be given for the top mahi-mahi, tuna and kingfish. Anglers may register to fish from their own boats or sign up for individual or shared charters. Visit ladiesletsgofishing.com/islamorada-womens-sailfish-tournament.

Feb. 4-5: Poor Girls Sailfish Tournament. Islamorada. Women anglers vie for trophies awarded to the first-, second- and third-place teams, grand champion and runner-up grand champion anglers, as well as for the largest dolphin fish, kingfish and tuna. Kick-off and awards events are held at the Islander Resort. The competition benefits the Upper Keys Veterinary Hospital’s Spay and Neuter Fund and the Shriners Children’s Hospital. Visit castingforcats.org/poor-girls-sailfish-tournament.

Feb. 6-8: Cuda Bowl. Key West and the Lower Keys. Shallow-water flats anglers and guides are invited to hook up and fight their barracuda rivals. The event is headquartered at South of the Seven Restaurant on Sugarloaf Key. Prizes are awarded in spin and fly divisions. Top-scoring female and junior anglers are also recognized. Visit cudabowl.com or email info@cudabowl.com.

Feb. 7-8: Keys Kids Sailfish Tournament. Islamorada. This tournament is free for anglers 16 years of age and younger. Contact Diane Harbaugh at 305-522-4868 or ditournaments@aol.com.

Feb. 11-12: Al Flutie Over the Hill Rip-Off Sailfish Tournament. Islamorada. Known as the "Flutie," this all-release sailfish tournament welcomes anglers age 50 and over who compete for awards for the top three teams and high-point male and female anglers. Tournament events are headquartered out of Ocean View Inn and Sports Pub, mile marker 84.5 bayside. Contact Diane Harbaugh at 305-522-4868 or ditournaments@aol.com.

Feb. 28–March 1: Backcountry Fly Championship Series. Islamorada. Tournament anglers are to compete to catch the most inches of snook and redfish on fly in a challenge where 1 inch equals one point. Awards are to be given to the grand champion and runner-up, and to the anglers who catch the largest snook and redfish. The field is limited to 30 boats. Visit BFCtournament.com.

March 4-8: Jimmy Johnson's ‘Quest for the Ring’ Championship Fishing Week. Key Largo. Hosted by Jimmy Johnson, two-time Super Bowl winning coach and former head coach at the University of Miami, the prestigious event includes the two-day Billfish Competition with a guaranteed total purse of at least $1 million and the Superbowl-style championship ring. A separate sportfish tournament and the annual Celebrity Pro-Am round out the tournament week. Visit questfortheringfl.com.

March 10-13: March Merkin Invitational Permit Tournament. Key West and the Lower Keys. This charity flats-and-fly-only tournament challenges anglers to catch and release silvery permit to vie for elite titles. The event is held at Oceans Edge Resort & Marina on Stock Island. Visit marchmerkin.com.

March 27-29: Key West Sailfish Tournament. Key West. The Key West Sailfish Tournament brings bring world-class teams together for a two-day shootout-style battle for the top of the leaderboard and prize money. Visit kwst.profishingtournaments.com.

April 3-5: Spanish Fly Shark Tournament. Key West. Targeting bull sharks, this second annual catch-and-release tournament is focused on increasing knowledge about bull sharks in the Florida Keys. With both inshore and offshore divisions, the challenge is to be televised by Outdoor America. Visit keywestsharktournament.com.

April 24-26: Marathon Premier Sailfish Tournament. Marathon. A boat tournament with a release format, the challenge benefits Mission Fishin’, a South Florida nonprofit that helps fund on-the-water adventures for foster children, youngsters with special needs and their families — as well as local charitable organizations including Marathon Special Olympics. Prizes are to be awarded to the top three boat teams and top male, female and junior anglers among others. Visit marathonsailfish.com.

April 26-30: Tarponian Tournament. Marathon. Rules of this high-energy three-evening tournament mandate that each team fishes with a different captain for each outing. Teams also rotate among the three major bridge channels in Marathon, so any potential “hot spots” are shared among all anglers. Email dbreznicky@breznickyassociates.com or call 267-210-1952.

May 2-4: Tom Thumb Marathon Bull and Cow Dolphin Tournament. Marathon. Up to $25,000 in cash and prizes awaits the top anglers who catch the largest bull and cow dolphin fish combined, while other prizes are awarded to anglers catching the largest dolphin, wahoo, tuna and tripletail. Visit marathonoffshoretournament.com.

May 2-4: Nick Sheahan Dolphin Rodeo. Islamorada. Honoring the memory of Nick Sheahan, a Florida Keys student, this tournament benefits a namesake community scholarship fund that has distributed over $456,000 to date. Hosted at Tavernier Creek Marina, the event features cash prizes and $25,000 to the angler with a dolphin fish that beats the state record. Visit nicksheahan.com.

May 4-10: 37th Annual Bob Traa Faro Blanco Invitational Tarpon Tournament. Marathon. Newly renamed to honor tournament founder Bob Traa, this team event allows two to four anglers per team/boat, who fish three nights with three different captains at three different bridges: Bahia Honda, Long Key and the world-famous Seven Mile. Proceeds from the charity tournament benefit Ronald McDonald House. Contact Donna Vankirk at 305-393-0699 or captdonna1@aol.com.

May 16-18: ‘Ladies Let’s Go Fishing’ Screamin’ Reels Tournament. Islamorada. Intended for novice anglers, this weekend is about learning and a nonintimidating, fun competition with the “Ladies Let’s Go Fishing” university organizers. Participants can charter a professional boat or fish on their own boat. This is a casual tournament with prizes for the heaviest offshore fish and longest inshore fish, drawings for prizes for those who caught fish, and bonus drawings. Visit ladiesletsgofishing.com.

May 18-21: Golden Fly Tarpon Tournament. Islamorada. Top fly anglers and world-class guides test their skills in this three-day, invitation only fly-fishing tournament. Winners receive custom art and sculpture from notable wildlife artists as well as the latest gear and apparel from the premier fly-fishing brands in the industry. Visit goldenfly.org

May 30–June 1: Skippers Dolphin Tournament. Key Largo. Headquartered at Skippers Dockside Restaurant behind Key Largo’s Holiday Inn, this tournament pays cash prizes of over $60,000, including a first-place prize of $20,000, as well as prizes for the top six teams and top lady and junior anglers. Visit skipperstournaments.com or email ditournaments@aol.com.

June 6-7: Ladies Dolphin Tournament. Tavernier. Hosted by the Florida Keys Elks Lodge, this event welcomes female angler teams to compete for the highest aggregate weight of three dolphin fish. Cash and prizes are awarded to first- through third-place finishers and for the largest dolphin caught. Visit floridakeyselks1872.com or email ditournaments@aol.com.

June 6-8: 32nd Annual Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce Dolphin Tournament. Big Pine Key and the Lower Keys. Anglers contend for over $35,000 in cash prizes and awards in this popular annual tournament. A cash prize of $20,000 is given for the largest dolphin fish over 50 pounds. Additional prizes await winners in open, ladies and youth divisions. Visit lowerkeyschamber.com/chamber-events/.

June 9-12: Ladies Tarpon Fly Tournament. Islamorada. Hosted by Florida Keys Outfitters, this all-release, fly-fishing invitational tournament for women is held each June during the height of the famed tarpon migration. Started in 1977, the tournament represents a rich history of women who love the sport of saltwater fly fishing. Visit ladiestarponfly.org or call 305-484-4336.

June 13-14: Father’s Day Dolphin Derby: Marathon. This popular dolphin tournament pays out cash and prizes to the top four adults with the heaviest fish. Visit fathersdaydolphintournament.com.

June 13-15: Key West Gator Club Dolphin Derby. Key West. The boat team weighing in the heaviest dolphin fish wins $5,000. Prizes are awarded through fifth place and to the top lady and junior anglers. Proceeds benefit Gator Club scholarships for University of Florida students who graduated from Key West High School. Contact kwgatorclub@outlook.com.

June 16-20: 62nd Annual Gold Cup Tarpon Tournament. Islamorada. This annual challenge appeals to experienced anglers who apply to compete in what is locally called the “Wimbledon of tarpon fishing.” Headquartered at the Lorelei Restaurant and Cabana Bar, the all-release event is limited to 25 anglers by invitation only. Proceeds benefit the Guides Trust Foundation of the Florida Keys. Visit goldcuptt.com.

June 19-21: University of Miami Sports Hall of Fame Celebrity Fishing Tournament. Islamorada. Anglers mingle with sports celebrities in this annual charity tournament that targets dolphin fish and raises funds for the UM Sports Hall of Fame and other charities. Visit canesfish.com or contact Diane Harbaugh at ditournaments@aol.com.

June 20-22: VFW Fishing Tournament. Key West. A family fun tournament, this event awards over $15,000 in total cash and prizes including $5,000 for the heaviest dolphin fish. All proceeds benefit disabled and needy veterans in the Florida Keys’ Monroe County. Email vfw391110@yahoo.com.

June 25-26: IFC Captain’s Cup Dolphin Tournament. Islamorada. Teams of up to four anglers compete for top prizes, and the total combined weight of three dolphin fish determines the winning team in this Islamorada Fishing Club tournament. If up to 25 boats register, first-prize cash winnings can reach $25,000. Visit theislamoradafishingclub.com or contact Diane Harbaugh at ditournaments@aol.com.

June 27-29: Florida Keys PBA Dolphin Tournament. Stock Island. Hosted by volunteers on behalf of the Florida Keys Police Benevolent Association, the tournament targets dolphin fish. Cash prizes await the first- through fourth-place anglers and the top junior, female and PBA member anglers. Proceeds primarily benefit the Autism Society of the Keys and the Love Fund Inc. Visit keysdolphintournament.com.

July 4-6: Billy Knowles Memorial Poor Boys Tarpon Fly Tournament. Islamorada. This tarpon-on-fly tournament is open to all anglers. The team with the most releases of tarpon measuring 4 feet or longer wins. Tournament events are held at the Lorelei Restaurant and Cabana Bar in Islamorada. Visit poorboys.info or email poorboystournment@gmail.com.

July 7-10: Del Brown Invitational Permit Tournament. Sugarloaf Key. Anglers fly fish on the flats in a challenge that honors the late angling pioneer Del Brown, who caught and released more than 500 permit off the Keys. Professionals and guides are allowed to compete as anglers. Visit delbrown.com or call 305-360-6969.

July 23-26: Key West Marlin Tournament. Key West. Anglers can ply the waters once fished by legendary writer Ernest Hemingway while vying for $50,000 in cash prizes. Teams are to earn points for blue marlin, white marlin, spearfish and “fun fish” species. Activities include a nightly dinner, a silent auction and an awards banquet. For anglers of every skill level, the contest coincides with Key West’s annual Hemingway Days festival that celebrates the literary giant’s adventurous spirit. The tournament is limited to 75 entries. Visit keywestmarlin.com.

Aug. 18: Bartenders Dolphin Tournament. Layton. This one-day tournament targets dolphin fish and is open to bartenders and restaurant employees. Kick-off and weigh-in events are to be held at the Florida Boy restaurant at mile marker 68 in Layton. Email ditournaments@aol.com.

Sept. 19-21: Herman Lucerne Memorial Backcountry Fishing Championship. Islamorada. Named after the man known affectionately as “Mr. Everglades,” the event is headquartered at the Islander Resort. Anglers target fish only in the boundaries of Everglades National Park — fishing areas that Lucerne favored — and are challenged to catch at least one tarpon, redfish, snook, sea trout, snapper, bonefish and black drum or bass with the goal being to catch all seven species. Awards are given in 22 individual categories at a ceremony hosted at the Islander Resort. Visit hermanlucernememorial.com or email wesley@lockeandkeyproductions.com.

Sept. 26-28: Take Stock in Children Backcountry Challenge. Key Largo. The annual tournament put on by the Rotary Club of Key Largo offers anglers the opportunity to win coveted trophies for trout, snook and redfish. Fishing is allowed around the clock from Friday night through Sunday afternoon. A popular weekend auction showcase and Sunday evening dinner are open to the public. Proceeds support vocational and educational scholarships for financially challenged Upper Keys students. Visit keylargorotary.org.

Oct. 17-19: “Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing!” Florida Keys Saltwater Seminar and Fishing Fever Inshore/Offshore Tournament. Islamorada. Female fishing fans can learn or polish angling skills during the award-winning weekend seminar with two days of optional charter fishing and the Fishing Fever Fun Tournament. More than 9,000 female graduates have immersed themselves in the lighthearted yet skill-heavy curriculum to learn and hone abilities in offshore, bottom, inshore and fly fishing. Visit ladiesletsgofishing.com or email fish@ladiesletsgofishing.com.

Oct. 17-18: Casting for Cats Backcountry Tournament. Islamorada. This formerly all-female tournament now has a co-ed division and a women’s division. Anglers earn points for catching bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook and redfish using bait, artificial lures or fly tackle. Points are also awarded for ladyfish, sharks, jacks and spotted sea trout. The event is a major fundraiser to help control the feral cat population in the Upper Keys. Call Sharon Mahoney Ellenwood at 305-664-2012.

Oct. 31–Nov.1: Fall Backcountry Fly Championship. Islamorada. Tournament anglers compete to catch the most inches of snook and redfish on fly in a challenge where 1 inch equals one point. Awards are to be given to the grand champion, the anglers who catch the largest snook and redfish, and the “King of the Backcountry” series grand champion among others. Visit BFCtournament.com.

Nov. 13-15: Cheeca Lodge & Spa All-American Backcountry Tournament. Islamorada. Anglers compete for prizes and trophies in this annual all-release event targeting snook, redfish, bonefish, tarpon and permit. The tournament was inspired by George H. W. Bush, the 41st U.S. president, and honors war heroes in an esteemed competition held over Veterans Day weekend. Proceeds benefit the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust. Visit cheeca.com/allamerican.

Nov. 13-15: Sugarloaf Showdown. Sugarloaf Key. Angling teams can vie for victory by targeting bonefish, permit and barracuda during the annual Sugarloaf Showdown in support of the Florida Keys Guides Trust Foundation. The catch-and-release challenge is presented by the Lower Keys Guides Association. Visit sugarloafshowdown.com.

Dec. 5-7: Islamorada Sailfish Tournament. Islamorada. The first leg of the Florida Keys Gold Cup Championship trifecta is the only tournament in the series to offer a junior division for anglers age 16 and younger. Unlimited anglers are allowed per boat. Visit islamoradasailfishtournament.com or email ditournaments@aol.com.

Dec. 12-14: Islamorada Junior Sailfish Tournament. Islamorada. The Florida Keys’ oldest sailfish tournament for kids age 16 and under celebrates its 61st year in 2025. Email islajuniorsail@gmail.com.  

Florida Keys visitor information: fla-keys.com or 1-800-FLA-KEYS

Florida Keys fishing information: fla-keys.com/fishing

Florida Keys fishing tournaments: fla-keys.com/calendar/fishing

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A kick-off party is planned Friday, Dec. 13, at the SandBar restaurant at Whale Harbor, mile marker 83.4 oceanside in Islamorada. Saturday and Sunday are fishing days, with lines in the water each day at 8 a.m. and lines out at 3 p.m.

Following Sunday’s fishing, a traditional awards banquet is planned at 6 p.m. at SandBar. A silent fundraising auction and raffle is to be open to the public throughout the weekend.

The tournament entry fee is $150 for anglers age 16 and younger. As well as demonstrating their skills, they can vie for trophies for top individual and team contenders among others.

Up to six anglers are allowed per boat.   

The all-release challenge is dedicated to fostering youth engagement in sportfishing, promoting conservation and celebrating 60 years of fishing tradition. Organizers’ goals include inspiring young anglers to embrace the sport and protect marine life in the Florida Keys region widely known as the Sport Fishing Capital of the World. 

Tournament registration: islajuniorsail@gmail.com or 970-901-3272

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The first-class catch-and-release tournament was inspired by the United States’ 41st president, George H.W. Bush, an avid Florida Keys angler and a frequent visitor to Cheeca Lodge. It honors a participating team of two veteran soldiers who are to join the field of competitor boats targeting five tournament species: snook, redfish, bonefish, tarpon and permit. 

A welcome beachside reception, followed by a rules meeting and silent auction, kicks off the weekend the evening of Thursday, Nov. 7, at Cheeca Lodge, the tournament's social event headquarters located at mile marker 82 oceanside. 

Fishing is from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 8-9, based out of nearby World Wide Sportsman, 81576 Overseas Highway The prestigious event culminates Saturday evening when individual and team trophies are awarded to winners in the fly, general tackle and artificial lure divisions.

Entry fee is $1,750 per angler and includes admission to social events for an angler and guest and guide and guest. Also included are a daily dockside breakfast, a gift bag and boxed lunches for anglers and guides. Guide fees are additional. 

Proceeds benefit Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, a nonprofit organization with a mission to conserve and restore bonefish, tarpon and permit fisheries and habitats through research, stewardship, education and advocacy.

Registration information: cheeca.com/experience/all-american-fishing-tournament

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Carmen Perez-Padron took the backcountry champion title with 79.75 combined inches of one redfish, snook and trout. Her husband, Nelson Padron, earned the title of top guide.

“I have been fishing mostly charitable tournaments for over 12 years and truly enjoy the Take Stock in Children tournament format — and it’s such a great cause,” said Perez-Padron, whose passion is backcountry fishing in the Keys.

Perez-Padron also was named top artificial division angler and won awards for the adult division’s largest snook at 33.75 inches and largest redfish at 29.25 inches.

Also in the adult division, the award for second-place snook went to Key Largo’s Angel DiGiorgio with a 31.5-incher. Clay Cowart of Tavernier placed third with his 30.25-inch linesider.

Anglers winning awards for adult-division redfish after Perez-Padron were Kris Todd of Key Largo in second place with a 26-incher, and Reed Tudor of Tavernier with a 24.5-inch red.

Taking the adult division’s top trout award was PJ Abolafia of Key Largo with a 22.5-inch fish. Close behind in second place was Reed Tudor with a 20-incher and Jesus Estrada of Tavernier with an 18-inch trout.

In the junior division for anglers age 13-17, the backcountry champion title went to 16-year-old Haley Hanson of Key Largo with a combined three-fish total of 70.25 inches. She fished with her father, Key Largo’s Captain Chris Hanson, who was named top pro in the competition.

In the kids division for participants age 12 and under, awards are presented for the largest trout catches. First place went to Dawson DelosSantos with an 18-inch trout caught while fishing with his father, Key Largo’s Captain Tony DelosSantos. Coming in second was Easton Meyers of Key Largo with a 14-incher.

The tournament drew 56 anglers as well as hundreds of supporters, educators, mentors and members of the Rotary Club of Key Largo. The annual challenge and its popular silent auction raise funds for Take Stock in Children and other scholarship programs.

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Eighty-two anglers, both guided and unguided, fished on 53 boats within the boundaries of Everglades National Park for snook, snapper, redfish, trout, tarpon, bonefish and either black drum or largemouth bass using bait, artificial or fly tackle.

Bokor logged catches from the seven targeted species, all on fly, to take the top title with a total of 240.75 points. His guide, Islamorada’s Captain Richard Black, was named top guide. Bokor also captured the guided fly division title. 

The inaugural Next Generation Award, presented to the top angler across the board from the youth (age 10 and younger) and junior (age 11 to 17) guided and unguided divisions, went to Blaise Walczak, 17, from Naples, Florida. He caught all seven species for a total of 215.75 points, also winning the guided top junior award. The young angler fished with his father, Captain Rob Walczak, also from Naples.

Winner of the unguided top junior award, with six species, was Charley Ross of Miami Shores, Florida, who also took the unguided artificial division award. In addition, Ross caught an 18-inch largemouth bass that was the tournament’s largest.

The unguided top youth was Saige Clark, age 6, of Coral Gables, Florida. Guided top youth honors went to Julian Robertson IV, 10, of Vero Beach, Florida, fishing with Islamorada’s Captain KC Spaulding.

Captain Spaulding also guided young Julian and his father, Julian Robertson III — fishing as The Evergladors team — to the guided top team award. 

Winner in the guided artificial division, with seven species and the largest trout of the tournament at 21 inches, was Mitch Gaither of Mills River, North Carolina, fishing with Captain Brian Gwilliam of Islamorada.

The guided general division winner, Ron Lesseraux of Houston, Texas, caught six species with Islamorada’s Captain Chris Daly. Winner of the unguided general division was Colton Clarke of Coral Gables, Florida, with five species.

Coming in first in the unguided fly division was Madison Kreitner of Homestead, Florida, who also earned the title of unguided top male. Team J & M, consisting of Kreitner and his fishing partner, Johnny Leon of Virginia Gardens, Florida, won the unguided top team award.

The guided top male title was earned by Mark Wolaver of Vero Beach, who fished with Captain Eli Whidden of Homestead.

The top guided female angler, Audrey Koocher, logged seven species while fishing with Captain Robert Collins. Both are from Islamorada. Top unguided female angler was Stephanie Parsons of Naples, with catches across all seven species.

The Sportsmanship Award went to Scott and Liam Giberson from Miramar, Florida. The father-son duo stopped to assist angler Stewart Mitchell when his boat lost power early on one of the tournament’s fishing days.

As well as enabling participants to enjoy the beauty of the Everglades, the tournament benefits water initiative groups whose efforts are restoring the flow of clean freshwater to Florida Bay and Everglades National Park, a designated World Heritage Site.

The 2025 challenge is set for Sept. 19-21, 2025.

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The fishing challenge includes up to 25 participants fishing in three divisions — artificial, fly and bait. One angler per boat is paired with a licensed captain to vie for trophies for the three longest bonefish and three longest permit.

A kick-off party is set for 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13, at the Islamorada Fishing Club, temporarily located at mile marker 80.9 oceanside.

Anglers are to check in virtually and can launch from any location for the tournament’s three days of fishing. Fishing is scheduled between 7:15 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

An angler meeting and awards ceremony is to begin at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Islamorada Fishing Club.

Awards are to be given in bait, artificial and fly divisions, as well as for the largest bonefish and permit — ultimately leading to the Grand Champion award and the All-Tackle winner, if an angler manages to land both species on all tackle. A newcomer award also is to be presented.

Entry fee is $850 per angler.           

Tournament information and registration: wesley@lockeandkeyproductionsor 941-268-1331

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The catch-and-release challenge targets redfish, snook and trout. A silent auction and raffle ticket sales are integral parts of the family fun event.

A public kick-off party for anglers and supporters is scheduled Friday, Oct. 4, at Doc’s Diner, mile marker 99.7 bayside in Key Largo. The event features a cash bar, registration and appetizers starting at 5:30 p.m., followed by a 6:15 p.m. captains and anglers meeting.

After kick-off festivities end Friday night, fishing is to begin and continue night and day through 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6. An awards dinner and live and silent auctions are planned for 6 p.m. Sunday at the Tavernier Elks Lodge, mile marker 92.6 bayside.

Awards are to be presented for adult and junior backcountry champions for the largest combined total of all three species, the adult artificial division largest combined species, top professional guide, top professional angler, largest fish of each species in the adult division and largest trout in the kids division.

Entry fees are $150 per adult angler (age 18 and above), $75 per junior angler (ages 13-17) and $30 for kids 12 and under. Fees include social events. Nonanglers can purchase tickets for Friday and Sunday social events for $30 and $60, respectively. After Oct. 3, there is an additional $25 fee per angler and an additional $10 for social tickets.

The event is limited to 70 anglers, so organizers encourage early registration.

Proceeds help fund scholarships for college-bound Upper Keys students and adult vocational residents. Students from grades 7-12 pair with a mentor to qualify. The state of Florida matches funds raised to provide the scholarships.

Event information and registration: keylargorotary.org

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A full field of 50 teams has entered this one-of-a-kind golf experience to have a “hole” lot of fun honing their swings and raising money for charity, one shot at a time. Boating and golf enthusiasts can still participate as spectators, however, and are invited to attend the kick-off party Friday, Sept. 27.

The 5-9 p.m. launch party at SD Marine Group, mile marker 85 bayside at the base of the Snake Creek Bridge, is to include games, food and drinks. A silent auction and a 50/50 cash raffle are to highlight the fun. Nongolfers also are encouraged to attend the festivities and can purchase tickets for a $50 donation at conchscramble.com.

During the tournament, teams of four and a designated boat driver "caddy" make stops at Islamorada waterfront venues and come ashore to tee off. Each player is to take shots at the floating holes using biodegradable golf balls that dissolve into fish food after 90 hours in the water.

Teams are to meet Saturday at SD Marine Group for an 8:30 a.m. breakfast, hole location assignments and 9 a.m. shotgun start.

Hole location stops where patrons can see and cheer on the festively-dressed fundraising foursomes include Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar, the Oceanview Inn & Sports Pub, Papa Joe’s and Marker 88.

Trophies await the top three teams with the best scores, while additional honors are to recognize the best hole location, most team spirit and best costumes. Proceeds from the popular lighthearted golfing challenge help fund Florida Keys charities.

Event information: conchscramble.com

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Chris Hagin of Tampa, Florida, released both blues on the second day of the three-day tournament while fishing with Captain Billy Currie of Nokomis, Florida.

Currie, who has fished the tournament for some three decades, said the boat was near the western part of the Wood’s Wall area where Hagin hooked the two marlin. He reported they were in water about 1,000 feet deep for the first release and about 750 feet for the second, later in the day.

The veteran captain credited the win to consistency, extensive knowledge of the region’s waters, and taking a pre-fishing day before the tournament began.

“The pre-fish day definitely paid off for us this year and set us up for where we wanted to be in the tournament,” said Currie.

As well as Hagin and Currie, the Don’t Blink team consisted of Ruben Sierrra of Tampa and Josh Hovey of Nokomis.

Hovey released a sailfish on the tournament’s third and final fishing day, bringing the team’s total points to 850.

Dream Weaver, skippered by Captain Cody Darbie of Tampa, Florida, ended the tournament in second place with 500 points. As well as tallying a blue marlin release, the team released two sailfish on separate days.

The Keep ‘Em Tight team, led by Captain Ed Thompson of Tampa, took third place with 422.5 points after releasing a white marlin and catching a 22.5-pound dolphin fish. The dolphin catch also earned Keep ‘Em Tight first place in the tournament’s fun fish dolphin division.

Taking top honors in the ladies division was team BoylenPoint after Michelle Boyle of St. Pete Beach, Florida, released a blue marlin on the tournament’s first fishing day. The team was captained by the angler’s husband Stephen Boyle, also of St. Pete Beach.

Organizers said the 2024 tournament drew 215 participants fishing on 32 boats, who released a collective total of six marlin and tallied 17 marlin hookups.

The angling challenge was held in conjunction with Key West’s Hemingway Days festival, an annual salute to author and angler Ernest Hemingway, who lived and fished in Key West during the 1930s.

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Ward and his captain, Brandon Cyr of Key West, Florida, tallied permit measuring 43 centimeters on the tournament’s first fishing day and 63 centimeters on the second day. On the third and final day, they secured their victory with permit measuring 71, 65 and 67 centimeters.

Metric measurement is used to conform with International Game Fish Association preferences.

Both tournament veterans, Ward and Cyr also earned the Del Brown championship in 2022.

Scott Christian of Milton, Georgia, released two permit on the challenge’s second fishing day and one on the third day, ending with 400 points and the first runner-up title. Christian fished with Captain Chad Huff of Marathon, Florida.

Robert Dougherty of Dallas, Texas, followed Christian in the standings. He caught and released two permit on the tournament’s first day, earning 350 points while fishing with Captain Nick LaBadie of Key West.

Dougherty’s catches included an 80-centimeter permit that was the tournament’s largest.

In the bonefish division, Ivar Bolander of Summerland Key, Florida, took top honors with 700 points. Guided by Captain Steve Friedman of Islamorada, Florida, he released two bonefish on the first day of fishing, three the second day and two on the final day.

Anglers on 24 boats released a total of 17 permit in the tournament named for the late Del Brown, who is credited with popularizing permit fishing with a fly rod. The internationally acclaimed Brown caught more than 500 permit on fly before his death in 2003.

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The 24-hour period Sunday, July 14, limited to Florida residents only, is an addition to the recreational spiny lobster sport season, also known as “mini season” and held annually on the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday in July.

The “bonus” day begins at 12:01 a.m. July 14 and carries the same rules and regulations that apply to the regular July 24-25 mini season. In addition, the Keys’ Monroe County and local municipalities have their own rules regarding shoreline diving that are to be enforced. For example, night diving is not permitted in the Keys during sport season days.

It should be noted that some rules in the Keys, especially bag limits, differ from the remainder of Florida. Bag limits in the Keys are six lobsters per person, per day. All “keepers” must be larger than 3 inches on the carapace and be measured in the water.

“Size and bag limits really matter in the Florida Keys,” said Captain David Dipre of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. “Regulations are important because this is a national marine sanctuary.”

Keys lobster-catching regulations for the sport season days and regular lobster season can be found at KeysLobsterSeason.com. The dedicated website features videos highlighting dive and boating safety tips, and up-to-date rules and regulations for lobster harvesting within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

Law enforcement agencies work together to strictly enforce lobster harvest and boating safety regulations. Divers should be in good physical health and, before embarking on their lobster excursion, ensure they are current with their dive certification and verify that their dive equipment and boating gear are all in good working order.

Regular lobster season begins at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 6, and continues through March 31.

Keys lobster season information: KeysLobsterSeason.com

Florida Keys visitor information: fla-keys.com or 1-800-FLA-KEYS

Florida Keys dive information: fla-keys.com/diving/

Social: Facebook • Twitter • Instagram • YouTube • Pinterest • TikTok • Keys Voices Blog

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The Off the Rock team was guided by Captain Brad Nowicki of Sugarloaf Shores in the Lower Florida Keys.

Finishing second in the angling challenge was the Triple J team skippered by Captain Jason Johnson of Key West, Florida. As well as captaining the boat, Johnson caught the 33.28-pound dolphin fish that earned the team its second-place honors.   

Max Mobley of Key West tallied a 24.58-pound dolphin that landed team No Doubt in third place. The team was guided by Captain Desi Perez III of Rockland Key, Florida.

Marilyn Deno was named top female angler for her 13.94-pound fish caught on the Half Time with her husband, Captain Spencer Deno III, at the helm. Both live in Miami, Florida.

Eleven-year-old Corbon Liechty of Marathon, Florida, brought in a 13.4-pound dolphin while fishing on the Touché to earn the title of top junior angler. The boat was skippered by Joe Allen from Biloxi, Mississippi.

A field of 25 boats fished the tournament. At the event’s close, a check for $25,000 was presented to representatives of the Autism Society of the Keys, dedicated to improving the lives of people affected with autism and their families.

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Winners were determined by the combined weight of three dolphin fish, with additional awards for catches of blackfin tuna, kingfish and wahoo.

The Sea Senorita with team Coastal Ink Printing aboard returned to the dock first, helmed by Captain Casey Yaworski of Tavernier, Florida. The team’s three dolphin weighed in at 42.8, 5.5 and 4.1 pounds for a total of 52.4 pounds to win first place and $7,000.

Team member Tyler Webb from Tavernier landed the whopper 42.8-pound dolphin fish, which earned him the top male angler award and vaulted Coastal Ink Printing into first place. Other team members included Tavernier’s Kendra Paulson; Alissa Keiler from Fort Lauderdale, Florida; and Emalee Taylor from Clearwater, Florida.

Team Contagious with Captain Brian Cone at the helm took second place with a combined weight of 31 pounds. The team’s second-place prize of $2,000 was combined with winnings in the optional Big Three category and first place for the Bucket of Bucks for a total cash prize of $6,569.

Cone’s son, Andy Cone of Tavernier, was named top junior angler for his 7-pound dolphin fish. Fellow team members including brothers Don and Richard Deleon and Bruce Marchetti from Miami, Florida, brought in the team’s other two dolphin at 18 and 6 pounds.

The Natural II’s captain Reese Lewis, from Little Torch Key, Florida, guided his team to third place, earning $1,000 with a three-fish weight of 28.1 pounds. That prize was combined with second place for the Big Three and third place in the Bucket of Bucks for total winnings of $3,338. Anglers included Devon Hannah of Marathon, Florida; R.J. and Joshua Lewis of Summerland Key, Florida; and Karel Lewis of Little Torch Key.

Team Chupi angler Freda Valdes from Miami won the top lady angler award with a 12.6-pound dolphin.

Team CaneDoc earned the Masters of the Ocean Award and $5,738 after weighing in three dolphin fish at 5.6, 6.2 and 6.3 pounds — plus three blackfin tuna at 29, 24.4, and 23.2 pounds — for a combined weight of 94.7 pounds. The team was made up of anglers Spencer "CaneDoc" Kellogg from Miami; Stephen Kellogg from Seattle, Washington; A.C. Tellison of Weston, Florida; and Islamorada anglers Phillip Bryant, Craig Edwards, Ethan Edwards and Kenny Spaulding.

Stephen Kellogg was awarded King of Fish and $500 for his 29-pound blackfin tuna.

Next year’s event is slated for June 19-22, 2025.

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The team weighed in its three heaviest dolphin fish, totaling 27.1 pounds, for the win. Salt Shaker team members were anglers Kenneth and Trevor Padgett from Concord, North Carolina, Jessie Hall of Tavernier and mate Arek Wojcik of Islamorada.

Trevor Padgett also won the largest fish award for his 10.4-pound dolphin fish and Shahlamian was awarded the title of Champion Captain.

Islamorada Captain Kenny Spaulding’s team on the Caribsea won second place with 21.2 pounds of dolphin fish. Anglers, all from Southwest Florida, were Dustin Parker of Cape Coral, Reggie Kreilich of Naples, Anthony Modico from Bonita Springs and Brent Ferguson from North Fort Myers, with mate Phillip Bryan from Islamorada.

Coming in third with 19.2 pounds was team Executive Decision with Captain Chris Ware of Alva, Florida, at the helm. Anglers were Jill and John Paglia of Ocala, Florida, and Mike Kasten from St. Petersburg, Florida.

Organizers said next year’s hotly contested tournament is to take place June 25-26, 2025.

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Team member Jordon Everson of Big Pine Key, Florida, caught the fish that clinched the tournament’s $5,000 first-place prize. Double Up was captained by Brad King.

Teams in the family-friendly tournament earned cash prizes for catching the heaviest dolphin fish, tuna, snapper and grouper. Other cash prizes awaited the challenge’s top veteran and active-duty military member as well as senior, junior, pee-wee and female competitors.

Everson’s catch also earned him the title of top veteran. 

The tournament drew anglers fishing on 41 boats. Proceeds are slated to benefit needy veterans and active-duty personnel in the Florida Keys’ Monroe County.

VFW Tournament Final Results

(Class, Weight, Angler, Hometown, Captain, Boat)

Heaviest Dolphin: 32.4 lb., Jordon Everson, Big Pine Key, Florida, Brad King, Double Up

Heaviest Tuna: 19.4 lb., Cliff Simmen, Key West, Florida, Jim Simmen, Papasan

Heaviest Grouper: 9.6 lb., Duane Zitta, Key West, Florida, Joe Berube, Trumbo Trollers

Heaviest Snapper: 2.9 lb., Lorna Klein, Big Pine Key, Florida, CJ Krieger, Raging Inferno

Senior Division: 19.4 lb. tuna, Cliff Simmen, Key West, Florida, Jim Simmen, Papasan

Female Division: 12 lb. tuna, Susan Ware, Big Coppitt, Florida, Al Ware, WTF

Junior Division (TIE): 5.7 lb. dolphin, Austin Dressler, Tega Cay, South Carolina,  Kevin Rowley, Tight-N-Up; 5.7 lb. dolphin, Conner Webster, Tega Cay, South Carolina,  Kevin Rowley, Tight-N-Up

Pee-Wee Division: 5.4 lb. dolphin, Caleb Gallagher, Key West, Florida, John Gallagher, Double Bubble II

Active Duty Division: 9.6 lb. grouper, Duane Zitta, Key West, Florida, Joe Berube, Trumbo Trollers

Veteran Division: 32.4 lb. dolphin, Jordon Everson, Big Pine Key, Florida, Brad King, Double Up

VFW Slam: Al Ware, Big Coppitt, Florida, Al Ware, WTF

Four Dolphin Aggregate: 30.2 lb., Mark Ransford, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Mark Ransford, Reel Wheels III

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July 12-13: Key West Association of Realtors Charity Fishing Tournament. Key West. Anglers fish for the largest dolphin fish by weight with prizes awarded for first-, second- and third-place fish, and additional prizes for the largest tuna and wahoo. Tournament activities are based at the Key West Yacht Club and proceeds benefit the KWAR CARES foundation, providing help to many charities in the Florida Keys. Visit kwarfishing.com. 

July 14-17: Del Brown Invitational Permit Tournament. Sugarloaf Key. Anglers fly fish on the flats in a challenge that honors the late angling pioneer Del Brown, who caught and released more than 500 permit off the Keys. Professionals and guides are allowed to compete as anglers. Visit delbrown.com or call 305-360-6969.

July 17-20: Key West Marlin Tournament. Key West. Anglers can ply the waters once fished by legendary writer Ernest Hemingway while vying for $50,000 in cash prizes. Teams are to earn points for blue marlin, white marlin, spearfish and “fun fish” species. Activities include a nightly celebratory dinner, a silent auction and an awards banquet. For anglers of every skill level, the contest coincides with Key West’s annual Hemingway Days festival that celebrates the literary giant’s adventurous spirit. Only 75 entries are available. Visit keywestmarlin.com.

Aug. 12: Bartenders Dolphin Tournament. Layton. This one-day dolphin tournament is open to bartenders and restaurant employees. Kick-off and weigh-in events are to be held at the Florida Boy restaurant at mile marker 68 in Layton. Email ditournaments@aol.com.

Sept. 20-22: Herman Lucerne Memorial Backcountry Fishing Championship. Islamorada. Named after the man known affectionately as “Mr. Everglades,” the event is headquartered at the Islander Resort. Anglers target fish only in the boundaries of Everglades National Park, fishing areas that Lucerne favored, and are challenged to catch at least one tarpon, redfish, snook, sea trout, snapper, bonefish and black drum or bass with the goal being to catch all seven species. Awards are given in 22 individual categories at a ceremony hosted at the Islander Resort. Visit hermanlucernememorial.com or email wesley@lockeandkeyproductions.com.

Oct. 4-6: Take Stock in Children Backcountry Challenge. Key Largo. This annual tournament put on by the Rotary Club of Key Largo offers anglers the opportunity to win coveted trophies for trout, snook and redfish. Fishing is allowed around the clock from Friday night through Sunday afternoon. A popular weekend auction showcase and Sunday evening dinner are open to the public. Proceeds support vocational and educational scholarships for financially challenged Upper Keys students. Visit keylargorotary.org.

Oct. 14-16: Islamorada Fall All-Tackle Bonefish and Permit Championship. Islamorada. Dubbed the “Fall All-Tackle,” the three-day challenge attracts energized newcomers to face seasoned veterans in a competition that has taken place since 1970. One angler per boat pairs with a licensed captain to vie for division winners’ trophies for the three longest bonefish and three longest permit. Email islamoradafallalltackle@gmail.com.

Oct. 16-17: Casting for Cats Backcountry Tournament. Islamorada. This formerly all-female tournament now has a co-ed division and a women’s division. Anglers earn points for catching bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook and redfish using bait, artificial lures or fly tackle. Points are also awarded for ladyfish, sharks, jacks and spotted sea trout. The event is a major fundraiser to help control the feral cat population in the Upper Keys. Call Sharon Mahoney Ellenwood at 305-664-2012.

Oct. 18-20: “Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing!” Florida Keys Saltwater Seminar and Fishing Fever Inshore/Offshore Tournament. Islamorada. Female fishing fans can learn or polish angling skills during the award-winning weekend seminar with two days of optional charter fishing and Fishing Fever Fun Tournament. More than 8,000 female graduates have immersed themselves in the lighthearted yet skill-heavy curriculum to learn and hone abilities in offshore, bottom, inshore and fly fishing. Visit ladiesletsgofishing.com or email fish@ladiesletsgofishing.com.

Nov. 1-2: Fall Backcountry Fly Championship. Islamorada. Tournament anglers compete to catch the most inches of snook and redfish on fly in a challenge where 1 inch equals 1 point. Awards are to be given to the grand champion, the anglers who catch the largest snook and redfish, and the “King of the Backcountry” series grand champion among others. Visit BFCtournament.com.

Nov. 7-9: Cheeca Lodge & Spa All-American Backcountry Tournament. Islamorada. Anglers compete for prizes and trophies in this annual all-release event targeting snook, redfish, bonefish, tarpon and permit. The tournament was inspired by George H. W. Bush, the 41st U.S. president, and honors war heroes in an esteemed competition held over Veterans Day weekend. Proceeds benefit the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust. Visit cheeca.com/allamerican.

Nov. 14-16: Sugarloaf Showdown. Sugarloaf Key. Angling teams can vie for victory by targeting bonefish, permit and barracuda during the annual Sugarloaf Showdown in support of the Florida Keys Guides Trust Foundation. The catch-and-release challenge is presented by the Lower Keys Guides Association. For more information and registration, visit sugarloafshowdown.com.

Dec. 6-8: Islamorada Sailfish Tournament. Islamorada. The first leg of the Florida Keys Gold Cup Championship trifecta is the only tournament in the series to offer a junior division for anglers age 16 and younger. Unlimited anglers are allowed per boat. Visit islamoradasailfishtournament.com or email ditournaments@aol.com.

Dec. 13-15: Islamorada Junior Sailfish Tournament. Islamorada. The Florida Keys’ oldest sailfish tournament for kids age 16 and under celebrates its 60th year. Contact fishnbully@msn.com or call 305-240-9337.

Florida Keys visitor information: fla-keys.com or 1-800-FLA-KEYS

Florida Keys fishing information: fla-keys.com/fishing

Florida Keys fishing tournaments: fla-keys.com/calendar/fishing

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Travis Lawlor of Big Pine Key caught the fish that earned the team its victory. Martha’s Pride was skippered by Big Pine Key’s Captain Mario Becker and the team also consisted of Fred George of Okeechobee, Florida, and Big Pine Key anglers Michael Becker and Jed Scanlon.

Lawlor said Martha’s Pride was off Big Pine in about 750 feet of water when he hooked the winning fish using ballyhoo as bait.

“I pitched the bait in front of him and he ate it,” Lawlor said. “I fought him for about 10 minutes, got him to the boat and then he sounded — and I had to fight another 10 minutes and then got him boatside.”

Second place went to the team aboard Fishy Business, under the direction of Captain Eric Evans of Key West, Florida. Aidan Butler of Charleston, South Carolina, caught a 24.75-pound dolphin to secure the second spot and a $1,000 prize. Other team members, all hailing from Charleston, were Mason Hoffman, Mary Pat Calvert and Lach Calvert.

The third-place team was Tight-N-Up with a dolphin weighing 15.6 pounds. The fish was caught by Kevin Rowley of Little Torch Key, Florida, who captained the boat as well. The Tight-N-Up team also consisted of Lower Florida Keys anglers Alexa Barket, Eddie Yandle, Christian Gatti and Joel Gonzalez.

Top honors in the youth division went to the team aboard Halftime, skippered by Captain Spencer Deno. Team member Shane Deno, the captain’s 9-year-old grandson, caught a 6.75-pound dolphin to take first place in the division.

Additional members of the Halftime team were Spencer Deno’s son Carl Deno, grandson Spencer Deno V, granddaughter Alyssa Deno and Brent Cates. The team is based in Virginia Gardens, Florida.

“I have been fishing tournaments with my kids and immediate family for over 30 years, and we’ve been fishing this tournament for over 10 years,” said Captain Deno. “It’s a family affair.”

According to event organizers, the angling challenge drew teams fishing on 42 boats. Tournament proceeds benefit the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce and its programs.

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Captained by Skye Stanley of Islamorada, Florida, Hurricane II’s team of Josh Hufstetler of Thomasville, Georgia, and Matthew Carlton from Tallahassee, Florida, captured first place and $27,980 with a combined weight of 41.1 pounds for three dolphin fish caught over two days of fishing. Hufstetler’s 29.9-pounder earned him $8,485 for the largest dolphin fish caught on the tournament’s first day, bringing the team’s total winnings to $36,465.  

Shaka Kai was the second-place team, winning $15,985 for a combined weight of 39.5 pounds for three dolphin fish. Consisting of Captain Joshua Holmes of Homestead, Florida, Ryan Clevenger of Grandville, Ohio, and Shawn Shipman of Virginia Beach, Virginia, Shaka Kai brought in additional cash prizes of $6,844 for Shipman’s 15-pound mahi-mahi, the second-largest fish on day two; and $500 for Holmes’ 20.3 pounder, the third-largest fish on day one, for total team winnings of $23,329.

In third place was Team Crazyfish, with Florida anglers from Fort Lauderdale, Miami and Key Biscayne who caught three dolphin fish that totaled 36 pounds to win $5,000.

The second-largest fish on day one weighed 20.8 pounds, with a payout of $4,990 for Daniel Frade of Fort Pierce, Florida, fishing on Putemindakoola.

The largest fish on day two, weighing 16.7 pounds, was caught by Daniel Gonzalez of Ormond Beach, Florida, aboard team Net Worker with a prize of $2,500.

Jill Paglia from Ocala, Florida, won $2,000 for the largest fish caught by a lady angler with 13.6 pounds aboard Executive Decision.

The award for the largest fish caught by a senior angler and a $1,000 prize went to Paul Knapp of Pompano Beach, Florida, for an 8.2-pound fish aboard Pauly’s Girl.

The top junior angler, Brock Stoky of Key Largo, won $500 for his 7.3-pound fish caught on the Reel Stoked.

The “largest other species fish” winners each took home a King Sailfish Mount trophy and $750. They were Deep Green angler Michael Born from Key Largo with a 10-pound kingfish; Eco Marine’s Lindsay Nara of Port Charlotte, Florida, who caught a 13.7-pound wahoo; and Jessie Hall from Islamorada with a 16.9-pound tuna caught while fishing on Salt Shaker.  

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Teams in the Key West Marlin Tournament are to target blue marlin, white marlin, spearfish and “fun fish” species while competing for a $50,000 cash purse.

Teams that accumulate the most points for marlin and spearfish during the tournament’s three fishing days are to share $40,000 cash. All billfish must be released to quality for prizes.

Teams also can earn points by entering one fun fish (dolphin fish, tuna, wahoo or released sailfish) per boat per day. Minimum weight for dolphin, wahoo and tuna is 15 pounds.

Boats in the marlin division also can enter the fun fish division to compete for an additional $10,000. Cash prizes are to be presented for the three heaviest dolphin fish, wahoo and tuna (yellowfin, blackfin or skipjack). Minimum weight for those species is 15 pounds.

The tournament takes place in conjunction with Key West’s Hemingway Days, staged July 16-21 to celebrate the vigorous sporting lifestyle and literary excellence of Ernest Hemingway, who lived in Key West for most of the 1930s.

Final tournament registration is scheduled at 4 p.m. Wednesday, July 17, in the ballroom at the Opal Key Resort & Marina, 245 Front St. A captains meeting, reception, auction and raffle are to follow.

Fishing is set for 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday and Friday, July 18 and 19; and 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 20. Weigh-ins are 4-6 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 3-5 p.m. Saturday at Stock Island Marina Village, 7005 Shrimp Road.

Tournament social events include a waterfront dinner and an island-style pig roast. Saturday night’s awards banquet and silent auction are scheduled at the Opal Key Resort & Marina, with events beginning at 6:30 p.m.

The marlin division boat entry fee, allowing two anglers to fish and including social privileges for four, is $2,550 per boat. There is no maximum number of anglers per boat, but additional anglers must pay $250 apiece. Entry in the fun fish division is an additional $450 per boat.

Tournament information and registration: keywestmarlin.com

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According to event directors, a $10,000 payout is guaranteed and will increase by $1,000 for each boat registered over 10, up to a maximum of $25,000 if 25 boats are registered. Slots are still available for anglers who want to join the fun and competition.

A kick-off party with buffet-style meal is set for 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 26, at the club’s temporary location at 80939 Overseas Highway.

The one-day boat-format tournament gets under way with lines in the water at 7:30 a.m. Thursday. The weigh-in is set for 3-5 p.m. at 80939 Overseas Highway.

All dolphin fish to be weighed can be brought to the club’s temporary location by car. Each fish must be at the club’s certified weigh station by 5 p.m. with the angler who caught it. Only three fish per team will be weighed.

The awards banquet is set for 6:30 p.m. Thursday at the same location.

The early entry fee through June 8 is $1,700 for the first two anglers on a boat and $300 for each additional angler. After June 8, the price increases to $1,950 for the first two anglers and $350 for each additional angler. Up to four anglers are allowed to fish per boat. Entry includes tickets to all social events.

Tournament information: theislamoradafishingclub.com or Dianne Harbaugh at 305-522-4868

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Kristy Yeider of Marathon earned the top lady angler award — and the largest-in-tournament honors — for her 27.8-pound dolphin fish, taking home $1,250 in cash. Captain Picariello’s son, Luca, a Marathon eighth-grade student, was named top junior angler for his 15.5-pounder and won $250.

Also on board the lucky Outlaw was Trisha Hopp of Key West, Florida, winning $500 as second-place lady angler for her 16.3-pound dolphin fish.

Marathon resident Mike Sessler earned first place in the weekend warrior category with a 26-pounder, claiming a $2,000 cash prize.

Timothy Hayes of Duck Key, Florida, took the top spot in the pro category, earning $2,000 for his 16.4-pound dolphin fish.

The tournament is a leading fundraiser for Habitat for Humanity of the Middle Keys’ projects and programs.

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Participants caught a total of 180 offshore and inshore fish from private and charter fishing boats.

First place in the offshore division went to Tatiana Andronik of Indian Trail, North Carolina, for her catch of a 4.75-pound mahi-mahi. She fished on the Kay K IV with Captain David Galen of Islamorada.

Finishing in second place offshore was Kyllene Carter of Miami Shores, Florida, with a

4.4-pound mahi-mahi. Carter scored her catch while fishing on the Islamorada charter boat Big Dave with Captain Don Chittick.

Elizabeth Palma of Key Largo, Florida, took first and second place in the inshore division, reeling in a 26-inch and a 22-inch redfish aboard Uno Mas.

Penny Jacobis of Pinecrest, Florida, scored first place in the jack division with her

48.5-pound amberjack. She fished on Sea Horse with Islamorada’s Captain Rick Rodriguez.

Finishing in second place in the jack division was Susan Anthony of Fort Myers, Florida, with a 42.6-pound amberjack caught on the Kay K IV.

Isabella Chandler of Jacksonville, Florida, earned the top teen angler title with her 35.5-pound amberjack caught while fishing on Sea Horse.

According to LLFG founder Betty Bauman, Screamin’ Reels is a different breed of tournament where it’s “game on” for almost every legal offshore or inshore species in the sea.

“It’s perfect for novice or average anglers and those who have never caught a fish, nor would ever dream of entering a fishing tournament,” said Bauman.

LLGF also offers the Florida Keys Saltwater Weekend Seminar, set for Oct. 18-20, 2024, that includes a full-day fishing seminar and two days of fishing in the waters off Islamorada.

Event information: ladiesletsgofishing.com, fish@ladiesletsgofishing.com or Betty Bauman at 954-475-9068

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Handily eclipsing his rivals, Inwood also took top honors in the challenge’s scuba division.

The unique tournament awarded cash and prizes to participants who weighed in the heaviest black grouper in the scuba, freedive and rod and reel divisions.

Aaron Young of Key West brought in a winning 23.4-pounder in the freedive division, while Key West angler Richard Divoll led the rod and reel division with a black grouper that weighed 20.8 pounds.

All registrants also were eligible for prizes in categories including the heaviest pelagic species, heaviest mutton snapper and most lionfish collected.

Inwood added to his victories by tallying the heaviest pelagic species, a cobia that weighed 31.1 pounds.

Clay Glover of St. Petersburg, Florida, speared the tournament’s heaviest mutton snapper, a 14.7-pounder, while competing in the scuba division.

Mike Healy of West Palm Beach, Florida, took the lionfish prize, spearing three of the invasive species for a combined weight of 4.1 pounds. 

Nathalie Meyers of Key West was the top female participant. Registered in the freedive division, she captured a 5-pound mutton snapper.

Presented by Red Rum International, the tournament was paired with a “trash harvest” targeting polypropylene. King of the Reef competitors have removed 740 pounds of polypropylene trash during the past two years’ events.

As well as benefiting the environment and challenging contenders, the tournament raises awareness about decompression sickness and injuries. Red Rum founder and King of the Reef organizer Daniel DelGuidice, who sustained a decompression injury in 2021, intends to start a foundation to support people who are affected.

The 2024 tournament drew 54 registrants, said DelGuidice, setting an event participation record. 

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Gary Dunn, UM Sports Hall of Famer and Pittsburgh Steeler standout with two Super Bowl wins, is to serve as host of the tournament. Since 1996, Dunn has owned the Florida Keys’ landmark Ocean View Inn and Sports Pub at 80450 Overseas Highway bayside.

A welcome party for tournament anglers, sponsors and participating UM Sports Hall of Fame celebrities is to be held at Ocean View Inn Thursday, June 20. The public is invited to attend the 7-9 p.m. event to meet and greet their favorite UM players. Participating celebrities this year are to include Jimmy Johnson, K.C. Jones, J.D. Arteaga, Randall Hill, Mike Ward and Spencer “Doc” Kellogg among others.

A tournament kick-off party, also open to the public, is set for 5-10 pm. Friday, June 21, on the beach at La Siesta Resort & Villas, 80241 Overseas Highway oceanside, with celebrities in attendance. Events are to include a captains meeting, auctions and dinner.

Lines-in for fishing is at 7:30 a.m. Saturday, June 22, and fish must be weighed in no later than 5 p.m. The official weigh-in and a dock party is planned for 2-5 p.m. at Three Waters Resort & Marina, 84001 Overseas Highway oceanside. Those who aren’t fishing are welcome to stop by to get photos with UM celebrities and their fish.

The event concludes with a 7-10 p.m. awards dinner and party Saturday night at La Siesta. Cash prizes and awards are to be presented to the top three teams that catch the heaviest aggregate weight of three dolphin fish, with $7,000 awarded for first place, $2,000 for second and $1,000 for third.

The top male, female and junior anglers — determined by the weight of the heaviest dolphin fish caught — are each to receive trophies.

The angler with the heaviest single fish of the other eligible species — tuna, wahoo and kingfish — is to receive the “King of Fish” prize and $500. Optional added-value prize categories require additional fees.

Tournament entry fees are $225 per angler through June 1, $250 per angler June 2-20, and $300 on June 21. Additional social event tickets are available to the public for the Friday and Saturday evening events.

Tournament proceeds benefit the Ari Arteaga Foundation and the Upper Keys Foundation, as well as the University of Miami Sports Hall of Fame & Museum.

Tournament registration and ticketing information: canesfish.com

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The tournament is hosted by volunteers on behalf of the Florida Keys Police Benevolent Association. Proceeds are to benefit the Autism Society of the Keys, dedicated to improving the lives of people affected with autism and their families, and the Love Fund that assists the families of officers killed or injured in the line of duty.

The boat team scoring the heaviest dolphin fish during the tournament’s two fishing days will take home a grand prize ranging from $7,500 up to $15,000 cash, with the amount determined by the number of boats entered.

Cash prizes also await the second- through fourth-place teams, as well as the top PBA member and top female and junior anglers. In addition, the angler that catches the heaviest tuna is to receive a rod and reel.   

Events are headquartered at Oceans Edge Resort & Marina, 5950 Peninsular Ave. on Stock Island.

The tournament kicks off with a captains meeting beginning at 6 p.m. Friday, June 28, at Oceans Edge.

Fishing is set for 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, with a 4-6 p.m. weigh-in Saturday and a 3:30-5 p.m. weigh-in Sunday.

Sunday’s angling action is to be capped by an awards dinner at Oceans Edge.

Entry fees are $500 per boat and up to four anglers, including social passes for four anglers. A maximum of six anglers can fish per boat, but each angler over four must pay an additional $125.

Tournament information and registration: keysdolphintournament.com

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Events are headquartered at Beachside Resort & Residences, 3841 N. Roosevelt Blvd.

The boat team weighing in the overall heaviest dolphin fish during the derby’s two fishing days is to take home a grand prize of $5,000 cash. The second-place team is to earn $3,000, while $2,000 is slated for the third-place team. Prizes are awarded through fifth place.

The first-place lady angler and first-place junior angler each are to receive a cash prize of $1,000. Cash prizes also await the second- and third-place finishers in the two divisions.

The tournament kicks off with a final registration, reception and captains meeting beginning at 6 p.m. Friday, June 21, at Beachside Resort.

Fishing is set for 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, June 22 and 23, with weigh-ins until 5:30 p.m. both days at Beachside. Each team is allowed to enter one qualifying fish per day in each division. Fish weighed in the lady angler and junior angler divisions are eligible to win the overall division.

Entry fees are $500 per team of up to four anglers until June 7, 2024. After that date, the entry fee increases to $700.

All proceeds are to benefit Gator Club scholarship funds for University of Florida students who graduated from Key West High School.

Derby information and registration: kwgatorclub@outlook.com, AJ Davila at 305-393-6675 or @kwgatorclubdolphinderby on Instagram

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The purse includes a “super prize” of $50,000 cash for the angler who catches the heaviest dolphin fish over 50 pounds.

The family-friendly tournament features categories for active-duty military members, veterans and first responders as well as lady, pee-wee (age 10 and under), junior (ages 11-15) and senior anglers (age 65 and above).

Participants can fish inshore and offshore and can target dolphin fish (also called mahi-mahi), wahoo, tuna, snapper and grouper. Cash prizes are to be awarded to the boat team scoring the heaviest catches of each including a $5,000 first-place prize for the heaviest mahi-mahi.

Angler awards of $400 cash are slated for the first-place competitor in each of the seven fishing categories. Cash prizes also await the angler who scores the heaviest combined weight of three of the five eligible species, and the angler with the heaviest combined weight of four dolphin fish — including at least one bull and one cow.

Registered participants also can choose to compete in optional entry divisions to be eligible for additional prizes.

Plans call for tournament participants to gather at VFW Post 3911, located at 2200 N. Roosevelt Blvd. in Key West, at 5 p.m. Friday, June 14, for final registration. A captains meeting is set for 7 p.m.

Anglers can fish from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. either Saturday, June 15, or Sunday, June 16 — or both if they register separately for each day.

A 2-4 p.m. weigh-in is scheduled each day at Stock Island Yacht Club and Marina, 6000 Peninsular Ave. on Stock Island; and Big Pine Key Resort, 33000 Overseas Highway on Big Pine Key.

A dinner and awards ceremony are to be held at 6:30 p.m. Sunday at the American Legion post at 5610 College Road.

Tournament registration is $350 per boat and four anglers by May 31 and $400 per boat thereafter, plus a 4% credit card processing fee. Each additional angler on a boat must pay $50.

All proceeds are to benefit needy veterans and active-duty personnel in the Florida Keys’ Monroe County.

Tournament information and registration: vfw3911.org

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Joe Broderick and Mike McGrath, both of Huntingdon Valley, captured first place with their tally of eight tarpon and took home $4,500 in prize money.

The brothers were recruited by their father, Bill Broderick, also of Huntingdon Valley. He fished the tournament for the first time last year and called it one of the best times of his life.

The senior Broderick, fishing this year with tournament newcomers Joe Gentile of Collegeville, Pennsylvania, and Dan Powell of Sea Isle City, New Jersey, also released eight tarpon to earn second-place honors and $3,300.

The winners’ eighth tarpon was caught earlier than the second-place team’s fish, giving Joe Broderick and Mike McGrath the win.

Brothers Rusty and Ray Martz from Ambler, Pennsylvania — last year’s champions — caught seven tarpon to finish in third place and win $2,100.

Each year the high-energy tournament mandates that teams must fish with a different captain each evening, so no one group of anglers has an advantage with potential "hot spots."

Teams rotated among the three major bridge channels in the Middle Keys — at the Seven Mile, Long Key and Bahia Honda bridges. Because of this format, captains are awarded for the overall number of tarpon caught from their boats. 

Named the first-place captain with 13 fish was Captain John Callion of Marathon. Captain Jared Dieguez, also of Marathon, tallied 10 tarpon to land the second-place slot. Marathon’s Captain Charlie Turner, fishing the Tarponian for the first time, took third place with nine tarpon.

A field of 50 anglers on 16 boats participated in the event, releasing a total of 82 tarpon.

Next year’s tournament is scheduled April 26-30, 2025. To participate, anglers must register and submit deposits in advance by Aug. 31, 2024. For information, contact David Breznicky at 267-210-1952.

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The angling challenge is scheduled Friday through Sunday, June 7-9. Tournament events are to be headquartered at the Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Resort, located at 251 State Road 939 off the Florida Keys Overseas Highway at mile marker 20.

The boat team that scores the tournament’s largest dolphin fish can take home a $7,500 first-place cash award and trophy. If the winning dolphin weighs over 50 pounds, the angler who catches it earns an added premium of $20,000.

Cash prizes and trophies also await the second- through fourth-place teams. Prize amounts are based on a minimum field of 35 registered boats.

Anglers on the first 50 boat teams to register are eligible for the $20,000 payout.

Awards in the youth division, for anglers age 15 and under, include prizes and trophies through third place.

The tournament kicks off at 5 p.m. Friday, June 7, with a registration party featuring appetizers and a cash bar at the Sugarloaf Key KOA. A mandatory captains meeting is planned for 7 p.m.

Angling action begins at 7 a.m. the next two days.

Saturday’s weigh-in is scheduled to start at 4 p.m. and end at 6 p.m. at the KOA.

Sunday’s fishing is to conclude with a 3-5 p.m. weigh-in at the KOA. A 4-6 p.m. social gathering and 6 p.m. dinner and awards ceremony round out the day’s events.

Tournament entry fees, covering up to six anglers per boat, are $500 per boat if received no later than May 31 and $550 per boat after that date. The fee also includes four passes for Sunday’s awards dinner. Additional social passes for the awards dinner are $25 per person.

Tournament proceeds benefit the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce and its programs.

Event information and registration: lowerkeyschamber.com/chamber-events/

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The No Slack team, all from Marathon, released four sailfish during the contest’s two days of fishing to earn winners’ trophies. The tournament is a fundraiser for Mission Fishin’, a nonprofit organization dedicated to funding marine adventures for kids with special needs and their families.

Captain Platt’s 7-year-old son, James Platt III, caught and released the first sailfish of the tournament and earned the title of top junior angler.

No Slack angler Melissa Bennett released two sailfish while mate and angler Ely Hernandez released one, bringing the team’s total to four and securing the win based on time.

Team Yeti or Not, captained by Marathon’s Jared Dieguez, returned to the dock in second place with four releases. Team members were Jonathan Sanchez, Tony Palm, Luca Picariello and mate Tod Picariello, all from Marathon; and Caden Hudson and Kevin Reid, both from Naples, Florida.

Two of Yeti or Not’s four releases were caught by Sanchez, earning him the top male angler award.

Third-place team Memory Maker ended the tournament with three releases. Teammates included Captain Jon Henry, mate Casey Yaworsky and angler Christina Henry — all from Marathon — with Florida anglers Sean Marrero of Key Largo and Alissa Keiler of Fort Lauderdale.

Keiler scored all three of Memory Maker’s sailfish releases to garner the top lady angler award.

The tournament drew 75 registered anglers on 16 boats. Collectively, they released a total of 27 sailfish.

Next year’s tournament is set for April 24-26, 2025, according to organizers.

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The angler that weighs in the tournament’s heaviest black grouper is to earn the overall grand prize of $1,500 and the title of “King of the Reef.”

Also to receive cash and prizes are each division’s top two participants that weigh in the heaviest grouper.

All registrants are also eligible for additional prizes in categories for the heaviest mutton snapper, heaviest pelagic species and the most lionfish collected.

Presented by Red Rum International, the tournament is paired with a “trash harvest” targeting polypropylene. Participants can weigh in polypropylene items, ranging from ropes to packaging and containers, gathered from the Keys’ coastal wetlands and waters. Prizes await the person who collects the largest amount of polypropylene.

As well as benefiting the environment and challenging participants, the tournament raises awareness about decompression sickness, sometimes called “the bends,” and resultant decompression injuries. Red Rum founder and King of the Reef organizer Daniel DelGuidice sustained a decompression injury in 2021 and intends to start a foundation to support people who are similarly affected.

Tournament events are to kick off Friday, May 17, with a 4-8 p.m. final registration and captains meeting at the Red Rum tent outside The Docks Restaurant & Raw Bar, 6840 Front St. on Stock Island. Anglers and divers can pick up their participant bags at that time.

Fishing is scheduled Saturday, May 18, from 12:01 a.m. through the designated 4-6:30 p.m. weigh-in. The weigh-in is to take place at Keys Fresh Seafood Market’s “tin roof” structure, also at 6840 Front St. Each angler can weigh only one fish per division or category. All weighed grouper must be whole, fully gutted and properly iced.

The awards ceremony is to begin at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at the seafood market location, with a gathering at The Docks to follow.

The entry fee in each division is $105 per angler or divers until April 26 and $125 from that date through May 17.

Event information and registration: redrumintl.com/red-rum-tournaments/

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Significant prize money is to be shared by the event’s top six teams including $20,000 cash to the overall first-place team, $10,000 for second place and $5,000 for third place. Also to be awarded are cash prizes to the leading daily angler and leading lady, senior and junior anglers; for the first-, second- and third-largest fish caught each day; and for the largest tuna, wahoo and kingfish caught during the tournament.

A kickoff, final registration party and captains meeting are set for 5-8 p.m. Friday, May 31, at Skippers Dockside Restaurant. Serving as tournament headquarters, the restaurant is located at 528 Caribbean Drive behind the Holiday Inn Key Largo, an IHG Hotel, at mile marker 100.

Fishing begins at 8 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, followed by a daily dockside party and an awards event after Sunday's weigh-in and party. Anglers must get their fish to the weigh-in by 5 p.m. each day.

Eligible species for the tournament are dolphin fish, tuna, wahoo and kingfish. Only dolphin catches are to be eligible for overall prizes. Each team can weigh in two dolphin per day and the combined weight of a team’s three largest fish is to determine the winners.

Online registration is recommended. Junior anglers must be under age 16 and seniors at least age 65 on the first day of the tournament.

Nonrefundable early entry fees are $225 per angler on or before April 26. After April 26, registration is $275 per angler until May 30. In-person registration is available Friday, May 31, for $350 per angler. An unlimited number of anglers is allowed per boat.

Event information and registration: skipperstournaments.com

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The high-energy tournament mandates that teams fish with a different captain each day. Teams also rotate among the three major bridge channels in the middle Keys — the Seven Mile, Long Key and Bahia Honda bridges — so any potential "hot spots" are shared among all anglers.

Tarponians are set to gather Saturday, April 27, for the tournament’s 6:30 p.m. kickoff at Florida Keys Steak and Lobster House, 3660 Overseas Highway or marker 48 bayside in Marathon.                       

Fishing is to get underway Sunday and Monday with lines-in at 4 p.m. Lines-out is to be called at 8 p.m. Tarpon fishing is not scheduled Tuesday, but anglers may choose to fish for snapper and other species.           

The third and final fishing day is Wednesday, May 1, from 4 to 8 p.m., followed by a 9 p.m. awards banquet at Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House.

Entry fee is $1,400 per angler for three-person teams or $1,750 per angler for two-person teams. Tournament fees cover fishing, banquet, shirts and prize money. Prize payouts are to be determined depending on the total number of participating teams.

The 2024 tournament is dedicated to the memory of Curtis Kaller, who passed away in May 2023. According to organizer David Breznicky, Kaller and his “Criminals” fishing team were the source of mischievous fishing stories during many past Tarponian tournaments.         

Tournament information: David Breznicky at 267-210-1952 or dbreznicky@breznickyassociates.com

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