This month ends the eight month long competition which started in March. The Key West Fishing Tournament, now in its 47th year, is open to the general public, both visitors and residents. At no cost, anglers can enter their catch at a certified tournament weigh station, each entry receiving a catch certificate.
This year the tournament was sponsored by Dream Catcher Charters, and the captains here are very keen on making their clients’ days even more exciting by entering them in this contest. Other sponsors include Double Tree by Hilton Grand Key Resort, The Key West Charter Boat Association, Shell Oil, Key West Southernmost Hotel Collection, Marriott Key West Beachside Hotel and Signs Unlimited.
There are several divisions for the tournament including men, women, juniors and Pee Wees, all competing to catch more than 30 fish species. The junior division is for anglers age 10 to 14, and the Pee Wees are under 10 years old. Tackle class’ range from 8-pound test through unlimited, and spin, plug and fly. So no matter what your fancy is, your skill level, or the weather conditions, you have a great opportunity to take part in and get entered into the tournament.
The goal of the tournament is to promote sport fishing participation in the Key West area by encouraging catch and release. And in that vein, weights for sharks entered into the tournament will no longer be accepted.
If you won’t be in town to fish this month and get a catch entered into the tournament, don’t fret! The tournament starts all over again in March for the 48th year and another great tournament season where you will once again have a chance to enter. Stay tuned for more information to come about the awards banquet and the kick off tournament for 2012!
For more information about the fun side of Key West… things to do and see in our island city, go to our Key West Web Site. You can also visit our Key West Events Calendar to see upcoming special events. And for more restaurant reviews check out our restaurant review section of this blog as well as our restaurant reviews.
Island Genn – Your Key West Concierge
