A kickoff tournament on March 11-13 marked the beginning of the 40th annual season-long Key West Fishing Tournament that will run until November 30, 2011. The lucky anglers in the kickoff event were awarded trophies, cash prizes and fishing tour packages. Residents and visitors from “pee wees” (under age 10) to adults will compete for $5000.00 in cash prizes to be awarded at the completion of the tournament.
The Key West Fishing Tournament began in 1965 to promote sport fishing, conservation and tourism in Key West, and this same mission remains today. More than 2000 anglers participate each year and all receive a certificate for their angling achievement (for their catch) or sportsmanship (for released catches).
Seventeen weigh stations will certify official weights of the entries, and rules specify minimum weights in each class to discourage the killing of smaller fish. Forty-four different species of fish are allowed in the tournament including grouper, mackerel, bonefish, marlin, amberjack, snapper, and tuna. A complete list of allowed species and minimum weights and lengths is found at the Key West Fishing Tournament site.
The tournament is popular with local charter fishermen, and charter captains register their boats to be part of the tournament. Over 50 charter fishermen are registered for the 2011 tournament. Private boats and individual fishermen do not have to register in advance for the tournament. When catches are weighed, participants must fill out an official entry form and submit or mail the form to the tournament office. Anglers enter a released fish by filling out a form noting the name of a witness to the catch. The overnight Southernmost Swordfish Tournament held in June is also part of the season-long Key West Fishing Tournament.
Deadline for all tournament entries is November 30, 2011. An awards ceremony will be held in January to present several trophies in various categories to men, women, junior, and pee wee anglers. The 2011 tournament director is Doris Harris. For more information call 800-970-9056.
Fishing is a great past time in Key West whether you are the competitive type or just want to lay back and leisurely watch the lines. Key West is my home and my lifestyle, and I’m ready to help you find the perfect home in Key West. Call me today and make this spectacular place your lifestyle. Jimmy Lane: 305-766-0585
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