Seven Months To Catch The Big One In Key West’s Fishing Tournament

In 1965 the first Key West Fishing Tournament (KWFT) was held to promote sport fishing, conservation, and tourism in our beautiful Key West.  The tournament is still going strong today and more than 2000 anglers participate each year. 

I appreciate the environmental spirit of this fishing tournament.  Participants are encouraged to release game fish, and the catch is confirmed by filling out a form noting the name of a witness to the catch.  Seventeen weigh stations certify official weights of entries that are not released, but 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, and amberjack.  A complete list of allowed species and minimum lengths and weights is found at the Key West Fishing Tournament site.  Our many expert charter captains in Key West take part in the tournament by registering their boats for the event.  Over 50 charter fishermen are registered for the 2011 KWFT.  Private boats and fishermen do not have to pre-register.

The Key West Fishing Tournament actually started in March this year with a kickoff event and will end on November 30, 2011.  Trophies, cash prizes, and fishing tour packages will be awarded to local and visiting anglers in various categories including men, women, juniors, and pee wees (under age 10) at the January awards ceremony.  Every participant receives a certificate for their angling achievement if they weighed in a fish, or a certificate of sportsmanship for a released catch.

Another of our popular fishing tournaments, the overnight Southernmost Swordfish Tournament, is part of the KWFT.  This event will be held in June.  The Key West Fishing Tournament director for 2011 is Rob Harris.  You can contact his office for more information at 800-970-9056.

It is great fun to be near all of this fishing excitement.  Fishing is a wonderful pastime in Key West whether you are the charter boat captain, the angler proudly showing off your catch, or the spectator leisurely watching this fun in the sun.  Whichever role might be your favorite, Key West has the perfect spot for you.  And this is a perfect time in the real estate market to start your search--give me a call today.  Margarita Villoch: 305-304-8505.