85.7 Pound Wahoo Steals the Show at Saltwater Slam

In addition to weighing the heaviest fish of the tournament, they also had four nice kingfish from 11.9 to 40.3 pounds.

In the 20-year history of the Pompano Beach Saltwater Circuit, only two teams have brought a fish over 80 pounds to the scale. That stat changed on Saturday, when team No Plan/Contagious pulled up to the weigh-in on their Mercury powered 34’ SeaVee with a fish bag that looked like it had a submarine inside it. They pulled out a wahoo that tipped the scales at 85.7 pounds – the second largest fish in the history of the PBSC series! In addition to weighing the heaviest fish of the tournament, they also had four nice kingfish from 11.9 to 40.3 pounds. The kings and wahoo netted a total score of 181.2 pounds that was enough to seal the victory in the 23rd Annual Mercury/SeaVee Pompano Beach Saltwater Slam and a check for $35,808!

Team Doing it All/Hard Way, winners of the Saltwater Shootout in May, stayed hot in the Slam with a great catch of four tunas and four kings that tallied 164.9 pounds. Their second place finish earned them a check for $10,612 and put them in strong contention in the season long points race to crown the #1 meat fishing team in the sport! No Plan/Contagious sits in second for the Showdown Crown points race followed by Gator One in third. The Top 5 in the Slam tournament were rounded out with Living Water in third with 139.6 pounds, followed by O-Sea-D in fourth with 129.6 pounds and Native Son in fifth with 116.4 pounds.

Team Going Reel Deep weighed the heaviest kingfish of the tournament at 45 pounds. The big king and their eighth place finish netted them a check for $9,563. Team Offshore Warrior weighed the second heaviest king at 44.4 pounds. Their big king was worth $12,432 including a $7,000 check for the heaviest kingfish weighed by a member of the Southern Kingfish Association. Team Hoke’d Up had the heaviest Cobia of the tournament at 34.7 pounds. They were also the top small boat and top non-pro team with total winnings of $4,527. Doing It All/Hardway had the heaviest tuna at 32.2 pounds and Runnin’ Game had the largest dolphin at 12.7 pounds.

Chris Wolfgram from team No Plan/Contagious was the top male angler with 107.4 points. Klyee Selvanik on Rush Rolloff was the top female angler with 66.6 points. The top junior angler title went to Jonah Bennett from team Loanshark with 41.5 points. Jonah also sits in third overall in the point race for the Junior Master Angler title of the summer series. Parker Steel celebrated his birthday over the weekend with a first place finish in the Pee-Wee division at the Slam!

The final leg of the PBSC series, the Mercury/SeaVee Pompano Beach Saltwater Showdown is scheduled for August 4th. There was no winner for the Pick 3 prize category at the Slam, which means the pot is expected to reach more than $35,000 at the Showdown in August. The Showdown is open to all teams whether they have fished any prior legs of the PBSC series.

For a complete list of results from the Saltwater Slam visit www.saltwaterslam.com. To register for the Saltwater Showdown visit www.saltwatershowdown.com.

The post Massive Wahoo Steals the Show appeared first on Florida Sportsman.

TAGGED REDFISH DIVISION:

1st Tagged Redfish: Pathfinder 2200TRS, 150hp Yamaha, Hummingbird Helix & MinnKota Trolling Motor
Alex Hensley – Fort Walton Beach, FL

2nd Tagged Redfish: Contender 22 Sport, 250hp Yamaha & Rolls Axle Trailer
Andrew Brown – Pensacola , FL

SALT MARSH SKIFF BY ANKONA – OPEN INSHORE DIVISIONS:

Stumpnocker Boats Spotted Trout Division

1st Prize Drawing: Stumpnocker 17ft tiller 40hp Yamaha & Continental Trailer– Scott Hall – Melbourne, FL

2nd Prize Drawing: 8′ Power Pole Pro Series II Shallow Water Anchor – Chris Olt – Clearwater, FL

3rd Prize Drawing: Power Tech Propeller gift certificate $750 – Gary Zellner – Crawfordville, FL

4th Prize Drawing: Bull Bay Rod & Florida Fishing Products Reel with Luna Sea Cush it – Curtis Clark – Merritt Island, FL

5th Prize Drawing: Costa Sunglasses with Throwraft PFD– Kimberly Clouden – North Port, FL

6th Prize Drawing: Clenzoil Marine Lubricant $150 prize package – Jerry Bergeron – Land O Lakes, FL

Bossman Boats Snook Division

1st Prize Drawing: Bossman Boats Karma 25hp Yamaha & trailer– Emily Kipp – Vero Beach, FL

2nd Prize Drawing: 8′ Power Pole Pro Series II Shallow Water Anchor – Jason Canestrari – Melbourne Beach, FL

3rd Prize Drawing: Power Tech Propeller gift certificate $750 – Ray Moore – Jupiter, FL

4th Prize Drawing: Bull Bay Rod & Florida Fishing Products Reel with Luna Sea Cush it – Jay Young – Jupiter, FL

5th Prize Drawing: Calusa Cast Net 8ft & Throwraft PDF – Stephen Clack – Clearwater, FL

6th Prize Drawing: Clenzoil Marine Lubricant $150 prize package – Valarie Fecher – Inglis, FL

Atlas Heavy Duty Jackplate Non-Tagged Redfish Division

1st Prize Drawing: Salt Marsh Skiff 1656 with 40hp Yamaha, w/Atlas jack plate &Float On Trailer – Jeffrey Trafton – Satellite Beach, FL

2nd Prize Drawing: Atlas Heavy Duty Jack Plate w/ TH Marine Prize Package – Errold Randall – Deltona, FL

3rd Prize Drawing: Power Tech Propeller gift certificate $750 – Trenton Poe – Chipley, FL

4th Prize Drawing: Bull Bay Rod & Florida Fishing Products Reel with Luna Sea Cush it – Yariel Carmenate – Brooksville, FL

5th Prize Drawing: Costa Sunglasses & Throw Raft personal flotation device– Dee Dee Smith – Old Town, FL

6th Prize Drawing: Clenzoil Marine Lubricant $150 prize package – Dale Melms – Ft. White, FL

TEXTRON OFFROAD – OPEN OFFSHORE DIVISIONS:

Grouper Division

1st Prize Drawing: Textron Off Road Prowler Pro XT– Merlin Schenk – Nokomis, FL

2nd Prize Drawing: Humminbird Solix 12 – JT Surles – Monticello, FL

3rd Prize Drawing: West Marine $750 gift certificate – Francis Surles – Monticello, FL

4th Prize Drawing: Bull Bay Rod Reel Animals Signature Series 20# Medium Heavy Fast Action 7’6″ & Florida Fishing Products reel with Luna Sea Cush it– Robert Houghton – Crawfordville, FL

5th Prize Drawing: Costa Sunglasses with Throwraft Survivor floatation device – Timmy Pedersen – Trenton, FL

6th Prize Drawing: Clenzoil Marine Lubricant $150 prize package – Gina Kanyha – Sarasota, FL

Dolphin (Mahi Mahi) Division

1st Prize Drawing: Yamaha 150hp Four-Stroke Outboard & $500 Pelagic Gear package – Kyle Watson – Gibsonton, FL

2nd Prize Drawing: Florida Insider Fishing Report Dolphin trip with Capt Randy Towe – Dane Dellenbach – Weston, FL

3rd Prize Drawing: Humminbird Helix 10 – Douglas Sweeney – Vero Beach, FL

4th Prize Drawing: Bull Bay Rod Reel Animals Signature Series 20# Medium Heavy Fast Action 7’6″ & Florida Fishing Products reel with Luna Sea Cush it – Julie Taylor – St. Augustine, FL

5th Prize Drawing: Costa Sunglasses & Throwraft Survivor Floatation device – Monique Olson – Vero Beach, FL

6th Prize Drawing: Clenzoil Marine Lubricant $150 prize package – Dale Reed – Gainesville, FL

Cannon Kingfish Division

1st Prize Drawing: E-Z-GO Express L6 72 V Personal Transport Vehicle – Andrew Susla – Palm City, FL

2nd Prize Drawing: Florida Insider Fishing Report Kingfish Fishing Trip with Jim Ross & Unitroll STX-TS – Riley Carter – Port St. Lucie, FL

3rd Prize Drawing: $750 Academy Sports+ Outdoor prize package – Joeseph Perez – Cocoa Beach, FL

4th Prize Drawing: Bull Bay Rod Reel Animals Signature Series 20# Medium Heavy Fast Action 7’6″ & Florida
Fishing Products reel with Luna Sea Cush it – Thomas Sandberg – St. Petersburg, FL

5th Prize Drawing: Ocean Tamer Bean bag with Throwraft Survivor Floatation device – Zella Helton – Mims, FL

6th Prize Drawing: Clenzoil Marine Lubricant $150 prize package – Yevette Pontes – Orlando, FL

Tarpon Division
1st Prize Drawing: Humminbird Solix 10 , MinnKota Terrova trolling motor, MinnKota Talon Anchor, Atlas Heavy Duty Jack Plate, $500 West Marine gift card, FIFR Tarpon Trip – Devon Lang – Sebastian, FL

Ladies Division

1st Prize Drawing: Roundabout Water Craft – Laura Barron – Dunedin, FL

2nd Prize Drawing: West Marine $500 gift card – Monica Kolacia – Homosassa, FL

3rd Prize Drawing: Anisa Stewart Design $250 jewelry gift certificate – Christy Stephens – Osprey, FL

4th Prize Drawing: Costa Sunglasses Gift Card – Syndey Schwartz – Madeira Beach, FL

5th Prize Drawing: $125 Live Target and Luna Sea gift package – Valerie Perales – Brooksville, FL

6th Prize Drawing: Throwraft Personal Floatation Device – Carole Owens – Beverly Hills, FL

Fly Division

1st Prize Drawing: LIVE Watersports L2 Fish Paddleboard – Glenn Turner – Satellite Beach, FL

2nd Prize Drawing: Hatch Fly Reel with Fly Fishing prize package – Jay Wright – Windermere, FL

3rd Prize Drawing: Power Pole Micro Shallow Water Anchor – Alan Kuhre – Naples, FL

4th Prize Drawing: Costa Sunglasses – Daniel Stripling – Panama City, FL

5th Prize Drawing: Papa’s Pilar gift package – Russell Jacobs – Tampa, FL

6th Prize Drawing: Academy Sports + Outdoors $125 gift card – Matt Canestrari – Satellite Beach, FL

Kayak Division

1st Prize Drawing: Kaku Kayak – Jeremy Wolfe – Clearwater, FL

2nd Prize Drawing: $500 West Marine gift card – Michael Vu – Palm Harbor, FL

3rd Prize Drawing: Costa Sunglasses gift card- Charles Stubbs – St. Cloud, FL

4th Prize Drawing: Howler Brothers prize package – William Niemann – St. Augustine, FL

5th Prize Drawing: $125 Academy Sports + Outdoors gift card- Thomas Campbell – Melbourne, FL

6th Prize Drawing: LIVETARGET lure package – William Barfield – Panama City

ACADEMY SPORTS + OUTDOORS YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP DIVISION

1st prize: Approximately $25,000 Academy Sports + Outdoors Scholarship – Corey Moore – Clearwater, FL

2nd prize: Approximately $25,000 Realtree Fishing Scholarship – Ayden Bennett – Lake Worth, FL

3rd prize: Approximately $5,000 Reel Legends Performance Clothing by Beall’s Scholarship – Lucas Engel – Bradenton, FL

4th prize: Approximately $5,000 Talk of the Town Restaurant Group Scholarship – Alexander Krenn – Merritt Island, FL

5th prize: Approximately $5,000 Southeastern Environmental Scholarship – Sebastian Schenk – Nokomis, FL

6th prize: Approximately $5,000 Coastal Conservation Association Scholarship – Seth Pope – Port Charlotte, FL

7th prize: Approximately $5,000 Coastal Conservation Association Scholarship – Mason Ehlers – Melbourne, FL

8th Prize: Approximately $5,000 Rob Wade Phillips Fund Scholarship – Dylan Engel – Bradenton, FL

9th Prize: Approximately $5,000 CCA Scholarship – Jackson Ehlers – Melbourne, FL

10th Prize: Approximately $5,000 CCA Scholarship – Logan Ehlers – Melbourne, FL

11th Prize: Approximately $5,000 Big Rock & Clenzoil Marine Lubricant Scholarship – Louis Leblanc-Simard, Ellenton, FL

12th Prize: Approximately $5,000 Visit Pasco County Scholarship – Kira Parker, New Port Richie, FL

YOUTH HONORABLE MENTION

1st Prize: $250 Academy Sports + Outdoor gift card presented – Owen Nail – Ft. Pierce, FL

2nd Prize: $250 Academy Sports + Outdoor gift card – Brandon Taranto – Apalachicola, FL

3rd Prize: $250 gift card – Evan Foreacker – Jacksonville, FL

4th Prize: $250 gift card – Callen Bonhoff – Ft. Myers, FL

5th Prize: $250 gift card – Ethan Lurz – Lutz, FL

POWER POLE CONSERVATION DIVISION

1st Place: Fissot Sports Motorized Kayak – Johnny Gilland – Homosassa, FL

2nd Place: Power Pole Micro Shallow Water Anchor & Hydro – Shield – Peter McLeod – Ft. Pierce, FL

3rd Place: $500 Academy Sports + Outdoors gift card, Luna Sea Cush-it – Gary Lodge, Citrus Springs, FL

LIONFISH DIVISION

1st Place: Guy Harvey Outpost provides a 3 day, 2 night trip – Todd Ringling – Palmetto, FL

2nd Place: $500 prize package– Stephen Bouwer – Bradenton, FL

3rd Place: $250 prize package – John Ziegler – Brandon, FL

COSTA KICK PLASTIC TRASH DIVISION

1st Place: $1,500 Check presented by Sunsect, Costa Sunglasses and prize package – Angie Pfeiffer – Pensacola, FL

2nd Place: Body Glove Mariner XL Fishing Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard – Craig VanBrocklin – Jacksonville, FL

3rd Place: $125 Academy + Outdoors Gift Card and Costa Sunglasses Gift Card – Scott Ehlers – Melbourne, FL

Most buckets gathered: $250 Academy+ Outdoors Gift Card – Bridgette Ehlers – Melbourne, FL

FUN FISHING PHOTOS

$100 Academy + Outdoors Gift Card- Emma Gaskins – Odessa, FL

$100 Academy + Outdoors Gift Card- Joseph Canestrari Jr. – Satellite Beach, FL

$100 Academy + Outdoors Gift Card- Luana Engel – Bradenton, FL

The post CCA Star Tournament Results appeared first on Florida Sportsman.

Downtown Showdown Fishing Tournament benefits local activist group

This is a catch, photo, release SLAM Tournament. The overall aggregate may include one fish from each of the three eligible species, which is redfish, snook and trout. Up to three anglers per team, 100% payout!

Captain’s Meeting:

11/9 at 6:30pm

Downtown Bait Shop
Community Room
120 Laishley Ct,
Punta Gorda, FL 33950

Two meals provided by Leroy’s Southern Kitchen, two kegs of beer (free for anglers), tons of raffles, lots of fun!

Downtown Showdown Fishing Tournament Registration Form

Click the link for more details:
https://www.facebook.com/events/228726047776243/

The post Tournament Benefit for Captains for Clean Water appeared first on Florida Sportsman.

Angler Ken Biro with winning permit, guided by Captain Steven Tejera.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa announced results of its 6th Annual All American Backcountry Fishing Tournament held Nov.8-10 in Islamorada, FL. The event gathered the industry’s finest to raise funds for the local Guides Trust Foundation. In honor of Veteran’s Day, Cheeca Lodge also hosted two war heroes who competed as a team.

All American anglers competed for trophies and prizes for releasing five different species of fish: snook, redfish, bonefish, tarpon and permit. Tackle divisions included fly, artificial and bait.

Taking home top honors of Grand Champion Angler and Fly Division Champion Angler was Doug Dragoo of Pagosa Springs, CO, a Title Sponsor representing Abel reels. Dragoo released four bonefish, ten snook and ten redfish on fly, guided by Richard Black of Tavernier, FL.

The tournament’s field of 16 anglers on 13 boats posted overall game fish totals of 80 snook, 77 redfish,16 tarpon, 23 bonefish and one 35-lb permit. The total of 197 releases during the two-day tournament included 76 on fly, 60 on artificial tackle and 61 on general tackle. The total releases more than doubled the prior tournament’s results.

Grand Champion Team honors went to Paul McCulliss of Littleton, CO, and his son Brian McCulliss of Denver, CO, Title Sponsors representing McCulliss Oil & Gas. Guided by Eric Herstedt of Homestead, FL, the duo released 20 snook, 18 redfish, one bonefish and one tarpon. Paul McCulliss also eared General Division Champion Angler with nine snook, eight redfish, one tarpon and one bonefish.

Second Place Team Division honors went to US Army veteran Al Hunter, Sr., from Miami, FL, and Marine Corps veteran Eric Munoz of Homestead, FL, for releasing 12 snook and five redfish guided by Captain Mike Makowski of Key Largo, FL. “It was an incredible experience to fish a tournament of this caliber in the sport fishing capital of the world and actually take home an award,” noted Hunter. Jim Bokar of Tavernier, FL, clinched Champion Angler in the Artificial Division, releasing ten snook and ten redfish. Bokar was representing Robert-James Sales, a Title Sponsor of the tournament.

A 35-lb permit landed the Most Outstanding Catch and Best Photo Awards for Ken Biro of Hollywood, FL, guided by Steven Tejera of Homestead, FL.

Second-place Angler Division honors went to Fred Schwaibold of Charleston, SC, for releasing ten snook, ten redfish and three bonefish, guided by Dave Denkert of Islamorada, FL.

“We were honored to welcome talented anglers and guides back to experience some of the finest fishing in the Florida Keys” said General Manager Bob LaCasse. “It was rewarding to provide this opportunity to our veterans and raise funds for the Guides Trust Foundation at our newly refreshed resort.”

Andy Mill, world-famous fly angler, former alpine ski racer and two-time Olympian, shared his expertise on fly fishing for tarpon at an evening reception. The tournament also featured appearances by fishing legends Stu Apte, a tournament competitor, and Sandy Moret. Moret and representatives from the Bonefish &Tarpon Trust spoke on the progress of the #NoworNeverglades initiative at the awards banquet.

The post Cheeca Lodge & Spa Sixth Annual All American Backcountry Tournament Results appeared first on Florida Sportsman.

TrophyCatch Season 6 awards Phoenix bass boat package

Benjamin Porter wins the Phoenix bass boat package at the Bobby Lane Cup at Camp Mack. FWC photo.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) TrophyCatch program awarded its Season 6 Phoenix 819 Pro bass boat and trailer, powered by a 200 hp Mercury Marine outboard, guided with a MotorGuide trolling motor and anchored with a Power-Pole, to Benjamin Porter from Jacksonville.

The boat giveaway was hosted at the Bobby Lane Cup at Camp Mack, a Guy Harvey Lodge, Marina & RV Resort, on Dec. 1. Five finalists took the stage to participate in a reverse drawing that concluded with Porter winning the Phoenix boat package.

“I was excited just to be a finalist.” said Porter. “It changed my perspective on the whole program. I still can’t believe I won the boat. This is life changing.”

TrophyCatch awards one program registrant a Phoenix bass boat package after each Season’s conclusion. Anyone may register for free to win the annual Phoenix bass boat package by registering for the TrophyCatch program at TrophyCatch.com. No catch submissions are required to win.

“We were thrilled to be able to award the beautiful Phoenix 819 Pro boat package to Benjamin Porter at the Bobby Lane Cup,” said KP Clements, TrophyCatch director. “Our TrophyCatch partners are so gracious to offer these amazing rewards to our anglers to bolster their commitment to conservation and excitement for the sport of bass fishing. This is all possible because of Phoenix, Mercury Marine, Power-Pole and MotorGuide.”

The Bobby Lane Cup is an annual youth fishing tournament hosted by professional angler Bobby Lane. The tournament is held on Lake Kissimmee with the goal of furthering the love of fishing in our youth and to raise money to provide scholarships to those students involved in the sport of bass fishing. The 2018 tournament had 371 kids who fished in the tournament, 34 kids who participated in the Reel Kids casting event, 185 boat captains and a total event attendance of approximately 2,441 people. Nineteen $1,000 scholarships were awarded to youth anglers at the event.

TrophyCatch is a partnership between FWC biologists, anglers and fishing industry leaders such as Bass Pro Shops, that rewards the catch, documentation and release of largemouth bass weighing 8 pounds or heavier in Florida. To be eligible for club-level prizes, anglers are required to submit photos or videos of their catch to TrophyCatch.com showing the entire fish and its weight on a scale, before releasing it back into the water. FWC biologists use TrophyCatch data to make informed decisions about the management of Florida bass fisheries and to promote the catch and release of trophy bass.

The FWC encourages anglers to join TrophyCatch as citizen-scientists that assist in fisheries management and the conservation of Florida’s lakes and rivers. A TrophyCatch mobile app is available for download on both Apple and Android devices. For more information about the TrophyCatch program, email Amber Nabors at Amber.Nabors@MyFWC.com.

The post TrophyCatch Awards Phoenix Bass Boat Package appeared first on Florida Sportsman.

A tournament unlike any other that offers opportunity to be a part of a storied history.

Winning the Silver Sailfish Derby is where preparation meets persistence and a bit of luck; perhaps it’s fate. 43 boats took to the water this year in early January to compete in the 82nd running of this prestigious sailfishing tradition, chasing fish and seeking the thrill of winning that only the best of the best have been able to achieve. Crews were greeted by cool weather and northwest winds the first day of fishing out of Palm Beach Inlet.

The Rea Trophy and other Derby awards on display.

Capt. Joe Garberoglio and his crew aboard the 60’ Viking, Fragrant Harbor, found the sails and took an early lead. They were able to maintain throughout the day, earning Top Boat honors Day 1 with nine sailfish releases. Four fish separated team Sparhawk from the lead, as Joe Ferrulle and crew ended the day of fishing in 2nd place with five releases. Several teams, including past Derby Champions, Southern Run and the Native Son fishing team, put themselves in a position to make a run at winning it all headed into Day 2, posting four releases each. A total of 78 sails were released at the conclusion of Day 1.

Derby fleet kite fishing offshore.

The 2nd and final day of the Derby would produce 45 more fish than the following day, as the fleet recorded 123 sails bringing the grand total to 201 releases throughout the tournament. Another cool morning in the low 50’s and a northwest wind would start things off, only to have the wind switch around and blow out of the east for the final hours of the event. This changed sparked the bite as several teams hooked doubles, triples and even quads in the 4-line Derby. The 90’ Bayliss, Singularis, would taste redemption as they released ten fish after having none the day before. The ten releases would top the fleet, as Capt. John Van Dellen and crew claimed the title of Top Daily Boat on Day 2. The Singularis was not alone in their “donut day”; The Reel Captivating also struggled to find fish the first day. Capt. Travis Ralph and his A-Team bounced back releasing eight sails on Day 2, tagging six of them, earning the Top Tag Team award. The ever consistent 39’ SeaVee, Native Son, would again make their mark on the leaderboard with the 3rd most releases on the day, beat out on time, with eight fish.

The runner up, Native Son, flying all 12 release flags at the conclusion of the tournament.

Holding onto the lead makes minutes feel like hours and hours feel like days. David & Lynne Henderson, Trent Glaub, Ryan Hullihan, Owen Buckman, Tim Smith and Capt. Garbo of Fragrant Harbor experienced this phenomenon. Three fish were leadered and released by the crew early. The rest of the day was silent until one final fish later in the day.

Fragrant Harbor celebrating their win on the floating dock at Sailfish Marina on Singer Island.

A total of 13 releases was enough for Fragrant Harbor to claim their spot in the sailfishing history books as the winner’s of the 82nd annual Silver Sailfish Derby. The crew celebrated with a champagne shower after tying up to the floating dock at Sailfish Marina on Singer Island. A steady parade of fellow participants congratulated the winners as they passed by the dock, raising a glass in an act of comradery.

Mark Donohue, the Rea Trophy winner, next to the famous silver sailfish sculpture.

The Derby is hosted by the West Palm Beach Fishing Club (WPBFC) and continues to be organization’s marquee event. Part of what makes the event so special are the people involved. Many Derby awards are sponsored by families who have been associated with the event for decades. The Derby’s top angler award is the Mrs. Henry R. Rea trophy, a magnificent silver sailfish sculpture that dates back to the event’s origin in 1935 and is sponsored by Elizabeth Richebourg Rea of Connecticut. The Rea Trophy remains one of the crown jewels in all of angling. Mark Donohue of Jupiter earned the Rea Trophy this year aboard the Singularis, landing 6 sailfish all in one day. He is only the sixth individual to win the Rea Trophy more than once in the tournament’s 82-year history.

Megan Johnson, the Top Lady Angler of the Derby with WPBFC Chairman of the Board, Pete Schulz.

The Top Lady Angler trophy is sponsored by the Hampp Family of New Jersey in memory of Rose Hampp, who won the honor in the 1957 Derby along with many other awards throughout her accomplished angling career. Sailfish Marina’s very own, Megan Johnson, was awarded the trophy releasing 4 sailfish aboard the smallest boat in the fleet, the BeachKomer a 25’ Competition. Not to be out done was Capt. Paul Sabayrac and the Goin’ Raptor crew winning The Top Small Boat (35’ or less) with a strong finish landing 7 sails Day 2, ending with a total of 8 releases. Lastly, Danny Kleisley got it done on the 60’ Hatteras, Gratiot Beach, and was recognized as the Top Junior Angler of the Derby.

Danny Kleisley (center), the Top Junior Angler of the 2019 Derby.

The Silver Sailfish Derby, the world’s oldest sailfish tournament, again brought some of the finest captain’s and crews to south Florida at the height of sailfish season. The WPBFC is proud to continue this sportfishing tradition that represents an important part of the region’s identity.

The post Silver Sailfish Derby: A Continued Tradition appeared first on Florida Sportsman.

73 anglers fishing on 19 boats released 82 sailfish over gripping two-day competition

Main Attraction takes the top spot.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa’s 29th Annual Presidential Sailfish Tournament, the third leg of the Florida Keys’ Gold Cup Series, hosted 73 competitive anglers this past weekend in the sportfishing capital of the world. Clinching first place,Team Main Attraction earned overall champion honors releasing a total of ten sailfish. Team members included Mark Busch, Clint Rodamer, Daniel Roberts and Shelby Bentley, all from Marathon, FL. Outstanding Captain and Mate Awards went to Main Attraction Captain Marty Lewis and Mates Clint Rodamer and Danny Lombardo.

“We were honored to host this esteemed tournament and thrilled with the impressive competitive spirit this year’s showcase brought. We appreciate the tremendous support of our anglers and sponsors, and are proud to be part of the Florida Keys Gold Cup,” says Bob LaCasse, General Manager of Cheeca Lodge & Spa.“

Overall 50 sailfish were released on the first day of the tournament and 32 were released on the second day, for a total of 114 hookups and 82 releases by 73 anglers on 19 boats.

The Top Lady Angler Award sponsored by Blue Marlin Jewelry went to Michelle Espinosa of Miami, FL, for five releases onboard the Remix captained by JC Cleare of Miami. The Top Lady Angler Award is dedicated to the memory of Jay Anna and Kenny Cohan, beloved members of the Islamorada community.

Second Place went to Team HellReyzer led by Captain Ryan Alexander of Cutler Bay, FL. HellReyzer released ten sailfish with anglers Rey Acosta, Travis Upchurch, Jorge Corzo, Mike Acosta of Pinecrest, FL.

Team Indigenous earned Third Place honors. Captain Travis Dickens of Islamorada, FL, and Anglers Wade Stafford of Merritt Island, FL; Coleman Wherly of Melbourne, FL; Mike Varney of Key Largo, FL; and Mark Toledo of Ft. Lauderdale, FL released nine sailfish.

The Grand Champion Angler Award, sponsored by Caribee Boat Sales and Marina, went to Mike Varney of Key Largo, FL, on The Indigenous captained by Travis Dickens for five releases.

In a long-standing Presidential Tournament tradition of conservation, the Mdala team won the Most Tagged Fish Award, captained by John Hagen with Angler Mike Walter, both of Islamorada, FL.

Tournament trophies were created by famed Keys artists Pasta Pantaleo and David Wirth, as well as Inside Design of Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Pasta Pantaleo’s artwork was also featured on the tournament shirts, buckets and caddies.

The 29th Annual Presidential Tournament Title Sponsors included Caribee Boat Sales and Marina, Yamaha Outboards and Keys Audio Visual. Partner sponsors included BlueFin USA, Pasta Pantaleo, Blue Marlin Jewelry, EG Vodka, Cruzan Rum, Executive Printers of Florida, Florida Keys Brewing Company, Keys Audio Visual and RideStarRX.

Click here for live scoring for the 29th Annual Presidential Tournament

Cheeca Lodge & Spa also hosts the All-American Backcountry Fishing Tournament set for Nov. 7-9, 2019.

The post Main Attraction Wins Presidential Sailfish Tournament appeared first on Florida Sportsman.

One of the most popular sailfish tournaments in the country is back for 2019

An anticipated 60 boats and over 500 anglers will embark into the Atlantic on February 22 for the 16th Annual Sailfish Challenge. One of the most distinguishing features of the Challenge is a three-inlet format where teams can check in from Government Cut in Miami, Hillsboro Inlet in Pompano Beach or Lake Worth Inlet in West Palm Beach following each day of fishing. This feature was specifically designed to give teams the ability to fish their favorite locations and capitalize on a mid-season bite that can go off on both ends of the boundary this time of the year.

Teams fishing the 2019 Challenge will have a chance to compete in the 2nd Annual Coin Challenge, where they will be randomly assigned to color groups and battle to see which group releases the most sailfish in the tournament. Each winning team receives a custom designed challenge coin, but that’s not all! Teams from the top color group will also be entered for the chance to win a grand prize drawing for a 3 day/2 night stay at the luxurious Margartaville Hollywood Beach resort, plus a $500 Gift Card to use on-site, courtesy of Landshark Lager, the official beer of the Quest for the Crest!

In addition to its signature 3-inlet format, the Sailfish Challenge is one of the only billfish tournaments to offer a non-pro division for teams that may be new to the sport or still working their way up the competitive ladder. The division pays three places with a $2,000 check to the top team. Over $650,000 is up for grabs in total for the 2019 Sailfish Challenge, including a $300,000 winner-take-all jackpot called the Release Roundup.

The kickoff party and captains meeting is returning to historic IGFA headquarters in Dania Beach on Wednesday, February 20th, where anglers and sponsors can swap fish stories while enjoying live music, open bar and other tournament festivities. Competition days are set for Friday, February 22 and Saturday, February 23. The top team award is even bigger for the 2019 Challenge with a $15,000 guaranteed payout plus a Resorts World Bimini vacation up for grabs.

Blue Moon Fish Company will apply the icing on the cake for the winning team with a VIP dining experience during the awards ceremony at their award-winning waterfront restaurant in Fort Lauderdale. Sandman snagged 1st place and a check for over $189,000 in 2018. Which team will come out on top this year? Grab your team and get ready for The Challenge!

The post 16th Annual Sailfish Challenge Set to Break More Records appeared first on Florida Sportsman.

Over $3,000 in cash prizes and giveaways; Raffle for all inclusive bowfishing trip with Donovan Tate, USCG Licensed Captain

The intent of the 2019 Removal of the Swamp Invaders Fishing Tournament is to better inform the public about the negative effects of exotic fish and to encourage the removal and consumption of exotic fish from our waters. March 23rd, 2019 7:00am-3:00pm

Rules and Regulations

WEIGH-IN LOCATION: Miccosukee Arches, SW 172th Ave. and US-41, Miami, FL 33182

REGISTRATION: $25 registration fee per person, 12 & under are free. This is an individual event. To register prior to the event and secure a T-shirt, register in person at the Fish & Wildlife Department located in the Miccosukee Administration Building or online through the Eventbrite link here

2019 REMOVAL OF THE SWAMP INVADERS FISHING TOURNAMENT START/STOP: The Removal of the Swamp Invaders Fishing Tournament will begin accepting registration fees at 6:00 am at the weigh-in location. Fishing will begin at 7:00 am on March 23rd, 2019 and end prior to 3:00 pm on March 23rd, 2019.

ALL INDIVIDUALS MUST CHECK/WEIGH IN BY 3:00 pm March 23rd OR BE DISQUALIFIED.

TIP: Allow plenty of time for traffic – don’t be late.

BOUNDARIES: Fishing for this event is permitted in all legal freshwater fishing areas within the Water Conservation Area 3A (Everglades Wildlife Management Area) and Water Conservation Area 3B (Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area), for the general public. Fishing within the Miccosukee Indian Reservation will be allowed for Miccosukee Community Members ONLY.

PRIZE CATEGORIES:

Raffle Prizes
– Arrow Assault Bowfishing all-inclusive 4-hour bowfishing trip
– Fishing rods

Most Weight of Exotic Fish:

Adults
1st place – $500
2nd place – $250
3rd place – $150

12 & under
1st place – $300
2nd place – $100
3rd place – $50

Exotic Slam:

Adults
1st place – $300
2nd place – $200
3rd place – $100

12 & under
1st place – $100
2nd place – $50
3rd place – $25

Largest Exotic Fish:

Adults
1st place – $300
2nd place – $200
3rd place – $100

12 & under
1st place – $100
2nd place – $50
3rd place – $25

Registration link: https://tournamentregistration.eventbrite.com

Miccosukee Wildlife Department:
305-223-8380 ext. 2242

Sponsored by the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida

The post Removal of the Swamp Invaders Fishing Tournament appeared first on Florida Sportsman.

It’s time to shoot some birdies and catch some bass.

Register Here
Mail, fax or email signed waiver to Diana Matthews
2700 S. Kanner Hwy, Stuart, FL 34994
diana@floridasportsman.com
Fax: 772-219-6915

Print Waiver Here

Florida Sportsman magazine is partnering with the American Sportfshing Association, FWC and TrophyCatch in the return of Florida Sportsman’s Bass and Birdies Classic at the 2019 ICAST Convention.

July 9, (the day before ICAST) The Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel and Golf Course, set at the legendary headwaters of the Florida Everglades, will host the fifth annual “Bass and Birdies” event to benefit “Keep America Fishing”. Equally important to this unique format is the abundance of bass in the water hazards, and reports have it, this will be the best year yet for the anglers in the event. “The golf is a Scramble–Best Ball format, meaning teams of four players hit each shot, and the best shot is selected, said Rick Ryals Tournament Director. “The three other players retrieve their balls, and hit from the best position, and the same until the hole is holed out.”

However, on four designated holes, one team member will fish in bass hungry lakes while the other three play the scramble. The total length of bass will result in bonus points taken off the final golf score, so it pays to catch bass and make birdies.

The $110 entry includes: a golf cart, range balls, fishing eligibility, a lunch buffet/ awards raffle to benefit Keep America Fishing. This year’s raffle will be anchored by a dream vacation to Fishing Nosara, Nosara, Costa Rica.

It’s a beautiful course, with first rate fishing, and facilities. We had a great event here in 2018. The event will be limited to 96 golfers. Just as in previous years, the event will sell out. Everyone who participates will be impressed with the facilities and enjoy a great round of golf and fun fishing.

The heavy emphasis on fun will include such contests as “Closest to the pin” “Longest Drive” “Beat the Pro” and on and on.

The Florida Sportsman Bass and Birdies Classic will be the best way to kick of your week at ICAST. All proceeds will benefit www.KeepAmericaFishing.org.

For more details and sponsorship opportunities at this event contact Rick Ryals at (904) 334-8808 or e-mail Rick@floridasportsman.com.

Player Information and Rules

The following details cover the golf and fishing rules that will ensure a fun-filled morning of tournament golf on a spectacular course with bass-hungry lakes.

Registration and Golf

• Registration begins at 7 a.m. at the clubhouse The Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel and Golf Course. Upon arrival, go the table and sign in.
• A complimentary locker and locker room services are available.
• Your assigned starting hole for the Shotgun start at 8 a.m. will be provided at registration and shown on your scorecard.
• Golf clubs and shoes are available for rent – please be sure to note such on the Registration form or contact the Tournament Director now.
• Range balls will be provided prior to play on the practice range.
• Players may wear pants or shorts; shirts must be collared.
• Please do not bring any alcoholic beverages.
• Golf shoes must be spike less.
• Play on the Robert Trent Jones New Course will be a Scramble-Best Ball format.
• Lies may be improved in the fairways within one club length of the chosen ball; all regular USGA rules apply.
• Maximum score on any hole is a bogey.
• Up to five Mulligans per person may be purchased at registration for $5 each.
• One Par-5 hole will feature a Longest Drive Contest and a Par-3 hole a Closest To The Pin Contest.

Fishing

• Four holes will have a designated area for all-release bass fishing with rod and lures provided.
• Each group can decide which one of its four players will fish on any or all of the four fishing holes while the other three play those holes in the Scramble-Best Ball format.
• Each bass must be photographed before release with a digital camera or cell phone, weighted by an FWC volunteer, and measured against a provided Florida Sportsman Lawstick.
• A fishing scorecard will be provided each group at registration.
• An attendant at each of the four fishing holes will have hand-cleaning materials and anglers will be escorted to the next tee by cart to catch up with their group.
• If you will need a Florida freshwater fishing license, contact www.MyFWC.com for details ($17 for an annual Florida resident license and same for a non-resident 3-day license).

Scoring and Awards

• The size of bass will be deducted from the total score.
• Bring your golf and fishing scorecards to the official scorer at the committee table in front of the Windmill restaurant following the round.
• A private buffet lunch and awards ceremony will take place in the Windmill restaurant immediately after the golf.
• Awards will be given to each player on teams with the three lowest team totals, Longest Drive, Closest To The Hole, Most Bass released and Largest Bass released.

The Florida Sportsman Bass & Birdies Classic will be an enjoyable experience. We look forward to your participating in this event as you get ready for the American Sportfishing Association’s upcoming ICAST show.

Feel free to get in touch with any assistance needed or questions.

The post Bass & Birdies Classic 2019 appeared first on Florida Sportsman.

Anglers around the world will be eligible to compete in their respective time zones.

Swordfish like this one boated during the 2017 Mississippi Gulf Coast Billfish Classic would qualify for entry into this summer’s Swordfish Cup.

The 1st Annual Swordfish Cup, a tournament with a popular 24-hour format, will be held July 27-28, 2019. Anglers around the world will be eligible to compete in their respective time zones. This new global sport-fishing contest is being presented by Fly Zone Fishing and RJ Boyle Studio.

“We’re excited to announce this new tournament catering to the growing legion of broadbill enthusiasts,” says Robert “Fly” Navarro, president of Fly Zone Fishing. “We’ve already heard from multiple teams and I expect to see some hefty entries hoisted to the scales. The popularity of swordfish has exploded in recent years and this tournament is designed to showcase this incredible fishery. We’ll be doing live updates every three hours on FaceBook (flyzonefishing) and giving away some cool prizes donated by our sponsors for those watching the feeds.”

The entry fee for the Swordfish Cup is $1,500 per team, with the winner taking 80 percent of the fees for the heaviest fish exceeding the 200-pound minimum weight. All line class weights will be allowed. Contestants may only use conventional rods and reels, including electric reels mounted on rods. Hand gear, bandit gear and hydraulic reels are not permitted. Harpoons may be used to boat the fish, however. In the event of a tie, the first eligible fish boated shall be declared the winner.

Weigh-ins will be conducted at approved scales certified by governmental authorities within the last year. Fishing hours will be from 8 am on Saturday, July 27 until 8 am on Sunday, July 28, in each local time zone. Continuous video verification of the gaffing and boating of the fish with a GPS date and time stamp will be required to prove the catch was made during the specified tournament hours. The winning angler and/or team member may also be required to take a polygraph test to ensure compliance with the rules.

“Several prolific swordfish areas will be in play during our July time frame,” Navarro adds. “South Florida and the Keys, the Mid-Atlantic, as well as the Gulf of Mexico, Southern California and Hawaii could all produce the winning fish. And with the caliber of teams we’re expecting, the winning weight might be decided by mere ounces. It will be an exciting 24-hour window into the sport.”

The tournament is expected to be up and running soon where you will be able to register to compete here www.swordfishcup.com

Any questions? Contact Rob Navarro at the Fly Zone Fishing website, at the Fly Zone Fishing Facebook page, by email at fly@flyzonefishing.com, or call (561)310-9214.

The post Inaugural Swordfish Cup To Be Held Globally in July appeared first on Florida Sportsman.

FWC, Southwest Florida CISMA invite the public to participate in free freshwater 2019 Invasive Fish Roundup

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the Southwest Florida Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA) invite the public to participate in the 2019 Invasive Fish Roundup event, targeting freshwater invasive fish species. This free event takes place from April 26 through 28, with the weigh-in occurring on Sunday, April 28 from noon until 3 p.m. at Bass Pro Shops, 10040 Gulf Center Drive, Fort Myers, Florida 33913.

The roundup is a three-day event that is open to teams of one to four anglers, fishing from shore or boat in the Southwest Florida CISMA area (Collier, Lee, Charlotte, Hendry and Glades counties) with prizes awarded to the top team in various categories. The goal of this event is to encourage the public to target invasive species while fishing and to promote awareness of the potential negative impacts of releasing invasive species into Florida’s waterways. This is an opportunity for Southwest Florida CISMA and the FWC to gather information about invasive fish distribution and abundance, both of which may help with future management of invasive fish species.

“The FWC and our partners encourage the removal and consumptive use of captured nonnative freshwater fish,” said Sarah Funck, FWC Nonnative Fish and Wildlife Program coordinator. “Removing these invasive species from our waters can benefit native natural resources.”

This event is free but pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, visit FloridaInvasives.org/Southwest.

In addition to special event opportunities such as this one, the FWC encourages the public to report nonnative species sightings utilizing the “IveGot1” app for Apple or Android or online at IveGot1.org.

The FWC also provides opportunities throughout the year for the public to surrender unwanted nonnative pets to be placed with pre-approved adopters without penalty at a one-day-only Exotic Pet Amnesty Day or year-round by calling the FWC’s Exotic Species Hotline at 888-Ive-Got1 (888-483-4681).

For more information about freshwater invasive fish species in Florida, visit MyFWC.com/Nonnatives and click on “Freshwater Fish.”

The post Free Freshwater Invasive Roundup appeared first on Florida Sportsman.

Team Showtime wins Final Sail and the Burgundy Jacket

The stakes were high, and the pressure was on for the 37 teams competing off Miami Beach in Final Sail, the grand finale of the 2019 Quest for the Crest Sailfish Series. The tournament opened with a kickoff party at the DoubleTree Grand by Hilton that included a casino fundraiser to benefit the tournament’s charity, Fishing for Muscular Dystrophy (FFMD). The combined efforts of the teams and the casino night enabled Bluewater Movements to present FFMD with a check for $5,000 to help them on their mission to cured MD.

With a purse near $860,000 and the burgundy jackets on the line, teams were all business heading into Day 1 of the tournament. Based on pre-fishing reports, a number of the boats started their day closer to the south end of the boundary. Fishing off Triumph reef, team Showtime owned Day 1 with 9 releases and daily winnings of $68,670. With their daily win, Showtime also reclaimed the points lead from Kluch/Reel Easy in the chase for the burgundy jacket and a world champions title. Second through fourth place were all decided by time on Day 1 with Reel Captivating, Doing it All/Hardway, and Contender One finishing the day with 6 releases each. Reel Captivating snagged $33,750 with their second place daily and Doing it All/Hardway earned $10,080 in 3rd.

Captain Ray Rosher and his Miss Britt/Hot Mix team were not a factor on Day 1 with only one release posted. However, they made up for it on Day 2 winning both the early bite and late bite, plus the daily with 10 releases, to bump themselves all the way up to 4th place overall with 11 total releases and a $77,070 pay day. Reel Captivating picked up where they left off on Day 1. They added five more to the leaderboard on Day 2 to finish the tournament with 11 releases in 3rd place and a check for $64,680 that included $13,050 for the heaviest meat fish of the tournament, a 32.5-pound kingfish. Contender One came on strong on Day 2 also. Captain Quinton Dieterle put their new 44ST to the test and it answered the call with 13 total releases and a second-place finish worth $66,450.

Team Kluch/Reel Easy saw their lead in the series slip away from the on Day 1, but they didn’t let that dampen their spirits. They answered on Day 2 just the same way they had all season long, and by 1pm they had regained the lead with just three hours of fishing remaining. BAR South, 2015 Quest champions, released three fish between 1pm and 2pm to pull themselves into the second-place position in the series race with both Kluch/Reel Easy and Showtime deadlocked in a tie. It was the most highly contested battle in the history of the series that was literally up for grabs by any of the top three teams until the very end.

It was a close competition, but team Showtime pulled ahead and was the big winner this year.

It is said that champions rise to the occasion and that is exactly what Captain Nick Carullo and his Showtime teammates did on board their 39-foot, Mercury powered Sea Vee. Chasing free jumpers, they hooked and landed a double header at 2:45pm and sealed both the tournament and series win with one more release at 3:19pm to finish with 15 releases and a first-place check worth $214,720. They were also the top earning team of the series with total winnings of $271,800. More importantly, the victory secured their place in the burgundy hall of fame as the 2019 world champions of competitive sailfishing and recipients of the burgundy jacket. Victory was sweet for tournament sponsor, Sea Vee Boats as well. Stellar performances delivered by Utopia, Native Son, and Showtime earned Sea Vee Boats the first-place title at each leg of the 2019 series as well as their first burgundy jacket.

Showtime finished the Quest with 39 releases and 80 series points followed by Kluch/Reel Easy in second with 39 releases and 78 points, and BAR South in third with 33 releases and 76 points. Rob Gothier, BAR South, was also the master angler of the series with 13 releases. Congratulations to Sandra MacMillan for claiming the top female angler title at all three legs of the series as well. Luke Lulfs was earned the top junior angler title and a beautiful trophy print from Carey Chen.

The winners show off their burgundy jackets at the awards ceremony.

The total purse for the series exceeded $2.2 million dollars. The season witnessed many highlights including a record setting 420 releases at the Sailfish Challenge in February. Looking ahead to the 2020, a $350,000 winner-take-all jackpot will be ready for the taking when the series resumes again with Operation Sailfish in January out of Sailfish Marina in Palm Beach.

For more information on Final Sail, click here or call 954-725-4010. The entire Quest for the Crest schedule and series standings can be found here

The post Team Showtime Wins Final Sail appeared first on Florida Sportsman.

Anglers of all ages are invited to fish Father’s Day weekend with the ARC of Martin County at the 6th Annual KDW Offshore Fishing Tournament on Saturday, June 15th in Stuart, Florida.

What better way to make this Father’s Day weekend memorable and fun, all the while supporting a stellar local charitable organization! The ARC of Martin County is excited to host a Kingfish, Dolphin & Wahoo tournament for their 6th year, and will again be based out of Manatee Island Bar & Grill in Port Salerno, Florida. A Captain’s Meeting at 6 PM on June 14th kicks the tournament off followed by a day of fishing on June 15th.

Entry fees, including a Captain and 3 Anglers, are $250 which includes a bucket full of goodies for the crew and four tickets to a lavish dinner buffet at the Awards Ceremony. Additional anglers can join in the fun for $25 per angler. $5000 in total cash prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd will be awarded to the boats with the heaviest of each species, as well as a cash prize for top Junior Angler, and top Lady Angler. Well supported by many area businesses, there will be lots of fun with Live and Chinese Auctions, great food sponsored by Manatee Island Bar & Grill and live music. A perfect celebration for Father’s Day weekend all to benefit this special charity.

Tournament Registration

Sponsor Form

2019 Auction Sheet

The ARC of Martin County, (Advocates for the Rights of the Challenged) is a 501(c)(3) non-for-profit organization dedicated to empowering children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to achieve their fullest potential through residential, vocational, educational, behavioral and other healthcare services. “Our goal”, said ARC President & CEO Keith Muniz, “is to provide support, assistance and training that will enhance the abilities for children and adults with disabilities to thrive each day and achieve their fullest potential.”

The ARC owns and operates nine community-based group homes which are modified to accommodate special needs. ARC also provides children’s services such as after-school programs, ABLE summer Camp and behavioral learning programs; adult services such as adult day training, supported employment, supported living, vocational, transportation and community participation programs.

We believe that helping people with disabilities to lead more fulfilling lives by achieving higher levels of independence and responsibility is an attainable goal and it’s a great comfort knowing that we have incredible partners such as Publix Super Markets, PepsiCo-Frito Lay, Treasure Coast/Palm Beach/Indian River/ Showcase & Silver Star Provisions, and many others to help us achieve those goals of providing support and training to those in our communities with special needs.

“Without the support from our many partners, we would not be able to provide many of the supports that we currently do that empower individuals with intellectual and developmental challenges to achieve their full potential,” Muniz said.

The post ARC of Martin County Sixth Annual KDW Tournament appeared first on Florida Sportsman.