Fishing News

Anglers of all ages and abilities can target more than 40 species of fish in the Key West Fishing Tournament, a free-entry multidivision challenge that takes place Dec. 1, 2020, to July 31, 2021.

Continuing a 50-plus-year tradition, the Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship triple-crown series is to open with the Islamorada Sailfish Tournament Thursday through Sunday, Dec. 3-6, a primary fundraiser for the Islamorada Charter Boat Association.

In recognition of Veteran’s Day, discerning anglers are to unite with war heroes to pursue some of the most elusive game fish in the world for trophies and prizes during the annual Cheeca Lodge All-American Backcountry Tournament, scheduled Nov. 12-14 in Islamorada.

Angling teams are to pit their skills against the Lower Florida Keys’ wiliest in-water inhabitants during the Sugarloaf Showdown, a fundraising fishing tournament scheduled Thursday through Saturday, Nov. 5-7.

Attention, crustacean fans: Thursday, Aug. 6, marks the start of the eagerly anticipated Florida Keys lobster season.

Legendary author Ernest Hemingway fished for “big game” in Key West waters during the 1930s, and contemporary anglers can follow his lead Wednesday through Saturday, July 22-25.

Travis Katski of Harwood, Maryland, released 172.75 inches of barracuda to win the fly division of the 2020 Cuda Bowl Tournament that ended Feb. 1 in the Lower Florida Keys. Guided by Captain Mike Odell of Marathon, Florida, he earned the title of divisional grand champion.

For over 50 years the Islamorada Sailfish Tournament has opened the renowned triple-crown Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship series. Anglers can compete in this year’s event Thursday through Sunday, Dec. 5-8.  

Alejandro Vega Cruz of Holbox, Mexico, caught and released seven permit to earn 1,100 points and the title of grand champion angler at the 2019 Del Brown Permit Tournament that ended Tuesday, July 16.