Islamorada, Florida Keys – Veteran anglers and competitive newcomers are gearing up for the 54th annual Islamorada Fall All-Tackle Bonefish & Permit Championship scheduled Monday through Wednesday, Oct. 14-16.
The fishing challenge includes up to 25 participants fishing in three divisions – artificial, fly and bait. One angler per boat is paired with a licensed captain to vie for trophies for the three longest bonefish and three longest permit.
A kick-off party is set for 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13, at the Islamorada Fishing Club, temporarily located at mile marker 80.9 oceanside.
Anglers are to check in virtually and can launch from any location for the tournament’s three days of fishing. Fishing is scheduled between 7:15 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.
An angler meeting and awards ceremony is to begin at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Islamorada Fishing Club.
Awards are to be given in bait, artificial and fly divisions, as well as for the largest bonefish and permit – ultimately leading to the Grand Champion award and the All-Tackle winner, if an angler manages to land both species on all tackle. A newcomer award also is to be presented.
Entry fee is $850 per angler.
Tournament information and registration: wesley@lockeandkeyproductionsor 941-268-1331
Islamorada visitor information: fla-keys.com/islamorada or 1-800-FAB-KEYS
Florida Keys fishing information: fla-keys.com/fishing
