Islamorada to Host Historic Ladies Tarpon Fly Tournament June 11-14
ISLAMORADA, Florida Keys — Women who love the sport of saltwater fly-fishing in the shallow waters of Islamorada and Florida Bay are naturally attracted to the rich history of the Ladies Tarpon Fly Tournament. Its 41st annual edition is set for Monday through Thursday, June 11-14.
Since 1977, an elite group of women anglers have come from all over the world to fish for tarpon in this all-release fly-fishing invitational during the species’ famously unique migration.
A few spots remain to be filled in the iconic 2018 fishing challenge.
“This is a competition that connects women in the sport, forms new friendships and creates lasting memories, all while pursuing one of the world's greatest fighting fish — the silver king,” said longtime tournament organizer Heidi Nute, a well-documented record-holding angler herself.
Tournament participants range from expert to novice, those whose favorite species is tarpon and ladies endeavoring to improve fly-fishing skills.
A kick-off event is set the evening of June 11 at Green Turtle Inn, mile marker (MM) 81. Fishing June 12-14 commences after daily breakfast at the Lorelei Restaurant, MM 82 bayside.
Awards are to be given Thursday evening, June 14, at the Islamorada Fishing Club, also located at MM 82 bayside, in various categories including Grand Champion and Best New Angler. Awards consist of works by notable wildlife artists, fishing tackle and accessories, as well as travel packages to fishing and hunting destinations.
The entry fee of $850 includes a gear-filled gift bag valued at $500, admission to the kick-off event, daily breakfast, hors d’oeuvres, social events and the awards dinner for angler and guide. The angler is responsible for paying her guide.
Event information and registration: facebook.com/keystarpon or heidinute@yahoo.com
Islamorada information: fla-keys.com/islamorada or 1-800-FAB-KEYS
Florida Keys fishing information: fla-keys.com/fishing
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Texan Kacee Bones will compete for Grand Champion, and Best New Angler Award, a category for a first time angler in this prestigious tournament.
Randee Ward is another tournament angler getting ready for the challenge!
A caught fish is when the guide disengages the hook and releases the tarpon.