Anglers to Target Dolphin Fish in Florida Keys PBA Challenge June 23-25

STOCK ISLAND, Florida Keys — Challenging competition, cash prizes and the satisfaction of benefiting two worthy causes are the primary attractions for anglers Friday through Sunday, June 23-25, during the Florida Keys PBA Dolphin Tournament. 

The tournament is hosted by volunteers on behalf of the Florida Keys Police Benevolent Association. Proceeds are to benefit the Autism Society of the Keys, dedicated to improving the lives of people affected with autism and their families, and the Love Fund that assists families of officers injured or killed in the line of duty. 

The boat team scoring the heaviest dolphin fish during the tournament’s two fishing days will take home a grand prize ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 in cash, with the amount determined by the number of boats entered. 

Cash prizes also await the second- through fourth-place teams, as well as the top PBA member and top female and junior anglers. In addition, the angler who catches the heaviest tuna is to receive a rod and reel.   

Events are to kick off with a captains meeting beginning at 6 p.m. Friday, June 23, at the tournament headquarters, Oceans Edge Resort and Marina at 5950 Peninsular Ave. on Stock Island.

Fishing is set for 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, with a 4-6 p.m. weigh-in Saturday and a 3:30-5 p.m. weigh-in Sunday at Oceans Edge.

Following Sunday’s fishing, a 5 p.m. cocktail hour and 6 p.m. awards dinner await participants at Oceans Edge. The dinner is to be provided by Catered Affairs. 

Entry fees are $450 per boat and up to four anglers before June 3 and $550 per boat on or after that date. Registration includes social passes for four anglers. Up to six anglers can fish per boat, but each angler over four must pay an additional $125 registration fee. 

Tournament information and registration: keysdolphintournament.com