Inaugural Key West Sailfish Tournament Set for April 11-13

KEY WEST, Florida Keys — Teams of anglers are to test their skills against high-flying sailfish in the inaugural Key West Sailfish Tournament, a release challenge scheduled Thursday through Saturday, April 11-13.

The boat teams that accumulate the most points for released sailfish during the tournament’s two fishing days are to receive cash prizes, with the amount to be determined by the number of registered team. Awards also include marine electronics, cameras and other items valued by fishing enthusiasts.

Boats in the sailfish division also can register to catch fun fish and compete for additional prizes. Fun fish targets are tuna, dolphin fish, wahoo and kingfish. Other optional entry categories are available as well.

Events are to kick off with a welcome party and captains meeting at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 11, at Dante’s Key West Restaurant & Pool Bar, 951 Caroline St. in the Key West Historic Seaport.

Fishing is set for 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, April 12, and 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 13. All sailfish releases must be reported immediately to the committee boat, with one point awarded for each release.

Tournament social events include a happy hour gathering at Dante’s Pool Bar following Friday’s fishing and an awards ceremony and party Saturday night at the same location.

Tournament entry fees are $1,000 per boat team before March 10 and $1,250 per boat team thereafter. Optional entry categories can be added during registration, with individual category prices beginning at $250. Up to 10 anglers can fish per team.

Tournament information and registration: keywestsailfishtournament.com