Islamorada Junior Sailfish Tournament to Challenge Young Anglers Dec. 13-15

ISLAMORADA, Florida Keys — Teen and ‘tween competitors can pair with experienced Florida Keys captains and mates for fun-loving competition Friday through Sunday, Dec. 13-15, at the 60th annual Islamorada Junior Sailfish Tournament.

A kick-off party is planned Friday, Dec. 13, at the SandBar restaurant at Whale Harbor, mile marker 83.4 oceanside in Islamorada. Saturday and Sunday are fishing days, with lines in the water each day at 8 a.m. and lines out at 3 p.m. 

Following Sunday’s fishing, a traditional awards banquet is planned at 6 p.m. at SandBar. A silent fundraising auction and raffle is to be open to the public throughout the weekend. 

The tournament entry fee is $150 for anglers age 16 and younger. As well as demonstrating their skills, they can vie for trophies for top individual and team contenders among others. 

Up to six anglers are allowed per boat.

The all-release challenge is dedicated to fostering youth engagement in sportfishing, promoting conservation and celebrating 60 years of fishing tradition. Organizers’ goals include inspiring young anglers to embrace the sport and protect marine life in the Florida Keys region widely known as the Sport Fishing Capital of the World. 

Tournament registration: islajuniorsail@gmail.com or 970-901-3272