Key West's VFW Fishing Tournament Set for June 16-18


Key West's 11th annual VFW Fishing Tournament is inviting all fishing enthusiasts to compete over a three-day period, from June 16-18. Male and female anglers of all ages, including first responders, veterans, and active-duty service members, have a chance to test their skills against five species of fish.

Tournament Details

  • Target Species: The tournament aims to catch five specific species of fish: mahi-mahi (also known as dolphin fish), wahoo, tuna, snapper, and grouper.

  • Cash Prizes: Various cash prizes will be awarded based on the weight of the catches. The heaviest mahi-mahi caught will earn the angler a first-place prize of $5,000.

  • Super Prize: In addition to regular prizes, a "super prize" of either $20,000 cash or a new Toyota Corolla automobile will be awarded to the angler who catches a dolphin fish of 50 pounds or more.

  • Special Awards: Apart from these, other cash prizes will be given to the top-performing active-duty military angler, veteran, first responder, senior, lady, junior (ages 11-15), and pee-wee (ages 10 and under) competitors.

  • VFW Slam: Introduced this year is the VFW Slam, where the boat team that manages to catch fish from three of the five species with the highest combined weight stands to win $1,000.

Schedule of Events

On Friday, June 16, participating anglers are expected to assemble at VFW Post 3911, located at 2200 N. Roosevelt Blvd. in Key West, at 5 p.m. for final registration, followed by a captains meeting at 7 p.m.

Fishing can be done from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. either on Saturday or Sunday, but not on both days. A weigh-in is scheduled from 2-4 p.m. each day at two different locations: Stock Island Yacht Club and Marina, 6000 Peninsular Ave. on Stock Island; and Big Pine Key Resort, 33000 Overseas Highway on Big Pine Key.

An awards ceremony and dinner will be held on Sunday, starting at 6:30 p.m. at VFW Post 3911.

Registration and Fees

Registration fees for the tournament are $325 per boat with four anglers if paid by May 31, and $375 per boat after this date. Additional anglers on a boat can join for a fee of $30 each.

Fundraising for a Cause

The proceeds from the tournament will benefit the VFW Relief Fund, a charity aimed at helping veterans and active-duty personnel in need in the Florida Keys' Monroe County. This charitable event presents a unique opportunity for fishing aficionados to indulge in their passion while contributing to a worthy cause.

Tournament information and registration: vfwpost3911.org/tournament/2023-11th-annual-fishing-tournament/