‘King of the Reef’ Rod and Spear Tournament to Challenge Anglers in Florida Keys

Hey, Key Westers - get ready to cast your lines because the "King of the Reef" Rod & Spear Tournament is making a splash in the Florida Keys this May 17-18. Anglers from different divisions, whether you prefer rod and reel, scuba, or freediving, will compete for not just cash but some serious bragging rights.

Here's the deal:

• The heavyweight champ of the black grouper category snags a cool $1,500 and the grand title of "King of the Reef."
• Cash and prizes aren't just for the top contender; runners-up in each division also reel in rewards for their hefty catches.
• Beyond the big fish, there are prizes up for grabs in categories like the heaviest mutton snapper and pelagic species, plus a bonus for the lionfish collectors among you.

And it's not all about the competition. In a twist that benefits the eco-savvy, Red Rum International, your tournament host, is tying in a "trash harvest" targeting polypropylene debris—think ropes to packaging—picked up from the coastal wetlands and waters.

So, sharpen your hooks and maybe do some good for the planet while you're at it. It's not just a tournament; it's a chance to raise awareness about serious issues like decompression sickness—a cause close to the heart of tournament organizer Daniel DelGuidice, thanks to a personal battle in 2021.

Registration wraps at the Red Rum tent outside The Docks Restaurant & Raw Bar on Stock Island, and if you're wondering about the scales, the official weigh-in happens at Keys Fresh Seafood Market under the tin roof that's seen more fish tales than we can count.

Got your rods and reels ready? We'll see who ends up crowned as the true "King of the Reef"!

Event information and registration: redrumintl.com/red-rum-tournaments/