Team High Stakes Wins Inaugural Key West Sailfish Tournament

The inaugural Key West Sailfish Tournament ended with Team High Stakes taking the top spot, earning a cool $56,370. Captained by Jason Jonas, a Key West local, and featuring a mix of talent including his father Don Jonas, they landed four sailfish, securing their victory. Notably, Team Reel Wheels, skippered by Captain Clayton Baker, trailed closely, with Reece Kramer from Pompano Beach snagging the title of top male angler thanks to his trio of sailfish releases. The women were not to be outdone, with Tara Darmante of Team Double Down claiming the top lady angler spot.

But it wasn’t all about the sailfish; the tournament also awarded the heaviest catches in three categories, making for an exciting mix of competition and showmanship. Among the highlights, Taylor Santoiemma reeled in a hefty 30.02-pound tuna, while Christo Christakis and Jordan Eddington brought in impressive kingfish and wahoo catches, respectively.

With 75 anglers and 19 sailfish released, the event drew a vibrant crowd, laying down strong roots for future tournaments. According to the organizer Brice Barr, the enthusiastic participation and spirited competition set a high bar for next year, promising even more thrills on the waters of Key West.