Looking to make a few extra bucks this fishing season and you’re a decent angler? I have just the ticket for you–Tournament Fishing. All around the State of Florida, on both coasts, there are tons of great Tournaments with some nice payouts and no shortage of fun. April is really the kick off to the season and there is no better place to start than the 28th annual Suncoast Kingfish Classic at Gators at the Pass. Ryan Farner is the Tournament Director, and he has made sure that the winners are walking away with a $20,000 pay out this year. The Tournament kicks off April 11th – 13th at Gator’s on the Pass. Even if you are not fishing, there’s a huge party and weigh in with live music and plenty of Tito’s Vodka. Suncoastkingfishclassic.com
Moving south next, I am headed to Ft. Meyers where I’m fishing the 8th annual Ding Darlin Tarpon Tournament presented by Doc Fords. This Tournament is cool, because they only allow 50 boats and it’s a 100% payout. For the third year in a row, I have my spot and I am hoping to get on the board and into the money with Capt. Pete Frederiksen & Capt. Tommy LaRonge. It’s a catch and release Tarpon Tournament that benefits the Ding Darlin Wildlife Preserve on Sanibel Island. Did you know that the first tarpon caught on rod and reel was here? I love not only the tournament, but staying at the Island Inn on Sanibel Island savoring a taste of “Old Florida.” I hope to be the one counting my winnings with my toes in the sand and a drink in my hand. The payouts are over $30,000 in cash. Dingdarlinsociety.org
After I wrap up that Tournament, I am heading even further south to the Cayman Islands for the First Annual Cayman Billfish Rundown May 14th – 17th. This is where the big money is, with a payout of $270,000 and a $250,000 Blue Marlin record payout if you break the Island record of over 500 pounds. They have a Captains payout at $10,000, and most billfish releases payout at $100,000–start working out. Everything about the Cayman Islands is great from the fishing, food, hotels and the people–if you can make it down, go. You can bring your own boat, or they have a list of Captains that can take you fishing in this “soon to be” historic Tournament. All in all, if I hold my rod tip up, keep the line tight and have lady luck on my side, I could have a very lucrative summer. These are just a few of the great tournaments to choose from. Whether inshore, offshore, or fresh water, win or lose get out and go fishing–and earn fish money. Caymanbillfishrundown.com