Photo courtesy of Show Me The Fish Charters
Stock Island Kingfish Tourney Is Jan. 22-24
Big king mackerel migrate to the waters around Key West each winter, and anglers can “migrate” to target them at the Stock Island Marina Village King Mackerel Tournament. The 20th annual challenge is set for Friday through Sunday, Jan. 22-24.
The angler who weighs in the heaviest kingfish will take home a guaranteed $10,000 cash prize. Second- and third-place finishers receive $3,000 and $2,000, respectively, and cash prizes will be presented through seventh place.
If the winning kingfish weighs more than the current record of 78.66 pounds, an additional $25,000 will be awarded.
Cash awards also await the top anglers fishing on boats that measure 23 feet or shorter, and prizes are to be presented to top female and junior anglers.
The tournament is headquartered at Stock Island Marina Village, 7009 Shrimp Road on Stock Island. Events kick off Friday, Jan. 22, with a 3-7 p.m. registration at the marina. A mandatory captains’ meeting follows at 7 p.m. Fishing begins at 7 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, running through 4 p.m. Saturday and 3:30 p.m. Sunday.
Following Saturday’s fishing, a party is scheduled for anglers and their guests at 24 North Hotel at 3820 N. Roosevelt Blvd. Accommodations packages are available for participating anglers. Awards are to be presented Sunday after the last fish is weighed.
Entry fee is $375 per angler before Jan. 12 and $425 after that date. For more information, call 305-296-0364 or e-mail lee@murraymarine.com.