Competitive fishermen in south Florida have a variety of tournaments open for registration for 2022, including old traditions and newer challenges.

• The ideal competition depends on the type of fish you want to catch, the location of the tournament, and your type of boat.
• Some competitions require earning a spot, while others are open to anyone who registers and pays an entrance fee.
• Winnings vary from large cash purses and memorabilia to bragging rights and advancement to more challenging competitions.

Boat enthusiasts everywhere know that sometimes a little bit of competition can be good for the soul. Those who love living life out on the water are often drawn to the sport of fishing. Whether you are an amateur fisherman who is ready to get started in competitive fishing or are a long-term competitor who is seeking the next challenge, participating in fishing tournaments in Florida is an exciting, must-try experience. During the 2021-2022 fishing season, numerous tournaments are held both off of the Florida coast and inland, making Florida a great location for fishermen to try out the sport of competitive fishing in an ideal setting.

Bass Busters Classic - November 6-7, 2021

The Bass Busters Classic is a tournament that has been held on Lake Okeechobee in Clewiston, FL, since 1987. This long-standing bass tournament features catch and release and offers two division levels of silver and gold. Each team is limited to five basses per day. The Bass Busters fishing organization holds this long-time tournament to attract more interested anglers over time, which leads to continuous tournament improvement. Bringing your bass boat and participating in this tradition allows you to be a part of history while also helping to elevate an organization to the next level.

Islamorada Sailfish Tournament - December 2, 2021

Experienced fishermen who want an exciting challenge flock to the Islamorada Sailfish Tournament to take part in a tradition that has spanned more than five decades. With high-dollar prizes and a top end-of-tournament celebration, this event is one you don't want to miss. This tournament is the first step if you plan to attempt the Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship. Come in your own boat and cast up to six lines at a time, or choose a charter boat for the session. This prestigious annual event is perfect for those who seek a challenge and have some knowledge about angling sailfish.

2022 IGFA Light Tackle Open - January 25-27, 2022

If you want to show off your light tackling skills, the International Game Fish Association's Light Tackle Open is the perfect opportunity. This two-day tournament is held out of the Sailfish Marina Resort, which is located in Palm Beach Shores on the Florida coast, but you are not required to dock your boat at this resort to participate. Participants in this tournament are required to adhere to all IGFA rules for light tackling while enjoying the challenge of this exciting sport during the peak of the South Florida sailfish season. The line class maximum is 12-pound for this competition.

Jimmy Johnson's "Quest For The Ring" Championship Fishing Week - March 1-5, 2022

Dedicated anglers from across the country flock to Jimmy Johnson's Quest For The Ring Championship to take a crack at a huge payout. This challenging week features high-level competition with fishing availability in Miami Beach, Palm Beach, and Fort Lauderdale, as well as Key Largo. Rewards include an unprecedented seven-figure purse and a souvenir championship ring that can make this a life-changing event. Celebrate with your fellow anglers at an exclusive end-of-tournament event hosted by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino located in Hollywood, FL. The winnings are up for grabs for everyone regardless of level, but the tournament is challenging enough for the most experienced angler.

SKA Nationals 2021 - April 20-23, 2022

The Southern Kingfish Association's national championship is an invite-only event held near Ft. Pierce, FL, out of the Causeway Cove Marina. Participation in this event is based upon standings after fall tournament completion. After the tournament, you are invited to a captain's banquet and awards ceremony, complete with a hall of fame. The SKA was founded in 1991 in Georgia but now holds events off the coast of Florida. Earning your spot in the SKA Nationals is an accomplishment worth pursuing in 2022.

MLF Toyota Series - Throughout 2022

The Major League Fishing organization is known for high-quality circuits on the tournament trail, but what sets the MLF Toyota Series apart from other competitions is the return on investment. Participation in this series offers the best payout in comparison to the cost to enter, meaning you are more likely to come home with net winnings. In addition to amazing prizes, the MLF Toyota Series serves as a starting point to earn your way into more advanced competitions and pro fishing tours. Anglers can register for a variety of events in this series throughout all of 2022.

Key West Marlin Tournament - July 20-23, 2022

Anglers interested in the Key West Marlin Tournament need to register early, as only the first 75 boats to register can compete. With guaranteed cash prizes that total $50,000, this tournament is a fan favorite due to both the competition and the surrounding celebratory events. From the fish fry and cocktail party to the pig roast and awards banquet, the Key West Marlin Tournament offers a memorable experience that extends beyond the fishing competition. Dating back to the first tournament in the 1980s, this competition has been reborn into the exciting experience offered to competition fishermen today.

Mongo Offshore Challenge - May 1-September 30, 2022

If you are an angler who wants to try a unique twist on the traditional fishing tournament, the Mongo Offshore Challenge is a good choice for you. With a choice of competing off the Gulf coast or east coast of Florida, this challenge allows you to select your categories of choice and then fish as often as you want during the competition. You take your fish to an official weighing station, and at the end of the challenge, the fisherman with the largest one in each category is the winner. This is a season-long venture with the search for the biggest blue marlin, wahoo, swordfish, yellowfin tuna, or dolphin you can find. Boats of all sizes are welcome in this tournament, and anyone from an amateur to a seasoned angler is encouraged to compete.

Get Ready To Improve Your Fishing Game

Any nautical enthusiast, whether an avid fisher or someone who just loves being out on the water, can benefit from a well-matched boat. Fishing boats used for competition in Florida vary greatly, but if you are interested in a specific competition, it can be helpful to find a boat that is geared toward your needs. At Nautical Ventures, everyone on the team is a boat enthusiast that wants to find the perfect match for you. When visiting the showroom, you can view high-quality brands and receive advice from an experienced staff all in one place. For recommendations or to get information about product availability, contact Nautical Ventures today.