In recognition of Veterans Day, anglers will join with war heroes to pursue some of the world’s most sought-after game fish for trophies and prizes during the 12th annual Cheeca Lodge All-American Backcountry Fishing Tournament, scheduled Nov. 7-9 in Islamorada.
The catch-and-release tournament was inspired by the United States’ 41st president, George H.W. Bush, an avid Florida Keys angler and a frequent visitor to Cheeca Lodge. It honors a participating team of two veteran soldiers who will join the field of competitor boats targeting five tournament species: snook, redfish, bonefish, tarpon and permit.
A welcome beachside reception, followed by a rules meeting and silent auction, kicks off the weekend the evening of Thursday, Nov. 7, at Cheeca Lodge, the tournament’s social event headquarters, located at MM 82 oceanside.
Fishing is from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 8 and 9, based out of nearby World Wide Sportsman, 81576 Overseas Highway The event culminates Saturday evening when individual and team trophies are awarded to winners in the fly, general tackle and artificial lure divisions.
Entry fee is $1,750 per angler and includes admission to social events for an angler and guest and guide and guest. Also included are a daily dockside breakfast, a gift bag and boxed lunches for anglers and guides. Guide fees are additional.
Proceeds benefit Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, a nonprofit organization with a mission to conserve and restore bonefish, tarpon and permit fisheries and habitats through research, stewardship, education and advocacy.More information is at cheeca.com.
