Aspiring anglers can learn to cast, reel and go fishing at the annual Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing! Keys University and Fishing Fever Tournament, Friday through Sunday, Oct. 13-15 in Islamorada.
Hosted by the nonprofit Ladies Let’s Go Fishing Foundation, the “No-Yelling School of Fishing” offers classroom presentations, two networking events, hands-on practice and optional charter boat fishing. Classes will be held at the waterfront Elks Lodge in Tavernier. No equipment or experience is necessary. Presenting sponsor is Plantation Boat Mart & Marina with other local businesses.
Optional offshore or inshore charter fishing out of Islamorada is offered on Oct. 13 and Oct. 15 with prizes awarded for the LLGF Fishing Fever tournament. Participants can also choose to fish from their own boats.
Activities begin the evening of Oct. 13 with a networking social from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. On Oct. 14, morning indoor presentations begin at 9 a.m, covering offshore, inshore and bottom fishing, plus fishing basics and conservation. Speakers include captains Lee Lavery, Jeanne Towne and more. Setting this program apart from typical fishing classes are the hands-on fishing activities taught by several guides for releasing, knot tying, dehooking, bait rigging, spin casting, cast netting and more until 4:30 p.m. A second networking party will be held afterward, at Seaside Glassworks.
A total of 368 fish were caught at the 2022 Fishing Fever event, including mahi, tuna, snapper, grouper, snook, redfish, trout and first-ever bonefish and tarpon releases.
Online early registration rate is $125 per person. Regular entry is $145. VIP registration of $180 offers special gifts and discounts. The registration fee includes instruction, the use of equipment, a welcome reception, lunch, party and $20 in gifts. Reservations made in advance are recommended. The host hotel is Sunset Inn, Islamorada. The Tavernier Elks Club is located at 92600 Overseas Hwy, Tavernier. Ladies may register a male guest or teens to include the family.
