The Islamorada Charter Boat Association will host its 28th annual Keys Kids Fishing Derby on Sunday Sept. 28 at the Lorelei Restaurant in Islamorada.
The derby is for those age 10 and under. There is no charge to enter but anglers must be Monroe County residents. There are three fishing divisions: shoreline, backcountry and offshore and awards for three age divisions, 4 and under, 5-7 and 8-10.
There are lots of prizes with winners in all divisions. The first 100 registered anglers are guaranteed ditty bags. Sign up at Tackle Center of Islamorada, at the Lorelei or find the application on the “Keys Kids Fishing Derby” Facebook event page.
Shoreline fishing will be allowed at the Lorelei with waters chummed by, and bait supplied by, Tackle Center of Islamorada. There will be plenty of folks on hand to help bait hooks and tie lines. Those with their own fishing rods are asked to bring them. Fish Florida will be supplying a limited number of rods this year. Organizers want to have enough rods for those who do not have one.
Participants can grab their ditty bag and free donuts, thanks to Lorelei, any time after 7 a.m. Lines are in at 9 a.m. and weigh-in closes promptly at 1 p.m. Hot dogs and drinks will be supplied compliments of Lorelei. There will be a casting contest starting at 11 a.m. Mote Marine, Everglades National Park, Marine Lab, FWC and others will be on property during the day. Key Breeze Engraving awards sponsored by IFACT, Pasta Pantaleo prints and other prizes will be handed out to the winners on the Lorelei beach at 1:45 p.m.
Those who wish to donate to help defray costs, may make checks to the Islamorada Charter Boat Association, a nonprofit organization, and mail to P.O. Box 462, Islamorada, FL 33036. To donate items, or for more information, call Dianne Harbaugh 305-522-4868.
