Entering a fishing tournament for the first time can be intimidating. A Florida group is hosting a low-key tournament and educational seminar in June.
Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing is hosting the LLGF Screamin’ Reels tournament June 21-23 in Islamorada, Florida. The tournament is designed for novices and is open to women, men and teenagers.
The tournament kicks off June 21 with a class on offshore fishing and conservation by Capt. Skip Bradeen. That evening there is an appetizer contest from 6-8 pm at the Tavernier Elks Club in nearby Tavernier.
On June 22-23 the friendly angler competition departs from Whale Harbor Marine in Islamorada. Participants can fish from their own boats or charters supplied by the organization with the license and equipment included.
About $1,200 in prizes for individual anglers include a Penn Squall combo, Penn Passion combo, art prints and other fishing items. Prizes for inshore and offshore species and releases include heaviest fish overall, offshore billfish release, party boat award, junior angler, longest inshore fish and wild card prizes.
The tournament offers easy rules and is perfect for novice anglers, said Betty Bauman, founder of Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing. The organization holds seminars and tournaments to encourage more women to get into fishing.
Early registration is $89 for adults, $99 prior to the event. Teenagers can register for $45 and entry includes about $20 in gifts. Guided charter fishing with equipment and license supplied should be booked early as charter boats fill quickly.
Local sponsors include Breezy Palms Resort, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council and Saltwater Breweries.
For more information, visit www.ladiesletsgofishing.com. Â