The Islamorada Fishing Club’s Junior Derby, set for Saturday, Nov. 29, encourages kids to get out and fish for just about anything that swims — except tropicals like Nemo.
The 2008 IFC Junior Derby events take place at the Islamorada Fishing Club, mile marker 82 bayside in Islamorada.
Putting the focus on fun and sportsmanship, the derby is an all-release tournament. The IFC hopes to teach the importance of fish conservation through catch-and-release, while imparting a sportsmanship ethic to the young anglers. All scoring is based on the honor system.
Kids can fish to win one of many prizes, with grand champions to be named in three age divisions — super small fry (up to age 6), small fry (ages 7-10) and junior (ages 11-16). Separate grand champions are to be named in guided and unguided divisions within each age group.
Entrants are allowed to fish from a boat or from land, so kids can fish from any of the Keys’ popular fishing bridges or shorelines.
Points are to be awarded for fish from inshore species such as grouper, grunt, snapper, shark, barracuda, hogfish and trout; and offshore species like dolphin, kingfish, cobia and tuna. Bonefish, tarpon, permit, snook and redfish also earn points. Anglers can enter up to three of a species for points.
Any tackle except power reels can be used. Double points are awarded for fish caught on fly tackle.
A kick-off party and rules meeting is set for 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, at the IFC. Fishing is set for 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29. A banquet and awards presentation is to start at 6 p.m. at the IFC.
Entry fee is $50 per angler, including the social ticket. Additional social tickets are available for $30 each. Each angler is to receive a ditty bag.
For more information, call (305) 664-3864 or e-mail sherri_trice@bellsouth.net.
