Anglers can register now for the third annual Cheeca Lodge All American Backcountry Tournament scheduled Thursday through Saturday, Nov. 13-15, in Islamorada.
Participants will compete in the sport-fishing capital of the world for trophies and prizes for catching and releasing five tournament species: snook, redfish, permit, bonefish and tarpon.
Proceeds from the 2014 tournament benefit the Guides Trust Foundation, an organization committed to assisting Florida Keys fishing guides in need, helping them meet their financial obligations in times of crisis or injury, and providing scholarship awards to local students.
A welcome reception and cocktail party kicks off the weekend from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13, at Cheeca Lodge, the tournament’s social event headquarters, at mile marker 82 oceanside. A rules meeting for guides is slated for 6:30 to 7 p.m.
Fishing is scheduled from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday and Saturday, based from nearby World Wide Sportsman. Dockside continental breakfast is to be offered. A beachside post-fishing banquet is to be held Friday evening.
Saturday, Nov. 15, tournament participants are to attend a cocktail reception, early dinner and presentation of awards. Formerly a fishing day during the weekend event, Sunday is now dedicated to relaxation or return travel for anglers, several of whom travel to this Keys flagship backcountry event from as far away as the United Kingdom, according to organizers.
Trophies are to be awarded to the individual grand champion and runner-up, grand champion team and runner-up, and champions in the fly, artificial and general tackle divisions.
Entry fee is $2,000 per angler and includes admission to three evening social events for the angler and a guest, as well as the angler’s guide and a guest. The fee includes boxed lunches and continental breakfast each morning. Guide fees are additional.
Registration information: www.cheeca.com
