2023 Key West Fishing Tournament Dates
The 58th tournament year will begin on December 1, 2022 and will conclude on July 31, 2023.
Visiting and resident anglers are encouraged to enter their weighed and released catches, at no charge, to compete for awards. All entries receive a certificate noting their catch, ‘Outstanding Angling Achievement’ and ‘Sportsmanship Award’ for releases.
KWFT has 4 angler divisions, Men, Women, Junior (age 10-15) and Peewee (under 10). Anglers in each division win an award for the heaviest of 33 species in 9 different line classes, 8 lb. test, 12 lb. test, 20 lb. test, 30 lb. test, 50 lb. test and an Unlimited test class. There are also 3 ‘artificial’ (no bait) divisions, Spin, Plug and Fly. See Angling Categories for rules.
The KWFT awards a ‘Master Angler’ title to both in-county and out-of-county residents in Men, Women, Junior and Peewee divisions. A ‘Most Releases’ title is awarded for Barracuda, Blue Marlin, Bonefish, Dolphin, Permit, Sailfish, Tarpon, Most Releases Overall and Most Releases in the Peewee division. See Criteria for Master Angler for rules. Charter captains and mates also receive awards for Guide Achievement and Most Releases.
The KWFT was founded in 1965 by then charter boat captain, Gainey Maxwell. To celebrate the 50th anniversary, see our interview with him on YouTube
With great appreciation, the KWFT is funded by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council and the many sponsorships of business owners that are committed to supporting this historical fishing tournament. Show your support of the KWFT as well with your patronage at these many businesses. See Sponsors page for a complete list.
The 58th tournament year will begin on December 1, 2022 and will conclude on July 31, 2023.
The 57th tournament year began on December 1, 2021 and will conclude on July 31, 2022. The awards presentation dinner is scheduled for September 24,