Cheeca Lodge All American Backcountry Tournament Set for Nov. 18-20 in Islamorada

ISLAMORADA, Florida Keys — In recognition of Veteran’s Day, discerning anglers are to unite with war heroes to pursue some of the most elusive game fish in the world for trophies and prizes during the annual Cheeca Lodge All-American Backcountry Tournament, scheduled Nov. 18-20 in Islamorada.

The first-class catch-and-release tournament was inspired by the nation’s 41st President George H.W. Bush, an avid Florida Keys angler and a regular visitor to Cheeca Lodge. It honors a participating team of two veteran soldiers to unwind and join up to 25 competitor boats that target five tournament species: snook, redfish, permit, bonefish and tarpon.

A welcome beachside reception followed by a rules meeting and silent auction kick off the weekend at 5 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 18, at Cheeca Lodge, the tournament’s social event headquarters located at mile marker 82 oceanside.

Fishing is from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 19-20, based from nearby World Wide Sportsman. The prestigious event culminates Saturday evening when individual and team trophies are to be awarded to winners in the fly, general tackle and artificial lure divisions.

Entry fee is $1,750 per angler and includes admission to social events for the angler, guide and two guests; daily continental breakfast; boxed lunches for anglers and guides; and a gift bag. Guide fees are additional. Limited social-only tickets are available to the public. Contact [email protected] to make reservations.

According to tournament organizers, participants are to follow Monroe County COVID-19 health safety protocols throughout, including social distancing and wearing facial coverings when appropriate.

Proceeds benefit the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to conserve and restore bonefish, tarpon and permit fisheries and habitats through research, stewardship, education and advocacy.

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