Dolphin anglers can set their sights on a guaranteed cash payout of $30,000, along with prizes and trophies that make up a total purse of $50,000, at the 23rd annual Coconuts Dolphin Tournament scheduled Thursday through Sunday, May 14-17, in Key Largo.
A grand prize of $10,000 cash awaits the angler who brings the heaviest dolphin to the weigh station. If that fish exceeds 63.9 pounds, the current state record, the angler is to win a two-year lease on a 2009 Honda Ridgeline RT pickup truck valued at more than $10,000 in addition to other prizes.
The Coconuts event is one of the largest tournaments in South Florida, historically attracting more than 400 anglers each year who fish on boats from 19 to 50 feet long.
Tournament registration is set for Thursday, May 14, at Coconuts Restaurant, near mile marker 100 oceanside in Key Largo.
A mini warm-up tournament is set for Friday, May 15, before the weekend’s two-day tournament. The first-place angler is to win $2,000 cash and a trophy. Second- and third-place finishers earn $1,000 and $500 cash, respectively, as well as trophies.
Saturday and Sunday, May 16-17, anglers are to target dolphin and compete for the $10,000 grand prize or one of the other cash prizes awarded for first through sixth place overall. Additionally, first- through third-place cash prizes are to be awarded in separate tournament divisions for female anglers, seniors age 60 and over, and junior anglers age 16 and under.
A barbecue dinner and awards ceremony are set for Sunday at Coconuts after weigh-in concludes at 5 p.m.
Entry fee is $170 per adult angler and $50 for junior anglers and social-only tickets.
For more information, contact Coconuts Restaurant at (305) 453-9794, e-mail coconutskeylargo@aol.com or visit www.coconutsrestaurant.com/tournament09.html
