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‘Mad Dog’ Mandich Fishing Classic Set for October 5-6 in Florida Keys

A top boat prize of $5,000 cash is to be awarded for the highest cumulative weight of the tournament's target species

The Publix Mad Dog Mandich Fishing Classic, now in its fifth year, is set for Oct. 5-6 to honor the late Jim “Mad Dog” Mandich, a passionate angler and former tight end for the University of Michigan and the Miami Dolphins.

A top boat prize of $5,000 cash is to be awarded for the highest cumulative weight of the tournament’s target species — dolphin, kingfish, tuna and wahoo. The second-place team receives $1,000 and $500 apiece is awarded to the anglers who catch the heaviest fish in each of the target species. Additional trophies await the top lady and junior anglers, and those catching the top grouper and snapper.

Former Miami Dolphins players scheduled to appear at the angling event include defensive back and three-time Pro Bowler Dick Anderson, Pro Bowl wide receiver Nat Moore and offensive lineman Chris Conlin.

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A Caribee kick-off party, final registration and captains meeting are set for 5-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 5, at Ziggie & Mad Dog’s Restaurant, mile marker (MM) 83 bayside. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres are planned as well as a silent auction fundraiser featuring sports memorabilia, fishing gear, exotic trips, artwork and more.

The following day boats are free to depart at 7 a.m. Fishing is to continue until 3:30 p.m.

All fish must be weighed in between 4 and 6 p.m. at the weigh station at Chesapeake Beach Resort, MM 83.5 oceanside. Cocktails and appetizers are to be served during the weigh-in and dock party.

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A dinner buffet catered by Ziggie & Mad Dog’s Restaurant is scheduled at 6:30 p.m. under a party tent, followed by awards at 7:30 p.m. and featuring live music. Activities are to be held on the beach at Chesapeake Beach Resort.

Registration is $450 per boat for four anglers, ($400 if received by Sept. 28). The fee includes food, drinks and a goodie bag.

Following his National Football League career, Mandich was involved in a number of business ventures, including opening Ziggie & Mad Dog’s Restaurant in Islamorada. He also was the color commentator on Miami Dolphins radio broadcasts. He died of cancer in April 2011.

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All tournament events are open to the public. A portion of tournament proceeds benefits oncology services at the Florida Keys’ Mariners Hospital. For more information visit www.maddogclassic.com.

—Source: Fla-Keys.com

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