Female anglers can learn, network and enjoy lighthearted No Yelling tournament competition during the annual no-experience-necessary “Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing!” girls getaway scheduled Friday through Sunday, Oct. 18-20, in Islamorada.
The “university weekend” teaches aspiring anglers basic, hands-on fishing skills that are then practiced in optional offshore and inshore fishing situations. Participants learn about conservation and responsible angling techniques from prominent Keys-based fishing captains.
The seminar kicks off Friday, Oct. 18, with a 6:30-8:30 p.m. meet-and-greet networking social at Tavernier’s BPOE Elks Lodge at mile marker 92 bayside. Participants and guests can enjoy a fundraising raffle, silent auction and appetizer contest.
Saturday’s activities are held from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., with classroom presentations by professional local guides on fishing basics, conservation, release techniques and more. After lunch, hands-on activities include knot tying, bait rigging, spin and net casting, boat and trailer handling, stand-up fish-fighting techniques, gaffing, removing hooks and filleting the catch.
A cocktail party is to follow Saturday evening at Seaside Glassworks, mile marker 82 bayside.
Friday and Sunday, participants can opt for an additional inshore or offshore fishing adventure, followed by a filleting demonstration, out of Whale Harbor Marina at mile marker 83.5 oceanside. Anglers can fish from a sport-fishing vessel, inshore flats boat or drift boat. Additional fees apply.
Anglers who opt to fish both days also are entered into the LLGF Fishing Fever Tournament, a friendly entry-level competition that awards prizes.
Weekend seminars fill quickly so interested anglers should register early. Online early entry fee is $125 per person; regular fee is $145 per person. VIP registration of $180 entitles participants to premium reserved seating, socials and meals as well as future rebates and savings on souvenirs. Registrants must confirm their entry into the Fishing Fever Tournament when signing up.
Remember NO YELLING!
Florida Keys Saltwater Fishing Records
Information and registration: ladiesletsgofishing.com, 954-475-9068 or " target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">
Islamorada visitor information: fla-keys.com/islamorada or 800-FAB-KEYS
Florida Keys fishing information: fla-keys.com/fishing