West Central Florida is a fishing enthusiast's paradise, offering a diverse array of freshwater and saltwater fishing tournaments that cater to anglers of all levels. From the tranquil lakes and rivers teeming with bass and panfish to the bountiful Gulf of Mexico and its abundant saltwater species, this region hosts a year-round calendar of exciting competitions. Whether you're angling for prize catches in crystal-clear springs or testing your skills in the open sea, West Central Florida has something for every fishing aficionado, making it a premier destination for competitive anglers and nature enthusiasts alike.
April 2024
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April 25, 26 & 27, 2024Spring King of the Beach Kingfish Tournament - Madeira Beach, FloridaA major kingfish tournament with over $300,000 in cash and prizes, hosted by the Old Salt Fishing Foundation in Madeira Beach, FL. The Old Salt King of the Beach Kingfish Tournament is one of the oldest, one of the richest and absolutely the most exciting Kingfish tournament in the United States. If you fish for Smoker Kings and like to win big money then you should be fishing the 31st Annual Old Salt Spring King of the Beach. |
August 2024
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TBD - August, 2024St. Pete Open Tournament | St. Pete, FLThe St Pete Open is the world's largest spearfishing tournament. Many of the largest fish ever entered in a spearfishing event have been brought in to the St. Pete Open. At a typical SPO, we enjoy the company of roughly 300+ participants, with spectators numbering in the thousands. | |
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Returning August, 2024LOOP Billfish Tournament | Maderia Beach, FLThe LOOP, all release billfish tournament, is the namesake event that founded the Old Salt Fishing Foundation. “Old Salt” is an acronym derived from the name of the first tournament: Operation LOOP Development (OLD) Suncoast Anglers LOOP Tournament (SALT). Old Salt, and the LOOP Tournament, is celebrating 52 years of tradition and excellence this year. The LOOP has been coined the “Iron Man” of Billfishing Tournaments. Team Haulin’ Grass (formerly Team Hi Hatter) – Captain Brian Turner (2004 Billfish Division Winners) said, “This is the one to win, because it separates the boys from the men!” Fierce competition and rivalry, 50 years of tradition and an amazing bill-fishery will bring boats from all over to see who will win the prestigious LOOP Cup. |
Here is a list of some of the top saltwater and freshwater bass fishing tournaments in West Central Florida for the year 2024, including Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Brooksville: