Targeting fine-tasting fish for a good cause, the fifth annual Nick Sheahan Dolphin Rodeo is set for Friday through Sunday, May 4-6.
The family-friendly angling event kicks off its fifth year Friday, May 4, with a 6 p.m. rules meeting and cookout at Tavernier Creek Marina. A season opener for dolphin fishing, the community event has donated more than $58,000 in scholarships in honor of Nick Sheahan, a Coral Shores High School student who died tragically in 2004.
Adult and junior anglers age 12 and under are to fish Saturday May 5, from 7:30 a.m. lines-in to 4:30 p.m., and again Sunday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cash prizes of $2,000, $1,000 and $500 are to be awarded the top-three adult anglers catching the heaviest dolphin. Also on tap are first- through third-place trophies and prizes for the top junior anglers.
A $25,000 cash prize awaits the angler who breaks the current Florida state record for dolphin. All International Game Fish Association tournament rules apply.
Prizes also are to be given for the largest wahoo, yellowfin or blackfin tuna. One entry per species per angler is allowed.
Entry fees are $150 for each adult angler and $35 per junior angler. Tournament information: the nicksheahan websiteIslamorada visitor information: the fla-keyswebsite/islamorada or 1-800-FAB-KEYSBy: Andy Newman/Carol Shaughnessy
