Thanks for 58 Years
Thanks for 58 Years
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The K. W. F. T. has completed its final year of operation after 58 years of promoting the great sportfishing in Key West and the Lower Florida Keys.

The K. W. F. T. board of directors express our sincere appreciation to the many captains, mates, anglers, sponsors, and the Monroe County Tourist Development Council for their support.

It has been our pleasure to have been a part of many angler’s fishing adventures. The many memories and friendships are invaluable.

For information on the purchase of the K. W. F. T. domain name, please email director@keywestfishingtournament.com

Yours in fishing
Judd A. Wise, President

Visiting and resident anglers are encouraged to enter their weighed and released catches, at no charge, to compete for awards. All entries receive a certificate noting their catch, ‘Outstanding Angling Achievement’ and ‘Sportsmanship Award’ for releases.

Divisions

KWFT has 4 angler divisions, Men, Women, Junior (age 10-15) and Peewee (under 10). Anglers in each division win an award for the heaviest of 33 species in 9 different line classes, 8 lb. test, 12 lb. test, 20 lb. test, 30 lb. test, 50 lb. test and an Unlimited test class. There are also 3 ‘artificial’ (no bait) divisions, Spin, Plug and Fly. See Angling Categories for rules

The KWFT awards a ‘Master Angler’ title to both in-county and out-of-county residents in Men, Women, Junior and Peewee divisions. A ‘Most Releases’ title is awarded for Barracuda, Blue Marlin, Bonefish, Dolphin, Permit, Sailfish, Tarpon, Most Releases Overall and Most Releases in the Peewee division. See Criteria for Master Angler for rules. Charter captains and mates also receive awards for Guide Achievement and Most Releases.

Tournament History

The KWFT was founded in 1965 by then charter boat captain, Gainey Maxwell. To celebrate the 50th anniversary, see our interview with him on YouTube

Thank You to our Sponsors

With great appreciation, the KWFT is funded by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council and the many sponsorships of business owners that are committed to supporting this historical fishing tournament.  Show your support of the KWFT as well with your patronage at these many businesses. See Sponsors page for a complete list.