10th Annual Mad Dog Mandich Fishing Classic to Lure Anglers Oct. 6-7
ISLAMORADA, Florida Keys — Anglers can compete in offshore or inshore divisions in the 10th annual Mad Dog Mandich Fishing Classic set for Friday and Saturday, Oct. 6-7, in Islamorada.
The fun-fish tournament honors the late Jim “Mad Dog” Mandich, a former Miami Dolphins star tight end and radio color commentator, with a Florida Keys weekend of fellowship and family enjoyment.
Offshore division anglers are to compete for a top boat prize of $5,000 cash and a trophy for the highest cumulative weight of target species, including dolphin, kingfish, tuna, wahoo, snapper and grouper.
Inshore division competitors vie for $1,000 cash while fishing for spotted sea trout, redfish, snook, mangrove snapper and tarpon. Additional trophies are awarded to the top overall, lady and junior anglers.
Former National Football League players and Miami broadcasters are expected to appear as guest hosts and anglers. Specifics are to be confirmed as the tournament nears, according to organizers.
Final boat registration, captains meeting and a kick-off party are set for 5-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 6, at the new Celebration Tiki Hut at Postcard Inn, mile marker 84 oceanside.
Saturday, boats can depart at 7 a.m. and fishing is to continue until 4 p.m. All fish must be weighed in between 4 and 6 p.m. at the weigh station at “Bimini Row,” the south side of the Postcard Inn marina.
Following the weigh-in, a large silent auction fundraiser is to open with cocktails and appetizers. A beachside Caribbean dinner buffet and an awards celebration round out the evening excitement at the Celebration Tiki Hut.
Offshore tournament registration is $650 per boat for four anglers ($550 if received by Sept. 22). Inshore division registration is $150 per angler and up to three anglers are allowed per boat.
The tournament is open to the public and everyone is welcome to participate in fishing and/or the social events.
A portion of the proceeds benefits Oncology Services at the Florida Keys’ Mariners Hospital. The Mad Dog Mandich Fishing Classic has contributed a combined $235,000 to the hospital and other organizations and charities over its lifespan, according to organizers.
Tournament and entry information: maddogclassic.com/fl-keys
Islamorada visitor information: fla-keys.com/islamorada or 800-FAB-KEYS
Keys fishing information: fla-keys.com/fishing
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