ANNA MARIA ISLAND – The Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island is hosting its first annual “Reel for Rotary” fishing tournament on Saturday, April 26.
Proceeds from the tournament will benefit disaster relief efforts in the Cortez community, as well as support the Rotary “Learn to Swim” program, programs at Anna Maria Elementary School and other projects that directly benefit the AMI community.
The tournament is open to anglers of all ages with both inshore and offshore prize categories.
On Friday, April 25 at 5:30 p.m., a captains’ meeting/check-in is scheduled at Slicker’s Eatery, 12012 Cortez Road W. in Cortez. Lines in begins on Saturday, April 26 at 7 a.m., with lines out at 2:30 p.m., followed by dinner, drinks, a silent auction at 4 p.m. and an awards ceremony at 5:30 p.m. at Swordfish Grill, 4628 119th St. W., Cortez.
The registration fee is $150 for a single angler and $550 for a boat of four and includes tournament entry, a 2025 “Reel for Rotary” fishing shirt, cocktails and dinner and prizes. Youth registration (13 and under) is $20 and includes tournament entry, 2025 “Reel for Rotary” fishing shirt, dinner and prizes.
The inshore grand prize (Inshore Slam) is $1,000. The offshore grand prize (Grouper/Snapper Combo) is $1,000, with additional prizes to be announced. The grand prize for the youth division will be a half day inshore charter with Anna Maria Charters for up to four people (value $700).
The Rotary is seeking sponsors of all levels, donations and marketing items for Captain’s Bags. Tickets are available for both social events. Tournament shirts are also available for purchase.
For more information and to register, visit the event website.
