December 28, 2012
By Florida Sportsman Newswire
The 23nd Annual Cheeca Lodge Presidential Sailfish Tournament is set for January 17-19, 2013.
Competitive sport fishermen from across the country will gather at Cheeca Lodge & Spa in January for two days of intense sail fishing action during the 23nd Annual Presidential Sailfish Tournament, January 17-19, 2013. Winners will take home stunningly beautiful trophies and the bragging rights that come with catching and releasing the most sailfish.
Over its illustrious 22-year history, Cheeca's Presidential Tournament has grown to become one of the largest and most prestigious sailfish tournaments in South Florida. It is the second leg of the prestigious Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship, which culminates with the Islamorada Fishing Club Sailfish Tournament, January 23-24, 2013. The Gold Cup Championship boasts $25,000 in prize money for the winners.
In order to accommodate attendees with the same level of impeccable service and quality that is Cheeca's trademark, the Cheeca Lodge Presidential will become an invitation only event in 2013. “Our goal is to maximize our seating capacity with the ability to provide both gracious and spacious seating,” said General Manager Herbert Spiegel. “The 2013 Presidential will be the most elegant and exciting tournament in its distinguished history.” The Presidential will kick off with a cocktail party and buffet dinner at 6 p.m. on Thursday, January 17. Fishing days are Friday and Saturday, January 18-19. The sumptuous awards banquet is at 6:30 p.m. on January 19. Both events take place in Cheeca's tropical Bougainvillea Ballroom and Courtyard.
January is peak sail fishing season. Once hooked up, acrobatic and iridescent sailfish leap through the air and tail walk the waves, giving anglers the fight of their lives. In keeping with Cheeca's mission to conserve and protect valuable Keys resources, all sailfish caught during this tournament are released to fight another day. Only circle hooks can be used.
Entry fee is $695 for the first angler; additional anglers are $645, with up to four anglers per boat.
For more information, go to www.cheeca.com or contact Tournament Director Liz Hill at (305)451-5094, or e-mail lizhillfirst@bellsouth.net.
