Kingfish Mayhem in Key West: Anglers Ready for Battle

The 2024 Key West Kingfish Mayhem tournament is shaping up to be an epic showdown in the world of angling. Set to run from Jan. 11-14, this event is where the big king mackerel, or as the pros call them, kingfish, make their grand appearance before heading off on their annual migration.

Diving into the Details

• Two Divisions, Double the Excitement: There's something for everyone. The open division is a free-for-all, inviting any team that feels lucky. But the real pros? They're in the elite multi-leg Kingfish Mayhem Pro Series.
• Big Fish, Big Bucks: The heaviest kingfish in the open division could net a cool $10,000 for the winning team, with second and third place not far behind, pocketing $3,000 and $2,000 respectively. And that's just the start – payouts go through fifth place, assuming 40 boats are in the mix.

Extras for the Extra Adventurous

• Teams can up the ante with optional entry categories, because why not go for even more cash?

Get Set, Go

• Registration and Kickoff: Mark your calendars for Jan. 11, 4-6 p.m., at Oceans Edge Resort & Marina on Stock Island. That's where you'll sign up and get the lowdown at the 7:30 p.m. captains meeting.
• Fishing Days: Jan. 12-13 for the pros and Jan. 13 for the open division. It's an all-day affair, so bring your A-game.
• Rules of the Game: Pro series boats weigh one kingfish per day, or go all in on Friday with two. Open division? You've got one shot on Saturday.
• The Finish Line: Don't forget, you have to be seen by the committee by 5 p.m. to weigh in.

Wrapping Up with Awards

• Gather round at noon on Jan. 14 at Oceans Edge Marina. That's when the champions claim their glory.

Entry Fee Details

• Get in early for $500 per team until Jan. 1, 2024. After that, it's $600. And hey, bring as many anglers as you like.

Check out all the nitty-gritty at meatmayhemtournaments.com. Kingfish Mayhem is where it's at – don't miss it!