Tournament Concept
The basic premise in all conventional light tackle angling is that the weight of the bait or lure takes the line from the reel. The basic premise of fly fishing is that the weight of the fly line pulls the fly through the air. Their angling similarity primarily ends therein except that they share the same playing field.
In order to recognize the difference of skills, technique and expertise required to be a master of either sport, the 2009 Florida Keys Outfitters/IGFA Inshore Championship will recognize and award equally coveted awards to the World Champion Light Tackle Angler and the World Champion Fly Fishing Angler.
The tournament will be limited to 20 fly fishing anglers and 20 light tackle anglers. 20 of the Keys finest fly fishing guides and 20 of the Keys finest light tackle guides will be offered the opportunity to participate in their respective divisions.
We have established a Guides Committee to assure the abilities of each guide participating and to insure a very even playing field. At the kick off, anglers will draw his or her guide/team mate for the following three days. Anglers and guides need not rotate, because variance in range of guide ability in each division will be very narrow. The results will weigh more heavily on the individual anglers skills than in the past. Additionally, teams should be able to develop a rhythm and work more effectively together without having to start from square one each day.
I believe this new format will create a fair, fun & exciting high competition and I look forward to seeing so many anglers and guides come together utilizing unique angling styles and your "best of the best" natural skills and abilities.
Sincerely,
