Guest Column: 24th Annual Pine Island Fishing Tournament & Derby May 18
In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the 24th Annual Pine Island Fishing Tournament & Derby, originally scheduled for Nov. 3, 2024, has been rescheduled to Sunday, May 18, and will now be held at Jug Creek Marina.
We are deeply saddened by the loss of two beloved Pine Island landmarks: Captain Con’s and the Bokeelia Pier. These icons of our community were more than just buildings-they were part of our story, our memories and our hearts. As a tribute, the Captain Con’s and Bokeelia Pier logos will remain on the 2025 derby shirts as a thank you for everything they gave to our island and its people.
While we continue to heal, the Matlacha Hookers remain unwavering in our mission. We are proud to host the rescheduled 24th Annual Pine Island Fishing Tournament & Derby, carrying on a legacy of giving back to the community we love.
Founded in 1998 by 21 women who came together to “Make a Positive Difference in Our Community,” the Matlacha Hookers have grown to nearly 200 active members dedicated to supporting Pine Island Elementary School. Thanks to community generosity, we’ve raised more than $220,000 through this tournament alone.
Those funds have helped create the school’s first STEM/STEAM lab, and provided scholarships to high school seniors and adults pursuing higher education-whether in college or trade school. Principal Dr. Michael Galbreath has praised the Matlacha Hookers for making possible countless opportunities for teachers and students alike.
Event Details
The tournament features two exciting types of fishing:
• The Kids’ Derby: Open to elementary-aged children, who fish by land with help from parents and volunteers. Each child receives a brand-new rod and reel to keep, plenty of bait, and a shot at trophies in multiple categories. Last year, more than 100 children participated!
• Catch-Photo-Release (C.P.R.) Tournament: Open to boat and kayak anglers. Fishing begins at 6 a.m., with final entries due by 2 p.m. Prizes will be awarded for the longest snook, redfish, trout and the “slam” (combined length of all three species).
It’s more than just fishing! The entire community is invited to this free, family-friendly event, open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring:
• Live music from local musicians
• Delicious lunch offerings
• Beverages for kids and adults
• Silent auctions
• Booze Wagon raffle
• Hook-a-Basket & 50/50 raffles
• And tons of fun for all ages!
How to Register
• Visit our Facebook event page: 24th Annual Pine Island Elementary Fishing Tournament & Derby
• Go to our website: www.matlachahookers.org
Anglers can also register on the iAngler website or app by scanning the event QR code.
Want to Help?
Interested in donating an auction item or sponsoring a child to fish? Learn more at www.matlachahookers.org.
For more information, contact Kelly LaMagna at kellylamagna@icloud.com or 239-841-4376.
We are endlessly grateful to the residents, businesses, anglers, and supporters who continue to lift us up-especially during times like these. Thank you for standing with us through the storm. We’ll see you May 18, 2025, at Jug Creek Marina.
— Matlacha Hookers