Chase for the Chalice Invitational

On July 11, a small group of organizers keen to promote saltwater fly fishing on Florida’s Space Coast will host the Chase for the Chalice Invitational. “There’s already a lot of interest in saltwater fly fishing in this area and we want to further increase that interest base,” said organizer and fishing guide Mike Badarack. The all-release tarpon tournament will take place on the Indian River and inshore waters.

The event is limited to 20 teams of two anglers. Rules regarding measurements and strength for leaders and tippet will be enforced. Scores will be tabulated based on “length” and “weight” fish, much like Islamorada’s Gold Cup.

In order to benefit conservation efforts, all anglers will be required to take DNA samples of skin cells from the tarpon they bring to the boat for the Tarpon Genetic Recapture Study by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota.