The Don Hawley Invitational Tarpon Fly Tournament was organized by Dick Pope, Jr. in 1975 to honor the great Don Hawley, who passed away in 1974. In 1987, the format of the Tournament was changed to catch and release only. Today, the Tournament continues to attract some of the best fly anglers from around the world, all of whom are competitive, conservative-minded and passionate about catching the silver king.During the competition, each angler and guide team receives 1,000 points for each tarpon measuring at least four feet in length that is caught and released pursuant to Tournament rules. These rules require teams to, among other things, use 12-lb tippet and abide by all International Game Fish Association rules.The title of Grand Champion is awarded to the angler and guide team with the most points accumulated over the five-day competition. In addition to other awards, the Grand Champions’ names are placed on the Perpetual Trophy, which includes the names of all past champion anglers and guides. The Perpetual Trophy resides at Florida Keys Outfitters in Islamorada, Florida.Importantly, the five-day event allows GTF ample opportunity to promote its programs and initiatives directly to and among the various Tournament participants, including anglers, guides, sponsors, vendors and guests, many of whom are donors or potential donors to and / or beneficiaries or potential beneficiaries of such programs and initiatives.
TACKLE SPECIFICATIONS
SPECIFICATIONS AND RULES
RELEASE FORMAT
SCORING
12-pound tippet – 1,000 points • You must use the current year tippet material supplied by tournament
DISAGREEMENTS
In case of disagreements, the Anglers Tournament Committee decision will be final. All complaints must be submitted in writing by 5:00 P.M. to the Anglers Tournament Committee on the day of the complaint.
Thank you for your interest in the Don Hawley Tarpon Fly Tournament. This year’s event is currently full. Upon filling out the below referenced application, you will be added to the waiting list.
Click Here to be added to the Tournament waiting list.
If you are participating in the 50th Annual Don Hawley Invitational Tarpon Fly Tournament, then payment of your entry fee can be made by check or card, as follows:
To Pay by Check: Please make your check payable to “DHTT, LLC” and mail to:
DHTT, LLC
P.O. Box 88
Islamorada, FL 33036
To Pay by Debit or Credit Card: Please click on the “PayPal” button below.
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