Hook, Line, And Sinker: The $4,500 Kayak Quest Returns To Florida Waters

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Hook, Line, And Sinker: The $4,500 Kayak Quest Returns To Florida Waters

Catch a Florida Memory
Catch a Florida Memory (FWC)

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is officially kicking off the fourth season of its Triple Threat Throwdown, turning the state’s coastal waters into a high-stakes arena for saltwater anglers.

This year’s competition carries extra weight as it coincides with the 10th anniversary—or “Catch-a-versary”—of the Catch a Florida Memory program.

Running from March 1 through September 13, 2026, the challenge is specifically designed to reward the state’s most versatile fishers.

The grand prize is a kayak fishing bundle worth over $4,500, featuring a Bonafide SKF117 kayak and a massive haul of gear from industry heavyweights like Mustad, YakAttack, and Power-Pole.

To even get a foot in the door, anglers have to prove they aren’t just one-trick ponies. The contest is exclusive to members of the Triple Threat Club.

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Reaching that status is a marathon in itself: an angler must land a Saltwater Grand Slam (catching three specific species in 24 hours), a Saltwater Reel Big Fish (meeting a specific length requirement), and a spot on the Saltwater Life List by documenting at least ten different species.

“This challenge highlights anglers who truly know what it means to Catch a Florida Memory,” said Jessica McCawley, Director of FWC’s Division of Marine Fisheries Management. She noted that the agency aims to recognize those who have mastered the diversity of Florida’s marine environments.

The rules for Season 4 are straightforward but reward persistence. Existing Triple Threat members get an entry for every new catch recognition they submit during the six-month window. Newcomers who reach Triple Threat status during the contest get an automatic entry, plus additional chances for every catch they log afterward.

While the competition is open to many, there is a logistical catch: the winner must be able to pick up the prize package or have it delivered to a location within Florida.

Aspiring winners can track their progress or sign up for the 10-year anniversary challenges at CatchaFloridaMemory.com. With the spring season fast approaching, the FWC is encouraging locals to get their gear ready and start hitting the flats.

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