ZooKeeper

Rock The Ocean’s Tortuga Music Festival
2025-04-04 - 2025-04-06 | Fort Lauderdale Beach, United States
Rock The Ocean’s flagship event is Tortuga Music Festival, a large-scale, three-day oceanfront music festival dedicated to creating awareness and raising funds for ocean conservation. The award-winning event takes place annually on the beautiful beaches of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. We bring together the superstars of the entertainment industry and the rockstars of ocean conservation to put their talents together to save our oceans.
Be sure to go visit the Conservation Village!

Rock The Ocean’s signature trademark onsite at Tortuga is Conservation Village. We bring together the best and brightest organizations and experts around the top issues threatening our seas. Together, we build awareness and give concert attendees a hands-on experience that helps them not just learn more, but care more. Tortuga reaches 100,000+ concert fans annually and those fans have helped raise over $4 million to support the oceans.
Take a Deeper Dive Into Conservation Village
Learn More

ZooKeeper & Ace Diving's 2025 Spring Lionfish Derby
2025-03-22 07:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Ace Diving, 401 Biscayne Blvd. Pier 5 - Slip 33, Miami, FL, 33132, United States
Ace Diving Miami – 401 Biscayne Blvd, Pier 5, Slip 33, Miami, FL 33132 – BAYSIDE MARKETPLACE MALL
4 Hours • Certified Divers • 2 Tank Derby • 7am – 12pm • Teams of 2
https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/ace-diving/items/424073/?full-items=yes&back=https://www.ace-diving.com/
Derby includes

Dive Charter

What to Bring unless you are renting from us.

Towel
Biodegradable Sunscreen
Mask, snorkel, fins, and boots
Buoyancy Control Device (BCD)
Regulator with alternate air source
Computer
Depth gauge
Surface Marker Buoy (SMB)
Audible signaling device
Underwater Compass
Wetsuit if needed
Cutting tool
Dive light.
Tanks and weights
Zookeeper with Hawaiian Sling (limited amounts)

Must bring to the competition

Zookeeper
Sling Spear
Puncture resistant gloves
Surface Marker Buoy

Available for purchase

Zookeeper with spear holder
Sling Spear
Puncture resistant gloves
Big Blue AL 1300NP

Need to purchase gear from Zookeeper, please use this link:
https://lionfishzk.com/?sld=acediving

2025 South East Spearfishing Tournament - Begins
2025-02-15
The South East Spearfishing Tournament is a yearlong event that allows people from North Carolina to Texas to compete!
Spearfish all the time like you normally do, except when you get that huge fish, enter it to win prizes or to become the TOP DOG!
Use the links above to find out how to register, the rules, or the prizes.
Good luck!

Register

2025 South East Spearfishing Tournament Rules
Feb 15th – Dec 15th 2025
This year will be a little different, with a few changes designed to encourage more participation and foster a more competitive tournament. The tournament is open to anyone in U.S. waters from North Carolina to Texas (including North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas). Please read the rules thoroughly.

Regular registration Dates:

Dec 1st – Apr 1st
Tournament Start Date: February 15th
Tournament End Date: December 15th (Last submissions due by the 20th)

Rules are subject to change. Any changes will be posted on the website and the Facebook group. It is the participant’s responsibility to be aware of any updates before submitting fish.
Registration Fee: $100
Shooters Package includes:

SE Spearfishing Tape Measure
SE Spearfishing Hat (Subsidized by Speared Gear)
SE Spearfishing Shirt (Subsidized by Speared Gear)
Neritic Diving Gloves

Extras:

The shooter’s package will arrive prior to Feb 15th for regular registration.
Late Registration: $110 and there is a 7-day delay on fish submissions. (We cannot guarantee the arrival time of the tape and shooter packages for late entries.)
Registration after official start: There will be a 7-day delay on fish submissions on everyone who registers after the official start.

SUBMITTING FISH

Submission Deadline: All submissions must be posted to the Facebook group and website no later than 5 days after the fish is harvested.
Fish Landing: The fish must be speared and landed with a witness to the catch.
Commercially Speared Fish: Commercially speared fish are allowed, but only those that are open to recreational divers in the area where the fish was harvested can be entered. For example, if Gag Grouper is closed for recreational divers, a commercial Gag Grouper cannot be entered until the season opens in that area.
Fisheries Compliance: All fisheries laws and regulations must be complied with for the area the fish is harvested. A breach of any fisheries laws or regulations may result in disqualification.
Region: Only fish landed in Southeastern U.S. waters (North Carolina – Texas) can be entered. Fish cannot be entered from Bahamian or Mexican waters. The boat must leave from a dock in one of these states and return to a dock in one of these states.

All submissions must include:

A video of the fish showing the length, as well as the date and time (preferably from a time-synced device such as a phone or smartwatch). Upload to the private shooter’s page.
A photo clearly showing the fish with the tape measure extended across the body. Upload to the private shooter’s page.
A photo of the diver holding the fish. Upload to the website.

Example Submission Format (on Facebook):

Shooter Name
Shooter ID
Division
Species
Measurement
Witness
Video and Pictures

Measurement Guidelines:

Measurements must start at the fork of the tail, with the tape measure pulled tight across the body to the mouth.
Photos must be taken from directly above the fish.
Videos should start at the tail and finish at the mouth, showing the full measurement of the fish in frame.
All fish mouths must be resting.
Large groupers must show sufficient effort to close gill plates and mouth to avoid length extension during measurements.
Lionfish are measured in centimeters.
Fish Measurement: Fish are measured to the nearest quarter inch (round down to avoid conflict).

Head Connection:

The head must remain completely connected to the body during measurement. If the throat is disconnected due to spearing, the head must be placed back in line with the body.

Review Process for Submissions:

All submissions will be reviewed within 48 hours before being officially accepted. During this time, it is encouraged to keep the fish intact and on ice until the submission is accepted.
If a submission is not reviewed within 48 hours, it will be accepted automatically.
If any major discrepancies are found during review, the admin will reach out to the participant within 48 hours to address and correct the discrepancies.
If the shooter and admin cannot reach an agreement, the submission will be voided.

Dishonest or improper measurements may result in corrective action, including permanent expulsion from the tournament.

TEAM Freedive

Team Freedive will consist of two person teams
The overall score will be the best length of each species from either diver on the team.
14 fish will be entered per team.
Both members of the team must be present that day in order to submit a valid entry.
Teams must be specified during the registration period and cannot be changed.

Scuba TOP Dog

The participant with the longest total length of fish and the most species at the end of the year will be crowned Florida Spearfishing’s Scuba TOP DOG.
Post pictures the same way you would for any other category, on the website and Facebook group.
Only one fish from each species will count toward Scuba Top Dog total length.
Rules for Scuba TOP DOG category are the same as regular entries.

Calcutta Rules:

Unlimited Wins: Participants who enter the calcuttas may win any number of categories they have entered. There are no restrictions on the number of calcuttas a single participant can win.
Purchase Window: Calcuttas will be available for purchase from the start of registration up to the tournament start date. Entries will close once the tournament officially begins.
Eligibility: Only participants who have completed their registration for the tournament are eligible to enter the calcuttas.
Scoring: The same rules as the tournament apply—the longest fish wins in each calcutta category.

Mini Tournament Rules:

Duration: The mini tournament will take place over a specific, shorter timeframe (e.g., one weekend or a set of predetermined dates).
Eligibility: Open to all registered participants of the main tournament — no additional registration required.
Scoring: Winners are determined by the longest fish in each category, following the same rules as the main tournament.
Categories: Categories for each mini tournament will be announced before the start of the event.
Prizes: Separate prizes will be awarded for the mini tournament, and participants may win in both the main tournament and the mini tournament.

Emerald Coast Open 2025 Pre-Tournament Begins
2025-02-01 | Emerald Coast Open
Start racking up those raffle entries! Between Feb 1 – May 15, registered participants can turn in lionfish at designated drop off spots for 2 for 1 raffle entries. For every lionfish you turn in, you get 2 raffle entries for over $10,000 in prizes given away at the main tournament.
Rules & Learn More

Emerald Coast Open - 2025 Pre-Tournament Kickoff Party
2025-01-31 18:00 - 21:00 | TBD
Don’t miss out on the Pre-Tournament kickoff party. Free food, including lionfish, giveaways, live music, and a lot of “sizing up the competition”. Learn what’s in store for the 2025 Emerald Coast Open. Party starts at 6pm and goes to around 9pm – Stay Tuned!

ZooKeeper 2025 Roatan Slaying Trip
2025-01-18 - 2025-01-25
Special invite event. Watch on socials!

Apex Predator Challenge 2024
2025-01-12 08:00 - 14:00 | South Florida Dive Headquarters, 101 North Riverside Drive, Suite 111, Pompano Beach, FL, 33062, United States
https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/DeerfieldBeach/ApexPredatorChallenge

Events

Apex Predator Challenge (DXDivers, Lady Go Diver)
Sign Up

Apex Predator Challenge (South Florida Diving Headquarters, Goliath)
Sign Up

Description

Dive into the fight against invasive species with the Apex Predator Challenge, a one-of-a-kind lionfish tournament that puts scuba divers at the forefront of protecting our marine ecosystems!
Participants will board one of two dive boats and head out to designated dive sites to hunt for the invasive lionfish, a species that threatens the balance of our waters. Equipped with skill, determination, and a passion for conservation, divers will compete in teams of two to remove as many lionfish as possible, with exciting cash prizes awarded to the top-performing teams.
Every participant will receive a commemorative Apex Predator Challenge Coin, a symbol of their commitment to the cause, and a versatile beach towel that doubles as a seat cover—perfect for keeping your car seats clean after a day of diving.
This tournament is an exciting opportunity to make a difference, meet fellow ocean advocates, and enjoy a day of adventure on the water. Join us for a rewarding and impactful event that blends competition with conservation!
Event Highlights:

Competitive lionfish hunting at selected dive sites
Two dive boats to accommodate participants
Teams of two divers competing for top prizes
Commemorative Apex Predator Challenge Coin for all divers
Multi-functional beach towel/seat cover for post-dive comfort

Prize Structure:

Most Lionfish Caught: $300 cash prize
Largest Lionfish: $200 cash prize
Smallest Lionfish: $100 cash prize
We will also have lots of gear that will be part of the prize packages as well.

Important Details:

Registration includes entry on dive boat for a two-tank dive.
All participants are responsible for their own dive equipment, rentals are available through the dive shops
If you need to rent equipment, please contact the dive shop directly to make arrangements.

DXDivers:
455 South Federal Highway
Deerfield Beach, FL 33441
954-951-9466
https://dxdivers.com/

South Florida Diving Headquarters:
101 North Riverside Drive, Suite 111
Pompano Beach, FL 33062
800-771-3483
info@southfloridadiving.com
https://www.southfloridadiving.com/

Race Contact Info

If you have any questions about this race, click the button below.
Questions?

Like this page and invite your friends on Facebook.

Rock the Ocean & Diver's On A Mission Lionfish Slayer Certification Dive
2025-01-11 08:00 - 17:00
Exciting but special invite event!

2024 Winter Lionfish Throw Down ENDS
2024-12-31 | Florida State Waters, United States
Starts: Monday, October 14, 2024 & Ends: Tuesday, December 31, 2024

The 2024 Winter Lionfish Throw Down is a Lionfish hunting tournament held throughout the State of Florida waters. Our goal is to encourage the culling of Lionfish through the winter months to mitigate the damage done by Lionfish all year long.

Please read all the rules and instructions before registering.
The $35 registration fee is non-refundable.Your registration includes a specially designed event rash guard and the ability for each registered participate to win one of the prizes for the top 5 harvesters and entry into the monthly raffle based on the rules for the raffle.Event shirts will begin to be mailed by the end of October.

THROW DOWN TIME LINE

Registration opens: Tuesday, October 1, 2024
Submissions begin: Monday, October 14, 2024 @ 12 Midnight

All Fish must be caught on or after October 14, 2024. (NO previously caught or frozen lionfish will be accepted)

Submissions end: Tuesday, December 31, 2024 @ 11:59PM
Raffle Drawings: October 31, 20024 / November 30, 2024 / December 31, 2024

PRIZES
1st Place (Grand Prize): One (1) winner with the most Lionfish harvested.

Trip to Curacao with ZooKeeper April 24, 2025 – April 30, 2025 for the winner only ($3345 Value) *

Includes:

Round trip airfare from Miami to Curacao.
Airport transfers & taxes.
Resort View Accommodations for six (6) nights at the Lions Dive Resort.
Daily breakfast.
Four (4) days of boat diving and one night dive.
Entry into the two (2) day Lionfish Derby.
Lionfish equipment for use during trip.
Unlimited shore dives.
Unlimited Nitrox (if certified).
A ZooKeeper sponsored group dinner.

2nd Place: One (1) winner with the 2nd most Lionfish harvested.

DIVE RITE TransPac XT Package w/ Rec XT Wing ($859 Value)
ZooKeeper Swag Bag (Hat / Rash Guard / Gloves) ($110 Value)

3rd Place: One (1) winner with the 3rd most Lionfish harvested.

DIVE RITE ZT2 Advanced Open Water Regulator Package ($759 Value)
ZooKeeper Swag Bag (Hat / Rash Guard / Gloves) ($110 Value)

4th Place: One (1) winner with the 4th most Lionfish harvested.

KOAH 45” Standard Fatback Speargun ($655 Value)
ZooKeeper Swag Bag (Hat / Rash Guard / Gloves) ($110 Value)

5th Place: One (1) winner with the 5th most Lionfish harvested.

BIG BLUE TL3800P – Supreme Tech Dive Light ($550 Value)
ZooKeeper Swag Bag (Hat / Rash Guard / Gloves) ($110 Value)

Throw Down winners will be contacted via email at the conclusion of the tournament.Please note – If we can increase the donations, we may be able to extend the “place winners”. Details subject to change.

RAFFLE PRIZES

There will be five (5) raffle prizes given away each month.
The raffle prizes will be announced at a later date, but each prize will have a minimum value of $50.
The raffle will be held on the last day of each month (October 31st / November 30th / December 31st ).
Any registered participant who submits one fish in any month will be entered into the raffle for that month.
All raffle prizes will be shipped to the winners at the address on the registration documents within Five (5) days of the drawing.

*Trip qualifications:

The prize can only be used by the registered winner and is not transferable to any other person.
Winner must be 18 years or older.
The prize cannot be exchanged for cash value.
If the winner cannot go on the trip, the prize will be forfeited.
The winner must have a valid passport that doesn’t expire prior to October 2025.
Travel documents must be provided within 10 days of the announcement as the winner to show eligibility to travel abroad. (On or about January 10th, 2025)

RULES

SAFETY FIRST!

It can’t be said enough that NO fish or prize is worth your life.
Plan your dive – dive your plan.
Check your air consumption and if applicable, decompression times OFTEN.
Reports of any unsafe diving practices shall disqualify the participant. NO Exceptions!
Be mindful of the reef and other marine life. Do not damage the reef in any way.

Participants should be aware of all recreational saltwater rules and regulations that may apply in the State of Florida. Learn more at https://myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/.
The Throw Down is an individual tournament and submissions should reflect that individual participate’s catch. Commercial harvest is greatly appreciated but will not qualify.
The “identifier” must be clear and only used for that day’s catch picture. Doctored photos will be denied, and the participant will be disqualified.
Only legal means of capture in areas allowing use of those gear types will be allowed. All existing federal, state, and local laws must be followed. All State and Federal laws will be strictly enforced.
Lionfish may be taken by spear, hand net, slurp gun or hook and line. No chemicals, traps or other collecting mechanisms are allowed.
Protective gloves should be worn when handling lionfish. Participants are encouraged to carry a safety kit for first aid purposes.
All entrants agree to allow Derby officials, ZooKeeper (The LZK Group, LLC) and event Sponsors/supports to take and use photos for media and promotional purposes.
In the event of a tie, the winning Angler/Shooter will be determined by the earliest submitted entries to the Fishing Chaos app.
Anyone found violating Derby Rules by the Derby Officials will be disqualified from receiving any Derby prizes and prohibited from entry in any future derbies.
Decisions of the Derby officials are final.

HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR CATCH

Each morning all registered participants will be emailed an “identifier” for the day. Reference it in photo(s) submitted on that day.
After harvesting the Lionfish, line up the fish and code word.
Snap a picture.
In the Fishing Chaos site/app click “Submit Catch”.
Report the number of fish in the picture.
Upload the photo for approval.
You will receive a submission confirmation email and then a second email once your submission is approved.

PLEASE NOTE:

If the Lionfish cannot be counted in the picture, the submission will be denied.
If the daily identifier is not visible, the submission will be denied.
All lionfish must be in whole condition (no missing heads or tails).
If the picture is a duplicate or doctored, the submission will be denied.

DEMA 2024 11.19-11.22
2024-11-19
Stop by and see us! Booth 7157
Show specials to be announced!

Curaçao Lionfish 2024 Fall Derby
2024-10-26 | Curacao, Curaçao
Curaçao Derby

Curaçao Lionfish Derby – October 26
Join for another exciting Lionfish Derby on Saturday, October 26 2024!
This year bigger than ever with also an Ocean & Conservation Market. So join and show us you are the best hunter of Curacao and invite your family and friends to come and see you receiving the first prize!
Diver Information

8:30 a.m.: Arrive at Lionfish Caribbean @ Kura Hulanda with all your gear, tanks, hunting equipment, cooler, etc.

8:35 a.m.: Welcome and briefing

9:00 a.m.: Divers leave. Participants are allowed to dive all over the island (2 dives)

4:00 p.m.: All fish must be brought in

5:00 p.m.: Ceremony, prizes, and raffle drawing

6:00 p.m.: Lionfish, Beers and Live music

All night: Happy Hour!!!

Game rules:

2 tanks per diver

Dive all over the island

No boats

No solo diving

Dive within certification level

Winner takes it all – the organization buys your catch for ang12.50 per kg, the total amount of all hunters will go to the winner

90% of total catch is the prize for most KG Lionfish

10% of total catch is the prize for most Debris

Participation Fee:

ANG 70 / $40 per person (Payment to be done minimum 3 days before the Derby, by bank transfer, or in the store)

Your Fee Includes:

Goodie bag (with drink, snack, gadgets, presents, raffle tickets, and more)

Bags of ice

Happy Hour drinks

Dinner

Emerald Coast Reef Association 2024 Lobster & Lionfish Tournament
2024-10-18 - 2024-10-20 | Okaloosa County, Florida, Destin, FL, United States
Register

Hunt the 18th, 19th and weigh in and awards on the 20th
Awards Ceremony at The Deck at Destin Brewery
Awards (Cash awards) go to Top 3 largest in all Categories
Benefits go to the ECRA Reef Building fund

Categories include (but may not be limited to):

Spiny Lobster: Top 3 largest Lobsters (not store purchased)

Slipper tail/shovelnose Lobster: Top 3 largest Lobsters (not store purchased)

Lionfish: Top 3 largest Lionfish weighed in​

Concept is to spend two days hunting and then have the weigh in and awards on Sunday at on the Deck at the Destin Brewery”, celebrating the winners, competitors and thanking our sponsors. Goal is for Gold Sponsors to present the awards in the categories they sponsor.
All competitors will receive a Tournament shirt, fun hunting in a great location, opportunity to thousands of dollars of cash prizes and gear, as well as beer at The Destin Brewery.
Time & Location

Oct 18, 2024, 6:00 AM – Oct 20, 2024, 10:00 AM
Destin, 110 Melvin St, Destin, FL 32541, USA

About the event

Join ECRA’s first Lobster and Lionfish Tournament to benefit our reef building fund! Categories inlcude (but may not be limited to) largest spiny, largest slipper or shovelnose and largest lionfish. Awards go to the top 3 largest in all categories. All lobster must be taken by hand…from the Gulf, not the seafood market.
Hunting: Sunrise to sunset Oct 18 & 19
Weigh-in: 10am Oct 20 at The Deck
Awards & Social: 12pm – 3pm Oct 20 at The Deck

Costs for competitors and Sponsors are being worked now…If you are interested in being a sponsor please reach out.

2024 Winter Lionfish Throw Down Begins
2024-10-14 | Florida State Waters, United States
Starts: Monday, October 14, 2024 & Ends: Tuesday, December 31, 2024

The 2024 Winter Lionfish Throw Down is a Lionfish hunting tournament held throughout the State of Florida waters. Our goal is to encourage the culling of Lionfish through the winter months to mitigate the damage done by Lionfish all year long.

Please read all the rules and instructions before registering.
The $35 registration fee is non-refundable. Your registration includes a specially designed event rash guard, the opportunity for each registered participant to win one of the prizes for the top 5 harvesters, and entry into the monthly raffle based on the raffle rules. Event shirts will begin to be mailed by the end of October.

THROW DOWN TIME LINE

Registration opens: Tuesday, October 1, 2024
Submissions begin: Monday, October 14, 2024 @ 12 Midnight

All Fish must be caught on or after October 14, 2024. (NO previously caught or frozen lionfish will be accepted)

Submissions end: Tuesday, December 31, 2024 @ 11:59PM
Raffle Drawings: October 31, 20024 / November 30, 2024 / December 31, 2024

PRIZES
1st Place (Grand Prize): One (1) winner with the most Lionfish harvested.

Trip to Curacao with ZooKeeper April 24, 2025 – April 30, 2025 for the winner only ($3345 Value) *

Includes:

Round trip airfare from Miami to Curacao.
Airport transfers & taxes.
Resort View Accommodations for six (6) nights at the Lions Dive Resort.
Daily breakfast.
Four (4) days of boat diving and one night dive.
Entry into the two (2) day Lionfish Derby.
Lionfish equipment for use during trip.
Unlimited shore dives.
Unlimited Nitrox (if certified).
A ZooKeeper sponsored group dinner.

2nd Place: One (1) winner with the 2nd most Lionfish harvested.

DIVE RITE TransPac XT Package w/ Rec XT Wing ($859 Value)
ZooKeeper Swag Bag (Hat / Rash Guard / Gloves) ($110 Value)

3rd Place: One (1) winner with the 3rd most Lionfish harvested.

DIVE RITE ZT2 Advanced Open Water Regulator Package ($759 Value)
ZooKeeper Swag Bag (Hat / Rash Guard / Gloves) ($110 Value)

4th Place: One (1) winner with the 4th most Lionfish harvested.

KOAH 45” Standard Fatback Speargun ($655 Value)
ZooKeeper Swag Bag (Hat / Rash Guard / Gloves) ($110 Value)

5th Place: One (1) winner with the 5th most Lionfish harvested.

BIG BLUE TL3800P – Supreme Tech Dive Light ($550 Value)
ZooKeeper Swag Bag (Hat / Rash Guard / Gloves) ($110 Value)

Throw Down winners will be contacted via email at the conclusion of the tournament. Please note – If we can increase the donations, we may be able to extend the “place winners”. Details subject to change.

RAFFLE PRIZES

There will be five (5) raffle prizes given away each month.
The raffle prizes will be announced at a later date, but each prize will have a minimum value of $50.
The raffle will be held on the last day of each month (October 31st / November 30th / December 31st ).
Any registered participant who submits one fish in any month will be entered into the raffle for that month.
All raffle prizes will be shipped to the winners at the address on the registration documents within Five (5) days of the drawing.

*Trip qualifications:

The prize can only be used by the registered winner and is not transferable to any other person.
Winner must be 18 years or older.
The prize cannot be exchanged for cash value.
If the winner cannot go on the trip, the prize will be forfeited.
The winner must have a valid passport that doesn’t expire prior to October 2025.
Travel documents must be provided within 10 days of the announcement as the winner to show eligibility to travel abroad. (On or about January 10th, 2025)

RULES

SAFETY FIRST!

It can’t be said enough that NO fish or prize is worth your life.
Plan your dive – dive your plan.
Check your air consumption and if applicable, decompression times OFTEN.
Reports of any unsafe diving practices shall disqualify the participant. NO Exceptions!
Be mindful of the reef and other marine life. Do not damage the reef in any way.

Participants should be aware of all recreational saltwater rules and regulations that may apply in the State of Florida. Learn more at https://myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/.
The Throw Down is an individual tournament and submissions should reflect that individual participate’s catch. Commercial harvest is greatly appreciated but will not qualify.
The “identifier” must be clear and only used for that day’s catch picture. Doctored photos will be denied, and the participant will be disqualified.
Only legal means of capture in areas allowing use of those gear types will be allowed. All existing federal, state, and local laws must be followed. All State and Federal laws will be strictly enforced.
Lionfish may be taken by spear, hand net, slurp gun or hook and line. No chemicals, traps or other collecting mechanisms are allowed.
Protective gloves should be worn when handling lionfish. Participants are encouraged to carry a safety kit for first aid purposes.
All entrants agree to allow Derby officials, ZooKeeper (The LZK Group, LLC) and event Sponsors/supports to take and use photos for media and promotional purposes.
In the event of a tie, the winning Angler/Shooter will be determined by the earliest submitted entries to the Fishing Chaos app.
Anyone found violating Derby Rules by the Derby Officials will be disqualified from receiving any Derby prizes and prohibited from entry in any future derbies.
Decisions of the Derby officials are final.

HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR CATCH

Each morning all registered participants will be emailed an “identifier” for the day. Reference it in photo(s) submitted on that day.
After harvesting the Lionfish, line up the fish and code word.
Snap a picture.
In the Fishing Chaos site/app click “Submit Catch”.
Report the number of fish in the picture.
Upload the photo for approval.
You will receive a submission confirmation email and then a second email once your submission is approved.

PLEASE NOTE:

If the Lionfish cannot be counted in the picture, the submission will be denied.
If the daily identifier is not visible, the submission will be denied.
All lionfish must be in whole condition (no missing heads or tails).
If the picture is a duplicate or doctored, the submission will be denied.

Pensacola Lionfish Shootout
2024-09-19 - 2024-09-22 | Pensacola Beach Boardwalk, Pensacola, FL, United States
Thursday, September 19

6:00PM

BAMBOO WILLIES or watch online via Facebook Live HERE

CAPTAIN’S MEETING

This is mandatory for at least one representative of each team either attend in person, or view on the Pensacola Lionfish Shootout facebook live broadcast. Teams that watch on facebook live must comment with their team name to check in at the meeting.

Friday, September 20

SUNRISE – SUNSET

INVADED RANGE

TOURNAMENT DAY ONE

Tournament begins at sunrise and ends at sunset. Go forth and shoot as many lionfish as you can find.

3:00PM – 6:OOPM

PENSACOLA BEACH BOARDWALK

COUNT STATION OPEN

The count station will be open from 3pm – 6pm to drop off fish. Please refer to the rules on cooler drop off and icing of fish.

Saturday, September 21

SUNRISE – SUNSET

INVADED RANGE

TOURNAMENT DAY TWO

Tournament begins at sunrise and ends at sunset. Go forth and shoot as many lionfish as you can find.

3:00PM – 6:OOPM

PENSACOLA BEACH BOARDWALK

COUNT STATION OPEN

The count station will be open from 3pm – 6pm to drop off fish. Please refer to the rules on cooler drop off and icing of fish.

10AM – 5PM

PENSACOLA BEACH BOARDWALK

LIONFISH FESTIVAL

Bring the family out to the festival and learn about the invasive lionfish. Watch the lionfish hunters come in with their catch for the tournament and enjoy the family-friendly activites, vendor booths, and fun!

6 PM – 11PM

FISH HEADS RESTAURANT & BAR

MEET & GREET PARTY

Come join the after party at Fish Heads Restaurant & Bar behind our host hotel, the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriot located directly on the Gulf of Mexico. Participants, sponsors, vendors, and participants will all be there to eat, drink, and tell stories (and lies) about lionfish hunting. See old friends, and meet many new ones.

Sunday, September 22

8:00AM – 11:OOAM

PENSACOLA BEACH BOARDWALK

COUNT STATION OPEN

The count station will open at 8am and close promptly at 11am. ALL participants must be in the cooler line and checked in by tournamnet staff no later than 11am. No exceptions. Please refer to the rules on cooler drop off and icing of fish.

9:00AM – 5:00PM

PENSACOLA BEACH BOARDWALK

LIONFISH FESTIVAL

Bring the family out to the festival and learn about the invasive lionfish. Watch the lionfish hunters come in with their catch for the tournament and enjoy the family-friendly activites, vendor booths, and fun!

APPROX. 3PM

BAMBOO WILLIES

AWARDS CEREMONY

The moment you have all been waiting for. As soon as the fish are counted, and sizes are tallied, we will announce the winners and have the raffles. Get ready to win cash and prizes!
FWC’s lionfish King or Queen will be announced during this time.

Environmental Learning Center Lionfish 9.14 - 10.12.2024 Derby
2024-09-14
Lionfish Derby – Lionfish Derby Flyer
A state-wide, no-holds-barred lionfish harvesting extravaganza. Join us in removing these tasty and devastatingly invasive fish and help preserve our reefs for future generations.
Cash prizes awarded!
$300 ~ 1st Place
$200 ~ 2nd Place
$100 ~ 3rd Place
$100 ~ Biggest
$100 ~ Smallest
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission encourages removal efforts of lionfish. Since 2014 Florida has removed over 191,000 of the invasive species. Help save our reefs and enter your numbers for a chance to win cash prizes for quantity of lionfish harvested.
$100 Registration Fee
Heartbeat Celebration ~ Oct. 13 at 4 PM
Lionfish Derby Registration Form
If you are interested in participating, volunteering, or sponsoring these events, please contact at Give@DiscoverELC.org or call 772-589-5050.
Lionfish Derby Flyer

2024 FWC Lionfish Challenge Ends
2024-09-02

ZooKeeper Invasive Lionfish Tracker Course
2024-08-31 07:30 - 17:00, 2024-07-13 07:30 - 17:00, 2024-06-08 07:30 - 17:00 | ZooKeeper Classroom, 10330 NW 55th St, Sunrise, FL, 33351, United States

2024 St. Pete Open Spearfishing Tournament
2024-08-18
Hosted at: Maximo Marina
St. Pete Open Rules
St. Pete Open Rules and Waiver

REEF's Florida Keys Lionfish Derby & Festival
2024-08-15 - 2024-08-18 | Reef Environmental Education Foundation Headquarters, 98300 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, 33037, United States
2024 Florida Keys Lionfish Derby & Festival
REEF’s 15th annual Florida Keys Lionfish Derby will culminate, Sunday August 18, 2025 at the lionfish weigh-in and awards at REEF campus.
Please contact lionfish@REEF.org with questions
Derby ScheduleDerby RegistrationDerby Details
FKBC Lionfish NightLionfish WorkshopsBeach Clean-up
* Due to construction delays the Festival at Postcard Inn will not be held in 2024 but please join us for a week of lionfish events.

Event Schedule
Thursday, Aug 15

6:30-7:30PM Captain’s Meeting for registered derby teams (check-in begins at 6PM)

REEF Campus, Key Largo & virtual (link sent out to registrants)

Friday, Aug 16

Fishing sunrise to sundown

Saturday, Aug 17

Fishing sunrise to sundown;
4PM-9PM Florida Keys Brewing Company Lionfish Night

Sunday, Aug 18 – NO FISHING

8AM-10AM – Beach Cleanup – Details Coming Soon
8:30 – 11:30AM Team Weigh-in/Fish Drop off
10AM – 2PM Public event – Lionfish scoring, fillet and dissection demonstrations, tastings and games and team awards at REEF Campus
1:30PM Awards Ceremony

Registration
Early Bird Registration Discounts Available
$90 per team through July 12, 2024
$120 per team on or before August 15, 2024 (6:30PM)
Minimum 2 people per team, maximum 4 people
Registration fee is nonrefundable

How to Participate
Step 1: Gather your team. Derby teams can be made of 2-4 divers. Decide on what level you will participate (Apex Predators or Reef Defender).
Step 2: Register your team and pay the Registration Fee.
Register and Pay
Step 3: All members of your team need to complete the waiver.
Online Waivers
Step 4: Make sure everyone on your team understands the rules of the Derby.
Derby Rules

DERBY DETAILS

FISH DROP OFF – REEF Campus – Sunday 8:30AM-11:30AM. No late fish accepted
The Captain’s Meeting is mandatory for the team captains, and all team members are encouraged to attend.

The team captain must be one of the four participants in the derby, but does not need to be the captain of the boat. Safe collecting and handling techniques and derby rules will be reviewed. The Captain’s meeting will be offered in-person and virtually.

Teams wishing to fish in the areas that fall under the FKNMS, FWC, and DEP permit must schedule a time to come to the REEF Campus to pick up packet materials, permits, and flags during the week of August 12 or pick up at the Captain’s Meeting.
All lionfish should be well packed on ice and teams must provide enough ice for lionfish, particularly those that will be held overnight.
Teams will be able to take at least 80% of their catch after it is measured (REEF will keep some lionfish to use towards education and outreach activities).

Awards

Prizes will be awarded for MOST lionfish, SMALLEST and LARGEST lionfish and a Golden Fish raffle award for all participating teams.
During registration, teams must choose to compete in one of two divisions for the MOST Lionfish Prize.

Apex Predators Division (More Competitive Division; Greater Prize Money)
Reef Defenders Division (More Casual Division; Lower Prize Money)

All teams will compete together for LARGEST and SMALLEST lionfish categories.
All teams will be entered to win the $500 Golden Fish award as long as they check in with there data sheets even if they don’t catch fish
All participants will be entered to win individual raffle prizes that will be drawn at Captains Meeting on Thursday and Awards on Sunday.
Awards will be presented in person and virtually (in-person attendance at awards is not mandatory)

Prizes will not be mailed out. Teams must arrange to pick them up if they are not at the award

SC Aqaurium's JuLionfish Festival
2024-07-26 19:00 - 22:00 | South Carolina Aquarium, 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, FL, 29401, United States
https://one.bidpal.net/julionfish2024/welcome

SC Aquarium's JuLionfish Derby ends
2024-07-25 | South Carolina Aquarium, 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, FL, 29401, United States

FINZ 2nd Annual Key West Lionfish Derby
2024-07-19 - 2024-07-21 | FINZ Dive Center, 6003 Penisular Ave Suite 4, Key West, 33040, United States
Derby schedule July 19-21, 2024
Captains Meeting July 19th 2024 – 6pm @ Finz Dive Center. All participants must attend and check in.
Derby start time – 6:42am July 20th 2024
Derby end time – All divers must be at the weigh in and signed in line before 5pm July 20th 2024 – Absolutely no exceptions will be made.
Weigh in times –
July 21st 2024 3pm till 5pm Official weigh in day 2 –
July 21st 2024 6pm Awards ceremony will begin

Location
Captains Meeting July 19th 6pm @ Finz Dive Center
Derby boundaries – Any legal waters to fish from the US.
Weigh in – TBD
Awards Ceremony – July 21st 6pm @ The Docks!

Official Rules
Waiver Form

Operation Lionfish
2024-06-28 17:00 - 2024-06-29 21:00 | Sands Harbor Resort & Marina, 125 N Riverside Dr, Pompano Beach, 33062, United States
https://guyharveyoutpost.com/operation-lionfish/

Join us for a fun weekend while supporting a worthy non-profit charity, Warfighter Scuba, at Operation Lionfish – Clear the Path! We have an event-filled weekend planned with something fun for everyone while raising money to support this important charity that provides therapy for our combat wounded purple heart recipients through SCUBA. We will have Captain’s Meeting & Cocktail Party, Operation Lionfish Hunt, Lionfish Weigh In, Live Music, Tasting Demos and more!
Registration is open for Lionfish Teams, To sponsor a veteran to compete in Lionfish Contest, and those who want to join in the fun at the Captain’s Meeting or Weigh-in and Awards Party. Come out and help us celebrate those who served!

DATE
June 28 -29, 2024

BASECAMP
Sands Harbor Resort & Marina, 125 N Riverside Dr, Pompano Beach, FL 33062

TEAM ENTRY
$100 per Team (Teams can be up to 2 Divers)

TICKETS, SPONSOR A VETERAN, & AUCTION

Tickets

Sponsor A Veteran’s Hunt

Auction

EVENT SCHEDULE

FRIDAY, JUNE 28- CAPTAIN’S MEETING & SILENT AUCTION
Sands Harbor Resort & Marina, 125 N Riverside Dr, Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Cocktail Party, Music & Silent Auction
17:30 Hours

Captain’s Pre-briefing
19:00 Hours

SATURDAY, JUNE 29 – OPERATION LIONFISH & AWARDS PARTY
Sands Harbor Resort & Marina, 125 N Riverside Dr, Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Tournament Begins
07:00 – 18:00 Hours

Scales Open at Cove Waterfront Restaurant
15:00 – 18:00 Hours

Silent Auction, Lionfish Demos & Tastings, Live Music & Awards
15:00 – 19:00 Hours

LIONFISH TEAMS

Operations Lionfish Teams are 2 divers per team with a registration of $100 per team. Boats can have more than one team on the boat competing. One member from each team must attend the mandatory team captains pre-briefing at Sands Harbor Resort & Marina. Teams will receive two wristbands to attend the Awards Party, 2 Event Shirt, 2 Raffle Ticket to win a Yeti and more!Payout Format: Payouts will be based on the number of team that enter for Most Lionfish, Bigest Lionfish and Sniper Award – Smallest Lionfish.

OPERATION LIONFISH PAYOUTS

TEAMS
1-19 Teams
20 -39 Teams
40+ Teams

MOST LIONFISH PAYOUTS

Place
Payout
Payout
Payout

1ST
$500
$700
$1,000

2ND
$250
$350
$500

3RD

$150
$250

4TH

$150

BIGGEST LIONFISH PAYOUTS

1ST
$250
$350
$450

2ND
$150
$200
$250

3RD

$100
$150

4TH

$100

SNIPER – SMALLEST LIONFISH PAYOUTS

1ST
$200
$300
$400

2ND
$100
$150
$200

3RD

$100
$150

4TH

$100

OTHER AWARDS
Divers will win other awards and prizes from sponsors throughout the event and awards party.
LOBSTER COIN
Divers who participate and provide 2024 FWC Lionfish tail verification can register for the coin for the extra lobster on mini season. Mini season is around the corner so don’t miss out!

REGISTER NOW

RULES OF ENGAGEMENT

Fish MUST be dropped off no later than 6:00 PM Saturday JUNE 29, 2024, NO EXCEPTIONS.
Operations Lionfish Teams are 2 divers. More than one team can be on a boat.
Registration is $100/team by June 28, 2024 – 7:00 PM
Operation Lionfish registration fee includes two wristbands, t shirt, raffle ticket and 2 wristbands to the Captains Party and Weigh-in and Awards.
Mandatory team captain meeting Friday night at Sands Harbor Resort & Marina. At least one team member must attend for check-in.

REGISTER, RULES & SPONSORSHIP

REGISTER

RULES

SPONSOR A VETERAN

SPONSOR EVENT

OUR CAUSE

Every day 22 Veterans commit suicide. To date, that’s more than those Killed in Action in Iraq and Afghanistan combined.Warfighter Scuba, a 501(c)(3) organization created and run by vets, invites Purple Heart vets struggling to overcome the horrors of PTSD or loss of limbs to a week-long scuba certification wellness retreat, all expenses paid including travel.
Freed of physical restraint, introducing these worthy warriors to the serenity of scuba is a well-recognized antidote for restoring their mental well-being and sense of purpose. It’s a surprising fact that few vets are scuba certified, including even Navy Seals.
Share your love of scuba diving with those truly deserving. Thank these warriors for their service with more than just lip service. Show your gratitude with a donation to Warfighters Scuba. It takes cash to care. Let’s care about these worthy warriors.

DX Divers Deerfield Beach Pier Cleanup
2024-06-15 07:00 - 14:00 | DX Divers, 455 S Federal Hwy, Deerfield Beach, 33441, United States

2024 FWC Lionfish Challenge Begins
2024-05-24

ECO/FWC Lionfish Removal & Awareness Day
2024-05-18 - 2024-05-19 | Emerald Coast Open
The two-day outdoor festival is open to the public and will include lionfish tastings, fillet demonstrations, conservation & art booths, an interactive kid’s zone, and more!

ECO Lionfish Festival
2024-05-18 - 2024-05-19 | Emerald Coast Open
Bring the family down to the famed HarborWalk Village in Destin for a great weekend and learn about lionfish, see lionfish, and even eat lionfish!
Learn more FWC Reef Rangers

College of the Florida Keys Derby & Educational Event
2024-05-18
