on board!
UPDATES
THE UNFOLDING
41” and some change, Mr. Frisky Fins took The Unfolding and Jack Moran coming in at a close second. Larry Grossman taking third.
April 9, 2024. I want to give a massive shoutout to FishGum Tony Faggioni for stepping up once again as a top contributor to our event. Tony doesn't just support us twice a year—he's a year-round advocate for surf fishing and our community. Tony isn't just any sponsor; he's the genius behind a must-have bait that every angler should have in their kit. He's also the mastermind behind the largest Surf Fishing Facebook page in Florida, bringing anglers together and sharing invaluable knowledge. I owe Tony and our surf fishing community a heartfelt apology for not recognizing his contributions sooner. I let hearsay cloud my judgment and missed out on valuable opportunities. Tony has been a rock, supporting me and our community even when I didn't reciprocate. Let's face it—we all stumble at the start. We make mistakes and step on toes. But Tony's resilience and passion for fishing shine through. He's here to fish, create, and lift others up along the way. Fish Gum will always have a special place in our tournaments and in our hearts at Panhandle Salt. Welcome back to Tony and for embracing the spirit of community that makes our sport so special.
April 10, 2024. Bass Pro Shop of Destin, Florida is stepping up to the plate once again, sponsoring our Spring 2024 Panhandle Salt Pompano Showdown Tournament. As Bass Pro needs no introduction as they are the biggest outdoor retail operation on the planet, MariTirado and I thought we would shine the light on the Bass Pro employee who made this relationship possible. Micah Robbins... Read More
Message from Gary Hefner. April 10, 2024. Join us Thursday, April 11th, 4-10, for the first of 2 charitable events benefiting The Campfire Fund for Mens mental health. As the host site for Panhandle Salt Pompano Showdown Tournament we will be doing the weigh in for The Unfolding. From 6:30-9:30 we will be having our first Freedom Fighters Songwriters Sessions. We are excited to start with the amazing Justin Touchette Zachary Thomas Diedrich... Read More
April 7, 2024. First 2 days down in The Unfolding down. I’ve seen a few caught. Nothing not beatable. I’m heading out bright an early to pick up the tournament package from Brunken Manufacturing Co, and that should do it on my end. The rest of the prizes have either already arrived, or will be brought to the weigh-in. I got a sneak peak at the custom Frisky Fins rod today also. The color scheme is impressive as always. James Pemberton really does great work. I still find myself staring at the first one I ever received from him. A 12-footer pushing 4 years old. It’s better now than ever. Good and broken in... Read More
April 7, 2024. Big SHOUTOUT to my partner @allcapcustoms for the amazing hats, coozies, and towels for F.C. Fish Co.’s contribution to the winner prizes for the upcoming Panhandle Salt fishing tournament! Along with the swag, winners in all divisions will also receive a SaltStrike OP prize pack with our amazing bait! #saltstrikeop #fcfishco# #forgottencoast #panhandlesalt Panhandle Salt
April 7, 2024. I'm thrilled to share an exciting update with all of you! Our tournament event venue, Warrior Beer Company and its founder Gary Hefner, were recently featured on the Finding Demo Surf Fishing Podcast It's a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on the incredible journey we've had, especially considering where we started just a year and a half ago... Read More
April 5th, 2024. We're getting great feedback on the float hooks and creature rigs pulling in big fish from the surf. Blane with Panhandle Salt catching a slab pompano and a nice whiting on the coquina clam colored float hooks. Also, a near state record whiting caught on our neon orange creature rigs this week. Pick some up at surfprotackle.com and catch some monsters!
April 5th, 2024. Alright The Unfolding Anglers. Let me get cleaned up and I will put together the angler numbers. They will be posted here, and on the website. Make sure you have your angler numbers written on your hand during the video. I understand this is a 5 day event, so maybe put a Sharpie in your tackle bag. Video must display the measurement clearly so we can see it. If you are fishing at night bring a light. Angler number on your hand, 360 view of your surroundings and your face. Want to make sure it is you.
Good luck to you all.
April 2, 2024. We're thrilled to announce that Larry Grossman, also known as The Forgotten Angler, will be returning as our announcer for the 2024 Spring Panhandle Salt Pompano Showdown tournament! And let's be honest, who better than Larry to take on this role? With his captivating voice and wealth of experience, he's the perfect fit for the job. Larry's journey into the world of Panhandle fishing began in 2021, and since then, he's become a formidable force on the sand. Despite being a newcomer to the surf game, Larry's background as a seasoned fly fishing guide has undoubtedly contributed to his rapid success... Read more
April 4th, 2024. GREEN GETM RIGS, Cliff Gardner has graciously donated a 55 quart COHO COOLER to the tournament as a way to create excitement, camaraderie, and bragging rights at the weigh-in. We put our heads together last week and came up with a contest for all to enjoy at the event. Ring to bucket. I will have a rod setup with a 2oz weight. 3 bucket pyramid at 30 paces. First one to ring the bucket walk’s away with the cooler. We will probably add more prizes to the contest as it progresses. $1 a throw. You can purchase as many tickets as you want and throw back to back. This will give the contestants the opportunity to adjust as needed for a better chance to hit a bucket. Purchase tickets at the Jamie's Mom's House tent. 100% of the proceeds will go to the organization.
April 4th, 2024. As seasoned anglers, we know that adaptability is key when it comes to both the sport and the tournaments we hold dear. The Panhandle Salt Pompano Showdown Tournament has been a staple for fishing enthusiasts for years, but like any good catch, it's undergone its fair share of changes over time. From shifting venues to sponsor rotations, we've weathered it all. But this year, we're thrilled to announce a particularly exciting twist: drones. Yes, you heard it right! Drones are making their debut in the tournament scene, thanks to our new sponsor, Swellpro.
Now, we've always maintained a strict policy against drones, RC boats, and kayaks in our events. However, when SwellPro approached us with a sponsorship opportunity, we knew we couldn't turn it down... Read More
March 26, 2024. We are thrilled to announce Captain B's Surf Fishing Charters as one of our newest sponsors for the 2024 Panhandle Salt Pompano Showdown! Based in Brevard County along Florida's Space Coast, Captain B brings over 40 years of surf fishing experience to the table. Many of you might already be familiar with Captain B, as he's been an active member of the Salt Strong community, sharing his expertise and passion for surf fishing across various social media platforms... Read More
March 31, 2024. We're thrilled to announce that Capt Bill Willis Willis has joined forces with us as a sponsor and is going above and beyond by providing not one, but two home bases for anglers to gear up! Grays Tackle and Guide Serviceon Perdido Key, and Lost Bay Tackle And Guide Service in Orange Beach are now our official shops for both tournaments... Read More
February 21th, 2024. ATTENTION SPONSORS! Posters are being printed. We have a separate poster highlighting all the sponsors. We plan to print these this coming Tuesday and will need to receive all payments beforehand. These will hang in high traffic tackle shops in Perdido Key and Orange Beach leading up to the event. If you have already made payment for winners payouts, thank you. We are waiting on a handful more to proceed. If you need extra time as a sponsor to make the donation, reach out to us privately to make arrangements. You can make payments by visiting the link below. You will first register and give a rundown of prizes you will be adding to the pot, then scroll down to “donate” to make the payment.
Brian Demo
We're thrilled to announce that the dynamic duo Panhandle Fishing Report Brian Demo and Mike Smith (Smitty), will be joining us once again for our upcoming tournament! Their presence has become an integral part of our event, and we couldn't imagine it without them. Demo and Smitty stepped up to the plate, relieving us of much-needed duties by expertly handling the weighing and checking of the submitted pompano. Demo, sporting that impressive 7" SORD Fishing Products strapped to his side, and Smitty, easily recognizable in his bright pink shirt, brings an energy and efficiency that truly elevates our tournament experience. But their contributions don't stop there! Leading up to the event, Demo and Smitty provide invaluable advertising through their weekly broadcasts, giving the Panhandle community insights into what to expect on the water.
Mike Smith
Whether it's inshore, offshore, or land-based fishing, they've got it covered. Their dedication and passion for surf fishing shine through in every episode of Demo's podcast and Smitty's guide service. It's clear to see that we couldn't have chosen a better crew to represent our tournament. Both Demo and Smitty are deeply embedded in the surf fishing game, and their wealth of knowledge and connections within the community are unmatched. Personally, I can't express enough how grateful I am for their continued support. These two gentlemen are not just colleagues; they're friends who share a love for the sport. I always look forward to our interactions and am reminded of just how fortunate we are to have them on board. Thank you, Demo and Smitty, for your unwavering support and dedication. We can't wait to catch up with you both at the tournament! See ya'll soon. 📷📷 #PanhandleFishingReport #TournamentSupport
Matt Poole
Introducing the man behind the magic, Matt Poole, the mastermind behind Ninja Tackle. We're thrilled to announce that Matt will be joining us this Spring at our Panhandle Salt Pompano Showdown tournament.
Ninja Tackle isn't just a company; it's a testament to growth and innovation in the fishing world. I still vividly recall the first whispers of the Ninja Dagger in the Panhandle, thanks to the Bama Beach Bum's video about 5 years ago. Matt took a leap of faith, sending Bum one of his prototypes, and the rest, as they say, is history... Read More
MariTirado
March 26, 2024. Trophies for The Panhandle Salt Pompano Showdown Tournament and The Unfolding have been cut and placed in the hands of MariTirado. We are getting close y’all. Pre Party at Warrior Beer Company Thursday April 11th will determine the winner of The Unfolding, and the winner will walk away with a SwellproFisherman Max. Weigh-in for The Panhandle Salt Pompano Showdown will be that Sunday, April 14th at Warrior Beer Co, and multiple winners will go home happy. We also have gathered enough raffle giveaways that all that show up have a great chance to win.
March 21, 2024. We're thrilled to announce that Redfin Fishingis returning as a tournament sponsor, and this time, they're making a splash with a big commitment! Remember last fall when Redfin faced a series of unfortunate events trying to make it to our tournament? Well, Jacen Geier, representing Redfin, is back with a bang, showcasing his dedication not just to his company's reputation but to our tournament community as a whole... Read More
March 20, 2024. Looking to elevate your fishing game? Look no further than SORD Fishing Products, the ultimate companion for anglers who demand precision, durability, and reliability in their gear. G10 Handle: Crafted from the same tough material found on your favorite firearms like ARs and Glocks, the G10 handle on SORD knives offers unbeatable durability. Its perfect weight balance ensures optimal performance, while its non-slip grip remains steady even in wet conditions... Read More
March 19, 2024. When it comes to making our tournaments shine, there's one name that consistently stands out: Brian Arnold and his team at Bird Of Prey Fishing Tackle. Over the past year, I've had the privilege of getting to know the inner workings of this company, and I must say, I've been thoroughly impressed.
What sets Bird of Prey apart is their unwavering commitment to delivering top-notch products that not only elevate the performance of tournament winners but also enhance the experience of every angler on the sand. From innovative fishing gear to essential beach fishing products, Brian and his team leave no stone unturned in ensuring that anglers have access to the best tools for success.
But what truly sets Bird of Prey apart is Brian's unique approach to competition. Unlike many companies that view competitors as adversaries, Brian sees them as potential partners. He understands the value of collaboration over rivalry, and this philosophy shines through in every aspect of his business.
I've had the pleasure of witnessing firsthand Brian's collaborative efforts with other industry leaders such as Frisky Fins and C&B Custom Jigs. Instead of vying for dominance, these companies come together to share ideas, find the best deals, and ultimately, deliver superior products to customers. It's a refreshing departure from the cutthroat mentality that often pervades the business world.
Having Bird of Prey present at our events is always a pleasure. Not only do they bring an impressive array of products to the table, but they also embody the spirit of camaraderie and cooperation that makes fishing tournaments truly special. I eagerly anticipate seeing what Brian and his team will bring to future events, knowing that they'll continue to raise the bar for excellence in the industry.
March 18, 2024. We've got some thrilling updates for all you fishing enthusiasts gearing up for the 2024 Panhandle Salt Pomoano Showdown! 
This year, we're thrilled to announce a fantastic new addition to our list of sponsors -DAT Construction Services Inc led by the talented Dennis Thomas. Now, you might be wondering, "Construction? How does that fit into a fishing tournament?" Well, let us fill you in! Dennis Thomas, hailing from Milton, FL, brings a fresh perspective as a local, non-fishing-related sponsor. While it might seem unusual, it's a return to a trend we noticed during our inaugural tournament back in 2022 - local fishermen supporting the event through their businesses.
DAT Construction isn't your average construction company. With over a decade of experience under their belts, Dennis and his crew have perfected the art of interior trim work. Just take a quick peek at their Facebook page, and you'll find a showcase of breathtaking masterpieces. From elegant staircases to custom benches crafted from the finest woods, their portfolio speaks volumes about their skill and dedication to craftsmanship.
But here's the kicker - Dennis isn't just throwing his hat in the ring as a sponsor. Oh no, he's diving right into the action! You can bet that Dennis will be out on the water, rod in hand, ready to reel in some big catches during the tournament. And if you happen to spot him at the weigh-in, don't hesitate to strike up a conversation. Who knows, you might just end up discussing your next home renovation project! We're thrilled to see non-fishing businesses like DAT Construction stepping up to contribute to the success of our tournament. It goes to show that the spirit of community support runs deep here in the Pensacola area.
March 17, 2024. We're glad to announce that Charles Clark, with his boundless passion for beach fishing and innovation, will be returning as a sponsor under a new identity: SurfPro Tackle. Charles, a Neurologist at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Franklin TN, has a deep connection to the Panhandle and its fisheries, often vacationing here with his family.
You may remember Charles from last spring's tournament, where he introduced his unique floats and scent creations. While anglers, including myself, admired the innovation, the practicality of the product left something to be desired. Undeterred, Charles went back to the drawing board. Recently, several industry leaders, including Panhandle Salt, received a package from Charles containing what we're calling "float hooks." These ingenious creations feature 2/0 Eagle Claw hooks embedded within meticulously designed floats, preventing them from sliding up the leader while soaking. The craftsmanship, color options, and materials are top-notch, injecting a much-needed burst of excitement into the mid-February blues I was suffering before the package arrived. But Charles isn't stopping there. He's been hard at work on more tackle innovations, including "The Creature" – a surf tackle inspired by freshwater favorites. It's clear that Charles is onto something special, and we believe SurfPro Tackle will soon become a household name in the fishing community. Be sure to visit the SurfPro Tackle booth at the weigh-in to experience this new, different, and intriguing approach to rig-tying. And don't forget to check out their website for a visual sneak peek! Let's give a round of applause to Charles Clark for his dedication to advancing the fishing experience in our beloved Panhandle. See you at the showdown!
March 15, 2024. We are happy to announce that Blake Hunterthe owner and operator of Reel30A, will once again be joining us as a sponsor for the upcoming Spring Panhandle Salt Pompano Showdown. Blake's dedication to the angling community and his passion for surf fishing make him an invaluable partner, and we couldn't be more excited to have him on board. In addition to his generous sponsorship, Blake has some exciting news to share – he has recently expanded his Surf Pro line-up with the addition of a third rod, the 12.6-long caster. This new addition will be contributed to one lucky winner in our event, adding an extra layer of excitement to the competition. Having personally used Blake's previous rods, the 9-foot and 10.5-foot models, I can attest to their exceptional quality and performance. As running guides, they have proven to be reliable and versatile, complementing the rest of my gear perfectly. At Panhandle Salt, we believe in providing our clients with the best possible experience, and using top-of-the-line gear like Blake's Surf Pro rods adds an extra dimension of excellence to every outing. Beyond his contributions to the fishing community, Blake is also known for his expertise as a seminar host and successful beach fishing guide. As a father and husband in the 30A area of Florida, he embodies the values of dedication, integrity, and passion both on and off the water. His willingness to share his knowledge and support fellow anglers, like myself, has made him a respected figure and a go-to resource for all things related to surf fishing, particularly when it comes to targeting the elusive pompano. So, let's give a warm welcome back to Blake as he returns to the sponsor line-up for the Spring Panhandle Salt Pompano Showdown. Be sure to check out his growing Surf Pro collection of rods and experience the difference that quality gear can make in your next fishing adventure. Here's to tight lines and unforgettable moments on the beautiful shores of the Panhandle!
Frisky Fins, local to the Gulf Shores/Pensacola area has these for sale and pick-up. Jump to Blake's website for further assistance if you are outside this region.
March 14, 2024. Ever found yourself struggling to transport your fishing rods without risking damage or theft? Look no further than Portarod, the innovative fishing rod transportation system designed to make your angling adventures smoother and safer than ever before. My journey with Portarod began at ICAST 2022 when I crossed paths with Scott McKnight, the mastermind behind this game-changing invention. His display featuring a Toyota Tacoma, the very model I own, instantly caught my attention. Seeing the potential benefits of Portarod for transporting and protecting my precious fishing rods, I was intrigued. Scott has been a close friend and sponsor of many of our fishing tournaments over the years, and his commitment to the angling community shines through. This April, he's taking his support to the next level by doubling his contribution, providing two Portarod systems to be awarded to the winning anglers in our upcoming event. One of the standout features of Portarod is its versatility and ease of use. Unlike other rod transportation systems that require drilling or complicated installation, Portarod is fully adjustable and can be set up in minutes without any drilling needed. Whether you're heading to the beach, lake, or river, Portarod ensures your rods are securely held in place during transit, minimizing the risk of damage.
But what truly sets Portarod apart is its built-in security features. With the option to lock your rods while unattended, you can finally bid farewell to those moments of anxiety when you've had to leave your gear behind in your truck. The Portarod lock is easy to use and provides peace of mind knowing that your rods are safe and secure, even when you're not around. If you're tired of the hassle and worry that comes with transporting your fishing rods, it's time to upgrade to Portarod. Visit portarod.comfor more details and join the countless anglers who have already made the switch to the ultimate fishing rod transportation system. Don't let anything hold you back from enjoying the thrill of fishing – with Portarod, your rods are always in good hands. 
March 12, 2024. We are thrilled to introduce you to the driving force behind our tournament's success, the extraordinary individual who not only owns and operates Deerfield Fabrication And Welding LLC but also crafts the finest beach carts and sand spikes in the business – our good friend and headline sponsor Brian Sorrell. At the heart of Deerfield Fabrication and Welding is a true artisan, dedicated to perfection in every weld and fabrication. Our friend's commitment to delivering top-notch quality is evident in the exceptional beach carts and sand spikes produced by the company. Each creation is a testament to the passion and precision that defines Deerfield Fabrication and Welding. What sets Deerfield Fabrication and Welding apart is not just Brian's dedication to quality but also his innovative approach to design. The beach carts are not just practical; they are a fusion of functionality and style. From sturdy frames to convenient compartments, these carts redefine beach-going experiences. The sand spikes, designed to withstand the toughest conditions, are a testament to the company's commitment to providing products that go above and beyond expectations. Beyond being our tournament's headline sponsor, our friend demonstrates a genuine commitment to the community. Deerfield Fabrication and Welding has consistently supported our tournaments, contributing to the growth and well-being of the community and surf fishing as a whole. In addition to being an exceptional craftsman and business owner, our friend is a true companion. His support as the headline sponsor of our tournament speaks volumes about his dedication to fostering positive relationships within the community. The synergy between our event and Deerfield Fabrication and Welding has resulted in a winning combination that reflects the spirit of collaboration and mutual growth. As we gear up for the tournament, let's take a moment to appreciate the incredible contribution of Deerfield Fabrication and Welding. Brian's dedication to excellence, innovative designs, and unwavering support as our headline sponsor have elevated our event to new heights.
March 11, 2024. In the world of surf fishing, one name stands out as a true legend—Pompano Rich Rich Vidulich. For decades, Rich has been synonymous with accomplishment, bringing smiles to anglers of all skill levels through his innovative products and unwavering dedication to the sport. As a pioneering force in beach fishing, Pompano Rich has not only shaped the industry but has also formed powerful partnerships with key players, such as the renowned FishGum, to push the boundaries of brainpower, design, and gear. Despite the wear and tear from years of pounding the sands and facing multiple physical conditions, Pompano Rich remains a driving force in the surf fishing community. His passion for the sport and commitment to being an industry leader has not wavered, even when unable to set foot on the beach himself. Instead, Rich channels his expertise and experience to support up-and-coming surf fishing guides, becoming a mentor and a source of inspiration. It is with great excitement and gratitude that we announce Pompano Rich as a sponsor for the 2024 Panhandle Salt Pompano Showdown. Rich's commitment to the industry and his willingness to support the next generation of surf fishing guides, like myself, is truly commendable. As we gear up for the big weekend, we encourage all registered anglers to explore the legendary products crafted by Pompano Rich. Pompano Rich's offerings are not just tools of the trade—they are a testament to a lifetime of dedication to the art and science of surf fishing. As we come together for the 2024 Panhandle Salt Pompano Showdown, let's celebrate the legacy of Pompano Rich and embrace the opportunity to experience the thrill of the surf with the gear that has defined an era. Join us in honoring Pompano Rich, a true icon in surf fishing, and discover the products that have set the standard for excellence in the industry. May the conditions be in your favor, and may the spirit of Pompano Rich continue to inspire anglers for generations to come.
March 9, 2024. He is back anglers! If you're gearing up for the Panhandle Salt Pompano Showdown, there's a name you need to know: GREEN GETM RIGS. This beach fishing rig, meticulously crafted by the talented and dedicated Cliff Gardner, has become synonymous with success on the surf, especially when it comes to landing those elusive pompanos. What sets Green Get'm Rigs apart from the rest? The answer lies in the carefully chosen color palette. Green beads and floats, curated by the believer himself, Cliff Gardner, have proven year after year to be a dominant force in the surf. The hypnotic allure of Cliff's green tackle is something to behold, and its effectiveness in attracting pompano has proven true time and again. Green Get'm Rigs isn't just a participant in the Panhandle Salt Pompano Showdown; they are proud sponsors, showing their commitment to the surf fishing community. The tournament wouldn't be the same without the support of Cliff Gardner and his innovative tackle. The partnership signifies the brand's dedication to promoting the sport and enhancing the angling experience for all participants. The man behind the magic, Cliff Gardner, isn't just the owner and operator of Green Get'm Rigs; he's a true artist in the world of surf fishing tackle. Despite his demanding job as a welding inspector, Cliff finds the time and energy to craft these exceptional rigs that have become a staple in the tackle boxes of serious anglers. Having personally witnessed the power of Cliff's green tackle, I can attest to its effectiveness. The vibrant green beads and floats not only attract pompano but also capture the attention of other surf-dwelling species. It's no wonder that many anglers who pride themselves on tying their own rigs choose to incorporate Green Get'm components into their creations. So, as you gear up for the next surf fishing adventure, make sure you've got Green Get'm Rigs in your arsenal. Join the ranks of anglers who trust Cliff Gardner's expertise, and experience the power of green in the world of pompano fishing. It's not just a rig; it's a game-changer on the shoreline.
March 7, 2024. Alright, tournament anglers. Today, I'm thrilled to shine the spotlight on my good friend and tournament sponsor, the incredible James Pemberton
Known for being one of the most active hand-tied pompano rig makers in the country, Frisky Fins has truly revolutionized the surf fishing tackle scene.
Frisky Fins has mastered the art of creating hand-tied pompano rigs that stand out for their precision and effectiveness. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just dipping your toes into the world of fishing, Frisky Fins' rigs are a game-changer. The attention to detail and dedication poured into each rig make them a favorite among anglers nationwide. While Frisky Fins initially gained fame for his outstanding pompano rigs, the brand's influence has expanded far beyond. With a commitment to innovation and quality, Frisky Fins introduces new products multiple times a year, catering to the diverse needs of the fishing community. From cutting-edge floats to top-notch custom rods, Frisky Fins has become synonymous with excellence in fishing gear. What sets Frisky Fins apart is James's relentless pursuit of innovation. The fishing world is ever-evolving, and Frisky Fins is at the forefront of that evolution. Constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible, James brings fresh ideas to life and delivers products that not only meet but exceed the expectations of anglers. As a friend and tournament sponsor, Frisky Fins has not only enriched my fishing experience but also contributed to the success of numerous tournaments. His support goes beyond the products – it's a testament to his passion for the sport and dedication to fostering a thriving fishing community. Here's to Frisky Fins – a true pioneer, a reliable friend, and a driving force behind the evolution of fishing gear!
March 4, 2024. Let's kick off the sponsor's post.
Donnie Wimpelberg has more passion for the tournament than most locals. He has only missed one since 2022, and that was the first one we launched. We had 72 anglers register for the first event as I feel most were scared off by the video evidence and "all the YouTubers" competing. We actually got a message that first tournament saying that there was no way this angler had a chance with all the content creators fishing it. If you only knew how many days it takes to make an 8-minute video most uploads. Donnie travels 1,500 miles round trip, uses valuable PTO, and packs all the gear needed to fish a beach fishing tournament in the back of a hatchback. A few years back he didn't even have a place to stay due to a recent storm, and he still managed to hump it out all three days fishing up and down the Panhandles coastlines. This guy is dedicated, a great angler, and as much a part of our community as any beach fisherman within a 20-mile radius. With the recent upgrades to the raffle, we have brought Donnie in to handle the dealings. Donnie will be our "raffle guy" and I know without a doubt he will make it a humorous, and enjoyable experience. Thanks for your continued support, buddy. See you soon.
March 5, 2024. Welcoming Matt Kiser and F.C. Fish Co. to the tournament adds an exciting element, especially with the innovative approach to bait preservation and collaboration with Tony Faggioni . The prospect of a well-balanced synthetic bait is intriguing for surf anglers, and I can't wait to put it to use. It's clear that the anticipation has been building up for this release, and it's great to see the angling community embracing new ideas and products. The collaboration between Matt and FishGum for further improvement demonstrates a commitment to providing anglers with top-notch options. Wishing Matt and FC Fish Co the best of luck in the tournament, and I'm sure many anglers are eager to try out this new bait. Exploring their website will undoubtedly unveil the full range of offerings, and the personal touch of meeting Matt at the weigh-in will surely add an extra layer of excitement. Tight lines to everyone involved, and may the upcoming season be a successful one for FC Fish Co!
February 15th, 2024. As most of y’all know, our sponsors take care of payouts for each tournament. Winners cash is determined by what we receive from sponsorships. We get a grand total and decide how much goes to each placement in The Showdown. We thought we would ask what y’all rather see before determining the placements. Less winners and more cash? More winners and less cash?
February 6th, 2024. We figured we would fill your Tuesday with beautiful thoughts. Imagine scouting , running light solo trips, or finally having a cart that will fit in the back of your Honda hatchback. Deerfield Fabrication And Welding LLC will be making this dream possible for one lucky person on April 14th. The winner of the Showdown will walk away with not only a pocket full of cash, but a custom Beach Dolly similar to the one below designed and created by Brian Sorrell. $1,300 Value. Happy Days.
February 13th, 2024. We are tightening up a few more loose ends before we open up registration. The Unfolding will run April 6th-11th and is sponsored by Swellpro. The Panhandle Salt Pompano Showdown Tournament will run on April 12,13,14 and is sponsored by one of the best lineups we have gathered to date. Announcements coming soon. Tournament boundaries are from St. George Island Fl to Gulf Shores, Alabama. Beach fishing only. Video evidence of your winning fish will need to be brought to the weigh and measure-in at Warrior Beer Company.
February 12th, 2024. Sponsorship registration entries have been coming through the site. Check this one out. "Three-hour surf fishing charter in Brevard County Florida and a one-night oceanfront room also in Brevard County". Prizes like this make me want to fish in my own tournament. Not only would I get the lay of the beach by a trusted guide in the area, you would also get an oceanfront room to stay in. Thats a solid solo mini vacation in my book. This is why we keep sponsorship completely open to anyone. We get random gems like this. Sponsorship announcements coming soon.
February 6th, 2024. We figured we would fill your Tuesday with beautiful thoughts. Imagine scouting , running light solo trips, or finally having a cart that will fit in the back of your Honda hatchback. Deerfield Fabrication And Welding LLC will be making this dream possible for one lucky person on April 14th. The winner of the Showdown will walk away with not only a pocket full of cash, but a custom Beach Dolly similar to the one below designed and created by Brian Sorrell. $1,300 Value. Happy Days.
February 1st, 2024. Word around the campfire is that our good friend Gary Hefner will be a guest on Finding Demo Surf Fishing Podcast soon. I threw this out there about a year ago to both parties as Gary is very involved in the surf fishing community, and Brian Demo always has an eye out for interesting folks in the game. I’m super excited this meet up came together. Gary has a great back story he shared with me some years back, and it has turned him into the person he is today. Y’all don’t miss out on this one.
January 29, 2024. We have received a positive response to sponsorship as always. We thank returning, and new sponsors that have reached out to us and are as excited as we are for the big event. The weigh-in and tournament rules were put together for networking reasons. To get companies together that might not have the chance otherwise. We totally understand that different companies are at different levels in the quest, but want to ensure that all are considered equal in the eyes of the tournament no matter what is brought to the table. It's an exciting time. About 7 weeks and we get our daylight back. It's on.
January 25, 2024. What a cool piece of mail in the box today. Ronrico Campbell I would hardly call you an amateur. You have placed a few times if memory serves me well. This was the vision of the tournament 4-years ago, 7:30 in the morning, having coffee on the back porch.“How do we get all the surf fishing community in one place at one time”? Thank you Ronrico and Timothy for taking advantage of the event to meet new friends, create fishing buddies, and always showing support to our sponsors by purchasing items from the tents. This has made our day.