What the Ladies Let's Go Fishing Tournament is and who runs it
The Ladies Let's Go Fishing Tournament is an annual fishing event in Florida designed specifically for women anglers of all skill levels. The tournament is organized by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) as part of their broader effort to introduce more women to recreational fishing and build community among female fishers across the state.
The event typically takes place in spring, though the exact dates shift from year to year. Participants fish in designated Florida waters — the specific location and water body change depending on the year's tournament. The format is straightforward: women fish during a set window of time, weigh in their catch at an official location, and compete for prizes based on the weight and species of fish they bring in.
Registration is handled through the FWC's website and partner organizations. The tournament welcomes beginners who have never fished before alongside experienced anglers, making it genuinely open to anyone with a fishing license or exemption.
Key Takeaways
- The Ladies Let's Go Fishing Tournament is run by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and happens once a year, usually in spring.
- You must have a valid Florida fishing license or may have access to for an exemption before you can register or fish in the tournament.
- The tournament welcomes women of every skill level, from people casting a line for the first time to lifelong anglers.
- Registration opens several weeks before the tournament date and fills up, so checking the FWC website early matters.
- Prizes are awarded based on fish weight and species, and the event includes educational sessions and vendor booths alongside the fishing itself.
How to register and what you need before the tournament
To register for the Ladies Let's Go Fishing Tournament, you will need a valid Florida fishing license or a documented exemption. If you do not have a license, you can purchase one through the FWC website or at authorized vendors across Florida — options include a three-day temporary license, a seven-day license, or an annual license. Residents and non-residents pay different rates, and some people (including Florida residents over 65 and active military) may may have access to for reduced cost or free licenses.
Registration itself happens online through the FWC's tournament page or through partner organizations that co-host the event. You will provide your name, contact information, and fishing license number. There is typically a registration fee separate from your fishing license — this fee covers the cost of running the tournament, the weigh-in, and prizes. The exact amount varies by year.
Before you register, confirm the tournament date, the water body where fishing will take place, and the weigh-in location and hours. These details are posted on the FWC website well in advance. You will also want to know the species that count toward prizes and any size or bag limits that apply — Florida has specific rules for different fish species, and the tournament follows state regulations.
What to bring and how the fishing day works
On tournament day, bring your fishing rod, tackle, and any personal gear you normally use — cooler, sunscreen, water, snacks, hat. You will also need your fishing license (or proof of exemption) and your tournament registration confirmation. Some tournaments provide a participant packet at check-in with a tournament shirt, information sheet, or other items.
Fishing typically runs during a set window — for example, from sunrise to a specific afternoon hour. You fish in the designated water body during that time and keep any fish you want to weigh in. The rules are clear: you must follow all Florida fishing regulations, including size and bag limits for each species. Fish that do not meet the legal size requirement or exceed bag limits cannot be counted.
When the fishing window closes, you head to the official weigh-in location with your catch. Staff will weigh your fish, record the species and weight, and enter your results into the tournament standings. Prizes are usually awarded based on total weight of your catch or the largest individual fish in a particular species category. The awards ceremony happens after weigh-in, often with food, raffle drawings, and a chance to meet other women anglers.
What makes this tournament different from regular fishing
The Ladies Let's Go Fishing Tournament is built around community and introduction, not just competition. The FWC designed it to lower the barrier to entry for women who might feel uncertain about fishing or who have never had the chance to learn. You will find experienced anglers willing to share tips, vendors selling tackle and gear, and educational booths covering topics like fish identification, water safety, and conservation.
The tournament also creates a space where women fish alongside other women, which changes the dynamic of the day. Many participants say that fishing in an all-women event made them feel more comfortable asking questions, trying new techniques, or simply enjoying the water without the pressure they might feel in a mixed group.
Prizes and competition are part of the day, but the real draw for most people is the experience itself — being on the water, learning something new, and connecting with other people who fish. First-time anglers often catch fish they did not expect to catch, and experienced anglers often discover new water or new techniques by talking with other participants.
Florida fishing licenses and exemptions you should know about
A Florida fishing license is required to fish in freshwater or saltwater, with narrow exceptions. You can buy a license online through the FWC website, by phone, or at authorized retailers like bait shops and sporting goods stores. The cost depends on whether you are a Florida resident and how long you want the license to last.
Some people do not need a license. Florida residents over 65 can fish without a license in freshwater only. Active-duty military members and veterans with service-connected disabilities may may have access to for reduced-cost or free licenses. Residents fishing on their own property may have exemptions depending on the water type. If you are unsure whether you need a license, the FWC website has a tool to check your situation.
For the tournament, bring your license or exemption documentation with you. Staff will check it at registration or weigh-in. If you do not have a valid license when you arrive, you will not be able to fish or compete.
How to prepare if you are new to fishing
If you have never fished before, the Ladies Let's Go Fishing Tournament is a good place to start — but a little preparation helps. Spend time on the water before tournament day if you can. Rent a boat or fish from shore at a public access point in the weeks leading up to the event. Practice casting, learn how to tie a basic knot, and get comfortable holding a rod.
Watch videos or read guides about the fish species you are likely to catch in the tournament water. Know what they look like, what size they need to be to count, and what bait or lures they prefer. Talk to people at a local bait shop — they know the water and the fish, and they often have strong opinions about what works right now.
On tournament day, arrive early. This gives you time to check in, ask questions, and get oriented before fishing starts. Do not hesitate to talk to other participants while you are waiting or fishing. Most anglers are generous with advice, and the tournament atmosphere encourages that kind of sharing.
Where to find the tournament details and register
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission publishes tournament information on their official website. Search for "Ladies Let's Go Fishing" or look under their events calendar. The page will have the current year's date, location, registration link, and rules.
You can also contact the FWC directly by phone or through their website contact form if you have questions that are not answered in the tournament materials. Local fishing clubs, bait shops, and tackle stores often promote the tournament and can point you toward registration.
Registration typically opens four to eight weeks before the tournament and closes one to two weeks before the event date. Spots fill up, so registering early is worth doing once the date is announced.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be an experienced angler to fish in this tournament?
No. The tournament is designed for women of all skill levels, including people who have never fished before. Many first-time participants fish in the tournament every year, and the event includes educational sessions and experienced anglers who are happy to help newcomers.
What if I do not have a fishing license yet?
You can purchase a Florida fishing license online, by phone, or at authorized retailers before the tournament. A three-day temporary license is the cheapest option if you only want to fish for the tournament. You must have a valid license before you register or fish.
Can I fish alone, or do I have to be part of a team?
Most years, the Ladies Let's Go Fishing Tournament is an individual competition, not a team event. You fish on your own and compete based on your own catch. Check the specific tournament rules for the year you are entering, as format details can vary.
What happens if I do not catch any fish?
You can still participate and attend the awards ceremony and social events. Not catching fish does not disqualify you from the tournament — you simply do not place in the prize categories. Many people come for the experience and community as much as for the competition.
Is there a cost to enter the tournament?
Yes, there is a registration fee in addition to your fishing license. The exact amount changes year to year. The fee covers the cost of running the tournament, the weigh-in, prizes, and often includes a tournament shirt or other items. Check the registration page for the current year's fee.