CCA FLORIDA STAR TOURNAMENT 10.5

The Statewide Tournament and Angler’s Rodeo (STAR) aims to educate the public on the importance of conserving Florida’s marine resources. By fostering participation from individuals of all ages, STAR promotes the protection and preservation of Florida’s fishery resources for future generations. Through engaging with STAR, CCA Florida facilitates the gathering of valuable scientific data and offers anglers of varying skill levels the chance to join a family-friendly angling competition. Participants in STAR are encouraged to deepen their understanding of the challenges that impact Florida's fishery resources and to appreciate the ongoing conservation efforts required.

STAR operates as a non-profit organization. Proceeds generated from angler entry fees and sponsorships are reinvested to cover tournament costs, including prizes, administration, promotion, advertising, and data acquisition. The inaugural year of STAR will be restricted to the West coast of Florida; however, anglers from across the state are eligible to compete if they hold active memberships with CCA. The tournament features a variety of targeted species and categories for registered anglers. Future plans for STAR include expansion to encompass all state waters, including the east coast and the Florida Keys, along with incorporating additional species such as pelagics. Tournament guidelines mandate a catch-and-photo format for all categories, requiring participants to photograph eligible fish while alive and in releasable conditions. STAR advocates for the responsible handling, photographing, and releasing of tournament catches wherever possible.