Saltwater Series World Championship - Orange Beach, Alabama

This year, fishermen can double their tournament chances by entering both the Red Snapper World Championship Tournament and the brand new Orange Beach Saltwater Series World Championship Tournament. The proceeds from the two tournaments are directed towards improving and preserving the future of recreational saltwater fishing. In essence, participating anglers are actually fishing for the future of their sport. Last year’s tournament donations, when combined with Alabama’s 3-1 matching funds, generated over $250,000. In the last four years the tournament has raised almost $1,000,000.00. These funds are earmarked for the establishment, and continued maintenance, of the largest saltwater reef building program in the world. Approximately 1,200 square miles of Alabama waters are dedicated to the state’s artificial reef program. For additional information, visit the Red Snapper World Championship (RSWC) Reef Modules

The tournament format will be similar to the already popular red snapper version. Prizes range from $20,000 for a 1st place King Mackerel to $10,000 for a 1st place Speckled Trout, and $10,000 for a 1st place Redfish. After mentioning those three species, there are still eight other categories of fish and plenty of places to fill! Click here for complete payout information.

Anglers and fish aren’t the only winners in this coastal celebration. By honoring their heritage of recreational fishing, Orange Beach businesses stand to benefit from the summer long activities surrounding all the fishing action. A boat show at Lulu’s Homeport Marina and an RV show at the Gulf Park Pavilion are scheduled from April 11th through the 13th. These are just the first of the many events that will be associated with the two tournaments.

Historically, recreational fishing contributes approximately $800 million each year to Alabama’s economy. Forward thinking tournament directors have plans for that figure, and their fisheries, to grow through the excitement generated by this popular Gulf Coast celebration.