Florida’s annual saltwater fishing competition rewarded a rising talent from the Panhandle when Lilyanne Fine was crowned the Season 4 champion of the Triple Threat Throwdown. The contest, organized by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) Catch a Florida Memory program, concluded on September 13, and agency staff traveled to present Fine with a fully rigged kayak fishing package valued at more than $4,500.
Prize Package Highlights
The winning bundle includes a Bonafide SKF117 kayak, Mustad tackle, YakAttack accessories, and a Power‑Pole Micro Spike Driver, all supplied by marine‑industry sponsors. The gear is designed to give anglers a ready‑to‑go setup for targeting a variety of marine species.
How the Triple Threat Throwdown Works
To earn a spot in the Triple Threat Club, participants must log catches in three program categories: Grand Slams, Reel Big Fish, and the Life List. Once an angler reaches this milestone, each additional qualifying fish submitted during the contest window generates an extra entry into the grand‑prize drawing. The program’s goal is to encourage anglers to pursue a broader mix of marine species, thereby easing pressure on the state’s most popular game fish.
Family Motivation and Community Impact
Fine said the incremental rewards kept her motivated throughout the challenge. “I love getting prizes after completing new accomplishments,” she explained, adding, “The shirts are awesome!” Her father, Barrett Fine, noted that the competition prompted their family to travel beyond their home waters. “We planned part of our vacation to the Keys so we could target species we don’t have regular access to in the Panhandle,” he said. “The competitiveness adds excitement, and when my shirts arrived before Lilyanne’s, I’d wear one and ask her, ‘Which shirt is this?’ Now, when she gets her Triple Threat winner shirt, I know I’m going to get a big dose of karma.”
FWC Praise for Conservation Efforts
State wildlife officials lauded this year’s participants for supporting conservation goals through responsible angling. Jessica McCawley, director of the FWC’s Division of Marine Fisheries Management, said, “We are incredibly proud of our Catch a Florida Memory community for making this another outstanding year in the Fishing Capital of the World. The conclusion of the Triple Threat Throwdown, Season 4, highlights the unmatched dedication of our participants to both the sport of fishing and conservation. Seeing a youth angler like Lilyanne earn this year’s title showcases the bright future of Florida’s fishing community and the lasting impact of programs like Catch a Florida Memory.”
Looking Ahead
The FWC announced plans to launch Season 5 of the challenge in 2027, continuing to promote responsible fishing practices and family‑friendly outdoor recreation across the state.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
