Expansion into South Carolina and Louisiana Further Diversifies National Program

USAngling Saltwater Kayak Fishing is proud to announce the addition of two new regional qualifier events to the expanding 2026 Regional Qualifier Series, marking an exciting expansion into the great states of South Carolina and Louisiana.

These new events will be hosted by Joe Komyati’s Saltwater Kayak Series, opening the door to new regions and providing even more opportunities for American athletes to compete, qualify, and advance within the USAngling pathway. USAngling is excited to partner with Tournament Director Joe Komyati, whose series is built on community, sportsmanship, and a shared love for kayak fishing.

The addition of these qualifiers further diversifies the USAngling Saltwater Kayak Fishing program while strengthening its national footprint and commitment to growing the sport at the grassroots level.

2026 Regional Qualifier Event Schedule

• Charleston, South Carolina – March 7, 2026
• Grand Isle, Louisiana – April 18, 2026

More tournament dates to be announced soon

Events are founded on strong community involvement and a passion for competitive saltwater kayak fishing, providing athletes with a welcoming and professionally run pathway to national-level competition. 

Qualifier Advancement

The top 10 athletes competing in the regional qualifier events, along with a few select wild cards, will earn the opportunity to advance to the USAngling Saltwater Kayak Fishing National Championship, to be held August 14–16, 2026, in San Diego Bay, California. 

The top 1O performers at the National Championship, along with select USA Team Alumni, will continue along the USAngling development pathway, advancing to Team USA opportunities, representing the United States in international competition.

The USAngling Saltwater Fishing Regional Qualifier Series is designed to provide fair, accessible, and performance-based advancement while expanding opportunities for anglers across diverse coastal regions.

Regional Director Contact

Joe Komyati
Tournament Director – Saltwater Kayak Series
941-465-1660
saltwaterkayakseries@yahoo.com 

Facebook: Saltwater Kayak Series
https://www.facebook.com/share/1FSBPJTG3b/?mibextid=wwXIfr 

Sign up at: https://app.fishingchaos.com/tournament/ 

USAngling Contact

David Elgas
USAngling Saltwater Kayak Fishing
(808) 234-4947
guides@coastalkayaktours.com 
https://usangling.org/saltwater-kayak-fishing/