POMPANO BEACH, FL – USAngling is proud to announce the inaugural 2025 Saltwater Kayak Fishing National Championship, set for August 9, 2025, in beautiful Pompano Beach, FL. This premier national-level event will run alongside Extreme Kayak Fishing’s renowned Summer Slam 2—offering anglers an electrifying offshore challenge, substantial prizes, and the opportunity to secure a spot on Team USA for upcoming international competitions.

Regional Winners to National Stage

Following intense Regional Qualifiers held across Texas, Hawaii, California, Florida, Maryland, and Oregon, the top 10 anglers from each qualifier, plus select Wild Cards and current Team USA members, have earned their invitations to compete at Pompano Beach.

About the Event

Event: USAngling Saltwater Kayak Fishing National Championship (concurrent with EKFT Summer Slam Part 2)

Date: Saturday, August 9, 2025

Kickoff & Party: Thursday, August 7 at Brus Room, Pompano Beach (4–8 PM)

 

Competition Format:

• Offshore, single-day tournament live bait available
• Anglers will target saltwater species such as kingfish, blackfin tuna, wahoo, and mahi-mahi
• Scoring based on total weight of the top five fish submitted

 

Prize Structure:

• Champion receives a Championship Belt. 2nd and 3rd place trophies
• Top 4 finishers qualify for both the 2026 Pan American and World Championships
• 5th–8th place qualify for the 2026 Pan American Championship
• Medals awarded to all the Top 8 moving onto Team USA

 

Event Experience & Conservation

In true EKFT style, the Championship kicks off with a rambunctious captains’ party featuring complimentary food, music, and a charitable raffle benefiting Broward Children’s Center .

On tournament day:

• First-light paddle-off (~6:30 AM; official time announced at party)
• Onshore festivities through the day include yoga, tug-of-war, and live music leading up to a 2:30 PM weigh-in
• Compliance with Florida saltwater fishing licensing and local/state/federal regulations is mandatory .

Leadership Comments

“This national championship is the culmination of our Regional Qualifier Series,” said David Elgas, Vice President of USA Saltwater Kayak Fishing. “We’re proud to offer anglers a clear path from regional competition to representing the USA internationally.”

“The National Championship will bring together the most skilled and passionate anglers from across the country to test their abilities in some of America’s most challenging and biodiverse coastal waters,” added Tony Forte, President of USAngling.

Registration & Media Opportunities

Spots are limited. Qualified anglers, media, and potential sponsors are encouraged to visit usangling.org/saltwater-kayak-fishing/.

For media kits, interview inquiries, and sponsorship details, contact:

David Elgas, Vice President, USAngling Saltwater Kayak Fishing
Email: guides@coastalkayaktours.com
Phone: (808) 234‑4047

 

About the Organizations

USAngling

As the national governing body for competitive angling in the U.S., USAngling is recognized by the Confederation Internationale de la Pêche Sportive (CIPS). The organization supports pathways leading to Pan American, World, and potential Olympic competition.

USAngling Saltwater Kayak Fishing Program

Established in 2024, this initiative is overseen by a national committee dedicated to developing regional and national events—and building Team USA’s kayak fishing presence on the global stage.

Extreme Kayak Fishing Tournament (EKFT)

Based in Pompano Beach, EKFT is a leading organizer of offshore kayak fishing events, including Summer Slam (Part 1 & 2), Sailfish Smackdown, and Exotic Bass Roundup. The series offers broadcast-style weigh-ins, elite sponsors, gear giveaways, and conservation-focused community events—supporting local charities like the Broward Children’s Center.

For more information on competition rules, schedule, and qualifications, please visit USAngling’s web page or reach out to the media contact above.

usangling.org/saltwater-kayak-fishing/