19th Annual Nick Sheahan Dolphin Rodeo

What started as a memorial scholarship for a beloved 16-year-old has grown into one of the Florida Keys’ most celebrated fishing tournaments—and this May, the Nick Sheahan Dolphin Rodeo returns bigger than ever for its 19th year.

Whether you’re an avid angler chasing a record-breaking catch, a parent proud to support local students, or simply someone who loves great food and live music on the water—the Dolphin Rodeo has a place for you. This is more than a tournament. It’s a community tradition that changes lives.

The tournament was founded in memory of Nick Sheahan, who tragically passed away in July 2004 at the age of 16 from shallow-water blackout (SWB) while diving in the Bahamas. Nick was loved by many, and his family and friends honored his memory by creating a scholarship fund in his name. The first scholarships were awarded to four of Nick’s closest friends, and the event has grown ever since—with many of those original friends still returning each year to fish or volunteer.

Since its founding, the Nick Sheahan Scholarship Foundation has awarded an extraordinary $516,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors at Coral Shores High School. In 2025 alone, the tournament granted $60,000 in scholarships—$3,000 each—to 20 deserving students ready to take the next step in their education.

Tournament founder and Nick’s father, Tom Sheahan, reflects on what the event has become: “Year after year, our community comes together to help our students and honor my son. And year after year, I am incredibly thankful for their support.”

The 19th Annual Nick Sheahan Dolphin Rodeo takes place May 1–3, 2026, at Tavernier Creek Marina. The weekend kicks off Friday evening with the beloved Kickoff Party beginning at 6 pm. Non-anglers are welcome—come for the music, the food, the drinks, and the Silent Auction. It’s a Keys party you won’t want to miss.

The 50/50 raffle and silent auction return with incredible items including local artwork, jewelry, high-end fishing gear, fuel cards, and exclusive trips.

More than 150 anglers will hit the water with a shot at glory—and a massive payday. Any angler who breaks the Florida state record for the largest Dolphin Fish will take home a $25,000 cash prize. If no record is broken, the top adult finishers still take home cash: 1st place – $5,000, 2nd place – $2,500, 3rd place – $1,000. The Junior Division winners receive trophies and exciting prizes, and the anglers that bring in the biggest tuna and wahoo each get 100 gallons of fuel donated by Chirs Bait and Tackle and Sunshine Petroleum.

This year, the tournament is proudly presented by Bucked Up Energy. A special thanks goes to Tavernier Creek Marina, Becky Bohnstedt, Joe Biondoletti, Jaime Snyder, Brandy Smith, Michael Borguss, and the many sponsors, volunteers, and donors that make the Dolphin Rodeo a reality year after year.