Take Stock in Children Backcountry Challenge 2026 | Key Largo

Fishing for futures! For the 26th year, Key Largo Rotary is hosting the Take Stock in Children Backcountry Challenge to support the future success of Upper Keys students.

Taking place September 25–27, 2026, the catch-and-release tournament invites anglers of all ages to compete for snook, trout, and redfish while raising funds for Take Stock in Children and other local scholarship programs.

Last year, Key Largo Rotary awarded $43,000 in scholarships to 28 graduating students. This year, the club hopes to welcome even more anglers and sponsors with a fundraising goal of $60,000.

“This tournament has always been built on the support of our local community. Our anglers, guides, businesses, families, and volunteers are what make this event so special, and we are incredibly grateful for their continued support. We also welcome visitors and part-time residents who want to fish alongside us and invest in the future of Upper Keys students,” says Shelby Morris, President of the Rotary Club of Key Largo.

Morris previously served as tournament chairperson, with Kerry Martin taking over for 2026.

Morris emphasizes that sponsorships provide the foundation for the tournament’s scholarship impact.

“The majority of the money we raise comes from sponsors,” Morris explains. “Every dollar we raise for Take Stock in Children is matched by the state.”

Sponsorships range from $250 to $5,000, offering businesses valuable exposure while supporting a local cause. Many longtime local sponsors have helped make the tournament one of the Upper Keys’ longest-running fundraisers, while new sponsors strengthen it each year. Individuals may also contribute in honor or memory of a loved one.

More Than a Traditional Scholarship Program

Take Stock in Children is more than a traditional scholarship program. Students begin the mentorship program as early as seventh grade and remain committed through high school. They must maintain good grades and attendance, demonstrate good behavior, remain drug- and crime-free, and meet regularly with a volunteer mentor.

“What I love most is that it’s more than just receiving financial assistance,” Morris says. “The students work hard, receive mentorship, and that investment goes right back into the community.”

Tournament Weekend

Fishing begins after Friday evening’s Captains and Anglers Meeting at Doc’s Diner and continues around the clock until results are submitted Sunday afternoon. Adult, junior, and children’s divisions welcome experienced anglers, young competitors, and families.

Last year’s first-place winners included Dawson Delos Santos in the Kid Division trout category.

In the Junior Division, Haley Hanson placed first for redfish and trout, while Walker Lynn earned first place for snook. Haley Hanson also earned Junior Backcountry Champion.

Adult Division winners included Grady Temkin for redfish, Bradley Martin for snook, and Lawrence Simons for trout. Chris Hanson was named Top Professional Angler, Luis Cortes received Top Guide honors, and Rylan Solis was named Top Artificial Adult Angler and Overall Backcountry Champion.

Winning anglers will receive custom, upscale trophies built to proudly adorn any anglers’ fishing room!

Awards Banquet and Silent Auction

The weekend concludes Sunday evening with an Awards Banquet catered by The Conch House. The banquet features a silent auction that raised approximately $25,000 over the last two years.

Organizers are seeking auction donations, such as fishing gear, getaways, artwork, jewelry, gift certificates, and more. The popular Tom Tharp Cooler O’Cheer raffle will also return.

Key Largo Rotary Club members, Coral Shores Interact Club students, and Take Stock in Children participants volunteer throughout the weekend.

Social tickets will be available for non-anglers who want to attend the festivities and support the cause. Follow the Take Stock in Children Backcountry Challenge Facebook page for ticket announcements and event updates.

To register, become a sponsor, donate an auction item, or purchase social tickets, visit KeyLargoRotary.org. For the latest tournament announcements, event information, and updates, follow the Take Stock in Children Backcountry Challenge Facebook page.

Get Involved

Whether you’re ready to compete on the water or support local students through sponsorship, there are plenty of ways to get involved in the 26th Annual Take Stock in Children Backcountry Challenge.

Every registration and sponsorship helps support Take Stock in Children and other local scholarship programs, creating brighter futures for students throughout the Upper Keys.

This tournament is brought to you by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council.