The $50K Kingfish

For 22 years the Hasson’s of Saint Petersburg, FL have fished the twice-yearly Old Salt King of the Beach Kingfish Tournament. Every Spring. Every Fall. Twenty-two years. Captain Billy Hasson (Dad), Captain Jimmy Hasson (Uncle) and now Captain Brian Hasson (Son) have each taken shots at being crowned King placing everywhere from nowhere to 2nd.

Things change. This Fall Brian Hasson and his crew (including Dad) fishing on the vessel Kindred Spear-It competed in, and won, the Old Salt Fall King of the Beach taking home the $50,000 overall 1st place prize. In addition they pocketed $25,431 for participating in the optional entries (TWT’s). $75,431 for a day on the water. It pays to play.

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“It is really, honestly a surreal moment. We’ve been doing this for so long. We’ve reached 2nd place in this tournament on multiple occasions. We’ve had more top 10’s than probably anyone in the history of this tournament. So, to actually get it done and to finally win the event is unbelievable. It is an incredible experience.” Capt. Brian Hasson

Single Engine Winner: Team Boaters Republic II

Single Engine Winner:
Team Boaters Republic II

…and there is more

Including the Hasson’s well-earned good fortunes Old Salt awarded in excess of $210,000 in cash and prizes at the weigh-in for the 22nd Annual Fall King of the Beach Kingfish Tournament. After 1st place the remaining $124,000 in cash, plus a $20,000 Suzuki Engine RePower package, was paid out to an additional 34 Overall Division anglers and winning anglers in the Single Engine, Ladies, Spanish Mackerel and Youth divisions.

In all, over 50 places shared in the tournament payout. 594 teams competed to be crowned King of the Beach this Fall. The teams were comprised of local, regional and Southeastern U.S anglers fishing in everything from kayaks to triple engine center consoles. Everyone can compete.

For complete tournament results: Click Here

Check out photos from the tournament: Click Here

The King of the Beach Kingfish Tournament is held twice yearly in the Fall & Spring. It is a 3-day fishing tournament and festival, the proceeds of which – after angler payouts, allow Old Salt to fund family & youth fishing programs, provide financial support for deserving charities and deliver effective advocacy for Florida anglers. 

See you at the Spring King: April 28 – 30, 2016