The South Seas Tarpon Tournament is set to return to the waters of the Gulf on May 22, marking the beginning of a high-impact Memorial Day weekend on Captiva Island. Now in its third year, this elite angling competition has quickly become a cornerstone of the local spring calendar, combining the region’s world-class fishing heritage with a profound commitment to philanthropic outreach.
Expanding the Tradition: The Inaugural Golf Scramble
Following the high-stakes action on the water, the weekend’s festivities will expand on May 23 with the debut of the South Seas Golf Scramble. This new addition will be hosted at The Clutch, the island’s recently debuted Beau Welling-designed short course.
The introduction of the golf scramble is a significant update for the local real estate landscape, as it showcases the island’s modernized recreational infrastructure. The Clutch is known for its versatile layout and “resort-style” playability, making it a major draw for secondary homeowners and golf enthusiasts looking for a premier sporting experience on the island.
Event Schedule & Competition Details
| Date | Event | Time / Location |
| May 22 | South Seas Tarpon Tournament | 6:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (Captiva Waters) |
| May 23 | Inaugural Golf Scramble | The Clutch Golf Course |
| May 23 | Memorial Ceremony | Featuring Lee County Honor Guard |
Philanthropic Impact: Supporting Folds of Honor
The primary driver behind the South Seas Tarpon Tournament and the new golf scramble is the support of Folds of Honor. This non-profit organization provides life-changing educational scholarships to the spouses and children of fallen or disabled U.S. military members and first responders.
The impact of this event on the local community is substantial. In 2025, the tournament saw 36 participating boats catch 41 tarpons, raising over $250,000. These funds translated into 45 educational scholarships specifically for families within Lee County. By adding the golf scramble this year, organizers anticipate surpassing previous fundraising milestones, further solidifying the island’s reputation for high-impact community giving.
Ceremonies and Community Recognition
Beyond the competitions, the weekend serves as a formal tribute to those who have served. The schedule includes a dedicated ceremony honoring fallen veterans, highlighted by a presentation from the Lee County Honor Guard and a demonstration by professional paratroopers. This blend of elite sport and patriotic tribute offers a unique atmosphere that defines the holiday weekend in Southwest Florida.
Registration and Participation
For those looking to participate in either the South Seas Tarpon Tournament or the golf scramble, the registration deadline is rapidly approaching on April 25.
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Tournament Format: Teams of four (foursomes).
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Cost: $1,500 per team.
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Allocation: $1,000 of the entry fee goes toward the winner’s purse, while $500 is donated directly to Folds of Honor.
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Sponsorships: Various corporate and individual sponsorship tiers are available to further support the scholarship fund.
For real estate investors and local residents, these events are more than just recreational highlights; they are indicators of a thriving, engaged community that values both its natural resources and its service members.
Official Registration Reference
To register a team or explore sponsorship opportunities for the upcoming weekend, visit the official South Seas event portal. Registration is open to the public through April 25.
