More Than Just Fishing!

The Viking Key West Challenge (VKWC) is a one-of-a-kind tournament that mixes competitive fishing with a fun, family-friendly vibe, making it a blast for everyone. The event is all about having a good time and keeping things relaxed in the Key West boating and fishing scene.

Presented by Christi Insurance Group and Travelers Insurance, the 11th annual event kicked off with 50 participating boats. The fleet includes Vikings ranging from 46 to 90 feet and Valhallas from 37 to 55 feet. On Day 1, anglers released 85 sailfish, and the Spot Zero Weigh Station was thumping as excited anglers brought their catches – tuna, cobia, kingfish and the tournament’s first-ever pompano – to the scales. Everyone got together again at Dante’s for a Dinner Buffet hosted by MAN Engines, and prize giveaways. Download the VKWC app to follow the leaderboard and enjoy the fun on social media.

The festivities began on Wednesday evening at Dante’s Key West with registration, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and the Captains’ Meeting. “We have the best owners and the best boats in the world,” said Viking President and CEO Pat Healey. “We’re going to do some fishing, and the most important thing is we’re going to have a lot of fun.”

Plenty of exciting activities are planned for today’s lay day, including the Pool Party Lunch (hosted by Johnson & Towers/MTU), Bar Crawl Poker Run and Kids Dock Tournament (sponsored by The Billfish Foundation). The final day of fishing is tomorrow, culminating in the Awards Dinner at Opal Key. Tight lines and good times to all!