The Don Hawley Invitational: A Fly Fishing Tradition Since 1975.

The Don Hawley Invitational Tarpon Fly Tournament was organized by Dick Pope, Jr. in 1975 to honor the great Don Hawley, who passed away in 1974. In 1987, the format of the Tournament was changed to catch and release only. Today, the Tournament continues to attract some of the best fly anglers from around the world, all of whom are competitive, conservative-minded and passionate about catching the silver king.

During the competition, each angler and guide team receives 1,000 points for each tarpon measuring at least four feet in length that is caught and released pursuant to Tournament rules. These rules require teams to, among other things, use 12-lb tippet and abide by all International Game Fish Association rules.

The title of Grand Champion is awarded to the angler and guide team with the most points accumulated over the five-day competition. In addition to other awards, the Grand Champions’ names are placed on the Perpetual Trophy, which includes the names of all past champion anglers and guides. The Perpetual Trophy resides at Florida Keys Outfitters in Islamorada, Florida.

Importantly, the five-day event allows GTF ample opportunity to promote its programs and initiatives directly to and among the various Tournament participants, including anglers, guides, sponsors, vendors and guests, many of whom are donors or potential donors to and / or beneficiaries or potential beneficiaries of such programs and initiatives.