Warrior Memorial Reefs Foundation Ignites the Gulf with Second Annual Reels & Spears Gulf Classic Epic Two-Day Tournament Pits Anglers Against Spearfishers in a High-Stakes Battle for Glory and Honor
Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled showdown on the water like no other! Warrior Memorial Reefs Foundation proudly announces the 2026 Reels & Spears Gulf Classic, a thrilling competitive fishing tournament where pole-and-reel anglers and spearfishers clash head-to-head in pursuit of bragging rights, big prizes, and a cause that runs deeper than the Gulf itself.
Hosted, once again, by South Point Marina at Bay Point in beautiful Panama City Beach, FL, this year’s event promises to be bigger, bolder, and more unforgettable than the standout 2025 debut. Every dollar raised, after payouts to winning teams, will fuel the rapid expansion of dedicated memorial artificial reefs that are living tributes to fallen veterans and first responders.
This tournament is more than just fishing; it’s a powerful chapter in the Foundation’s ambitious #250for250 Campaign. Warrior Memorial Reefs Foundation is charging toward a $250,000 goal in honor of America’s 250th Anniversary, aiming to deploy 25 dedicated reefs for 25 Fallen Warriors. Two of these majestic structures will stand as grand celebrations of the founding of the United States, creating permanent underwater legacies that blend patriotism, conservation, and remembrance.
You need to be a part of this! Imagine the thrill of battling massive Gulf fish while knowing your entry directly helps build these living memorials. Whether you’re a seasoned angler, a passionate spearfisher, or a team ready to dominate, this is your chance to compete, celebrate, and contribute to something truly historic.
The tournament format offers participants pure excitement across fishing disciplines. Compete in Snapper, Grouper, Amberjack, and Lionfish categories. Separate prizes for Reels (pole & reel) and Spears divisions mean everyone gets a fair shot at glory. The biggest fish wins in each category, plus a “Most Lionfish” award that shines a spotlight on the invasive species devastating our reef systems.
2025 proved that it can get wild out in the Gulf. Last year’s anglers delivered jaw-dropping performances that set the bar high:
Spears Division
- Biggest Snapper: 29.2 lbs – Team Silver Slinger (Capt. Pat Green)
- Biggest Amberjack: 54.8 lbs – Team Snapper Slapper (Capt. Chad LaFrenz)
- Biggest Grouper: 35.2 lbs – Team Wet Bandits (Capt. Jaime Kosier)
- Most Lionfish: 72 – Team Wet Bandits (Capt. Jaime Kosier)
Reels Division Sweep
Team Critical Care, led by Capt. Charles Drumm, crushed it with:
- Biggest Snapper: 19 lbs
- Biggest Grouper: 27 lbs
- Biggest Amberjack: 51.6 lbs
And don’t forget Team Freediver’s impressive 10 lb lobster!
Reels & Spears Gulf Classic 2026 Event Schedule:
- Thursday, September 10, 2026 — Captain’s Meeting (essential planning, rules and good times)
- Friday, September 11, 2026 — Day 1 Fishing + powerful 9/11 Tribute, family movie night, and high-energy entertainment • Saturday, September 12, 2026 — Day 2 Fishing + explosive Family Festival with College Football viewing tent, delicious food, local vendors, nonstop raffles, silent auction treasures, and non-stop fun for the whole crew.
Early Bird Registration is now open. Don’t miss your shot! Secure your spot and save! Regular registration begins on August 1, 2026. Sign up today at: www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/2026-reels-and-spears-gulf-classic
Local businesses can join the movement by stepping up with impactful sponsorship packages and be part of this noble, patriotic celebration. Vendors, make sure to grab your booth at the Family Festival. Volunteers and community members, it takes your energy to make the magic happen. This is more than a tournament; it’s a weekend where fishing legends are born, families bond, and every participant helps turn grief into growth beneath the waves while racing toward America’s 250th Anniversary milestone.
The Warrior Memorial Reefs Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to honoring fallen veterans and first responders through the construction of dedicated artificial reef memorials. These vibrant underwater tributes restore marine ecosystems, create world-class diving and fishing opportunities, and provide sacred spaces for remembrance and healing.
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