Herman Lucerne Memorial Backcountry Championship (2026)

The annual Herman Lucerne Memorial Backcountry Championship returns to Islamorada. During the one-of-a-kind event, participating anglers can spread out to explore the Florida Keys backcountry within Everglades National Park in search of seven species of fish.

Up to 100 anglers of all skill levels are to join the steeped-in-tradition tournament and are certain to be tested while enjoying the beauty of the Everglades. Tournament namesake Lucerne was affectionately known as “Mr. Everglades” for his decades of experience fishing in the region.

The tournament title of overall grand champion awaits the individual who catches as many of the seven eligible species as possible to achieve the ultimate Everglades Slam.