A young Florida angler claimed the top prize in the state’s annual saltwater fishing competition, walking away with a reward package that recognized both her dedication and skill on the water.
Lilyanne Fine was named the Season 4 winner of the Triple Threat Throwdown, a challenge administered through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Catch a Florida Memory program. The contest concluded on September 13, and agency staff members traveled to present Fine with the grand prize in person , a fully rigged kayak fishing package valued at more than $4,500.
The prize package included a Bonafide SKF117 kayak, Mustad tackle, YakAttack accessories, and a Power-Pole Micro Spike Driver, all provided by marine industry sponsors.
To qualify for the Triple Threat Club, participants must log catches across three distinct program categories: Grand Slams, Reel Big Fish, and the Life List. Once an angler reaches that milestone, every additional qualifying fish submitted during the contest window earns an extra entry into the grand prize drawing. The program is structured to encourage anglers to pursue a broader range of marine species, which in turn helps reduce fishing pressure on the state’s most sought-after game fish.
Fine noted that earning rewards throughout the competition kept her engaged and motivated.
“I love getting prizes after completing new accomplishments,” Fine said. “The shirts are awesome!”
Her father, Barrett Fine, explained that the contest encouraged their family to travel and fish waters beyond their home region.
“I like the variety of challenges. We planned part of our vacation to the Keys so we could target species we don’t have regular access to in the Panhandle,” he said. “I also like the competitiveness it creates. When my shirts got here before Lilyanne’s, I’d wear one and ask her, ‘Which shirt is this?’ and she’d give me the look. Now, when she gets her Triple Threat winner shirt, I know I’m going to get a big dose of karma.”
State wildlife officials commended this year’s participants for actively supporting conservation goals through responsible angling practices.
“We are incredibly proud of our Catch a Florida Memory community for making this another outstanding year in the Fishing Capital of the World,” said Jessica McCawley, director of the FWC’s Division of Marine Fisheries Management. “The conclusion of the Triple Threat Throwdown, Season 4, highlights the unmatched dedication of our participants to both the sport of fishing and conservation. Seeing a youth angler like Lilyanne earn this year’s title showcases the bright future of Florida’s fishing community and the lasting impact of programs like Catch a Florida Memory.”
The FWC has announced plans to launch Season 5 of the challenge in 2027.
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