Tampa, FL – February 18, 2026 – Anglers across Florida are gearing up for an exciting day of education, expert insights, and big prizes as the Salt Strong All Florida Chapters Meet Up takes place this Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Egypt Shriners Event Center, located at 5017 E. Washington St., Tampa, FL 33619.
Billed as the state’s premier inshore fishing gathering, the event unites chapters from the Salt Strong community, elite captains, conservation partners, and hundreds of enthusiasts for hands-on learning and fellowship. “This event is built by anglers, for anglers,” said Darlene Shuman, founder of Salt Strong Alliance. “You’ll leave with real-world techniques you can use immediately on the water.”
The day features direct access to some of Florida’s top fishing experts as guest speakers, including:
- Joe and Luke Simonds, Founders of Salt Strong
- Captain Dave Pomerleau, “The Mad Snooker”
- Captain Blair Wiggins, National TV Host and Professional Angler
- Captain Mark Johnson, “Hollywood”
These captains will share proven tactics, fish-finding strategies, and inshore techniques effective across Florida waters.
Attendees can participate in rotating hands-on workshops and live skill stations tailored for all experience levels, covering:
- Inshore Fishing 101 with Captain Leiza Fitzgerald
- Cast Net Workshops led by Captain Mike Goodwine, Captain Ryan Chabina, Captain Mike Dawson, and Captain Steve Johnson
- Wade Fishing Techniques with Dave Ugenalp (“Wader Dave”) and Brinkley Peters
- Additional sessions on beach and surf fishing, kayak fishing, Salt Strong Smart Spots, and a Power-Pole innovation station
A major highlight is the raffle for a Custom Micro Draft Skiff (valued at over $90,000 MSRP), with the raffle ending February 19th and the drawing held live at the event. Buy one ticket, get one free: https://saltstrongalliance.com/product/2025-micro-draft-skiff/
Another raffle offers a FluxJet Kayak and Salt Strong Fishing Bundle: https://pi9r7z-jb.myshopify.com/products/raffle?variant=51682813935917
Every ticket also enters attendees for door prizes, including guided fishing charters, rod and reel combos, and premium tackle packs.
A dedicated Conservation Zone will feature hands-on education and workshops on shoreline restoration, habitat protection, and fisheries conservation, partnering with organizations such as Sea & Shoreline, UF Sea Grant, Return ‘Em Right, Angler Action Foundation, Salt Strong Alliance, DRIVE For CleanWater, and others.
The event is family-friendly, with tickets priced at $20 (kids 2 and under free). Use promo code SSA50 for 50% off until February 20, 2026. Register now at: https://saltstrongalliance.com/events-and-more/
Salt Strong Alliance is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening Florida’s fishing community through education, conservation, and community-driven events that empower anglers to protect the waters they love.
For more details or to contact the organizers, reach out to Lyndra Davis, Event Coordinator, at Lyndra.Davis@qcausa.com or (813) 892-1404.
