Fishing fanatics of all ages are invited to try their luck this Spring in the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village" during the 16th Annual Destin Cobia Tournament -- March 1 - April 30, 2012 -- along Northwest Florida's Emerald Coast. Each year the competition hooks hundreds of anglers in the fish-filled waters of Destin, Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island, providing an unparalleled fishing experience and excellent payout, with more than $35,000 in cash and prizes awarded last year (http://www.emeraldcoastfl.com).

The extravaganza kicks off with the first Cobia caught and weighed-in by a boat officially entered in the contest. Whether a first-time fisher or "seasoned old-salt," the tournament yields a number of festivities and special events along the 24 miles of sugar-white sand and brilliant, emerald-green waters of Northwest Florida's upper Gulf coast. Events range from the kick-off party at the Emerald Grande Ballroom and Super Saturdays at the weigh-in stations, to the awards ceremony at Harry T's -- all taking place near HarborWalk Marina, just steps from the docks.

 

Registration for the 16th Annual Destin Cobia Tournament may be completed by visiting www.destincobiatournament.com or calling 850-837-2343. All proceeds from the event go towards the Miss Destin Scholarship Fund -- created in 1951, three years after the Destin Fishing Rodeo debut -- assisting aspiring young women in furthering their educational goals.

A wide-range of accommodations are available, from beachfront hotels and a bed-and-breakfast, to condominiums and vacation homes.

To take part in the 16th Annual Destin Cobia Tournament or to receive more information on Northwest Florida's Emerald Coast, contact the Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc. by visiting www.emeraldcoastfl.com or calling 800.322.3319.