Special to the PRESS
Across the sparkling waters of the Laguna Madre Bay and Gulf of Mexico, South Padre Island will once again play host to Texas’ oldest and largest saltwater fishing tournament—the Texas International Fishing
Tournament (TIFT)—from July 30 to August 3, 2025. This marks the tournament’s 85th year, a true testament to the outstanding fishing to be found in the area.
“Over many decades, the Texas International Fishing Tournament, which offers the best of both bay and offshore fishing, has been an important part of building South Padre Island’s reputation as one of the
country’s premier fishing destinations,” said Blake Henry, Executive Director of Visit South Padre Island.
“Along with all the amenities our beautiful island offers, there is a reason this tournament continues to attract thousands of visitors year after year.”
Founded in 1933 by Doc J.A. Hockaday with the goal of showcasing the exceptional fishing to be found in the Rio Grande Valley region, TIFT has become a premier angler’s event that draws 1,500 participants and
500 boats competing over two thrilling days. TIFT is focused on fostering a quality, family-oriented fishing tournament with a perfect blend of competition and community engagement, where seasoned anglers and
juniors fish side by side.
Anglers will compete in three divisions: Bay, Offshore, and Tarpon.
– Bay anglers target speckled trout, redfish, and flounder
– Offshore competitors go after blue marlin, white marlin, sailfish, and tuna
– The Tarpon division is exclusively catch-and-release.
A captain’s meeting takes place on Thursday, July 31st at the SPI Convention Center. Friday and Saturday, August 1st and 2nd are competition days, and then an awards ceremony and lunch on Sunday, the 3rd,
back at the Convention Center, cap the tournament weekend. Complete information about the tournament can be found at: https://www.tift.org
To plan your South Padre Island getaway for the weekend, including lodging, dining, and activities, go to www.visitsouthpadreisland.com.
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