Battle for the Buckle Returns to Destin Harbor Sep 23-26

Anglers across the Southeast are gearing up to cast their lines for a big purse and an even bigger cause. Westonwood Ranch has announced the return of the 2nd Annual Battle for the Buckle Fishing Tournament, taking place September 23–26 at Harbor Docks. Registration and sponsorship opportunities are open now, giving participants a chance to compete for championship buckles and $25,000 in cash prizes while supporting local individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Every dollar raised helps Westonwood Ranch provide life-changing programs that empower individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities to live more independent, purposeful lives. Based in Freeport, the nonprofit prepares participants for workforce opportunities and community inclusion through hands-on learning. Participants gain real-world skills and build confidence through programs spanning aquaponics, animal care, culinary training, candle making, and dog treat production.

“Battle for the Buckle is more than a fishing tournament, it’s a chance for our community to rally around a mission that believes every person deserves the opportunity to contribute, belong, and thrive,” said Lindy Wood, Founder and CEO of Westonwood Ranch.

Tournament festivities begin Wednesday evening with angler registration, the captain’s dinner, and the Calcutta at Harbor Docks. Competitors head out on the water for three days of fishing on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Spectators can gather at the docks each afternoon for free public weigh-ins to cheer on the anglers, leading up to Saturday's awards celebration honoring the winners and community impact.

Local businesses can also get involved as sponsors to gain visibility among the region's fishing community while directly investing in workforce development. To discover more local events, coastal news, and community happenings around South Walton, visit the SoWal Events Calendar. To register a boat or secure a sponsorship, visit the Battle for the Buckle Fishing Tournament page.

TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE 

SALTWATER COWBOYS get ready to wrangle in the BIG ONE. Our tournament’s presenting sponsor and host site is Harbor Docks, Destin. The Weigh-Ins will be held on the docks in front of the restaurant from 4 PM to 7pm on each day with Saltwater Cowboy Awards on Sunday Sept 21st at 9am. 

WED SEPT 23

Registration for the tournament opens at Harbor Docks from 4-6pm and Captain’s Dinner and Calcutta immediately follows at 6 PM. Fishing begins at 8pm on Wed Sept 23rd

​THURS SEPT 24-SATURDAY SEPT 26th

Destin’s Battle for the Buckle Fishing Tournament. Weigh-Ins at Harbor Docks are open from 4 PM to 7 PM.   Daily Weigh in Jackpot of $1,000

​​SUN SEPT 21  Awards Brunch

Awards for the tournament winners 9-11 PM

​WED SEPT 30  Exclusive Sponsor Dinner