EC: Mullet Rapper Newsstands

Where do I pick up a copy of the Mullet Rapper? Visit our Newsstand page to see all the locations that host the Mullet Rapper.

EC: Reserve Mcloed Park?

Can I reserve the Mcloed Park for an event? To Reserve the City Park for an Event contact the City Clerk at (239) 695-4558 or email: Dsmallwood@cityofeverglades.org ( CityofEverglades.org )

Park: Drones in the Park?

Can I fly my drone in Everglades National Park? No, drones and other unmanned aircraft are not allowed in the park, or any other National Park Service site. This includes model airplanes, quadcopters, etc. ( nps.gov )

Park: Which Park to Hunt

Where can I hunt in Everglades National Forrest? Hunting is permitted exclusively in Big Cypress Preserve. Visit our hunting page for more details.

POI: Long Term Parking

Where can I park my car if I’m leaving in a boat for an extended trip? Check with The Ship Store at (239) 642-3133 or Port of the Islands Marina at (239) 389-0367.

POI: Trip Time to the Ocean

How long does it take to get out to the ocean from Port of the Islands It usually takes around 45 minutes to cruise from the Port of the Islands to the ocean. The journey includes navigating through a long, no-wake zone canal, providing a delightful and unhurried ride. Bring a cover for sun protection during this slow and scenic route. About half an hour in, you’ll arrive at the expansive and naturally beautiful mangroves before reaching the open waters of the ocean.

POI: Where can I park?

In Port of the Islands, where can I park if I’m going out on the water? You can park in the parking lot by Port of the Islands Marina. Check with The Ship Store at (239) 642-3133 or Port of the Islands Marina at (239) 389-0367.

$100K Raised by Nate Edwards Tournament

Everglades City

by Olivia Johnson

We are thrilled to announce the incredible success of our 3rd Annual Nate Edwards Fishing Tournament!

This year, we raised an unbelievable $100,000 to donate to charities, bringing our total to $265,000 in just three years! We couldn’t be more proud of what this tournament stands for and the difference it’s making in the community.

The charities benefitting from this year’s tournament include Everglades City School for trade scholarships, Autism Services of Florida, LARC, Inc. for special needs, the Nate Edwards Autism Services Fund, East Lee County High School academics, GiGi’s Playhouse in Fort Myers, and Make-A-Wish. We are helping kids across our local communities, and it’s all thanks to the dedication of our sponsors, anglers, and volunteers.

First Place Winners | Photo by Alana Swales

A huge thank you to our sponsors, donors, captains, and volunteers for making this event a great success! We couldn’t do it without you. A special shoutout to Pastor Jesse for praying over our boats, DJ Robb Edge for providing music, and Camellia Street Grill and Everglades Fishing Company for their amazing hospitality.

Tournament Results

1st Fish On USA (84”) $6,372
2nd: Blackjack (83.5”) $3,186
3rd: Marina Mike’s (80.5”) $2,548.50
4th: Team Hodge (77.5”) $2,336.40
5th: Rockport Rattler (76.5”) $2,124
6th: K&M (73”) $1,486.80
7th: Liquid Assisted (72”) $1,062
8th: Puff Puff Cast (70.5”) $849.60
9th: Dobbs Equip. (70.5”) $849.60
10th: Isla Bonita (69.5”) $424.80

Special Awards

Largest Snook: Blackjack (39”)
Largest Redfish: Fish On USA (30”)
Largest Trout: Rhino Diaries (21.5”)
Calcutta Winner: Marine Assets (12.5” Snapper) $1,850
Mystery Fish: Titan Contracting (13.5” Triple Tail) $500
Ladies Largest Snook: Ashley Godwin (39”) $600
Smallest Snook: Bent Rods (11.5”) $100
Trip to Mexico for the “Loser”: Tom Tiberio (47” total for all 3 fish)

Kids Winners

1st: Tatum Lynch (22” Snook) $5,236.25
2nd: Stetson Dell (21” Redfish ) $183.75
3rd: Kayden Capling (20” Snook) $105.00

The Shotgun Start was spectacular this year, led by Captain Harry Henkel. Thank you to everyone who participated in making this event memorable. We can’t wait to continue building on this success next year!

We extend a heartfelt thanks to all our volunteers working behind the scenes—Nancy Hunter, Barbie Porter, Amber Shields, Nicole & Tim Edge, and many more. And to everyone who continues to support the Nate Edwards Fishing Tournament, you are truly making a difference. Stay tuned for more pictures from the event!

Let’s keep this momentum going, and we look forward to seeing you all again next year!