Season 4 of the Triple Threat Throwdown concluded on Sept. 13. This challenge is hosted annually by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's (FWC) saltwater angler recognition program, Catch a Florida Memory, and participants qualified for Triple Threat Club status by achieving recognition in all three program categories: Grand Slams, Reel Big Fish, and Life List. Once this status is achieved, all subsequent recognitions earned during the challenge period resulted in additional entries into the Triple Threat Throwdown drawing, giving both new and returning Triple Threat Club members multiple chances to win.
The prize for this challenge featured a kayak fishing bundle valued at over $4,500, with a Bonafide SKF117 kayak, Mustad gear, Yak Attack accessories, and a Power-Pole Micro Spike Driver, all generously provided by industry partners.
In a standout moment for the program, youth angler Lilyanne Fine received the title as the Season 4 winner of the Triple Threat Throwdown, magnifying the growing participation of young conservation-minded anglers! After claiming the title, Lilyanne noted that she values the opportunity to earn prizes while participating in the program.
The FWC was honored to recognize Lilyanne with an in-person kayak delivery that gave an opportunity for program staff to congratulate her, encourage and share the excitement, and make a lasting impact on this young angler.
"I love getting prizes after completing new accomplishments," said Lilyanne Fine, Triple Threat Throwdown Season 4 winner. "The shirts are awesome!"
Her father, Barrett Fine, also chimed in about what his daughter's win means to him and how his family enjoys the Catch a Florida Memory program.
"I like the variety of challenges. We planned part of our vacation to the Keys so we could target species we don't have regular access to in the Panhandle ... I also like the competitiveness it creates. When my shirts got here before Lilyanne's, I'd wear one and ask her, 'Which shirt is this?' and she'd give me the look. Now, when she gets her Triple Threat winner shirt, I know I'm going to get a big dose of karma."
The Triple Threat Throwdown is a uniquely prestigious challenge because it directly recognizes anglers who embody one of the core purposes of Catch a Florida Memory. That purpose being to diversify fishing catches across all three program categories to reduce fishing pressure on the most commonly targeted species. This challenge is the ultimate testament to an angler's versatility, skill, and commitment to exploring Florida's diverse marine fisheries.
"We are incredibly proud of our Catch a Florida Memory community for making this another outstanding year in the Fishing Capital of the World," said Jessica McCawley, Director of the FWC's Division of Marine Fisheries Management. "The conclusion of the Triple Threat Throwdown, Season 4, highlights the unmatched dedication of our participants to both the sport of fishing and conservation. Seeing a youth angler like Lilyanne earn this year's title showcases the bright future of Florida's fishing community and the lasting impact of programs like Catch a Florida Memory. As we look ahead to Season 5 in 2027, we remain inspired by our anglers' commitment to Florida's marine fisheries for generations to come."
Want to join the club? Triple Threat Club status is awarded year-round to anglers who meet the program criteria. Members receive exclusive rewards, including custom fishing apparel and prizing, and quicker entry into future Triple Threat Throwdown drawings.
New to Catch a Florida Memory? Learn more and submit catches at CatchaFloridaMemory.com. Anglers do not have to harvest their fish to be eligible for prizes and are encouraged to use proper fish handling techniques.
Stay connected and celebrate your achievements by following Catch a Florida Memory on Facebook, Fishbrain, and @MyFWC on Facebook, Instagram and X.
For questions about the Catch a Florida Memory program, contact AnglerRecognition@MyFWC.com.
Your purchase of fishing equipment, motorboat fuel, and a fishing license supports aquatic education and outreach efforts. Learn more at MyFWC.com/SFR.
