Warrior Memorial Reefs Foundation Announces Reels & Spears Gulf Classic Fishing Tournament

Panama City Beach, FL – Warrior Memorial Reefs Foundation, in collaboration with Point South Marina at Bay Point, is excited to launch the Reels & Spears Gulf Classic, a reimagined fishing tournament scheduled for September 12 - 13, 2025, at Point South Marina in Panama City Beach, Florida. This event revamps the First Annual Lionfish Tournament, which struggled with limited sponsor, participant, and vendor engagement. To increase appeal, the Warrior Memorial Reefs Foundation and Point South Marina have expanded the tournament to include Snapper and Grouper, alongside the invasive Lionfish, promising a more vibrant and competitive experience.

To be more alluring to all anglers, hook and line/ reel fishing has also been added. This allows teams to consist of both spearfisher and reel anglers, if they choose.

The Reels & Spears Gulf Classic will feature a Calcutta and Trifecta competition, adding excitement for anglers. On Saturday, September 13th, the event will transform into a family-friendly celebration, complete with sponsor booths, vendors, and activities for all ages, fostering a festive community atmosphere, while capturing the spirit of the Emerald Coast and Panama City Beach.

All proceeds, after prize distributions, will directly fund the Warrior Memorial Reefs Foundation’s mission to construct memorial reefs honoring fallen warriors at no cost to their families. Operating solely through donations, grants, and sponsorships, the Warrior Memorial Reefs Foundation ensures that 100% of contributions support the mission, with no board member receiving compensation. There is zero expense to the family for their warrior’s reef and Celebration of Life ceremony at sea.

“We are thrilled to partner with Point South Marina to create a premier fishing tournament that not only celebrates our coastal community but also advances our mission to honor fallen heroes,” said Joe Theodorou, President of the Warrior Memorial Reefs Foundation. “By including Snapper and Grouper, we anticipate greater participation and aim to establish this event as a cornerstone for future fundraising.”

Sponsorship and vendor packages are available.

Earlybird registration is open from July 26 to August 1, 2025. For sponsorship inquiries, please contact Gretchen Theodorou at Gretchen.Theodorou@WarriorMemorialReefs.org. Join us for a weekend of fishing, family fun, and supporting a noble cause.