The LOOP, all release billfish tournament, is the namesake event that founded the Old Salt Fishing Foundation. “Old Salt” is an acronym derived from the name of the first tournament: Operation LOOP Development (OLD) Suncoast Anglers LOOP Tournament (SALT). Old Salt, and the LOOP Tournament, is celebrating 48 years of tradition and excellence this year.

The LOOP is sanctioned by the (IGFA) International Game Fish Association and will be held at the Old Salt home marina, the Madeira Beach Municipal Marina. It is being held August 20 – 24, 2019.

The LOOP has been coined the “Iron Man” of Billfishing Tournaments. Team Haulin’ Grass (formerly Team Hi Hatter) – Captain Brian Turner (2004 Billfish Division Winners) said, “This is the one to win, because it separates the boys from the men!” Fierce competition and rivalry, 48 years of tradition and an amazing bill-fishery will bring boats from all over to see who will win the prestigious LOOP Cup.

This year the LOOP also serves as the 3rd and final tournament in the Florida West Coast Florida Bluewater Series (FWCBS).