FWC’s Catch a Florida Memory Announces Season 3’s Triple Threat Throwdown Winner

The Triple Threat Throwdown continues to be a cornerstone of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's (FWC) Catch a Florida Memory program, celebrating another exciting season of saltwater angling and conservation. Season 3 culminated in a thrilling grand prize drawing, awarding Catch a Florida Memory angler, Eric Peterson, with a premier Kayak Fishing Bundle valued at over $4,500!

Peterson will receive a Bonafide SKF117 kayak, fully outfitted with a premium Mustad fishing gear bundle, an extensive Yak Attack kayak accessory package, a Power-Pole Micro Spike Driver, and additional accessories. This incredible prize is made possible thanks to Catch a Florida Memory's Season 3 Premier Partners: Bonafide, Yak Attack, Mustad, and Power-Pole.

"I'm still in a bit of shock over this news," said Peterson. "This is by far the biggest prize I've ever won. I can't wait to see all the fun items that are part of this incredible package. So exciting!"

A lifelong angler, Peterson has spent countless hours exploring Florida's coastal waterways, often with a fishing rod in hand.

"Anyone who knows me knows fishing is one of my greatest passions," said Peterson. "My Catch a Florida Memory achievements mean a great deal to me. To not only have these memories recognized and rewarded, but to have the opportunity for a new achievement that will accompany me on every Florida fishing trip to come… it's by far the most rewarding fishing program I've ever been a part of."

His journey through the Catch a Florida Memory program reflects a deep commitment to conservation and education.

"I've never thought of a Florida fishing license as a fee… this is just part of my contribution back to this incredible natural resource," he said. "Conservation is for anyone who loves fishing and wants to see it thrive for generations to come."

Beyond personal accomplishments, Peterson finds joy in sharing his passion with others.

"Whether it's gifting our youth their first rod and reel or helping someone in their 50s who had never caught a fish before... what better way than to introduce them to Catch a Florida Memory," Peterson said.

"Thank you to our Catch a Florida Memory participants for another great year," said Jessica McCawley, Director of the FWC's Division of Marine Fisheries Management. "Season 3 of the Triple Threat Throwdown showcased our saltwater anglers' commitment to conservation and protecting Florida's fisheries for future generations. We are excited to see what the 2026 season has in store!"

The Season 3 challenge ran from March 1 through Sept. 7 and was open to all anglers participating in the Catch a Florida Memory program. Specifically, anglers who are members of the Triple Threat Club, having achieved recognition in all three Catch a Florida Memory programs: Saltwater Grand Slams, Saltwater Reel Big Fish, and the Saltwater Life List. Each new recognition earned during the challenge period counted as an entry into the drawing, giving both new and returning Triple Threat Club members multiple chances to win.

Want to join the action? 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 more simplified entry into future Triple Threat Throwdown drawings.

Catch a Florida Memory's saltwater angler recognition program rewards anglers for their fishing efforts while encouraging them to target a diversity of species. Anglers do not have to harvest their fish to be eligible for prizes and are encouraged to use proper fish handling techniques.

New to Catch a Florida Memory? Learn more and submit catches at CatchaFloridaMemory.com. 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 [email protected].

Your purchase of fishing equipment, motorboat fuel, and a fishing license supports aquatic education and outreach efforts. Learn more at MyFWC.com/SFR.