SEBASTIAN — Captain Hiram’s is hosting the Sebastian Lionfish Fest this year on May 14, open to the public to come learn about the invasive species and be introduced to eating lionfish.
Consuming lionfish is one of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s main mitigation measures for controlling the growing population of these invasive fish.
This event is both a fishing tournament and cook-off competition between local restaurants. It is geared towards educating the community on the impacts of lionfish, introducing the idea of turning them into a popular dinner item, and finding different ways to help protect the coastal ecosystems.
Attendees of the cook-off will be given the opportunity to taste lionfish prepared in various ways by many local restaurants and vote for the winner by picking their favorite dish.
While enjoying their delicious dishes guests can watch fish filleting demonstrations, scientific dissections, and enjoy a coastal critter touch tank and interactive activities.
Sponsorship opportunities are available and appreciated. This event wouldn’t be possible without support from local sponsors. Registration for the fishing tournament and tickets to the cook-off can be purchased online at www.sebastianlionfishfest.com. For more information please contact Kendra Cope at kcope@ircgov.com.
Stay up on Lionfish Fest happenings by liking the festival on Facebook at www.facebook.com/sebastianlionfishfest.
The Inaugural Sebastian Lionfish Fest will be held Saturday, May 14, 2016, at Capt. Hiram’s Resort & Marina. The Lionfish Derby and Tournament will take place from sunrise to 4 p.m. The cook-off and community education event will be held from 4 to 7 p.m.