Lionfish Derby 2026

Voracious invasive lionfish continue to prey on native species and disrupt our important reef ecosystem.

Thanks to the efforts of the Reef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF), the damage they cause has been a point of focus for almost two decades. REEF staff have conducted and assisted with research here at home and throughout the Caribbean and have developed multiple programs to combat the problem.

One of the most well-known is the annual Lionfish Derby, and April 23–26 is the weekend for the 17th event, formally titled the Florida Keys Lionfish Derby & Arts Festival.

Organizers have refined the event to combine efficiency with fun and education, and they hope to exceed last year’s removal of more than 1,600 lionfish. Derby Team information comes first, followed by the fun part.

A recent press release outlines the basics: “Derby teams compete in one of two divisions: the Apex Predators division for more competitive participants, and the Reef Defenders division for recreational divers. Prizes are awarded for the most, largest, and smallest lionfish collected, and all teams are entered to win a $500 Golden Fish raffle award. Registration is now open for $120 per team through April 23. Teams must consist of two to four divers.”

More than $6,000 in total prizes will be awarded. Full details and registration are available at REEF.org/derby. Questions can be directed to lionfish@REEF.org or 305-852-0030.

The press release also includes a statement from Alli Candelmo, Ph.D., Director of Conservation Science at REEF: “Every lionfish removed from a Florida reef is a win for our native ecosystem. This derby brings together some of the most passionate divers in our community for a cause that truly makes a measurable difference. We are incredibly grateful to the Ocean Reef Conservation Association and the Monroe County Tourism Development Council for their premier support, which makes this event and its conservation impact possible.”

While teams begin the derby April 23, from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. with the Captain’s Meeting and Kick-off Party at Sharkey’s Sharkbite Grill, the free, family-friendly portion of the event takes place April 26, from noon to 4 p.m. at the REEF Ocean Exploration Center, 98380 Overseas Highway in Key Largo.

Education and science are made fun through interactive exhibits and demonstrations of lionfish filleting and dissection. For those who have not yet discovered it, there will also be free lionfish tastings. Food trucks will be among the vendors, while live music and local artists add to the festive atmosphere. The official derby awards ceremony will round out the afternoon.

Newcomers will also have the opportunity to explore the Ocean Exploration Center and learn about REEF’s mission to protect biodiversity and ocean life by actively engaging and inspiring the public through citizen science, education, and partnerships with the scientific community.

REEF’s core programs include the Volunteer Fish Survey Project, the Grouper Moon Project, the Invasive Species Program, and the Ocean Explorers Education Program. The organization also offers a wide array of educational tools for teachers and parents. For more information, visit REEF.org.

On a closing note, lionfish taste very much like hogfish, and several area restaurants make a point to feature them on their menus whenever possible. Sharkey’s Sharkbite Grill and Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen in Key Largo, along with Lazy Days Restaurant in Islamorada, have arrangements with local distributors, although commercial availability is still limited.