85th Texas International Fishing Tournament to boost local economy

PORT ISABEL, Texas (ValleyCentral) — This weekend marks the 85th Texas International Fishing Tournament, also known as TIFT, which will be held in Port Isabel and South Padre Island. The family-oriented event is a celebration for the generational legacy TIFT has created for South Texas and its fishing community. 

Starting back in 1934 as a way to bring in tourism to South Padre, TIFT has been inviting people and families from all over the country to enjoy some time together on the water. 

Blake Henry, who serves as the Executive Director of Visit South Padre Island, says this year they’re expecting to see up to 4,000 people in attendance. 

“Estimated economic impact brought over close to $300,000 to our local community last year which is significant,” Henry said. “This is an event that brings thousands of visitors every year.”

Henry also adds that during the event local restaurants and shops benefit from the visitors.

Andrew Hewitt, the general manager of South Padre Islands Holiday Inn Resort, tells us that outside of the Fourth of July and Memorial Day weekend, TIFT brings in some of the best business they’ll see all year. 

Dozens of small businesses in the area are preparing a welcoming atmosphere to host families from around the country this weekend. 

This five-day event kicked off Wednesday and will run through Sunday. Registration is still underway and will remain open until Thursday afternoon. You can find more information on TIFT | Texas International Fishing Tournament - South Padre Island, TX.