tHE Winner’s Circle: March Merkin
David Mangum & Greg Dini take home the Grand Champion trophy in a Chittum at the 2025 March Merkin with 114 centimeters total (2 fish)
The March Merkin is widely recognized as the largest and most competitive catch and release Permit tournament in the entire world. Each year, the 25-team field is meticulously selected by a dedicated committee, which upholds a strong legacy of sportsmanship and fair competition among the most well-respected guides and skilled anglers in the fly fishing community. This year, as the tournament celebrates its 20th anniversary, Team Chittum showed up in full force and with great eminence. Captain Justin Rea, a Chittum guide and acknowledged permit guru, proudly finished in 2nd place and also earned the bragging rights for “Largest Permit” of the event. In addition, Greg Dini and David Mangum punched in an impressive 114 centimeters, allowing them cruise their way into the winner’s circle. While the intense competition captures much of the focus, we cannot overlook the incredible efforts of BTT (Bonefish & Tarpon Trust) and the LKGA (Lower Keys Guide Association), organizations for whom a significant portion of the proceeds from this tournament is designated, supporting their ongoing efforts to maintain a healthy and sustainable fishery in the Florida Keys and beyond.
