Registration Important Information

Please carefully review the registration information below and fill out the registration form(s).

-If you are registering as a captain (FREE) for the Captain's Cash Prize AND would like to be a contestant in any of the divisions, you MUST also register as an individual angler.

-Juniors who would also like to be a contestant in the Big Cash Snapper and/or World Record Bounty division MUST register separately to those divisions.

-You must be registered for the Big Cash Snapper to participate in the World Record Bounty 

Registration for all Captains is open from 2/1/2025-8/31/2025

Registration for all Big Cash Snapper anglers is open from 2/12/2025-8/31/2025

Registration for all World Record Bounty anglers is open from 2/12/2025-6/1/2025

Registration for all Junior Big Cash Snapper anglers is open from 4/1/2025-8/31/2025



Big Cash Snapper Captains Rules

$10,000 Captain’s Cash Prize Rules- Awarded to the registered and licensed Texas boat Captain that was linked to the participant during the participants first registration and who wins the $50,000 Big Cash Snapper Heaviest Red Snapper prize. Only one Captain referral prize will be paid out to the Captain linked to the declared winner of The Big Cash Snapper (Heaviest Red Snapper) and must meet all below requirements:

● Open to licensed boat captains ONLY(Licence will be verified)
● All Captains must be 18 years of age to enter
● Captain registration is Free
● No salaried or commissioned employee of Big Cash Snapper, LLC. is eligible to enter the competition for a prize.
● Participants are only allowed one registration that is linked to a Captain. In the case of multiple registrations by the same participant, the first Captain that was linked will be awarded the referral prize. If your first registration was not linked to a Captain, NO Captain will receive the referral prize money.
● Captains are eligible to fish both, The Big Cash Snapper Prize and the World Record Red Snapper Bounty, but are required to register and pay registration fees (See Big Cash Snapper Rules) (See World Record Bounty Rules).
● Captains are ineligible to link to other Captains or to themselves. Therefore, NO Captain referral prize money will be paid out if a captain catches The Big Cash Snapper (Heaviest Snapper).
● Captains are responsible for ensuring the accuracy of their registration information. Big Cash Snapper, LLC is not responsible for errors in anglers registration information . A time and date stamped registration number will be sent to you by email from each prize pool registered in, check this information to make sure it is correct.
● All participants are expected to conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike manner. Unsportsmanlike conduct, as determined by the Tournament Director, may result in disqualification.
Protest
● Any and all protests must be submitted in writing to the BIG CASH SNAPPER Tournament Director at 509 Northview Friendswood, TX 77546, by 5:00 p.m. on September 12, 2025.
● The written protest must include the following:
- Protestor Information: Provide the name, address, and contact information of the protestor.
- Statement of Legal and Factual Grounds: Clearly state the legal and factual grounds for the protest, including a detailed explanation of why the protest believes the Big Cash Snapper Tournament Rules Committee and the Tournament Director’s decision was incorrect.
- Supporting Evidence: Include any relevant documents or evidence that support the protestor's claims.
- Relief Requested: Specify the relief or remedy sought by the protestor, such as the cancellation of the prize awarded or a re-evaluation of proposals.
- Signature: The protest must be signed by the protestor or an authorized representative.

Polygraph Examination

All participants, including minors (through their parent or legal guardian), agree to submit to a polygraph examination upon request by the Tournament Director. Failure to take or pass the polygraph examination will result in disqualification. Participants are responsible for their own travel expenses related to the polygraph examination. The Tournament Director reserves the right to order a polygraph test at any time.

Disqualification

● Grounds for Disqualification: The following actions will result in disqualification from the Tournament:
- Violation of any federal, state, or local fishing regulations.
- Violation of any of these Official Rules.
- Failure to take or pass a polygraph examination.
- Unsportsmanlike conduct.
- Any act of dishonesty, fraud, or misrepresentation.
- Having been charged with or convicted of an offense as defined in TPWD Rules & Regulations or Chapter 66, Section 66.023 of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code ("Fraud in Fishing Tournaments").
● Forfeiture: Any participant disqualified from the Tournament shall forfeit their entry fee and any claim to prizes.
● Ban: Any individual disqualified under Section 13.1 shall be banned from participating in any future Big Cash Snapper tournaments.


Final Decisions and Prize Winner Responsibilities

● Final Decision: The decisions made by the Big Cash Snapper Tournament Rules Committee and the Tournament Director are final and binding.
● Tax Responsibility: Prize-winners are responsible for paying any applicable taxes and The winner will be given IRS form 1099.

The decision of the BIG CASH SNAPPER Tournament Rules Committee and the Tournament Director, in their sole discretion, shall be final on any matter.


Release, Hold Harmless, and Indemnity

IN CONSIDERATION OF BEING ALLOWED TO ENTER THE BIG CASH SNAPPER TOURNAMENT, EACH PARTICIPANT AGREES AND CONTRACTS TO RELEASE, INDEMNIFY, AND HOLD HARMLESS BIG CASH SNAPPER, LLC, ITS OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, REPRESENTATIVES, THE TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR AND ALL COMMITTEE PERSONS, THE TOURNAMENT SPONSORS, AND WEIGH-IN STATION OWNERS AND THEIR RESPECTIVE OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, AND REPRESENTATIVES FROM ANY AND ALL LIABILITY, CLAIMS, OR DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY MANNER WHATSOEVER CONNECTED WITH THE TOURNAMENT, INCLUDING ITS PLANNING, OPERATION, OR CONDUCT, AND INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO CLAIMS FOR PERSONAL INJURY, WRONGFUL DEATH, SURVIVAL DAMAGES, ECONOMIC LOSS, PROPERTY DAMAGES, OR CLAIMS RELATING IN ANY WAY TO THE AWARDING OF PRIZES IN THE TOURNAMENT. IT IS THE EXPRESS INTENTION OF THIS AGREEMENT THAT EACH ENTRANT IS INDEMNIFYING EACH OF THE FOREGOING RELEASED AND INDEMNIFIED PARTIES FROM THE CONSEQUENCES OF THEIR OWN NEGLIGENT CONDUCT, WHETHER SOLE NEGLIGENCE OR CONTRIBUTING NEGLIGENCE, GROSS NEGLIGENCE, OUTRAGEOUS MISCONDUCT, STRICT LIABILITY, COMMISSION OF TORT, BREACH OF CONTRACT, AND BREACH OF WARRANTY. THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN OF ANY MINOR ENTERING IN, REGISTERING FOR, OR FISHING IN THE TOURNAMENT DOES FURTHER CONTRACT AND AGREE THAT THIS RELEASE AND HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT SHALL BE BINDING UPON ANY MINOR ENTERING THE TOURNAMENT. WINNERS WILL BE REQUIRED TO EXECUTE AN ADDITIONAL RELEASE, INDEMNITY, AND HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT UPON RECEIPT OF ANY PRIZE.


Dispute Resolution

ANY CONTROVERSY OR CLAIM ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THE TOURNAMENT SHALL BE SETTLED BY BINDING ARBITRATION CONDUCTED IN GALVESTON, GALVESTON COUNTY, TEXAS, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE COMMERCIAL ARBITRATION RULES OF THE AMERICAN ARBITRATION ASSOCIATION. JUDGMENT UPON THE AWARD RENDERED MAY BE ENTERED IN ANY COURT HAVING JURISDICTION THEREOF.

Attorney's Fees

SHOULD LITIGATION OR ARBITRATION RESULT BETWEEN A PARTICIPANT AND BIG CASH SNAPPER, LLC, THE PREVAILING PARTY IN SUCH LITIGATION OR ARBITRATION SHALL BE ENTITLED TO RECOVER REASONABLE ATTORNEY'S FEES AND COSTS.

Governing Law

These Official Rules shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas, without regard to its conflict of laws principles.

Severability

If any provision of these Official Rules is held to be invalid or unenforceable, such provision shall be struck from these Official Rules, and the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

Entire Agreement

These Official Rules, together with the Release and Indemnity Agreement and any other documents incorporated herein by reference, constitute the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede all prior or contemporaneous communications and proposals, whether oral or written.

Big Cash Snapper Rules

BIG CASH SNAPPER
RULES & INFORMATION

1. Introduction

The Big Cash Snapper Tournament ("Tournament") is a competitive fishing event organized by Big Cash Snapper, LLC ("Organizer"). The Tournament is open to eligible participants who agree to abide by these Official Rules and all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

2. Tournament Directors

Brian Costley: (281) 932-6803, brian@bigcashsnapper.com

Caila Vu Beers: (832) 387-9256, caila@bigcashsnapper.com

Kelly Cook: (713) 263-4781, kelly@bigcashsnapper.com

3. Tournament Dates

The Tournament shall commence at 12:01 a.m. Central Standard Time (CST) on June 1, 2025, and conclude at 12:01 a.m. CST on August 31, 2025 ("Tournament Period"). Only fish caught within the tournament period shall be eligible for prizes. In the event that the Federal recreational private Red Snapper season is closed early, the Tournament period will be adjusted accordingly to coincide with this closure date. If the Federal recreational private Red Snapper season closes early, you can still fish if the State waters remain open for Red Snapper fishing.

4. Tournament Boundaries

The Tournament shall be conducted within the territorial waters of the State of Texas, including the common boundary waters of Texas and Louisiana as defined by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), and the extension of Texas borders seaward up to 200 nautical miles. Any fish caught outside these boundaries shall be ineligible for entry. (See Texas Territorial Waters Map)

5. Tournament Categories and Prizes

● Prize: $50,000

● Awarded to the participant who catches the heaviest (by weight) Red Snapper (Lutjanus Campechanus) during the Tournament Period.

● Minimum Weight: 20 lbs.

6. Eligibility and Registration

● 6.1 Age: Participants must be at least six (6) years old as of June 1, 2025.

● 6.2 Fishing License: All participants must possess a valid Texas fishing license appropriate for the waters in which they are fishing.

● 6.3 Registration: Participants must complete the official Tournament registration form and pay the applicable registration fee(s) prior to fishing in the Tournament; this can only be done by paying and registering online, a time stamped registration number will be issued to you by email. Any fish hooked or caught prior to timestamp will not be eligible to be entered in The Big Cash Snapper Tournament. The entire responsibility of the validity of the entry status falls solely on the entrant/angler.

● 6.4 Registration Fees:

- Big Cash Snapper: $30 plus applicable taxes

- World Record Snapper Bounty: $20 plus applicable taxes

- Captain's Cash Prize: No Fee

- Junior Big Cash Snapper: No Fee

- Registration Link:

https://tournaments.bigcashsnapper.com/big-cash-snapper- 2025/registration/

● 6.5 Payment: Registration fees can be paid online via major credit cards (Visa, Discover, MasterCard, American Express)

● 6.6 Multiple Registrations: Participants may register for both the Big Cash Snapper and World Record Snapper Bounty categories but must pay the respective fees. Participants may only be linked to one Captain. In the case of multiple registrations by the same angler, the first Captain linked on the initial registration will be eligible for the Captain's Cash Prize. If no Captain is linked on the first registration, no Captain's Cash Prize will be awarded.

● 6.7 Captain Eligibility: Captains may register for the Big Cash Snapper and World Record Snapper Bounty categories, subject to registration fees being paid. Captains are ineligible to link themselves, or another Captain, to their own registration for the Captain's Cash Prize. Therefore, if registered to another Captain, NO Captain Referral Cash Prize will be awarded if a Captain catches The Big Cash Snapper and/or World Record Snapper Bounty. Captain’s will be issued a registration number by email upon registering, to verify your information is correct.

● 6.8 Employee Exclusion: Employees of Big Cash Snapper, LLC, including salaried and commissioned employees, are ineligible to participate in the Tournament.

● 6.9 Minors: If a participant under eighteen (18) years of age wins a prize, the prize will be awarded to their parent or legal guardian.

● 6.10 Non-Transferable: All Tournament entries are non-transferable and non-refundable.

● 6.11 Responsibility for Accuracy: Participants are responsible for ensuring the accuracy of their registration information. Big Cash Snapper, LLC is not responsible for errors in anglers registration information . A time and date stamped registration number will be sent to you by email from each prize pool registered in, check this information to make sure it is correct.

7. Rules of Conduct

● 7.1 Compliance: All participants must comply with all applicable federal, state, and local fishing regulations, including those set forth by TPWD, as well as these Official Rules and the terms of the Release and Indemnity Agreement (see Section 14).

● 7.2 Fair Angling: All fish must be caught by the registered participant using a rod, reel, line, and hook.

● 7.3 No Electric Reels: The use of electric reels is strictly prohibited.

● 7.4 Eligibility of Vessels: Anglers are allowed to fish Head Boats (Party Boats), Private-for-Hire, and Recreational Vessels. Any Red Snapper caught under the all recreational quota (private angling and private-for-hire quota) will be accepted for weigh in.

● 7.5 Assistance: Once a fish strikes a bait or lure, including if the rod is in a rod holder, the registered angler must hook, fight, and land the fish without the aid of another person, except as specifically permitted herein. Assistance from another person is allowable only for the following: rigging tackle, casting, leadering, gaffing, netting, grabbing, or tail-roping the fish. Any manipulation of the rod or reel by another person after the fish has struck, except to set the hook, will result in disqualification.

● 7.6 No Transfer of Fish: The transfer of fish between Tournament participants is strictly prohibited.

● 7.7 Sportsmanship: All participants are expected to conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike manner. Unsportsmanlike conduct, as determined by the Tournament Director, may result in disqualification.

8. Documentation and Reporting

● 8.1 Immediate Notification: Participants must immediately notify a Tournament Director via text message to (713) 435-9307 upon weighing a fish over the 20lb minimum tournament requirement.

● 8.2 Photo Documentation: A photo will need to be taken showing the fish and angler on the scale with the weight clearly showing, also a photo of the scale certification.

● 8.3 Photo Submission: All photos and/or video documentation must be submitted via text message to (713) 435-9307 and emailed to all Tournament Directors. Contact: https://bigcashsnapper.com/contact/

9. Weigh-In Procedures

● 9.1 Official Weigh Stations: All fish must be weighed at an official Big Cash Snapper TX Weigh-in Station on certified scales and verified by a Tournament Weigh Master. See official Weigh Stations here: https://bigcashsnapper.com/weigh-stations/

● 9.2 Weigh-In Deadline: Fish must be weighed within twenty-four (24) hours of being caught. No fish will be accepted for weigh-in after 7:00 CST on September 1st, 2025.

● 9.3 Weigh-In Form: Participants must make sure the official weigh-in registration form is filled out in its entirety and signed by all necessary parties, failure to do so will deem fish ineligible. This form must be completed before the weigh-in deadline. The form is available at the weigh-in station or accessible online (link).

● 9.4 Condition of Fish: Fish must be in good condition, not frozen, spoiled, gutted, altered, or mutilated. The Tournament Director has the sole discretion to determine the condition of the fish.

● 9.5 Official Weigh Stations: (Open from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily during the Tournament Period)

- Sabine Pass Texas Parks and Wildlife: 409-971-2559

19335 S. Gulfway Drive Sabine Pass, TX 77655

- Port Isabel SouthPoint: 956-943-7926

500 S Point Dr Port Isabel, TX 78578

- Surfside Marina – Surfside: Santos 979-418-1768

827 Gulf Rd, Surfside Beach, TX 77541

- Fisherman’s Wharf – Port Aransas: Capt. Dee 361-815-1682

900 Tarpon St, Port Aransas, TX 78373

- Freeport Marina – Freeport: 916-719-2363

101 W Brazos St, Freeport, TX 77541

- Matagorda Harbor Bait & Tackle – Matagorda: Mark 979-637-0962

189 County Rd 213, Matagorda, TX 77457

- Pelican Rest Marina – Galveston: Marita 713-249-3022 or Rob 713-252-3097

7819 Broadway St, Galveston, TX 77554

- Galveston Yacht Basin – Galveston: Jessica Tafoya 409-765-5000

715 N Holiday Dr, Galveston, TX 77550

10. Tiebreakers

In the event of a tie in weight, the fish weighed in first shall be declared the winner. If the weigh- in times are identical, the participant who registered for the Tournament first shall be declared the winner.

11. Protest

● 11.1 Submission: Any and all protests must be submitted in writing to the BIG CASH SNAPPER Tournament Director at 509 Northview Friendswood, TX 77546, by 5:00 p.m. on September 12, 2025.

● 11.2 Requirements: The written protest must include the following:

- Protestor Information: Provide the name, address, and contact information of the protestor.

- Statement of Legal and Factual Grounds: Clearly state the legal and factual grounds for the protest, including a detailed explanation of why the protest believes the Big Cash Snapper Tournament Rules Committee and the Tournament Director’s decision was incorrect.

- Supporting Evidence: Include any relevant documents or evidence that support the protestor's claims.

- Relief Requested: Specify the relief or remedy sought by the protestor, such as the cancellation of the prize awarded or a re-evaluation of proposals.

- Signature: The protest must be signed by the protestor or an authorized representative.

12. Polygraph Examination

All participants, including minors (through their parent or legal guardian), agree to submit to a polygraph examination upon request by the Tournament Director. Failure to take or pass the polygraph examination will result in disqualification. Participants are responsible for their own travel expenses related to the polygraph examination. The Tournament Director reserves the right to order a polygraph test at any time.

13. Disqualification

● 13.1 Grounds for Disqualification: The following actions will result in disqualification from the Tournament:

- Violation of any federal, state, or local fishing regulations.

- Violation of any of these Official Rules.

- Failure to take or pass a polygraph examination.

- Unsportsmanlike conduct.

- Any act of dishonesty, fraud, or misrepresentation.

- Having been charged with or convicted of an offense as defined in TPWD Rules & Regulations or Chapter 66, Section 66.023 of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code ("Fraud in Fishing Tournaments").

● 13.2 Forfeiture: Any participant disqualified from the Tournament shall forfeit their entry fee and any claim to prizes.

● 13.3 Ban: Any individual disqualified under Section 13.1 shall be banned from participating in any future Big Cash Snapper tournaments.

14. Final Decisions and Prize Winner Responsibilities

● 14.1 Final Decision: The decisions made by the Big Cash Snapper Tournament Rules Committee and the Tournament Director are final and binding.

● 14.2 Tax Responsibility: Prize-winners are responsible for paying any applicable taxes and The winner will be given IRS form 1099.

The decision of the BIG CASH SNAPPER Tournament Rules Committee and the Tournament Director, in their sole discretion, shall be final on any matter.

15. Release, Hold Harmless, and Indemnity

IN CONSIDERATION OF BEING ALLOWED TO ENTER THE BIG CASH SNAPPER TOURNAMENT, EACH PARTICIPANT AGREES AND CONTRACTS TO RELEASE, INDEMNIFY, AND HOLD HARMLESS BIG CASH SNAPPER, LLC, ITS OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, REPRESENTATIVES, THE TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR AND ALL COMMITTEE PERSONS, THE TOURNAMENT SPONSORS, AND WEIGH-IN STATION OWNERS AND THEIR RESPECTIVE OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, AND REPRESENTATIVES FROM ANY AND ALL LIABILITY, CLAIMS, OR DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY MANNER WHATSOEVER CONNECTED WITH THE TOURNAMENT, INCLUDING ITS PLANNING, OPERATION, OR CONDUCT, AND INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO CLAIMS FOR PERSONAL INJURY, WRONGFUL DEATH, SURVIVAL DAMAGES, ECONOMIC LOSS, PROPERTY DAMAGES, OR CLAIMS RELATING IN ANY WAY TO THE AWARDING OF PRIZES IN THE TOURNAMENT. IT IS THE EXPRESS INTENTION OF THIS AGREEMENT THAT EACH ENTRANT IS INDEMNIFYING EACH OF THE FOREGOING RELEASED AND INDEMNIFIED PARTIES FROM THE CONSEQUENCES OF THEIR OWN NEGLIGENT CONDUCT, WHETHER SOLE NEGLIGENCE OR CONTRIBUTING NEGLIGENCE, GROSS NEGLIGENCE, OUTRAGEOUS MISCONDUCT, STRICT LIABILITY, COMMISSION OF TORT, BREACH OF CONTRACT, AND BREACH OF WARRANTY. THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN OF ANY MINOR ENTERING IN, REGISTERING FOR, OR FISHING IN THE TOURNAMENT DOES FURTHER CONTRACT AND AGREE THAT THIS RELEASE AND HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT SHALL BE BINDING UPON ANY MINOR ENTERING THE TOURNAMENT. WINNERS WILL BE REQUIRED TO EXECUTE AN ADDITIONAL RELEASE, INDEMNITY, AND HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT UPON RECEIPT OF ANY PRIZE.

16. Dispute Resolution

ANY CONTROVERSY OR CLAIM ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THE TOURNAMENT SHALL BE SETTLED BY BINDING ARBITRATION CONDUCTED IN GALVESTON, GALVESTON COUNTY, TEXAS, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE COMMERCIAL ARBITRATION RULES OF THE AMERICAN ARBITRATION ASSOCIATION. JUDGMENT UPON THE AWARD RENDERED MAY BE ENTERED IN ANY COURT HAVING JURISDICTION THEREOF.

17. Attorney's Fees

SHOULD LITIGATION OR ARBITRATION RESULT BETWEEN A PARTICIPANT AND BIG CASH SNAPPER, LLC, THE PREVAILING PARTY IN SUCH LITIGATION OR ARBITRATION SHALL BE ENTITLED TO RECOVER REASONABLE ATTORNEY'S FEES AND COSTS.

18. Governing Law

These Official Rules shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas, without regard to its conflict of laws principles.

19. Severability

If any provision of these Official Rules is held to be invalid or unenforceable, such provision shall be struck from these Official Rules, and the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

20. Entire Agreement

These Official Rules, together with the Release and Indemnity Agreement and any other documents incorporated herein by reference, constitute the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede all prior or contemporaneous communications and proposals, whether oral or written.

Big Cash Snapper JUNIOR Rules

Junior Big Cash Snapper Tournament Rules & Information

 

  1. Introduction

The Junior Big Cash Snapper Tournament ("Tournament") is a competitive fishing event organized by Big Cash Snapper, LLC ("Organizer"). The Tournament is open to eligible participants who agree to abide by these Official Rules and all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

  1. Tournament Directors
  • Brian Costley: (281) 932-6803, brian@bigcashsnapper.com
  • Caila Vu Beers: (832) 387-9256, caila@bigcashsnapper.com
  • Kelly Cook: (713) 263-4781, kelly@bigcashsnapper.com
  1. Tournament Dates

The Tournament shall commence at 12:01 a.m. Central Standard Time (CST) on June 1, 2025, and conclude at 12:01 a.m. CST on August 31, 2025 ("Tournament Period"). Only fish caught within the tournament period shall be eligible for prizes. In the event that the Federal recreational private Red Snapper season is closed early, the Tournament period will be adjusted accordingly to coincide with this closure date. If the Federal recreational private Red Snapper season closes early, you can still fish if the State waters remain open for Red Snapper fishing.

  1. Tournament Boundaries

The Tournament shall be conducted within the territorial waters of the State of Texas, including the common boundary waters of Texas and Louisiana as defined by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), and the extension of Texas borders seaward up to 200 nautical miles. Any fish caught outside these boundaries shall be ineligible for entry. (https://bigcashsnapper.com/map/)

 

 

 

  1. Tournament Categories and Prizes
  • 1 Scholarship Awards:
    • 1st Place: $4,200 guaranteed
    • 2nd Place: $1,200 guaranteed
    • 3rd Place: $600 guaranteed

We are actively seeking additional sponsorships to increase the scholarship award amounts to:

  • 1st Place: $10,000  scholarship
  • 2nd Place: $5,000 scholarship
  • 3rd Place: $1,000  scholarship
  1. Eligibility and Registration
  • 1 Age: Participants must be at least six (6) years old as of June 1, 2025 and not turn 18 years of age before September 1st, 2025.
  • 2 Fishing License: All participants must possess a valid Texas fishing license appropriate for the waters in which they are fishing.
  • 3 Registration: Participants must complete the official Tournament registration form and pay the applicable registration fee(s) prior to fishing in the Tournament; this can only be done by paying and registering online, a time stamped registration number will be issued to you by email. Any fish hooked or caught prior to this stamp will not be eligible to be entered in The Big Cash Snapper Tournament. The entire responsibility of the validity of the entry status falls solely on the participant(s).
  • 4 Registration Fees:
  • 5 Payment: Registration fees can be paid online via major credit cards (Visa, Discover, MasterCard, American Express)
  • 6 Multiple Registrations: Juniors may also register for both the Big Cash Snapper and World Record Snapper Bounty categories but must pay the respective fees.
  • 7 Employee Exclusion: Employees of Big Cash Snapper, LLC, including salaried and commissioned employees, are ineligible to participate in the Tournament.
  • 8 Minors: If a participant under eighteen (18) years of age wins a prize, the prize will be awarded to their parent or legal guardian.
  • 9 Non-Transferable: All Tournament entries are non-transferable and non-refundable.
  • 10 Responsibility for Accuracy: Participants are responsible for ensuring the accuracy of their registration information. Big Cash Snapper, LLC is not responsible for errors in anglers registration information . A time and date stamped registration number will be sent to you by email from each prize pool registered in, check this information to make sure it is correct.
  • 11 Prize per Year: Junior participants shall be eligible to win only one prize or scholarship in the Junior Big Cash Snapper Tournament per year. This does not limit Junior participants from winning Big Cash Snapper, and World Record Bounty.
  • Lifetime Top Prize Limitation:  Any Junior Participant can win only one top scholarship prize in the Junior Big Cash Snapper Scholarship Divisions in their lifetime.
  • Top Prize Winner Requirements: Only Top Prize Winners will be required to attend the Big Cash Snapper Presentation, at the time requested to take receipt of their prize.
  1. Rules of Conduct
  • 1 Compliance: All participants must comply with all applicable federal, state, and local fishing regulations, including those set forth by TPWD, as well as these Official Rules and the terms of the Release and Indemnity Agreement (see Section 14).
  • 2 Fair Angling: All fish must be caught by the registered participant using a rod, reel, line, and hook.
  • 3 No Electric Reels: The use of electric reels is strictly prohibited.
  • 4 Eligibility of Vessels: Anglers are allowed to fish Head Boats (Party Boats), Private-for-Hire, and Recreational Vessels. Any Red Snapper caught under the all recreational quota (private angling and private-for-hire quota) will be accepted for weigh in.
  • 5 Assistance: Once a fish strikes a bait or lure, including if the rod is in a rod holder, the registered angler must hook, fight, and land the fish without the aid of another person, except as specifically permitted herein. Assistance from another person is allowable only for the following: rigging tackle, casting, leadering, gaffing, netting, grabbing, or tail-roping the fish. Any manipulation of the rod or reel by another person after the fish has struck, except to set the hook, will result in disqualification.
  • 6 No Transfer of Fish: The transfer of fish between Tournament participants is strictly prohibited.
  • 7 Sportsmanship: All participants are expected to conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike manner. Unsportsmanlike conduct, as determined by the Tournament Director, may result in disqualification.

 

  1. Documentation and Reporting
  • 1 Immediate Notification: Participants must immediately notify a Tournament Director via text message to (281-932-6803) upon weighing a fish over the 20lb minimum tournament requirement.
  • 2 Photo Documentation: A photo will need to be taken showing the fish and angler on the scale with the weight clearly showing, also a photo of the scale certification.
  • 3 Photo Submission: All photos and/or video documentation must be submitted via text message to (713-435-9307) and emailed to all Tournament Directors.(Link to Contact info)
  1. Weigh-In Procedures
  • 1 Official Weigh Stations: All fish must be weighed at an official Big Cash Snapper TX Weigh-in Station on certified scales and verified by a Tournament Weigh Master. See official Weigh Stations here: https://bigcashsnapper.com/weigh-stations/
  • 2 Weigh-In Deadline: Fish must be weighed within twenty-four (24) hours of being caught. No fish will be accepted for weigh-in after 7:00 CST on September 1st, 2025.
  • 3 Weigh-In Form: Participants must make sure the official weigh-in registration form is filled out in its entirety and signed by all necessary parties, failure to do so will deem fish ineligible. This form must be completed before the weigh-in deadline. The form is available at the weigh-in station or accessible online (link).
  • 4 Condition of Fish: Fish must be in good condition, not frozen, spoiled, gutted, altered, or mutilated. The Tournament Director has the sole discretion to determine the condition of the fish.
  • 5 Official Weigh Stations: (Open from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily during the Tournament Period)
    • Sabine Pass Texas Parks and Wildlife: 409-971-2559, 19335 S. Gulfway Drive Sabine Pass, TX 77655
    • Port Isabel SouthPoint: 956-943-7926, 500 S Point Dr Port Isabel, TX 78578
    • Surfside Marina – Surfside: Santos 979-418-1768, 827 Gulf Rd, Surfside Beach, TX 77541
    • Fisherman’s Wharf – Port Aransas: Capt. Dee 361-815-1682, 900 Tarpon St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
    • Freeport Marina – Freeport: 916-719-2363, 101 W Brazos St, Freeport, TX 77541
    • Matagorda Harbor Bait & Tackle – Matagorda: Mark 979-637-0962, 189 County Rd 213, Matagorda, TX 77457
    • Pelican Rest Marina – Galveston: Marita 713-249-3022 or Rob 713-252-3097, 7819 Broadway St, Galveston, TX 77554
    • Galveston Yacht Basin – Galveston: Jessica Tafoya 409-765-5000, 715 N Holiday Dr, Galveston, TX 77550
  1. Tiebreakers

In the event of a tie in weight, the fish weighed in first shall be declared the winner. If the weigh-in times are identical, the participant who registered for the Tournament first shall be declared the winner.

  1. Protest:
  • Any and all protests must be submitted in writing to the BIG CASH SNAPPER Tournament Director at 509 Northview Friendswood, TX 77546, by 5:00 p.m. on September 12, 2025.
  • The written protest must include the following:
    • Protestor Information: Provide the name, address, and contact information of the protestor.
    • Statement of Legal and Factual Grounds: Clearly state the legal and factual grounds for the protest, including a detailed explanation of why the protest believes the Big Cash Snapper Tournament Rules Committee and the Tournament Director’s decision was incorrect.
    • Supporting Evidence: Include any relevant documents or evidence that support the protestor's claims.
    • Relief Requested: Specify the relief or remedy sought by the protestor, such as the cancellation of the prize awarded or a re-evaluation of proposals.
    • Signature: The protest must be signed by the protestor or an authorized representative.
  1. Polygraph Examination

All participants, including minors (through their parent or legal guardian), agree to submit to a polygraph examination upon request by the Tournament Director. At weigh-in, the parent/guardian and/or adult sponsor must sign and agree to abide by all Big Cash Snapper rules, including polygraph testing. Failure to take or pass the polygraph examination will result in disqualification. Participants are responsible for their own travel expenses related to the polygraph examination. The Tournament Director reserves the right to order a polygraph test at any time.

  1. Disqualification
  • 1 Grounds for Disqualification: The following actions will result in disqualification from the Tournament:
    • Violation of any federal, state, or local fishing regulations.
    • Violation of any of these Official Rules.
    • Failure to take or pass a polygraph examination.
    • Unsportsmanlike conduct.
    • Any act of dishonesty, fraud, or misrepresentation.
    • Having been charged with or convicted of an offense as defined in TPWD Rules & Regulations or Chapter 66, Section 66.023 of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code ("Fraud in Fishing Tournaments").
  • 2 Forfeiture: Any participant disqualified from the Tournament shall forfeit their entry fee and any claim to prizes.
  • 3 Ban: Any individual disqualified under Section 13.1 shall be banned from participating in any future Big Cash Snapper tournaments.
  1. Contract Default Provisions

All winning participant’s parents and/or guardian must agree to sign a scholarship contract that includes default provisions based on performance. The intent of this award is to provide an education at an accredited University, College, Junior College, Technical School, or Vocational Training Program. Each child who submits a fish for entry must have a parent/guardian and/or adult sponsor who can verify this specific catch.

 

15. Final Decisions and Prize Winner Responsibilities

  • 1 Final Decision: The decisions made by the Big Cash Snapper Tournament Rules Committee and the Tournament Director are final and binding.
  • 2 Tax Responsibility:  Prize-winners are responsible for paying any applicable taxes and the winner will be given IRS form 1099.

 

 

The decision of the BIG CASH SNAPPER Tournament Rules Committee and the Tournament Director, in their sole discretion, shall be final on any matter.

 

  1. Release, Hold Harmless, and Indemnity

IN CONSIDERATION OF BEING ALLOWED TO ENTER THE BIG CASH SNAPPER TOURNAMENT, EACH PARTICIPANT AGREES AND CONTRACTS TO RELEASE, INDEMNIFY, AND HOLD HARMLESS BIG CASH SNAPPER, LLC, ITS OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, REPRESENTATIVES, THE TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR AND ALL COMMITTEE PERSONS, THE TOURNAMENT SPONSORS, AND WEIGH-IN STATION OWNERS AND THEIR RESPECTIVE OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, AND REPRESENTATIVES FROM ANY AND ALL LIABILITY, CLAIMS, OR DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY MANNER WHATSOEVER CONNECTED WITH THE TOURNAMENT, INCLUDING ITS PLANNING, OPERATION, OR CONDUCT, AND INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO CLAIMS FOR PERSONAL INJURY, WRONGFUL DEATH, SURVIVAL DAMAGES, ECONOMIC LOSS, PROPERTY DAMAGES, OR CLAIMS RELATING IN ANY WAY TO THE AWARDING OF PRIZES IN THE TOURNAMENT. IT IS THE EXPRESS INTENTION OF THIS AGREEMENT THAT EACH ENTRANT IS INDEMNIFYING EACH OF THE FOREGOING RELEASED AND INDEMNIFIED PARTIES FROM THE CONSEQUENCES OF THEIR OWN NEGLIGENT CONDUCT, WHETHER SOLE NEGLIGENCE OR CONTRIBUTING NEGLIGENCE, GROSS NEGLIGENCE, OUTRAGEOUS MISCONDUCT, STRICT LIABILITY, COMMISSION OF TORT, BREACH OF CONTRACT, AND BREACH OF WARRANTY. THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN OF ANY MINOR ENTERING IN, REGISTERING FOR, OR FISHING IN THE TOURNAMENT DOES FURTHER CONTRACT AND AGREE THAT THIS RELEASE AND HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT SHALL BE BINDING UPON ANY MINOR ENTERING THE TOURNAMENT. WINNERS WILL BE REQUIRED TO EXECUTE AN ADDITIONAL RELEASE, INDEMNITY, AND HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT UPON RECEIPT OF ANY PRIZE.

  1. Dispute Resolution

ANY CONTROVERSY OR CLAIM ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THE TOURNAMENT SHALL BE SETTLED BY BINDING ARBITRATION CONDUCTED IN Galveston,Galveston COUNTY, TEXAS, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE COMMERCIAL ARBITRATION RULES OF THE AMERICAN ARBITRATION ASSOCIATION. JUDGMENT UPON THE AWARD RENDERED MAY BE ENTERED IN ANY COURT HAVING JURISDICTION THEREOF.

  1. Attorney's Fees

SHOULD LITIGATION OR ARBITRATION RESULT BETWEEN A PARTICIPANT AND BIG CASH SNAPPER, LLC, THE PREVAILING PARTY IN SUCH LITIGATION OR ARBITRATION SHALL BE ENTITLED TO RECOVER REASONABLE ATTORNEY'S FEES AND COSTS.

  1. Governing Law

These Official Rules shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas, without regard to its conflict of laws principles.  

  1. Severability

If any provision of these Official Rules is held to be invalid or unenforceable, such provision shall be struck from these Official Rules, and the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

  1. Entire Agreement

These Official Rules, together with the Release and Indemnity Agreement and any other documents incorporated herein by reference, constitute the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede all prior or contemporaneous communications and proposals, whether oral or written.

 

Big Cash Snapper WORLD RECORD Rules

WORLD RECORD BOUNTY RULES

 IGFA CERTIFIED WORLD’S HEAVIEST RED SNAPPER

 

The liability of Big Cash Snapper  is limited to the amount payable to the Winner of the Tournament, provided that such Winner complied with the Terms and Conditions of this Agreement and the Tournament Rules. This Agreement is null and void unless the Registration Fee is received by Big Cash Snapper prior to the start of the tournament. The Event Descriptor Form, the Official Tournament Rules are a part of this Agreement and shall remain in effect in their entirety during the term of the tournament.

 

Registered, and eligible tournament participants shall be eligible to receive prizes in the event that the prize winning events specified by the conditions of the tournament occur in the manner prescribed by the Official Rules, Terms, and Conditions contained herein.

 

World Record Catch Promotion Date(s): 6/1/25 – 8/31/25

Maximum Prize Limit: $100,000

Maximum Aggregate Prize Limit: $100,000

 

Tournament Location:

The Tournament shall be conducted within the territorial waters of the State of Texas, including the common boundary waters of Texas and Louisiana as defined by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), and the extension of Texas borders seaward up to 200 nautical miles. Any fish caught outside these boundaries shall be ineligible for entry. (https://bigcashsnapper.com/map/)

All eligible anglers in the Big Cash Snapper Fishing Tournament must be registered

 

Registration Fee: $20.00

 

Coverage Concept: Catch a IGFA Certified World Record Heaviest Red Snapper and Win!

 

* Event to take place 6/1/25 – 8/31/25 with fishing not to exceed 92 day The Tournament shall commence at 12:01 a.m. Central Standard Time (CST) on June 1, 2025, and conclude at 12:01 a.m. CST on August 31, 2025 ("Tournament Period"). Only fish caught within the tournament period shall be eligible for prizes. In the event that the Federal recreational private Red Snapper season is closed early, the Tournament period will be adjusted accordingly to coincide with this closure date.  If the Federal recreational private Red Snapper season closes early, you can still fish if the State waters remain open for Red Snapper fishing.

 

  • All eligible anglers must be pre-registered in the Big Cash Snapper Fishing Tournament Participants must complete the official Tournament registration form and pay the applicable registration fee(s) prior to tournament start date June 1st, 2025. This can only be done by paying and registering online, a time stamped registration number will be issued to you by email. The entire responsibility of the validity of the entry status falls solely on the entrant/angler.

 

  • Only 2 rods per angler allowed.

 

  • Species limited to: Red Snapper / Lutjanus Campechanus as scheduled and determined by the IGFA Records then evident. Note: only one limit of $100,000 per species is allowed. In the event of a tie in weight, the fish weighed in first shall be declared the winner. If the weigh-in times are identical, the participant who registered for the Tournament first shall be declared the winner.

 

 

  • Polygraph of World Record winning angler is mandatory by sponsor as condition precedent to claim consideration.

 

  • Grand Prize is restricted to single limit liability per species.

 

  • Official IGFA record keeping authority must certify new record prior to claims consideration.

 

  • IGFA Sportfishing rules and regulations apply. Coverage for ONE Stated Species: Limits of Liability: $100,000/ Total Aggregate of $100,000

 

 

 

  1. DURING TOURNAMENT

 

 

In order to qualify for prize, anglers must catch a IGFA certified heaviest Red Snapper within the specified body of water named on this contract and be certified by the International Game and Fish Association (IGFA) as the new World Record Weight holder for that exact species of fish.

 

  1. All fish must be weighed in public with a minimum of two tournament officials acting as attesting witnesses and not affiliated with the winner.

 

  1. All fish must be weighed on official tournament scales. Scales must be certified to calculate to one tenth (1/10) of a pound. Below is a list of weigh-in stations, we assume no liability for scales being closed,

 

 

  • Sabine Pass Texas Parks and Wildlife: 409-971-2559, 19335 S. Gulfway Drive Sabine Pass, TX 77655
  • Port Isabel SouthPoint: 956-943-7926, 500 S Point Dr Port Isabel, TX 78578
  • Surfside Marina – Surfside: Santos 979-418-1768, 827 Gulf Rd, Surfside Beach, TX 77541
  • Fisherman’s Wharf – Port Aransas: Capt. Dee 361-815-1682, 900 Tarpon St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
  • Freeport Marina – Freeport: 916-719-2363, 101 W Brazos St, Freeport, TX 77541
  • Matagorda Harbor Bait & Tackle – Matagorda: Mark 979-637-0962, 189 County Rd 213, Matagorda, TX 77457
  • Pelican Rest Marina – Galveston: Marita 713-249-3022 or Rob 713-252-3097, 7819 Broadway St, Galveston, TX 77554
  • Galveston Yacht Basin – Galveston: Jessica Tafoya 409-765-5000, 715 N Holiday Dr, Galveston, TX 77550

 

 

  1. A winning fish’s weight must be the gross weight achieved when fish is first weighed, i.e. no penalties or credits are considered under this contract.

 

  1. If the existing record is calculated in a different method of measurement than required above, the equivalent weight must be exceeded.

 

  1. All IGFA weigh in and conventional tackle rules and regulations shall apply.

 

  1. All winners must submit to and pass, in a conclusive manner, a polygraph examination administered by a licensed polygraphist provided by the client and agreed to by Big Cash Snapper and/or its affiliates.

 

  1. Reporting Requirements

 

  1. Claims notification: Immediate telephone notice by client to the claims department of Big Cash Snapper must be reported no later than the first business day after the catch. If caught on the last day of the tournament it must be reported by 7 PM.

 

  1. Proof of Claim: The following items and completed documentation must be furnished to Big Cash Snapper as proof of a prize claim (forms furnished by Big Cash Snapper):

 

(a) Affidavits of two Officials;

(b) Affidavit of Winner;

(c) Affidavits of Witnesses to Official Weigh In;

(d) Affidavit and Certification of Polygraph Examiner; and

(e) World Record Certification from the IGFA.

 

  1. Investigation: Upon receipt of Proof of Claim, Big Cash Snapper and/or its affiliates may conduct a reasonable investigation including but not limited to requiring the winner to produce the Witnesses to the Official Weigh In, the Winner, and/or Promotion Officials for polygraph examination as a condition to payment of the claim if, in the sole opinion of Big Cash Snapper and/or its affiliates such an examination is warranted by the facts.

 

Protest:

  • Any and all protests must be submitted in writing to the BIG CASH SNAPPER Tournament Director at 5098 Northview Friendswood, TX 77546, by 5:00 p.m. on September 12, 2025.
  • The written protest must include the following:
    • Protestor Information: Provide the name, address, and contact information of the protestor.
    • Statement of Legal and Factual Grounds: Clearly state the legal and factual grounds for the protest, including a detailed explanation of why the protest believes the Big Cash Snapper Tournament Rules Committee and the Tournament Director’s decision was incorrect.
    • Supporting Evidence: Include any relevant documents or evidence that support the protestor's claims.
    • Relief Requested: Specify the relief or remedy sought by the protestor, such as the cancellation of the prize awarded or a re-evaluation of proposals.
    • Signature: The protest must be signed by the protestor or an authorized representative.

 

Polygraph Examination

All participants, including minors (through their parent or legal guardian), agree to submit to a polygraph examination upon request by the Tournament Director. Failure to take or pass the polygraph examination will result in disqualification. Participants are responsible for their own travel expenses related to the polygraph examination. The Tournament Director reserves the right to order a polygraph test at any time.

 

Grounds for Disqualification: The following actions will result in disqualification from the Tournament:

  • Violation of any federal, state, or local fishing regulations.
  • Violation of any of these Official Rules.
  • Failure to take or pass a polygraph examination.
  • Unsportsmanlike conduct.
  • Any act of dishonesty, fraud, or misrepresentation.
  • Having been charged with or convicted of an offense as defined in TPWD Rules & Regulations or Chapter 66, Section 66.023 of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code ("Fraud in Fishing Tournaments").
  • Forfeiture: Any participant disqualified from the Tournament shall forfeit their entry fee and any claim to prizes.
  • Ban: Any individual disqualified under Section 13.1(f) shall be banned from participating in any future Big Cash Snapper tournaments.

 

Final Decisions and Prize Winner Responsibilities

  • Final Decision: The decisions made by the Big Cash Snapper Tournament Rules Committee and the Tournament Director are final and binding.
  • Tax Responsibility: Prize-winners are responsible for paying any applicable taxes and The winner will be given IRS form 1099.

 

 

The decision of the BIG CASH SNAPPER Tournament Rules Committee and the Tournament Director, in their sole discretion, shall be final on any matter.

 

 

 

Release, Hold Harmless, and Indemnity

IN CONSIDERATION OF BEING ALLOWED TO ENTER THE BIG CASH SNAPPER TOURNAMENT, EACH PARTICIPANT AGREES AND CONTRACTS TO RELEASE, INDEMNIFY, AND HOLD HARMLESS BIG CASH SNAPPER, LLC, ITS OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, REPRESENTATIVES, THE TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR AND ALL COMMITTEE PERSONS, THE TOURNAMENT SPONSORS, AND WEIGH-IN STATION OWNERS AND THEIR RESPECTIVE OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, AND REPRESENTATIVES FROM ANY AND ALL LIABILITY, CLAIMS, OR DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY MANNER WHATSOEVER CONNECTED WITH THE TOURNAMENT, INCLUDING ITS PLANNING, OPERATION, OR CONDUCT, AND INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO CLAIMS FOR PERSONAL INJURY, WRONGFUL DEATH, SURVIVAL DAMAGES, ECONOMIC LOSS, PROPERTY DAMAGES, OR CLAIMS RELATING IN ANY WAY TO THE AWARDING OF PRIZES IN THE TOURNAMENT. IT IS THE EXPRESS INTENTION OF THIS AGREEMENT THAT EACH ENTRANT IS INDEMNIFYING EACH OF THE FOREGOING RELEASED AND INDEMNIFIED PARTIES FROM THE CONSEQUENCES OF THEIR OWN NEGLIGENT CONDUCT, WHETHER SOLE NEGLIGENCE OR CONTRIBUTING NEGLIGENCE, GROSS NEGLIGENCE, OUTRAGEOUS MISCONDUCT, STRICT LIABILITY, COMMISSION OF TORT, BREACH OF CONTRACT, AND BREACH OF WARRANTY. THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN OF ANY MINOR ENTERING IN, REGISTERING FOR, OR FISHING IN THE TOURNAMENT DOES FURTHER CONTRACT AND AGREE THAT THIS RELEASE AND HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT SHALL BE BINDING UPON ANY MINOR ENTERING THE TOURNAMENT. WINNERS WILL BE REQUIRED TO EXECUTE AN ADDITIONAL RELEASE, INDEMNITY, AND HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT UPON RECEIPT OF ANY PRIZE.

Dispute Resolution

ANY CONTROVERSY OR CLAIM ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THE TOURNAMENT SHALL BE SETTLED BY BINDING ARBITRATION CONDUCTED IN Galveston,Galveston COUNTY, TEXAS, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE COMMERCIAL ARBITRATION RULES OF THE AMERICAN ARBITRATION ASSOCIATION. JUDGMENT UPON THE AWARD RENDERED MAY BE ENTERED IN ANY COURT HAVING JURISDICTION THEREOF.

Attorney's Fees

SHOULD LITIGATION OR ARBITRATION RESULT BETWEEN A PARTICIPANT AND BIG CASH SNAPPER, LLC, THE PREVAILING PARTY IN SUCH LITIGATION OR ARBITRATION SHALL BE ENTITLED TO RECOVER REASONABLE ATTORNEY'S FEES AND COSTS.

Governing Law

These Official Rules shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas, without regard to its conflict of laws principles.  

Severability

If any provision of these Official Rules is held to be invalid or unenforceable, such provision shall be struck from these Official Rules, and the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

Entire Agreement

These Official Rules, together with the Release and Indemnity Agreement and any other documents incorporated herein by reference, constitute the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede all prior or contemporaneous communications and proposals, whether oral or written.


BIG CASH SNAPPER
RULES & INFORMATION

1. Introduction

The Big Cash Snapper Tournament ("Tournament") is a competitive fishing event organized by Big Cash Snapper, LLC ("Organizer"). The Tournament is open to eligible participants who agree to abide by these Official Rules and all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

2. Tournament Directors

Brian Costley: (281) 932-6803, brian@bigcashsnapper.com

Caila Vu Beers: (832) 387-9256, caila@bigcashsnapper.com

Kelly Cook: (713) 263-4781, kelly@bigcashsnapper.com

3. Tournament Dates

The Tournament shall commence at 12:01 a.m. Central Standard Time (CST) on June 1, 2025, and conclude at 12:01 a.m. CST on August 31, 2025 ("Tournament Period"). Only fish caught within the tournament period shall be eligible for prizes. In the event that the Federal recreational private Red Snapper season is closed early, the Tournament period will be adjusted accordingly to coincide with this closure date. If the Federal recreational private Red Snapper season closes early, you can still fish if the State waters remain open for Red Snapper fishing.

4. Tournament Boundaries

The Tournament shall be conducted within the territorial waters of the State of Texas, including the common boundary waters of Texas and Louisiana as defined by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), and the extension of Texas borders seaward up to 200 nautical miles. Any fish caught outside these boundaries shall be ineligible for entry. (See Texas Territorial Waters Map)

5. Tournament Categories and Prizes

● Prize: $50,000

● Awarded to the participant who catches the heaviest (by weight) Red Snapper (Lutjanus Campechanus) during the Tournament Period.

● Minimum Weight: 20 lbs.

6. Eligibility and Registration

● 6.1 Age: Participants must be at least six (6) years old as of June 1, 2025.

● 6.2 Fishing License: All participants must possess a valid Texas fishing license appropriate for the waters in which they are fishing.

● 6.3 Registration: Participants must complete the official Tournament registration form and pay the applicable registration fee(s) prior to fishing in the Tournament; this can only be done by paying and registering online, a time stamped registration number will be issued to you by email. Any fish hooked or caught prior to timestamp will not be eligible to be entered in The Big Cash Snapper Tournament. The entire responsibility of the validity of the entry status falls solely on the entrant/angler.

● 6.4 Registration Fees:

- Big Cash Snapper: $30 plus applicable taxes

- World Record Snapper Bounty: $20 plus applicable taxes

- Captain's Cash Prize: No Fee

- Junior Big Cash Snapper: No Fee

- Registration Link:

https://tournaments.bigcashsnapper.com/big-cash-snapper- 2025/registration/

● 6.5 Payment: Registration fees can be paid online via major credit cards (Visa, Discover, MasterCard, American Express)

● 6.6 Multiple Registrations: Participants may register for both the Big Cash Snapper and World Record Snapper Bounty categories but must pay the respective fees. Participants may only be linked to one Captain. In the case of multiple registrations by the same angler, the first Captain linked on the initial registration will be eligible for the Captain's Cash Prize. If no Captain is linked on the first registration, no Captain's Cash Prize will be awarded.

● 6.7 Captain Eligibility: Captains may register for the Big Cash Snapper and World Record Snapper Bounty categories, subject to registration fees being paid. Captains are ineligible to link themselves, or another Captain, to their own registration for the Captain's Cash Prize. Therefore, if registered to another Captain, NO Captain Referral Cash Prize will be awarded if a Captain catches The Big Cash Snapper and/or World Record Snapper Bounty. Captain’s will be issued a registration number by email upon registering, to verify your information is correct.

● 6.8 Employee Exclusion: Employees of Big Cash Snapper, LLC, including salaried and commissioned employees, are ineligible to participate in the Tournament.

● 6.9 Minors: If a participant under eighteen (18) years of age wins a prize, the prize will be awarded to their parent or legal guardian.

● 6.10 Non-Transferable: All Tournament entries are non-transferable and non-refundable.

● 6.11 Responsibility for Accuracy: Participants are responsible for ensuring the accuracy of their registration information. Big Cash Snapper, LLC is not responsible for errors in anglers registration information . A time and date stamped registration number will be sent to you by email from each prize pool registered in, check this information to make sure it is correct.

7. Rules of Conduct

● 7.1 Compliance: All participants must comply with all applicable federal, state, and local fishing regulations, including those set forth by TPWD, as well as these Official Rules and the terms of the Release and Indemnity Agreement (see Section 14).

● 7.2 Fair Angling: All fish must be caught by the registered participant using a rod, reel, line, and hook.

● 7.3 No Electric Reels: The use of electric reels is strictly prohibited.

● 7.4 Eligibility of Vessels: Anglers are allowed to fish Head Boats (Party Boats), Private-for-Hire, and Recreational Vessels. Any Red Snapper caught under the all recreational quota (private angling and private-for-hire quota) will be accepted for weigh in.

● 7.5 Assistance: Once a fish strikes a bait or lure, including if the rod is in a rod holder, the registered angler must hook, fight, and land the fish without the aid of another person, except as specifically permitted herein. Assistance from another person is allowable only for the following: rigging tackle, casting, leadering, gaffing, netting, grabbing, or tail-roping the fish. Any manipulation of the rod or reel by another person after the fish has struck, except to set the hook, will result in disqualification.

● 7.6 No Transfer of Fish: The transfer of fish between Tournament participants is strictly prohibited.

● 7.7 Sportsmanship: All participants are expected to conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike manner. Unsportsmanlike conduct, as determined by the Tournament Director, may result in disqualification.

8. Documentation and Reporting

● 8.1 Immediate Notification: Participants must immediately notify a Tournament Director via text message to (713) 435-9307 upon weighing a fish over the 20lb minimum tournament requirement.

● 8.2 Photo Documentation: A photo will need to be taken showing the fish and angler on the scale with the weight clearly showing, also a photo of the scale certification.

● 8.3 Photo Submission: All photos and/or video documentation must be submitted via text message to (713) 435-9307 and emailed to all Tournament Directors. Contact: https://bigcashsnapper.com/contact/

9. Weigh-In Procedures

● 9.1 Official Weigh Stations: All fish must be weighed at an official Big Cash Snapper TX Weigh-in Station on certified scales and verified by a Tournament Weigh Master. See official Weigh Stations here: https://bigcashsnapper.com/weigh-stations/

● 9.2 Weigh-In Deadline: Fish must be weighed within twenty-four (24) hours of being caught. No fish will be accepted for weigh-in after 7:00 CST on September 1st, 2025.

● 9.3 Weigh-In Form: Participants must make sure the official weigh-in registration form is filled out in its entirety and signed by all necessary parties, failure to do so will deem fish ineligible. This form must be completed before the weigh-in deadline. The form is available at the weigh-in station or accessible online (link).

● 9.4 Condition of Fish: Fish must be in good condition, not frozen, spoiled, gutted, altered, or mutilated. The Tournament Director has the sole discretion to determine the condition of the fish.

● 9.5 Official Weigh Stations: (Open from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily during the Tournament Period)

- Sabine Pass Texas Parks and Wildlife: 409-971-2559

19335 S. Gulfway Drive Sabine Pass, TX 77655

- Port Isabel SouthPoint: 956-943-7926

500 S Point Dr Port Isabel, TX 78578

- Surfside Marina – Surfside: Santos 979-418-1768

827 Gulf Rd, Surfside Beach, TX 77541

- Fisherman’s Wharf – Port Aransas: Capt. Dee 361-815-1682

900 Tarpon St, Port Aransas, TX 78373

- Freeport Marina – Freeport: 916-719-2363

101 W Brazos St, Freeport, TX 77541

- Matagorda Harbor Bait & Tackle – Matagorda: Mark 979-637-0962

189 County Rd 213, Matagorda, TX 77457

- Pelican Rest Marina – Galveston: Marita 713-249-3022 or Rob 713-252-3097

7819 Broadway St, Galveston, TX 77554

- Galveston Yacht Basin – Galveston: Jessica Tafoya 409-765-5000

715 N Holiday Dr, Galveston, TX 77550

10. Tiebreakers

In the event of a tie in weight, the fish weighed in first shall be declared the winner. If the weigh- in times are identical, the participant who registered for the Tournament first shall be declared the winner.

11. Protest

● 11.1 Submission: Any and all protests must be submitted in writing to the BIG CASH SNAPPER Tournament Director at 509 Northview Friendswood, TX 77546, by 5:00 p.m. on September 12, 2025.

● 11.2 Requirements: The written protest must include the following:

- Protestor Information: Provide the name, address, and contact information of the protestor.

- Statement of Legal and Factual Grounds: Clearly state the legal and factual grounds for the protest, including a detailed explanation of why the protest believes the Big Cash Snapper Tournament Rules Committee and the Tournament Director’s decision was incorrect.

- Supporting Evidence: Include any relevant documents or evidence that support the protestor's claims.

- Relief Requested: Specify the relief or remedy sought by the protestor, such as the cancellation of the prize awarded or a re-evaluation of proposals.

- Signature: The protest must be signed by the protestor or an authorized representative.

12. Polygraph Examination

All participants, including minors (through their parent or legal guardian), agree to submit to a polygraph examination upon request by the Tournament Director. Failure to take or pass the polygraph examination will result in disqualification. Participants are responsible for their own travel expenses related to the polygraph examination. The Tournament Director reserves the right to order a polygraph test at any time.

13. Disqualification

● 13.1 Grounds for Disqualification: The following actions will result in disqualification from the Tournament:

- Violation of any federal, state, or local fishing regulations.

- Violation of any of these Official Rules.

- Failure to take or pass a polygraph examination.

- Unsportsmanlike conduct.

- Any act of dishonesty, fraud, or misrepresentation.

- Having been charged with or convicted of an offense as defined in TPWD Rules & Regulations or Chapter 66, Section 66.023 of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code ("Fraud in Fishing Tournaments").

● 13.2 Forfeiture: Any participant disqualified from the Tournament shall forfeit their entry fee and any claim to prizes.

● 13.3 Ban: Any individual disqualified under Section 13.1 shall be banned from participating in any future Big Cash Snapper tournaments.

14. Final Decisions and Prize Winner Responsibilities

● 14.1 Final Decision: The decisions made by the Big Cash Snapper Tournament Rules Committee and the Tournament Director are final and binding.

● 14.2 Tax Responsibility: Prize-winners are responsible for paying any applicable taxes and The winner will be given IRS form 1099.

The decision of the BIG CASH SNAPPER Tournament Rules Committee and the Tournament Director, in their sole discretion, shall be final on any matter.

15. Release, Hold Harmless, and Indemnity

IN CONSIDERATION OF BEING ALLOWED TO ENTER THE BIG CASH SNAPPER TOURNAMENT, EACH PARTICIPANT AGREES AND CONTRACTS TO RELEASE, INDEMNIFY, AND HOLD HARMLESS BIG CASH SNAPPER, LLC, ITS OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, REPRESENTATIVES, THE TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR AND ALL COMMITTEE PERSONS, THE TOURNAMENT SPONSORS, AND WEIGH-IN STATION OWNERS AND THEIR RESPECTIVE OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, AND REPRESENTATIVES FROM ANY AND ALL LIABILITY, CLAIMS, OR DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY MANNER WHATSOEVER CONNECTED WITH THE TOURNAMENT, INCLUDING ITS PLANNING, OPERATION, OR CONDUCT, AND INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO CLAIMS FOR PERSONAL INJURY, WRONGFUL DEATH, SURVIVAL DAMAGES, ECONOMIC LOSS, PROPERTY DAMAGES, OR CLAIMS RELATING IN ANY WAY TO THE AWARDING OF PRIZES IN THE TOURNAMENT. IT IS THE EXPRESS INTENTION OF THIS AGREEMENT THAT EACH ENTRANT IS INDEMNIFYING EACH OF THE FOREGOING RELEASED AND INDEMNIFIED PARTIES FROM THE CONSEQUENCES OF THEIR OWN NEGLIGENT CONDUCT, WHETHER SOLE NEGLIGENCE OR CONTRIBUTING NEGLIGENCE, GROSS NEGLIGENCE, OUTRAGEOUS MISCONDUCT, STRICT LIABILITY, COMMISSION OF TORT, BREACH OF CONTRACT, AND BREACH OF WARRANTY. THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN OF ANY MINOR ENTERING IN, REGISTERING FOR, OR FISHING IN THE TOURNAMENT DOES FURTHER CONTRACT AND AGREE THAT THIS RELEASE AND HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT SHALL BE BINDING UPON ANY MINOR ENTERING THE TOURNAMENT. WINNERS WILL BE REQUIRED TO EXECUTE AN ADDITIONAL RELEASE, INDEMNITY, AND HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT UPON RECEIPT OF ANY PRIZE.

16. Dispute Resolution

ANY CONTROVERSY OR CLAIM ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THE TOURNAMENT SHALL BE SETTLED BY BINDING ARBITRATION CONDUCTED IN GALVESTON, GALVESTON COUNTY, TEXAS, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE COMMERCIAL ARBITRATION RULES OF THE AMERICAN ARBITRATION ASSOCIATION. JUDGMENT UPON THE AWARD RENDERED MAY BE ENTERED IN ANY COURT HAVING JURISDICTION THEREOF.

17. Attorney's Fees

SHOULD LITIGATION OR ARBITRATION RESULT BETWEEN A PARTICIPANT AND BIG CASH SNAPPER, LLC, THE PREVAILING PARTY IN SUCH LITIGATION OR ARBITRATION SHALL BE ENTITLED TO RECOVER REASONABLE ATTORNEY'S FEES AND COSTS.

18. Governing Law

These Official Rules shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas, without regard to its conflict of laws principles.

19. Severability

If any provision of these Official Rules is held to be invalid or unenforceable, such provision shall be struck from these Official Rules, and the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

20. Entire Agreement

These Official Rules, together with the Release and Indemnity Agreement and any other documents incorporated herein by reference, constitute the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede all prior or contemporaneous communications and proposals, whether oral or written.

Big Cash Snapper WORLD RECORD Rules

WORLD RECORD BOUNTY RULES

 IGFA CERTIFIED WORLD’S HEAVIEST RED SNAPPER

 

The liability of Big Cash Snapper  is limited to the amount payable to the Winner of the Tournament, provided that such Winner complied with the Terms and Conditions of this Agreement and the Tournament Rules. This Agreement is null and void unless the Registration Fee is received by Big Cash Snapper prior to the start of the tournament. The Event Descriptor Form, the Official Tournament Rules are a part of this Agreement and shall remain in effect in their entirety during the term of the tournament.

 

Registered, and eligible tournament participants shall be eligible to receive prizes in the event that the prize winning events specified by the conditions of the tournament occur in the manner prescribed by the Official Rules, Terms, and Conditions contained herein.

 

World Record Catch Promotion Date(s): 6/1/25 – 8/31/25

Maximum Prize Limit: $100,000

Maximum Aggregate Prize Limit: $100,000

 

Tournament Location:

The Tournament shall be conducted within the territorial waters of the State of Texas, including the common boundary waters of Texas and Louisiana as defined by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), and the extension of Texas borders seaward up to 200 nautical miles. Any fish caught outside these boundaries shall be ineligible for entry. (https://bigcashsnapper.com/map/)

All eligible anglers in the Big Cash Snapper Fishing Tournament must be registered

 

Registration Fee: $20.00

 

Coverage Concept: Catch a IGFA Certified World Record Heaviest Red Snapper and Win!

 

* Event to take place 6/1/25 – 8/31/25 with fishing not to exceed 92 day The Tournament shall commence at 12:01 a.m. Central Standard Time (CST) on June 1, 2025, and conclude at 12:01 a.m. CST on August 31, 2025 ("Tournament Period"). Only fish caught within the tournament period shall be eligible for prizes. In the event that the Federal recreational private Red Snapper season is closed early, the Tournament period will be adjusted accordingly to coincide with this closure date.  If the Federal recreational private Red Snapper season closes early, you can still fish if the State waters remain open for Red Snapper fishing.

 

  • All eligible anglers must be pre-registered in the Big Cash Snapper Fishing Tournament Participants must complete the official Tournament registration form and pay the applicable registration fee(s) prior to tournament start date June 1st, 2025. This can only be done by paying and registering online, a time stamped registration number will be issued to you by email. The entire responsibility of the validity of the entry status falls solely on the entrant/angler.

 

  • Only 2 rods per angler allowed.

 

  • Species limited to: Red Snapper / Lutjanus Campechanus as scheduled and determined by the IGFA Records then evident. Note: only one limit of $100,000 per species is allowed. In the event of a tie in weight, the fish weighed in first shall be declared the winner. If the weigh-in times are identical, the participant who registered for the Tournament first shall be declared the winner.

 

 

  • Polygraph of World Record winning angler is mandatory by sponsor as condition precedent to claim consideration.

 

  • Grand Prize is restricted to single limit liability per species.

 

  • Official IGFA record keeping authority must certify new record prior to claims consideration.

 

  • IGFA Sportfishing rules and regulations apply. Coverage for ONE Stated Species: Limits of Liability: $100,000/ Total Aggregate of $100,000

 

 

 

  1. DURING TOURNAMENT

 

 

In order to qualify for prize, anglers must catch a IGFA certified heaviest Red Snapper within the specified body of water named on this contract and be certified by the International Game and Fish Association (IGFA) as the new World Record Weight holder for that exact species of fish.

 

  1. All fish must be weighed in public with a minimum of two tournament officials acting as attesting witnesses and not affiliated with the winner.

 

  1. All fish must be weighed on official tournament scales. Scales must be certified to calculate to one tenth (1/10) of a pound. Below is a list of weigh-in stations, we assume no liability for scales being closed,

 

 

  • Sabine Pass Texas Parks and Wildlife: 409-971-2559, 19335 S. Gulfway Drive Sabine Pass, TX 77655
  • Port Isabel SouthPoint: 956-943-7926, 500 S Point Dr Port Isabel, TX 78578
  • Surfside Marina – Surfside: Santos 979-418-1768, 827 Gulf Rd, Surfside Beach, TX 77541
  • Fisherman’s Wharf – Port Aransas: Capt. Dee 361-815-1682, 900 Tarpon St, Port Aransas, TX 78373
  • Freeport Marina – Freeport: 916-719-2363, 101 W Brazos St, Freeport, TX 77541
  • Matagorda Harbor Bait & Tackle – Matagorda: Mark 979-637-0962, 189 County Rd 213, Matagorda, TX 77457
  • Pelican Rest Marina – Galveston: Marita 713-249-3022 or Rob 713-252-3097, 7819 Broadway St, Galveston, TX 77554
  • Galveston Yacht Basin – Galveston: Jessica Tafoya 409-765-5000, 715 N Holiday Dr, Galveston, TX 77550

 

 

  1. A winning fish’s weight must be the gross weight achieved when fish is first weighed, i.e. no penalties or credits are considered under this contract.

 

  1. If the existing record is calculated in a different method of measurement than required above, the equivalent weight must be exceeded.

 

  1. All IGFA weigh in and conventional tackle rules and regulations shall apply.

 

  1. All winners must submit to and pass, in a conclusive manner, a polygraph examination administered by a licensed polygraphist provided by the client and agreed to by Big Cash Snapper and/or its affiliates.

 

  1. Reporting Requirements

 

  1. Claims notification: Immediate telephone notice by client to the claims department of Big Cash Snapper must be reported no later than the first business day after the catch. If caught on the last day of the tournament it must be reported by 7 PM.

 

  1. Proof of Claim: The following items and completed documentation must be furnished to Big Cash Snapper as proof of a prize claim (forms furnished by Big Cash Snapper):

 

(a) Affidavits of two Officials;

(b) Affidavit of Winner;

(c) Affidavits of Witnesses to Official Weigh In;

(d) Affidavit and Certification of Polygraph Examiner; and

(e) World Record Certification from the IGFA.

 

  1. Investigation: Upon receipt of Proof of Claim, Big Cash Snapper and/or its affiliates may conduct a reasonable investigation including but not limited to requiring the winner to produce the Witnesses to the Official Weigh In, the Winner, and/or Promotion Officials for polygraph examination as a condition to payment of the claim if, in the sole opinion of Big Cash Snapper and/or its affiliates such an examination is warranted by the facts.

 

Protest:

  • Any and all protests must be submitted in writing to the BIG CASH SNAPPER Tournament Director at 5098 Northview Friendswood, TX 77546, by 5:00 p.m. on September 12, 2025.
  • The written protest must include the following:
    • Protestor Information: Provide the name, address, and contact information of the protestor.
    • Statement of Legal and Factual Grounds: Clearly state the legal and factual grounds for the protest, including a detailed explanation of why the protest believes the Big Cash Snapper Tournament Rules Committee and the Tournament Director’s decision was incorrect.
    • Supporting Evidence: Include any relevant documents or evidence that support the protestor's claims.
    • Relief Requested: Specify the relief or remedy sought by the protestor, such as the cancellation of the prize awarded or a re-evaluation of proposals.
    • Signature: The protest must be signed by the protestor or an authorized representative.

 

Polygraph Examination

All participants, including minors (through their parent or legal guardian), agree to submit to a polygraph examination upon request by the Tournament Director. Failure to take or pass the polygraph examination will result in disqualification. Participants are responsible for their own travel expenses related to the polygraph examination. The Tournament Director reserves the right to order a polygraph test at any time.

 

Grounds for Disqualification: The following actions will result in disqualification from the Tournament:

  • Violation of any federal, state, or local fishing regulations.
  • Violation of any of these Official Rules.
  • Failure to take or pass a polygraph examination.
  • Unsportsmanlike conduct.
  • Any act of dishonesty, fraud, or misrepresentation.
  • Having been charged with or convicted of an offense as defined in TPWD Rules & Regulations or Chapter 66, Section 66.023 of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code ("Fraud in Fishing Tournaments").
  • Forfeiture: Any participant disqualified from the Tournament shall forfeit their entry fee and any claim to prizes.
  • Ban: Any individual disqualified under Section 13.1(f) shall be banned from participating in any future Big Cash Snapper tournaments.

 

Final Decisions and Prize Winner Responsibilities

  • Final Decision: The decisions made by the Big Cash Snapper Tournament Rules Committee and the Tournament Director are final and binding.
  • Tax Responsibility: Prize-winners are responsible for paying any applicable taxes and The winner will be given IRS form 1099.

 

 

The decision of the BIG CASH SNAPPER Tournament Rules Committee and the Tournament Director, in their sole discretion, shall be final on any matter.

 

 

 

Release, Hold Harmless, and Indemnity

IN CONSIDERATION OF BEING ALLOWED TO ENTER THE BIG CASH SNAPPER TOURNAMENT, EACH PARTICIPANT AGREES AND CONTRACTS TO RELEASE, INDEMNIFY, AND HOLD HARMLESS BIG CASH SNAPPER, LLC, ITS OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, REPRESENTATIVES, THE TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR AND ALL COMMITTEE PERSONS, THE TOURNAMENT SPONSORS, AND WEIGH-IN STATION OWNERS AND THEIR RESPECTIVE OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, AND REPRESENTATIVES FROM ANY AND ALL LIABILITY, CLAIMS, OR DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY MANNER WHATSOEVER CONNECTED WITH THE TOURNAMENT, INCLUDING ITS PLANNING, OPERATION, OR CONDUCT, AND INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO CLAIMS FOR PERSONAL INJURY, WRONGFUL DEATH, SURVIVAL DAMAGES, ECONOMIC LOSS, PROPERTY DAMAGES, OR CLAIMS RELATING IN ANY WAY TO THE AWARDING OF PRIZES IN THE TOURNAMENT. IT IS THE EXPRESS INTENTION OF THIS AGREEMENT THAT EACH ENTRANT IS INDEMNIFYING EACH OF THE FOREGOING RELEASED AND INDEMNIFIED PARTIES FROM THE CONSEQUENCES OF THEIR OWN NEGLIGENT CONDUCT, WHETHER SOLE NEGLIGENCE OR CONTRIBUTING NEGLIGENCE, GROSS NEGLIGENCE, OUTRAGEOUS MISCONDUCT, STRICT LIABILITY, COMMISSION OF TORT, BREACH OF CONTRACT, AND BREACH OF WARRANTY. THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN OF ANY MINOR ENTERING IN, REGISTERING FOR, OR FISHING IN THE TOURNAMENT DOES FURTHER CONTRACT AND AGREE THAT THIS RELEASE AND HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT SHALL BE BINDING UPON ANY MINOR ENTERING THE TOURNAMENT. WINNERS WILL BE REQUIRED TO EXECUTE AN ADDITIONAL RELEASE, INDEMNITY, AND HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT UPON RECEIPT OF ANY PRIZE.

Dispute Resolution

ANY CONTROVERSY OR CLAIM ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THE TOURNAMENT SHALL BE SETTLED BY BINDING ARBITRATION CONDUCTED IN Galveston,Galveston COUNTY, TEXAS, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE COMMERCIAL ARBITRATION RULES OF THE AMERICAN ARBITRATION ASSOCIATION. JUDGMENT UPON THE AWARD RENDERED MAY BE ENTERED IN ANY COURT HAVING JURISDICTION THEREOF.

Attorney's Fees

SHOULD LITIGATION OR ARBITRATION RESULT BETWEEN A PARTICIPANT AND BIG CASH SNAPPER, LLC, THE PREVAILING PARTY IN SUCH LITIGATION OR ARBITRATION SHALL BE ENTITLED TO RECOVER REASONABLE ATTORNEY'S FEES AND COSTS.

Governing Law

These Official Rules shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas, without regard to its conflict of laws principles.  

Severability

If any provision of these Official Rules is held to be invalid or unenforceable, such provision shall be struck from these Official Rules, and the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

Entire Agreement

These Official Rules, together with the Release and Indemnity Agreement and any other documents incorporated herein by reference, constitute the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede all prior or contemporaneous communications and proposals, whether oral or written.


BIG CASH SNAPPER
RULES & INFORMATION

1. Introduction

The Big Cash Snapper Tournament ("Tournament") is a competitive fishing event organized by Big Cash Snapper, LLC ("Organizer"). The Tournament is open to eligible participants who agree to abide by these Official Rules and all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

2. Tournament Directors

Brian Costley: (281) 932-6803, brian@bigcashsnapper.com

Caila Vu Beers: (832) 387-9256, caila@bigcashsnapper.com

Kelly Cook: (713) 263-4781, kelly@bigcashsnapper.com

3. Tournament Dates

The Tournament shall commence at 12:01 a.m. Central Standard Time (CST) on June 1, 2025, and conclude at 12:01 a.m. CST on August 31, 2025 ("Tournament Period"). Only fish caught within the tournament period shall be eligible for prizes. In the event that the Federal recreational private Red Snapper season is closed early, the Tournament period will be adjusted accordingly to coincide with this closure date. If the Federal recreational private Red Snapper season closes early, you can still fish if the State waters remain open for Red Snapper fishing.

4. Tournament Boundaries

The Tournament shall be conducted within the territorial waters of the State of Texas, including the common boundary waters of Texas and Louisiana as defined by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), and the extension of Texas borders seaward up to 200 nautical miles. Any fish caught outside these boundaries shall be ineligible for entry. (See Texas Territorial Waters Map)

5. Tournament Categories and Prizes

● Prize: $50,000

● Awarded to the participant who catches the heaviest (by weight) Red Snapper (Lutjanus Campechanus) during the Tournament Period.

● Minimum Weight: 20 lbs.

6. Eligibility and Registration

● 6.1 Age: Participants must be at least six (6) years old as of June 1, 2025.

● 6.2 Fishing License: All participants must possess a valid Texas fishing license appropriate for the waters in which they are fishing.

● 6.3 Registration: Participants must complete the official Tournament registration form and pay the applicable registration fee(s) prior to fishing in the Tournament; this can only be done by paying and registering online, a time stamped registration number will be issued to you by email. Any fish hooked or caught prior to timestamp will not be eligible to be entered in The Big Cash Snapper Tournament. The entire responsibility of the validity of the entry status falls solely on the entrant/angler.

● 6.4 Registration Fees:

- Big Cash Snapper: $30 plus applicable taxes

- World Record Snapper Bounty: $20 plus applicable taxes

- Captain's Cash Prize: No Fee

- Junior Big Cash Snapper: No Fee

- Registration Link:

https://tournaments.bigcashsnapper.com/big-cash-snapper- 2025/registration/

● 6.5 Payment: Registration fees can be paid online via major credit cards (Visa, Discover, MasterCard, American Express)

● 6.6 Multiple Registrations: Participants may register for both the Big Cash Snapper and World Record Snapper Bounty categories but must pay the respective fees. Participants may only be linked to one Captain. In the case of multiple registrations by the same angler, the first Captain linked on the initial registration will be eligible for the Captain's Cash Prize. If no Captain is linked on the first registration, no Captain's Cash Prize will be awarded.

● 6.7 Captain Eligibility: Captains may register for the Big Cash Snapper and World Record Snapper Bounty categories, subject to registration fees being paid. Captains are ineligible to link themselves, or another Captain, to their own registration for the Captain's Cash Prize. Therefore, if registered to another Captain, NO Captain Referral Cash Prize will be awarded if a Captain catches The Big Cash Snapper and/or World Record Snapper Bounty. Captain’s will be issued a registration number by email upon registering, to verify your information is correct.

● 6.8 Employee Exclusion: Employees of Big Cash Snapper, LLC, including salaried and commissioned employees, are ineligible to participate in the Tournament.

● 6.9 Minors: If a participant under eighteen (18) years of age wins a prize, the prize will be awarded to their parent or legal guardian.

● 6.10 Non-Transferable: All Tournament entries are non-transferable and non-refundable.

● 6.11 Responsibility for Accuracy: Participants are responsible for ensuring the accuracy of their registration information. Big Cash Snapper, LLC is not responsible for errors in anglers registration information . A time and date stamped registration number will be sent to you by email from each prize pool registered in, check this information to make sure it is correct.

7. Rules of Conduct

● 7.1 Compliance: All participants must comply with all applicable federal, state, and local fishing regulations, including those set forth by TPWD, as well as these Official Rules and the terms of the Release and Indemnity Agreement (see Section 14).

● 7.2 Fair Angling: All fish must be caught by the registered participant using a rod, reel, line, and hook.

● 7.3 No Electric Reels: The use of electric reels is strictly prohibited.

● 7.4 Eligibility of Vessels: Anglers are allowed to fish Head Boats (Party Boats), Private-for-Hire, and Recreational Vessels. Any Red Snapper caught under the all recreational quota (private angling and private-for-hire quota) will be accepted for weigh in.

● 7.5 Assistance: Once a fish strikes a bait or lure, including if the rod is in a rod holder, the registered angler must hook, fight, and land the fish without the aid of another person, except as specifically permitted herein. Assistance from another person is allowable only for the following: rigging tackle, casting, leadering, gaffing, netting, grabbing, or tail-roping the fish. Any manipulation of the rod or reel by another person after the fish has struck, except to set the hook, will result in disqualification.

● 7.6 No Transfer of Fish: The transfer of fish between Tournament participants is strictly prohibited.

● 7.7 Sportsmanship: All participants are expected to conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike manner. Unsportsmanlike conduct, as determined by the Tournament Director, may result in disqualification.

8. Documentation and Reporting

● 8.1 Immediate Notification: Participants must immediately notify a Tournament Director via text message to (713) 435-9307 upon weighing a fish over the 20lb minimum tournament requirement.

● 8.2 Photo Documentation: A photo will need to be taken showing the fish and angler on the scale with the weight clearly showing, also a photo of the scale certification.

● 8.3 Photo Submission: All photos and/or video documentation must be submitted via text message to (713) 435-9307 and emailed to all Tournament Directors. Contact: https://bigcashsnapper.com/contact/

9. Weigh-In Procedures

● 9.1 Official Weigh Stations: All fish must be weighed at an official Big Cash Snapper TX Weigh-in Station on certified scales and verified by a Tournament Weigh Master. See official Weigh Stations here: https://bigcashsnapper.com/weigh-stations/

● 9.2 Weigh-In Deadline: Fish must be weighed within twenty-four (24) hours of being caught. No fish will be accepted for weigh-in after 7:00 CST on September 1st, 2025.

● 9.3 Weigh-In Form: Participants must make sure the official weigh-in registration form is filled out in its entirety and signed by all necessary parties, failure to do so will deem fish ineligible. This form must be completed before the weigh-in deadline. The form is available at the weigh-in station or accessible online (link).

● 9.4 Condition of Fish: Fish must be in good condition, not frozen, spoiled, gutted, altered, or mutilated. The Tournament Director has the sole discretion to determine the condition of the fish.

● 9.5 Official Weigh Stations: (Open from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily during the Tournament Period)

- Sabine Pass Texas Parks and Wildlife: 409-971-2559

19335 S. Gulfway Drive Sabine Pass, TX 77655

- Port Isabel SouthPoint: 956-943-7926

500 S Point Dr Port Isabel, TX 78578

- Surfside Marina – Surfside: Santos 979-418-1768

827 Gulf Rd, Surfside Beach, TX 77541

- Fisherman’s Wharf – Port Aransas: Capt. Dee 361-815-1682

900 Tarpon St, Port Aransas, TX 78373

- Freeport Marina – Freeport: 916-719-2363

101 W Brazos St, Freeport, TX 77541

- Matagorda Harbor Bait & Tackle – Matagorda: Mark 979-637-0962

189 County Rd 213, Matagorda, TX 77457

- Pelican Rest Marina – Galveston: Marita 713-249-3022 or Rob 713-252-3097

7819 Broadway St, Galveston, TX 77554

- Galveston Yacht Basin – Galveston: Jessica Tafoya 409-765-5000

715 N Holiday Dr, Galveston, TX 77550

10. Tiebreakers

In the event of a tie in weight, the fish weighed in first shall be declared the winner. If the weigh- in times are identical, the participant who registered for the Tournament first shall be declared the winner.

11. Protest

● 11.1 Submission: Any and all protests must be submitted in writing to the BIG CASH SNAPPER Tournament Director at 509 Northview Friendswood, TX 77546, by 5:00 p.m. on September 12, 2025.

● 11.2 Requirements: The written protest must include the following:

- Protestor Information: Provide the name, address, and contact information of the protestor.

- Statement of Legal and Factual Grounds: Clearly state the legal and factual grounds for the protest, including a detailed explanation of why the protest believes the Big Cash Snapper Tournament Rules Committee and the Tournament Director’s decision was incorrect.

- Supporting Evidence: Include any relevant documents or evidence that support the protestor's claims.

- Relief Requested: Specify the relief or remedy sought by the protestor, such as the cancellation of the prize awarded or a re-evaluation of proposals.

- Signature: The protest must be signed by the protestor or an authorized representative.

12. Polygraph Examination

All participants, including minors (through their parent or legal guardian), agree to submit to a polygraph examination upon request by the Tournament Director. Failure to take or pass the polygraph examination will result in disqualification. Participants are responsible for their own travel expenses related to the polygraph examination. The Tournament Director reserves the right to order a polygraph test at any time.

13. Disqualification

● 13.1 Grounds for Disqualification: The following actions will result in disqualification from the Tournament:

- Violation of any federal, state, or local fishing regulations.

- Violation of any of these Official Rules.

- Failure to take or pass a polygraph examination.

- Unsportsmanlike conduct.

- Any act of dishonesty, fraud, or misrepresentation.

- Having been charged with or convicted of an offense as defined in TPWD Rules & Regulations or Chapter 66, Section 66.023 of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code ("Fraud in Fishing Tournaments").

● 13.2 Forfeiture: Any participant disqualified from the Tournament shall forfeit their entry fee and any claim to prizes.

● 13.3 Ban: Any individual disqualified under Section 13.1 shall be banned from participating in any future Big Cash Snapper tournaments.

14. Final Decisions and Prize Winner Responsibilities

● 14.1 Final Decision: The decisions made by the Big Cash Snapper Tournament Rules Committee and the Tournament Director are final and binding.

● 14.2 Tax Responsibility: Prize-winners are responsible for paying any applicable taxes and The winner will be given IRS form 1099.

The decision of the BIG CASH SNAPPER Tournament Rules Committee and the Tournament Director, in their sole discretion, shall be final on any matter.

15. Release, Hold Harmless, and Indemnity

IN CONSIDERATION OF BEING ALLOWED TO ENTER THE BIG CASH SNAPPER TOURNAMENT, EACH PARTICIPANT AGREES AND CONTRACTS TO RELEASE, INDEMNIFY, AND HOLD HARMLESS BIG CASH SNAPPER, LLC, ITS OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, REPRESENTATIVES, THE TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR AND ALL COMMITTEE PERSONS, THE TOURNAMENT SPONSORS, AND WEIGH-IN STATION OWNERS AND THEIR RESPECTIVE OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, AND REPRESENTATIVES FROM ANY AND ALL LIABILITY, CLAIMS, OR DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY MANNER WHATSOEVER CONNECTED WITH THE TOURNAMENT, INCLUDING ITS PLANNING, OPERATION, OR CONDUCT, AND INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO CLAIMS FOR PERSONAL INJURY, WRONGFUL DEATH, SURVIVAL DAMAGES, ECONOMIC LOSS, PROPERTY DAMAGES, OR CLAIMS RELATING IN ANY WAY TO THE AWARDING OF PRIZES IN THE TOURNAMENT. IT IS THE EXPRESS INTENTION OF THIS AGREEMENT THAT EACH ENTRANT IS INDEMNIFYING EACH OF THE FOREGOING RELEASED AND INDEMNIFIED PARTIES FROM THE CONSEQUENCES OF THEIR OWN NEGLIGENT CONDUCT, WHETHER SOLE NEGLIGENCE OR CONTRIBUTING NEGLIGENCE, GROSS NEGLIGENCE, OUTRAGEOUS MISCONDUCT, STRICT LIABILITY, COMMISSION OF TORT, BREACH OF CONTRACT, AND BREACH OF WARRANTY. THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN OF ANY MINOR ENTERING IN, REGISTERING FOR, OR FISHING IN THE TOURNAMENT DOES FURTHER CONTRACT AND AGREE THAT THIS RELEASE AND HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT SHALL BE BINDING UPON ANY MINOR ENTERING THE TOURNAMENT. WINNERS WILL BE REQUIRED TO EXECUTE AN ADDITIONAL RELEASE, INDEMNITY, AND HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT UPON RECEIPT OF ANY PRIZE.

16. Dispute Resolution

ANY CONTROVERSY OR CLAIM ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THE TOURNAMENT SHALL BE SETTLED BY BINDING ARBITRATION CONDUCTED IN GALVESTON, GALVESTON COUNTY, TEXAS, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE COMMERCIAL ARBITRATION RULES OF THE AMERICAN ARBITRATION ASSOCIATION. JUDGMENT UPON THE AWARD RENDERED MAY BE ENTERED IN ANY COURT HAVING JURISDICTION THEREOF.

17. Attorney's Fees

SHOULD LITIGATION OR ARBITRATION RESULT BETWEEN A PARTICIPANT AND BIG CASH SNAPPER, LLC, THE PREVAILING PARTY IN SUCH LITIGATION OR ARBITRATION SHALL BE ENTITLED TO RECOVER REASONABLE ATTORNEY'S FEES AND COSTS.

18. Governing Law

These Official Rules shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas, without regard to its conflict of laws principles.

19. Severability

If any provision of these Official Rules is held to be invalid or unenforceable, such provision shall be struck from these Official Rules, and the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

20. Entire Agreement

These Official Rules, together with the Release and Indemnity Agreement and any other documents incorporated herein by reference, constitute the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede all prior or contemporaneous communications and proposals, whether oral or written.