Destin Fishing Rodeo - Destin, Florida

05/31/2026

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who came out this evening to celebrate the life of our forever weighmaster, Bruce Cheves.
A special thank you to AJ's Seafood & Oyster Bar for their hospitality and support, and to the crew of the American Spirit Party Boat for providing such a meaningful and beautiful burial at sea and to Father Mike Hesse for his heartfelt prayers and words of comfort during the ceremony.. The love, stories, laughter, and memories shared tonight were a true reflection of the impact Bruce had on so many lives.
Seeing so many friends, family members, captains, anglers, and members of the Destin community gathered together reminded us just how deeply Bruce was loved. Your presence, kind words, and support have brought comfort during this difficult time.
Bruce spent his life bringing people together, and tonight was a fitting tribute to a man who meant so much to so many.
Thank you for helping us honor him in such a special way.
📸 Patrick Wilson

05/29/2026

05/26/2026

Just a reminder that if you'd don't have a boat to attend Bruce's Burial at Sea on Saturday, May 30th @ 6pm, please fill out the request form at the link below and we will try our best to get you on a boat.

If you are in need of a spot on a boat to attend the burial at sea for Bruce Cheves, please answer the following questions and we will try our best to match you with a vessel that has available space. *Space on vessels is not guaranteed. You will be contacted if a spot is available*

04/30/2026

RIP BRUCE. Sooo many memories and friends.
We will miss you so.

04/30/2026

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of a true Destin legend, Bruce Cheves—better known to so many as the Wandering Weighmaster.
For 41 incredible years, Bruce was the heartbeat of the Destin Fishing Rodeo, greeting anglers with a smile, a story, and an unmatched passion for the sport and this community. Whether you brought in a guppy or a Godzilla, Bruce made every catch feel like a winning moment.
His presence was larger than life, and his absence will be deeply felt. This year’s Rodeo will look a little different without him—but his legacy, laughter, and love for Destin and the Destin Fishing Rodeo will live on in every cast, every weigh-in, and every memory shared.
Please keep Bruce’s loved ones and rodeo family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Funeral arrangements will be announced soon. If you have a favorite memory or photo of Bruce, we encourage you to share it below as we celebrate a life that meant so much to so many.
Tight lines forever with fair winds and following seas, Bruce—you will never be forgotten. 🎣

04/28/2026

Helen, Ann and Amber went to visit today, we are happy to share - Bruce's sisters are welcoming the heartbeats that wish to visit our Weighmaster while he is in the Crestview Hospital on 151 E. Redstone Ave .
Room #274
(Be respectful of hospital's posted visiting hours)

If he is snoozing when you arrive - just say "Time is!" And his eyes will open right up!

He isn't Wandering anywhere, so go give him a hug and tell him you love him! He may toss in a story for ya! And to the ladies, he will ask you who has told you you're pretty today!

Let us know if you visit 🫶

04/27/2026

It is with heavy hearts that we share that our forever Weighmaster, Bruce Cheves, has been in the hospital for the past three weeks. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers. If you have memories or photos you’d like to share, we invite you to post them in the comments below.
Always remember—whether it is caught from a bathtub or a battleship, whether it is a guppy or a Godzilla—if you bring it to Bruce, he’ll make you famous.

04/26/2026

A huge congratulations to our newly crowned Miss Destin 2026, Kaylynn Ann Hayles! 👑✨
Our judges had the incredibly tough job of choosing from 10 AMAZING contestants—each one truly brought something special to the stage. We are so proud of all of these young women! 💙
Congratulations to our titleholders:
• Miss Destin 2026 – Kaylynn Hayles
• 1st Runner-Up – Estella Scoma
• 2nd Runner-Up – Kallie Causton
• 3rd Runner-Up – Kendra Quaranto
Special award winners:
• Miss Congeniality – Estella Scoma
• Humanitarian Award – Estella Scoma
• Miss Photogenic – Andreia Barcelos
• Video Excellence Award – Estella Scoma
What an unforgettable night celebrating talent, poise, and heart! 🌟