2023 Top Summer Sportfishing Events
Mark Your Calendars for the Premiere Summer Sportfishing Tournaments
Get ready, sportfishing enthusiasts! The summer tournament circuit is almost upon us, and we’ve got the latest and greatest line-up of premier summer sportfishing events that you absolutely cannot miss. What better way to spend your summer months than by participating in some of the most renowned fishing tournaments in the world? From Louisiana to Destin and all the way down to Port O’Connor in Texas, you won’t find a better selection of top-notch summer sportfishing events on the Gulf Coast and beyond. So mark your calendars and get ready to join some of the largest fleets in the world, break some records, and make memories that you’ll cherish for a lifetime!
MONGO Offshore Challenge | Starting May 1st
The MONGO Offshore Challenge is back and ready to determine who will reel in the biggest catch of the season! From May 1st to September, anglers can choose to compete in categories such as Blue Marlin, Swordfish, Tuna, Wahoo, and Mahi, and battle it out in the East, Gulf and Hawaii divisions. This event is an exciting and challenging competition, with winner take all prizes and optional pots. The MONGO format allows vessels of all sizes to participate as often as they like and creates a level playing field for all anglers.
Louisiana Gulf Coast Billfish Classic | May 4-6, 2023
Get ready for some world-class sportfishing in Louisiana! The Louisiana Gulf Coast Billfish Classic, the first premier summer sportfishing event of the season, is kicking off on May 4-6 at Hurricane Hole Resort and Marina in Grand Isle. Don’t miss your chance to participate in this thrilling competition.
Emerald Coast Billfish Extravaganza | May 11-13, 2023
Join the Emerald Coast Big Game Fishing Club for their inaugural Emerald Coast Billfish Extravaganza, set to take place in the beautiful Destin, FL. As a progressive and conservation-minded sportfishing club, the ECBGFC is committed to supporting the local community and protecting the billfish population. This tournament is designed to create a level playing field and reduce the pressure on blue marlin, with every billfish release earning a whopping 200 points, regardless of species.
Orange Beach Billfish Classic | May 16-21, 2023
The Orange Beach Billfish Classic is a legendary event, known for its impressive catches, incredible prizes, and unforgettable experiences. As the first leg of the Gulf Coast Triple Crown Championship series, this summer sportfishing event is a must-attend for serious anglers. Not only that, but it’s also the biggest contributor to The Billfish Foundation, making it a great opportunity to support a worthy cause. This family-oriented competition places a strong emphasis on team spirit, and it’s the only tournament on the Gulf Coast that’s run by fishermen, for fishermen.
The Gulf Coast Masters | May 22-28, 2023
Get your fishing gear ready for the ultimate sportfishing tournament of 2023! The Mobile Big Game Fishing Club is thrilled to host the Gulf Coast Masters, attracting 48 teams and over $726,000 in payouts last year. With a week of exciting fishing action planned at the Orange Beach Marina from May 22-28, 2023, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
Walker’s Cay Blue Marlin Invitational | May 24-27, 2023
Walker’s Cay fishing resort hosts the third annual Blue Marlin Invitational, drawing anglers worldwide to one of the premier big game fishing destinations. The sportfishing tournament features 50 boats, renowned anglers, three days of fishing, and a 1+ million dollar payout. Although the invitation request period for the 2023 tournament has closed, updates can be found on the tournament website.
Cajun Canyons Billfish Classic | May 30 – June 4, 2023
Head to the sportsman’s paradise this summer and join the action at the Cajun Canyons Billfish Classic. The event will be held at the Cypress Cove Marina, situated in the beautiful Venice, Louisiana. Experience the thrill of sportfishing with a modified-release format for billfish species and take a shot at winning big prize money for Blue Marlin, Tag or Release, Dolphin, Tuna, and Wahoo. No matter your level of expertise, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Mississippi Gulf Coast Billfish Classic | June 5-11, 2023
The Mississippi Gulf Coast Billfish Classic launches on June 5th at the Golden Nugget Casino & Hotel, offering its twenty-seventh edition of thrilling sportfishing. With its renowned offshore bite, impressive catches, and jaw-dropping cash prizes, the tournament promises an exhilarating atmosphere and non-stop gaming action.
Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic | June 21-25, 2023
Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the 21st annual Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic, the most lucrative offshore fishing tournament on the Gulf Coast. With the highest cash prizes and biggest buy-ins in recent years, this event is set to break records once again. Don’t miss out on the action at the Wind Creek Casino and Hotel-Atmore in Sandestin this summer. Join us for an exhilarating adventure filled with fishing, competition, and unparalleled excitement.
Baypoint Billfish Open | June 28 – July 2, 2023
Get ready to reel in big catches at the Bay Point Billfish Open, where Blue Marlin, Tuna, Wahoo, and Dolphinfish are just a few of the game fish species up for grabs. Catch and Release categories are also available for all Gulf of Mexico Billfish species. With a prize pool expected to surpass $1M in its inaugural year, cash awards will be given to the top three teams in each of the following categories: Blue Marlin, Catch and Release, Tuna, Wahoo, and Dolphinfish. Don’t miss out on the chance to compete!
Pensacola International Billfish Tournament | June 28 – July 2, 2023
The Pensacola International is more than just a summer sportfishing event, it’s a time-honored tradition that has been bringing people together for over 50 years. Located at the stunning Palafox Pier in downtown Pensacola, this event offers a unique and picturesque setting for anglers and spectators alike. But it’s not just the location that makes this tournament so special – it’s the commitment to providing a budget-friendly and family-oriented experience that keeps people coming back year after year. From the on-water excitement to the on land activities, the Pensacola International truly has something for everyone.
Blue Marlin Grand Championship | July 12-16, 2023
When it comes to sportfishing, the perfect combination of a skilled team and a stunning location can create a spectacle unlike any other. The Blue Marlin Grand Championship is the ultimate showcase of this winning formula, and it’s an event that no angling enthusiast should miss. Hosted at The Wharf in Orange Beach, this tournament marks the thrilling finale of the acclaimed Gulf Coast Triple Crown.
Texas Lone Star Shootout | July 18-23, 2023
The Lone Star Shootout is a highly anticipated Invitational Billfish tournament that boasts a fantastic format, entertaining activities, impressive rewards, and a remarkable dedication to charitable causes. Participants have the chance to go head-to-head with the top billfish teams on the Gulf Coast while indulging in exceptional sportfishing. Discover all the exciting elements that await you at the Lone Star Shootout.
MBGFC Billfish Limited Tournament | July 21-23, 2023
Dubbed as the monkey boat tournament, the Billfish Limited was specifically designed for small boats to take on the challenge of capturing larger fish. The tournament welcomes any size outboard-powered vessel and any vessel that is 36′ in length and under, regardless of power source. The MBGFC Billfish Limited Tournament is hosted at the prestigious Mobile Big Game Fishing Club Clubhouse, located at the stunning Orange Beach Marina.
MBGFC Ladies Tournament | July 28-30, 2023
Ladies, it’s time to reel in the excitement! Join us for the MBGFC Ladies Tournament on July 28-30, 2023, where the fierce and fabulous female anglers gather to show off their skills. Don’t miss out on this thrilling sportfishing competition!
Orange Beach Open | August 3-5, 2023
The Orange Beach Open is a family-friendly fishing tournament that’s all about creating unforgettable memories and enjoying some old-fashioned fun. Taking place from August 3rd – 5th at the Wharf Marina in Orange Beach, Alabama, this tournament is strictly trolling only – no live bait allowed. Plus, it’s a no-kill tournament, making it a great choice for ethical anglers.
MBGFC Labor Day Invitational | August 31 -September 4, 2023
One of the Gulf Coast’s premier fishing tournament, the Labor Day Invitational, promises anglers the opportunity to reel in more than just big fish – the chance to win some serious cash. Make your way to the Orange Beach Marina this Labor Day weekend and join in on the action.
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