Top 10 Saltwater Fishing Tournaments in the World

Updated May 22, 2025

5 min read

Top 10 Saltwater Fishing Tournaments in the World

fishing rod - saltwater fishing tournaments

Saltwater fishing tournaments are some of the most exciting events in sportfishing. With millions of dollars in prize money and world-class competition, these events bring anglers and fans together for unforgettable experiences. From high-stakes catches to thrilling weigh-ins, there’s something for everyone.

Here are the top 10 saltwater fishing tournaments happening around the globe. Check out the full list of events sponsored by Team Galati at the end.

Table of Contents

1. White Marlin Open

Ocean City, Maryland
Named the “Largest Participating Fleet” by Marlin Mag, the White Marlin Open is the biggest saltwater fishing tournament, by any standard. In 2024, the event featured 318 boats and a record prize pool of $8.59 million. Big marlin, large crowds, and serious payouts make this a must-see event each summer.

2. Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic

Sandestin, Florida
The Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic, or ECBC for short, takes place at the Baytowne Wharf, located within the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. With the prize topping over $849,000 last year, the Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic is truly a gem that you won’t want to miss. Sunday morning brunches for the awards ceremony are no stranger to this tournament, for the weigh-ins typically extend well into Saturday evening. The Village of Baytowne Wharf features an array of boutiques, eateries, galleries, and nightlife festivities – fun for the entire family!

3. Los Sueños Signature Triple Crown

Los Sueños, Costa Rica
Located in the warm tropics of Playa Herradura on Costa Rica’s lush Pacific coast, Los Sueños’ Resort and Marina is the proud sponsor of the world’s most competitive billfish tournament. We have proudly sponsored the Los Sueños Signature Triple Crown since it began in 2004. Over the years, the tournament has grown and attracts anglers from around the world. Teams travel from countries like Nicaragua, Venezuela, Brazil, Russia, and the United States to compete.

Costa Rica’s warm climate and calm waters support a thriving deep-sea ecosystem. These ideal conditions create an unmatched fishing experience at Los Sueños. The scenery, weather, and ocean life come together to make this tournament truly special.

4. Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament

Morehead, North Carolina
Back in the day, winners of the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament were said to be awarded a red children’s wagon filled with silver dollars. Well, it’s safe to say that times have changed, and the stakes are much higher. In 2024, a record 302 boats competed for over $7.5 million in prizes. The tournament week commences with a lady angler shootout, quickly following the main event, which offers participants a choice to participate in four of the possible six fishing days. Make a vacation out of it and head to North Carolina’s coast this summer for the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament.

5. Walker’s Cay Invitational

Walker’s Cay, Bahamas
The Walker’s Cay Invitational is a premier offshore fishing tournament held at the historic northernmost island in the Bahamas. Re-established in recent years, this invitation-only tournament has quickly regained its reputation for elite competition, stunning scenery, and first-class hospitality. With a focus on billfish and conservation practices like catch-and-release, the event draws top-tier anglers to a one-of-a-kind venue where luxury meets serious sportfishing action.

6. Bisbee’s Black & Blue Marlin Tournament

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
If your dream is to become a millionaire while getting a bronzed suntan, then be sure to participate in Bisbee’s Black & Blue Marlin Tournament and enter in as many of the optional jackpots as your wallet will allow. Bisbee’s Black & Blue Marlin Tournament in Cabo San Lucas is undeniably the wealthiest event in all of saltwater sportfishing. Additionally, Cabo San Lucas is one of sportfishing’s most premier destinations, so you’re already a winner the moment you drop your line into Cabo’s rich deep blue water. The 2024 tournament drew 174 teams with a total jackpot of nearly $7 million.

7. Viking Key West Challenge

Key West, Florida
Viking owners, mark your calendars. The Viking Key West Challenge is your chance to join the Viking family for an unforgettable mix of fishing, fun, and tropical vibes. This laid-back, family-friendly event is the perfect blend of serious sportfishing and all-out celebration. Spend your days chasing big game on the water, then unwind with live music, delicious food, and great company each night. This tournament provides a chance to connect, share stories, and create lasting memories with your fellow Viking owners.

8. Mississippi Gulf Coast Billfish Classic

Biloxi, Mississippi
Named “Best Odds Outside the Tournament” by Marlin Mag, the Mississippi Gulf Coast Classic is an angler and gambler’s paradise. Hosted at the lavish Golden Nugget Casino Hotel in Biloxi, Mississippi, this renowned billfish tournament is known for legendary catches—including the Gulf’s heaviest Blue Marlin at 1,054.6 pounds. Fire out to the deep blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico to take a shot at some marlin or tuna, then hit the tables for some Poker or Blackjack. In 2024, 81 teams competed for over $1.4 million. The heaviest blue marlin weighed 670.5 pounds.

9. Blue Marlin Grand Championship

Orange Beach, Alabama
Dubbed both the “Superbowl of Sportfishing” and the “Greatest Show in Sportfishing,” it’s safe to say that the Blue Marlin Grand Championship is enjoyed by many. The Blue Marlin Championship is held at the beautiful Wharf Marina — a premier event venue that is packed with entertainment during the tournament. From great restaurants and bars, and music venues with live acts, to VIP Yacht displays, the Wharf surely has something for everyone to enjoy. In 2024, anglers caught a record 106 blue marlin, and the winning fish tipped the scales at 650.4 pounds.

10. The Shootout – Production vs Custom

Abaco, Bahamas
The Shootout – Production vs Custom is a uniquely competitive and fun tournament that brings top production and custom sportfishing teams head-to-head in a battle for bragging rights. Held at the beautiful Abaco Beach Resort in the Bahamas, this event is known for its laid-back yet competitive spirit, excellent fishing, and legendary dockside camaraderie. It’s an invitation-only tournament that draws some of the most talented teams in the sport.

Sportfishing Tournaments Sponsored by Team Galati

We are honored to sponsor and partake in many great saltwater fishing tournaments while cheering on all our customers in the blue-water arena. View our full list of upcoming sportfishing tournaments sponsored by Team Galati.

Upcoming Tournaments