2024 White Marlin Open Fishing Tournament

Join the excitement at the 2024 White Marlin Open in Ocean City, Maryland! Compete for millions in prizes, enjoy Marlin Fest, and support marine conservation. Don't miss the world's largest billfish tournament from August 5-9.

Dates: August 5 - 9, 2024
Location: Ocean City, Maryland

The 51st Annual White Marlin Open, the world's largest and richest billfish tournament, is set to take place from August 5 to August 9, 2024, in Ocean City, Maryland. The tournament awards prize money for a variety of entry categories for top catches of white marlin, blue marlin, tuna, dolphin, swordfish, and wahoo. This prestigious five-day event, presented by Pure Lure, is expected to draw a massive crowd of anglers and spectators alike, continuing its tradition of thrilling competition and record-breaking catches.

A Look Back at 2023

Last year's tournament was nothing short of spectacular, featuring 400 boats, over 3,500 anglers, and an astounding $10.5 million in prize money. John Ols secured the top prize with his first-place blue marlin catch, weighing in at 640.5 lbs and earning a record-setting $6.23 million. The event showcased not only the skill and dedication of the participants but also the incredible community spirit and support that define the White Marlin Open.

What to Expect in 2024

Participants will once again compete for top honors in categories including white and blue marlin, tuna, wahoo, swordfish, and dolphin. The much-anticipated $50,000 white marlin ‘Winner Take All' category will return, adding an extra layer of excitement to the competition.

In addition to the fierce on-water action, Marlin Fest also runs from August 5 to August 9, 2024 from 11am to 9pm each day. This is a free family-friendly event held on the Inlet beach and will be sure to provide entertainment for all ages. Attendees can look forward to live music, delicious food, and various vendors, making it an enjoyable experience for both participants and spectators.

Open to All Anglers and Entry Levels

As the name implies, the White Marlin Open is open to all anglers, regardless of skill level. The tournament format levels the playing field, allowing novice anglers to win big, including the 2016 top winner who caught his first-ever white marlin and netted $1.6 million. There are no age restrictions, with young anglers also faring well, including a teenager who won the top white marlin award and another who took the top blue marlin prize.

One major reason for the tournament's popularity is its flexible format, allowing each boat to enter based on their budget, skill level, and targeted species. Anglers can register their boat to fish the White Marlin Open for as little as $1,600, competing for the $50,000 in guaranteed prize money. For those aiming higher, there are over 30 different added entry levels, with entry fees reaching over $100,000 for the chance to win more than $10 million. While the largest awards generally go to the billfish categories, tuna fishermen can also cash in by entering specific tuna added entry levels, where winnings can exceed a million dollars. This multifaceted format creates multiple tournaments under one umbrella, contributing to the White Marlin Open's unrivaled success and popularity.

Community and Conservation

The White Marlin Open is not only about the thrill of the catch but also about giving back to the community and supporting marine conservation efforts. The tournament partners with various organizations to promote sustainable fishing practices and protect the ocean's precious resources for future generations.

Join the Excitement

Whether you're an avid angler looking to test your skills or a spectator eager to witness the excitement, the 2024 White Marlin Open promises to deliver unforgettable moments and lasting memories. Mark your calendars and prepare to be part of this iconic event in Ocean City, Maryland.