White Marlin Open

Experience the thrill of the 54th Annual White Marlin Open, the world’s largest and richest billfish tournament, taking place August 2-7, 2027, in Ocean City, Maryland. For over half a century, this deep‑sea fishing phenomenon has drawn anglers and spectators from around the globe to compete for record-breaking catches—and massive payouts. Since its 1974 debut, the event has awarded more than $113 million in prize money. In 2024 alone, 282 boats competed for a staggering $7.2 million, with top anglers taking home millions for single white and blue marlin catches.

Boat registration begins the weekend of July 31st-August 1st at Harbour Island Marina in Ocean City and Cape May, NJ, followed by a captain’s meeting on Sunday evening via livestream. From August 2-7, boats will set sail daily between 8 AM and 3:30 PM, fishing any three days of their choosing, with weigh‑ins held each evening from 4:00 to 9:15 PM on the scales at Harbour Island. Anglers have the opportunity to hook a variety of species—white and blue marlin, tuna, wahoo, dolphin, and swordfish—with hundreds of thousands of dollars available across multiple entry levels, including new divisions for outboard and smaller boats.

Spectators are invited to join the action free of charge. “Marlin Fest,” a family-friendly beachside festival at the Inlet, runs daily 11 AM to 9 PM, offering live-streamed weigh-ins on jumbo screens, entertainment, vendors, food, and maritime fun. The Harbour Island Marina weigh-ins provide edge-of-your-seat excitement—where dramatic catches can shift fortunes in an instant.

With its signature mix of intense competition, community celebration, and legendary payouts—last year’s top white marlin winner pocketed approximately $3.9 million—the White Marlin Open is the highpoint of Ocean City’s summer season. Whether you’re competing for jackpot glory or cheering from the shores, this tournament delivers a once-a-year spectacle that blends sportfishing mastery with seaside festival vibes.

For more details on registration, prize breakdowns, tournament rules, accommodation packages, and sponsorship options, visit whitemarlinopen.com or contact the event organizers. Don’t miss your chance to be part of fishing history!