So it looks like the Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic in Destin, Florida is a go for 2020. There will be a few changes, fewer or no public events, but still an exciting tournament for all to enjoy. Here is the official announcement as reported on fishecbc.com:
IMPORTANT TOURNAMENT UPDATE
The Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic will take place June 17th-21st. We’ve monitored the impact and regulations surrounding the Coronavirus and feel we can hold the tournament safely and responsibly with no social or public events and by asking our participants to follow social distancing and other health precautions.
Over the next week we’ll be modifying procedures and updating the schedule. In the meantime we would like to take this time to thank our sponsors, staff, volunteers and most importantly our participants for your support. We’ll do our best to make this year’s event memorable!
A Bit of Background
For those of you new to the area, here's a little background on the tournament. The Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic began in 2003 with 45 teams and $329,625 in cash prizes. As of 2019, this popular tournament hosted 80 teams and $1,864,075 in cash awards! The highest prize paid was in 2018 for $2,040,200 when there were 91 teams participating.
So far the best years of fishing occurred in 2016 with 55 billfish and in 2013 with 118 gamefish weighed in. The record Blue Marlin was in 2015, weighing 899.6 lbs.
FAQs & Emerald Blue Marlin Classic Details
How do I monitor the Blue Marlin Classic online?
The WiFi at the marina has been upgraded for faster connections and CatchStat will provide live scoring and streaming video. Also, links to scoring and video will be published on the Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic website closer to the tournament.
Location: Sandestin® Golf and Beach Resort, Miramar Beach, Florida USA
Registration Contact Info:
Email: tournament@fishecbc.com
(Adam – adamalfonso@sandestin.com, Julia – julia@tournamentcontrol.com)
Website: www.fishecbc.com
Entry Fee: $6,000 (base entry) – $77,050 per team with optional entries
Purse: Over $2 million
Entry Limits: no limits on number or size of boats, open to both private and charter boats
Target Species: blue marlin (110” minimum), white marlin, sailfish, spearfish (release only), blackfin tuna (20 lb. & 12” minimum), yellowfin and bigeye tuna (20 lb. & 27” minimum), dolphin (20 lb. minimum), wahoo (20 lb. minimum)
Format: modified release: 110” minimum on blue marlin, release only on all other billfish species
Angling Rules: Entrants expected to follow the spirit of the IGFA Saltwater Angling Rules
Charities Supported: The Billfish Foundation, Sandestin Foundation for Kids
Keeping Social Distancing in Mind
Fishing is a relaxing enjoyable activity that can be enjoyed by the whole family. That's what makes it particularly popular during this time of social distancing. Even though some marinas, boat ramps or other facilities are closed at this time, coastal access to the water is still available.
Here are a few things to keep in mind to keep you and your family safe during a day out on the water.
1. Keep a hearty supply of hand sanitizer on hand, especially if you've had to stop for fuel or supplies. It's a good idea to wear a face mask inside any stores and be aware of the customer capacity.
2. Conservation is an even more important consideration, so ensure you comply with all bag and size limits.
3. Maintain social distancing with other boats, and refrain from rafting up with other crafts.
Posted by Tim Shepard - Broker on
Leave A Comment