The 16th Annual Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic in Destin, Florida set new records this year with increased participation and cash awards.
Quick Stats from the Blue Marlin Classic:
# of boats: 91 (36 in 2017, 85 in 2016)
Average Size: 60 feet
Cash Awards: $2,040,200 ($624,675 in 2017, $1,952,750 in 2016)
Surprise Winners
They're calling it David vs Goliath when describing the winners of this year's Blue Marlin Classic. A team of high school students borrowed a boat, and managed to catch a record-breaking blue marlin, weighing in at 699.2 pounds. Now the team is busy splitting $131,040 in prize money.
This was a win based on pure desire, the boys had no boat, no money, just a dream of competing in the Blue Marlin Classic. Doug Terreson from Alabama agreed to supply the boat, a " 48-foot Viking named "Can't Deny It", plus the bait and fuel. The boys had to scrounge up the $6000 entry fee. Terreson and friend Keough acted as mate and skipper, the boys did the rest.
Final Results
- 1st Largest Marlin: 699.2 lbs
- 2nd Place: 665.2 lbs
- 3rd Place: 640.8 lbs
The Catch Statistics included:
48 Billfish Caught: 35 blue marlin, 12 white marlin, 1 sailfish
54 Gamefish Caught: 22 dolphin, 20 yellowfin tuna, 1 bigeye tuna, 11 wahoo
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