The Marlin Group Expands Hawaii Tournament Lineup with Acquisition of The Pacific Cup
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For inquiries, contact [email protected]
- Acquisition strengthens The Marlin Group’s tournament offerings in Hawaii
- Challenging format rewards angler skill and team achievement
- Attracts competitive teams from across the globe
- Register now at pacific-cup.com
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii – October 7, 2025 — The Marlin Group, the world’s largest big-game fishing network, has acquired The Pacific Cup, an international tournament that draws teams from as far away as New Zealand and Japan to the shores of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii each August.
The 2026 Pacific Cup will take place August 9-15, preceding the Big Island Marlin Tournament. This prime calendar slot gives participating teams the opportunity to extend their stay in Kona and double down on the competition—competing in both light- and heavy-tackle formats in a two-week run of world-class tournament fishing.
“This is a step forward in our efforts to draw greater international participation to Kona,” said David Ritchie, CEO of The Marlin Group. “The Pacific Cup has demonstrated innovation and stability each year since 2022 and has earned global respect for its light-tackle format. This tournament has the makings of a major international event. Now, with the full force of The Marlin Group behind it, that potential can be fully realized.”
The Pacific Cup’s signature 50-pound-class format offers a sharp contrast to the heavy-tackle battles that define most of the Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series (HMTS). It adds not only diversity, but depth—appealing to technical purists, international teams, and competitive crews seeking a unique angling challenge.
Crucially, the tournament’s founders—legendary Hawaii captains Boyd DeCoito and Simon Brown—will stay on board as co-chairs to ensure a seamless transition and preserve its competitive integrity and character that made the Pacific Cup a must-fish event.
“We started The Pacific Cup in 2022 because we saw strong, continuing interest among international teams for a light-tackle format that really challenged angling skill,” Brown said. “What began as an informal gathering has grown into a finely tuned operation, and with The Marlin Group now involved, we’re positioned to reach the next level. We’re excited to see what the future holds for the Pacific Cup.”
The Marlin Group’s acquisition of the Pacific Cup comes during a milestone first year at the helm of the HMTS—a season already marked by growth, fresh energy, and renewed global interest. Adding the Pacific Cup continues that momentum by adding a world-class, light-tackle event that complements Kona’s legacy and future.
“Jumping into the HMTS this season has shown me how ready this community is for thoughtful growth,” said Lacey Hagler, Tournament Director. “Kona’s energy is strong, and adding the Pacific Cup brings a new dimension—honoring technical skill and attracting even more international talent to this incredible fishery.”
Teams looking to elevate their season—and their reputation—now have a new battleground. With the Pacific Cup now on board to complement the HMTS, Kona’s rich history in competitive sportfishing grows even stronger. Register now at pacific-cup.com.
About The Marlin Group
The Marlin Group is the world’s largest big-game fishing network reaching more than one million captains, anglers, mates and boat owners annually across a variety of touchpoints. The group publishes Marlin magazine, the industry’s No. 1 source since 1981, and operates the Offshore World Championship in Costa Rica; Los Cabos Billfish Tournament in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Scrub Island Billfish Series in the British Virgin Islands; Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series; the Bermuda Triple Crown; and the Marlin Global Challenge, making it the worldwide leader for international billfishing tournaments. Marlin Expeditions, formerly Marlin University, has led anglers on educational excursions to the globe’s top big-game fishing destinations for more than 20 years. The Marlin Group is a core division of the US-based outdoor adventure company Bonnier LLC.
Learn more at marlinmag.com and bonniercorp.com.
- Published in Events
Offshore World Championship 2026: Exciting Changes Ahead
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For inquiries, contact [email protected]
- Bring Your Boat. Bring Your Team. Fish Against the World’s Best.
- Lower Entry Fees. Bigger Jackpots. No Invite Needed.
- Register now at owc.catchstat.com
Quepos, Costa Rica – September 30, 2025 — The Offshore World Championship (OWC), long regarded as the “Olympics of Sport Fishing,” is throwing down the gauntlet in 2026 with a bold new format that redefines what it means to compete on the world’s biggest offshore stage with a chance to win the coveted OWC championship ring.
Scheduled for April 19-23, 2026, during Costa Rica’s flourishing tournament season, teams will no longer be assigned boats through random daily draws. Instead, they’ll bring their own—whether private or chartered—and battle it out on their terms, with their crew, and their gear. It’s a sea change designed to elevate the team experience, open the field to more contenders, and solidify the OWC as the true global big-game championship.
“This evolution has been a long time coming—and we’ve listened to the global big-game community every step of the way,” said David Ritchie, CEO of The Marlin Group. “We’re preserving everything that makes the OWC legendary—the prestige, the camaraderie, and the fierce competition—while unlocking new opportunities for serious teams to bring their best game. This is what a true world championship should look like.”
For the first time, teams can choose to compete from the OWC host facility at Marina Pez Vela in Quepos, or at any location of their choosing, so long as they fish within approved boundaries—a major logistical boost and another step toward making the OWC the most accessible, yet elite, competition in offshore sportfishing. As in years past, the weigh-ins, dockside activities and awards banquet will take place at Marina Pez Vela. The nearby luxurious Parador Nature Resort & Spa will host a lavish registration kickoff party and provide discounted accommodations for tournament participants.
Technology takes its place in the new era, too. Boats with or without omnidirectional sonar are welcome. To keep the playing field level, billfish released without the assistance of Omni will count more—striking a balance between cutting-edge tech and traditional sportfishing grit.
At the heart of this evolution, one thing remains sacred: anglers must hook and fight their own fish without assistance, in strict accordance with IGFA rules. This commitment honors the tournament’s legacy and ensures the OWC continues to reward true angling skill.
The new structure also slashes participation costs from the previous $15,950 entry fee. Qualifying teams—those invited to participate due to their win in an Official OWC Qualifying Event—can now enter for just $3,500. Open-entry teams are welcome to apply for the new base entry of $5,000, opening the tournament to a broader, more diverse, and hungrier competitive field.
And for those looking to up the ante, 2026 will introduce expanded optional jackpot categories—offering substantial cash payouts that many may not realize have become part of the OWC experience. While the event only began awarding cash two years ago, these new jackpots promise to make the stakes even more thrilling for those bold enough to enter.
Held each April at Marina Pez Vela, the OWC has attracted top-tier anglers from more than 70 nations across its storied history. In 2025, 34 teams from 19 countries released 591 billfish in one of the sport’s most electric weeks.
In 2026, a new era begins. Bigger field. Bolder format. Higher stakes. Charter boats will book fast—lock yours in now at marinapezvela.com, then head to owc.catchstat.com to register. This is your shot at one of the most coveted prizes in all of sportfishing: the OWC Championship Ring.
###
About the Offshore World Championship
Produced by The Marlin Group, the Offshore World Championship is the most internationally diverse billfish tournament on Earth. The tournament is operated under strict IGFA rules and serves as the final battleground where winners of qualifying events compete against the sport’s top competitive challengers, in a truly global big-game showdown.
About The Marlin Group
The Marlin Group is the world’s largest big-game fishing network reaching more than one million captains, anglers, mates and boat owners annually across a variety of touchpoints. The group publishes Marlin magazine, the industry’s No. 1 source since 1981, and operates the Offshore World Championship in Costa Rica; Los Cabos Billfish Tournament in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Scrub Island Billfish Series in the British Virgin Islands; Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series; the Bermuda Triple Crown; and the Marlin Global Challenge, making it the worldwide leader for international billfishing tournaments. Marlin Expeditions, formerly Marlin University, has led anglers on educational excursions to the globe’s top big-game fishing destinations for more than 20 years. The Marlin Group is a core division of the US-based outdoor adventure company Bonnier LLC.
Learn more at marlinmag.com and bonniercorp.com.
- Published in Events
The Marlin Group: New leadership to power tournament growth
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For inquiries, contact [email protected]
- New Pacific and Atlantic leadership structure introduced
- Lacey Hagler promoted to Pacific Tournament Director
- Search underway for Atlantic Tournament Director; Connor Motsko appointed interim lead
Winter Park, Fla. – August 15, 2025 — The Marlin Group, the world’s largest big-game fishing network, has announced key organizational changes to support continued growth across its expanding portfolio of big-game tournaments.
Following the acquisition of the Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series (HMTS), The Marlin Group is designating separate tournament directors for the Atlantic and Pacific. This geographic alignment allows for deeper regional focus and operational oversight, acknowledging the distinct business models, participant demographics, and logistical considerations unique to each market.
Lacey Hagler, Associate Tournament Director for the past four years, has been promoted to Pacific Tournament Director. She will oversee the HMTS, the Offshore World Championship in Costa Rica, and the Los Cabos Billfish Tournament in Mexico.
“Lacey has distinguished herself in service to these events since joining the team, and stepped up in 2025 to lead Bonnier’s integration of the HMTS,” said David Ritchie, Marlin Group CEO. “We have tremendous confidence in her ability to expand the group’s tournament operations across the Pacific region.”
Recruitment is underway for a new Atlantic Tournament Director to lead the Bermuda Triple Crown and the Scrub Island Billfish Series in the British Virgin Islands, with a focus on expanding existing operations and identifying new opportunities in the region. During the transition, Connor Motsko, Sales Director & Business Development lead, will serve as interim Atlantic lead. Motsko has deep-rooted sportfishing background and hands-on experience in working with top-tier tournaments.
These changes come as the organization announces the departure of Jennifer Dudas, former Tournament Director. The Marlin Group extends its sincere appreciation for her many contributions and years of service.
“This restructuring represents a thoughtful and necessary evolution in how we operate and scale our tournament business,” Ritchie said. “By aligning leadership within our key regions, we can stay laser-focused on delivering first-class events, building new opportunities for our partners, and continuing to elevate the global standard for competitive offshore fishing.”
Qualified candidates interested in applying for the Atlantic Tournament Director should apply via LinkedIn.
Key contacts:
- Press inquiries: [email protected]
- Pacific tournaments (Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series, Los Cabos Billfish Tournament or Offshore World Championship 2026): [email protected]
- Atlantic tournaments (Scrub Island Billfish Series, Bermuda Triple Crown 2026): [email protected]
About The Marlin Group
The Marlin Group is the world’s largest big-game fishing network reaching more than one million captains, anglers, mates and boat owners annually across a variety of touchpoints. The group publishes Marlin magazine, the industry’s No. 1 source since 1981, and operates the Offshore World Championship in Costa Rica; Los Cabos Billfish Tournament in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Scrub Island Billfish Series in the British Virgin Islands; Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series; the Bermuda Triple Crown; and the Marlin Global Challenge, making it the worldwide leader for international billfishing tournaments. Marlin Expeditions, formerly Marlin University, has led anglers on educational excursions to the globe’s top big-game fishing destinations for more than 20 years. The Marlin Group is a core division of the US-based outdoor adventure company Bonnier LLC.
Learn more at marlinmag.com and bonniercorp.com.
- Published in Marlin
Scrub Island Billfish Series Welcomes BVI Tourism as an Official Destination Sponsor
New partnership deepens regional ties and highlights the British Virgin Islands
as a world-class sportfishing destination
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For inquiries, contact [email protected]
Scrub Island, BVI – August 8, 2025 — The Scrub Island Billfish Series is proud to announce a new partnership with the British Virgin Islands Tourism Board, which has signed on as an official sponsor of the 2025 tournament.
As the tournament series continues to grow in prestige and participation, this collaboration underscores a shared commitment to promoting the BVI as a premier destination for world-class sportfishing and luxury travel.
Set in the heart of the Caribbean’s famed North Drop, the Scrub Island Billfish Series is a premier, two-leg tournament hosted at the luxurious Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina. The event attracts elite teams from around the world and is celebrated for its exceptional fishing, first-class hospitality, and stunning island setting.
The 2025 tournament will take place across two back-to-back legs strategically placed around the summer moon cycle, which historically coincides with peak marlin fishing:
- Leg One: September 4–8, 2025
- Leg Two: September 8–12, 2025
Participants and guests will enjoy luxury accommodations, private beaches, acclaimed dining, and full access to Scrub Island’s 55-slip marina—capable of hosting yachts up to 160 feet. The tournament offers cash prizes, bragging rights, and the coveted Series Champion title.
“We are incredibly honored to welcome BVI Tourism aboard as a key partner,” said Natasha Lloyd, Publisher Emeritus at Marlin. “Their support is a testament to the value and visibility that this tournament brings to the British Virgin Islands, and it reflects our mutual dedication to responsible sportfishing, economic growth, and unforgettable guest experiences. This partnership helps elevate the Series to even greater heights.”
With the addition of BVI Tourism as an official sponsor, the Scrub Island Billfish Series deepens its local connection and reaffirms its role as one of the Caribbean’s premier sportfishing events.
About The Marlin Group
The Marlin Group is the world’s largest big-game fishing network reaching more than one million captains, anglers, mates and boat owners annually across a variety of touchpoints. The group publishes Marlin magazine, the industry’s No. 1 source since 1981, and operates the Offshore World Championship in Costa Rica; Los Cabos Billfish Tournament in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Scrub Island Billfish Series in the British Virgin Islands; Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series; the Bermuda Triple Crown; and the Marlin Global Challenge, making it the worldwide leader for international billfishing tournaments. Marlin Expeditions, formerly Marlin University, has led anglers on educational excursions to the globe’s top big-game fishing destinations for more than 20 years. The Marlin Group is a core division of the US-based outdoor adventure company Bonnier LLC.
Learn more at marlinmag.com and bonniercorp.com.
About Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina, BVI
Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina is named after its location, a serene 230-acre private-island haven situated at the east end of Tortola in the British Virgin Islands. The luxury, AAA Four-Diamond hotel is tucked into a rugged cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and neighboring islands. The resort features 52 guest accommodations as well as a collection of two-, three-, four- and six-bedroom villas, the intimate Ixora Spa, world-class restaurants, two private beaches, on-site boutique, sundries shop with grab & go options, full-service provisions store and a 55-slip marina. Just offshore on its own private island is the all-new Marina Cay Bar & Grill serving lunch and dinner. The Scrub Island Marina offers exhilarating excursions through Dive BVI.
For more information, call toll free U.S. (877) 890-7444 or visit ScrubIsland.com.
About Mainsail Lodging & Development
Mainsail Lodging & Development is an award-winning, Tampa, Florida-based company specializing in hotel, furnished housing, and resort property management and development, marketing and sales. An established company with a dynamic entrepreneurial spirit, Mainsail prides itself in finding unique lodging opportunities with a purpose and applying its passion and expertise to each project. Founded by President Joe Collier with a combination of daring vision and dogged determination, Mainsail has built an impressive portfolio of top-branded properties throughout the southeastern United States and Caribbean. Each Mainsail property inspires guests with a distinct character and meticulously crafted, sophisticated style, from a private island resort, and urban culinary showplaces, to waterfront marvels, boutique southern hotels, and a historic jazz-era icon. Stay Sojo, Mainsail’s newest brand, provides short-term furnished living options across the country, while Mainsail Vacation Rentals manages a collection of private vacation homes in Florida and the Caribbean. To ensure long-term success and profitability, Mainsail relies on the dedication of its high-performing associates, a growing group of enterprising investors, and a commitment to giving back, every step of the way. MainsailHotels.com
- Published in Marlin
Big Names, Bigger Stories: The Marlin Podcast Arrives This September
The Marlin Group introduces an immersive new series
for big-game enthusiasts
For Immediate Release
For inquiries, contact [email protected]
Winter Park, FL — July 15, 2025 — The Marlin Group proudly announces the launch of The Marlin Podcast, a dynamic new extension of the iconic Marlin brand, debuting September 2025.
For more than 40 years, Marlin has been the trusted voice of big-game sportfishing. Now, The Marlin Podcast brings that legacy to life in a bold new format—delivering the stories, characters, lifestyle and culture that define offshore angling.
Hosted by Marlin’s Editor-in-Chief, Jack Vitek, The Marlin Podcast will feature candid, in-depth conversations with some of the most influential and colorful voices in the sport—from legendary captains and tournament teams to industry titans, conservationists, and innovators.
“For more than four decades, Marlin has captured the very best of big-game fishing through the written word and powerful photography,” said Vitek. “Now, The Marlin Podcast gives us a new way to tell those stories—directly from the voices of those who’ve lived them. The video podcast format offers a dynamic, personal and immersive experience for our audience, whether they’re on the road, on the water, or on the couch.”
Filming for The Marlin Podcast is already underway, with the first episodes set to launch in September 2025. The podcast will be published at least once a month across major streaming platforms and on marlinmag.com, and will be available in both audio and video formats.
The Marlin Podcast represents the next evolution of The Marlin Group’s mission to serve the offshore fishing community with premium content that informs, entertains and unites anglers around the world. As with the print magazine, digital content, tournament coverage, and video series, The Marlin Podcast is a testament to the brand’s ongoing commitment to elevating the voices and stories that make the big-game angling world so unique.
###
About The Marlin Group
The Marlin Group is the world’s largest big-game fishing network reaching more than one million captains, anglers, mates and boat owners annually across a variety of touchpoints. The group publishes Marlin magazine, the industry’s No. 1 source since 1981, and operates the Offshore World Championship in Costa Rica; Los Cabos Billfish Tournament in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Scrub Island Billfish Series in the British Virgin Islands; Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series; the Bermuda Triple Crown; and the Marlin Global Challenge, making it the worldwide leader for international billfishing tournaments. Marlin Expeditions, formerly Marlin University, has led anglers on educational excursions to the globe’s top big-game fishing destinations for more than 20 years. The Marlin Group is a core division of the US-based outdoor adventure company Bonnier LLC.
Learn more at marlinmag.com and bonniercorp.com.
- Published in Marlin
Bonnier Unveils Elevated Live Experiences Across Flagship Outdoor Shows
For Immediate Release
For inquiries, contact [email protected]
- Off-Road Expo partners with TERRA Crew for “Built to Destroy” experience
- General Tire returns as presenting sponsor for the Off-Road Expo
- Hammerking Productions brings King of The Hammers energy to the Proving Grounds at Sand Sports Super Show
Costa Mesa, Calif. (July 2, 2025) – Bonnier LLC, producer of premier national hunting and motorsports consumer events, is announcing new partnerships aimed at elevating two of its flagship fall shows. Leading the way is a high-impact collaboration with TERRA Crew—the gatekeepers of the off-road underground—to deliver daily “Built To Destroy Live” performances at Off-Road Expo, the nation’s top off-road truck event, taking place October 4-5 at the OC Fair & Event Center.
“Strengthening our partnership with TERRA Crew is a game-changer for Off-Road Expo,” said Tracy Feinsilver, Senior Vice President of Bonnier’s Motorsports & Outdoor Group. “Their energy, authenticity and unmatched connection with the off-road community will bring ORE back to its roots.”
Also returning in 2025, long-time partner General Tire has renewed its role as presenting sponsor of Off-Road Expo—strengthening a trusted alliance between one of the industry’s top tire manufacturers and the premier destination for off-road enthusiasts.
“We at General Tire are proud to return as the longtime presenting sponsor of the Off-Road Expo,” said Adam Keiser, Sr. Communications & Content Specialist, Continental Tire the Americas, LLC. “This event has always been a premier destination for off-road enthusiasts, and we’re especially excited about its move to Orange County this year. The new location opens the door to a fresh audience, and we look forward to connecting with both longtime fans and first-time attendees who share our passion for the off-road lifestyle.”
The Off-Road Expo presented by General Tire is the definitive annual gathering for off-road fans and industry leaders—featuring the biggest names in trucks, SUVs, UTVs, and high-performance gear. Now in its 25th year, Off-Road Expo continues to be a must-attend event for brands, builders, and enthusiasts alike. The 2025 edition, set for October 4-5 at the OC Fair & Event Center, promises to deliver the largest and most exciting show yet.
Also announced this week, Hammerking Productions—creators of the world-famous King of The Hammers and the Ultra4 Racing Series—will once again bring their adrenaline-fueled energy to the DRT Motorsports Sand Sports Super Show, returning September 19-21, 2025, in Costa Mesa, California.
Hammerking will produce an all-new Proving Grounds experience, delivering high-octane action as pro drivers put purpose-built race machines through their paces in front of a live audience. From raw horsepower to unmatched technical skill, the Proving Grounds promises edge-of-your-seat excitement for off-road fans of all stripes.
Whether you’re a seasoned desert racing devotee or a first-time showgoer, the 2025 Sand Sports Super Show is the place to see the latest in sand cars, UTVs, parts, accessories, gear, and innovation. The event attracts top-tier brands, influencers, and industry insiders, with exclusive product launches, live demos, show-only specials, celebrity meet-and-greets, and giveaways throughout the weekend.
Sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities are still available for both events. To learn more, contact the Bonnier sales team at [email protected].
For more information or to register as an exhibitor for the Off-Road Expo presented by General Tire, visit offroadexpo.com.
For details on the DRT Motorsports Sand Sports Super Show, visit sandsportssupershow.com.
###
About Bonnier
Bonnier is an outdoor adventure company that fuels passion for big-game fishing, motorsports and hunting. In its Motorsports & Outdoor Group, Bonnier engages with more than a million outdoor enthusiasts annually through a nationwide series of experiential events, including the Sand Sports Super Show, Off-Road Expo, Open Season Sportsman’s Expo, Street Machine Nationals car shows, and professional watersports shows. Bonnier also owns The Marlin Group, the world’s largest big-game fishing network. As publisher of Marlin magazine, the industry’s No. 1 source since 1981, The Marlin Group operates the Offshore World Championship in Costa Rica; Los Cabos Billfish Tournament in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Scrub Island Billfish Series in the British Virgin Islands; Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series; the Bermuda Triple Crown; and the Marlin Global Challenge, making it the worldwide leader for international billfishing tournaments. Bonnier is owned by Sweden-based Bonnier AB, a globally operating conglomerate with more than 200 years in publishing.
Learn more at bonniercorp.com.
- Published in Events
The Marlin Group Launches Enhancements with Hawaii Big-Game Season Opening
For Immediate Release
For inquiries, contact [email protected]
- Tournament Director Lacey Hagler to lead team of Hawaii veterans
- Expanded jackpot structure to increase payout
- Season-opening celebration planned for Kona Kick Off
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii – June 10, 2025 — The countdown is on for the 2025 Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series (HMTS), and The Marlin Group has announced a series of strategic enhancements ahead of what promises to be a thrilling summer of sportfishing action. Teams return to the Big Island’s fabled calm waters in late June for the Hawaii season kickoff.
“Since acquiring the HTMS in March, we’ve spent a lot of time listening to the teams in Kona, and the feedback has been incredible,” said David Ritchie, Marlin Group CEO. “The participants are excited about our plans for increasing the promotion of Hawaii’s incredible fishery, and they’ve expressed tremendous support for our plans to reinvest back in the tournament as we seek to elevate its profile across all activities.”
The HMTS tournament team will mainly consist of many familiar faces. Laura Dowsett will handle registration and payouts, Robbie Engelhard will be on the radio, and Capt. Bradley Damasco will lead tackle verification efforts. A rules committee, including HMTS founder Capt. Jody Bright, will be on hand to ensure fair competition. These respected Kona experts will ensure continued professionalism in what is one of the world’s most stringent competitions. The HMTS ranks the only tournament series in the world that requires that a fish be tagged to earn release points, while also verifying daily that all tackle adheres to IGFA rules.
Joining the HMTS leadership team this year is Lacey Hagler, who steps in as Tournament Director for the 2025 season. A tenured member of The Marlin Group’s tournament team and a familiar face in the big-game fishing community, Hagler brings a deep passion for the sport and years of tournament experience at the highest levels.
“Based on participant feedback, we’re introducing several elements to enhance the tournament experience for the 2025 season,” Hagler said. “These include a variety of event amenities to boost participant enjoyment, and an expanded optional jackpot structure designed to increase total payouts and broaden prize access to more teams. We’ve left base entry fees unchanged, and all core optional jackpots return—plus, we’re introducing several creative new ones as well. While fairness is paramount alongside the pursuit of granders, additional goals are to encourage friendly competition, and build an enduring camaraderie between teams, sponsors and the Kailua-Kona fishing community.”
Other investments that will debut at the Kona Kick Off include implementing CatchStat live-scoring software, official tournament apparel by Conch Republic Apparel, product giveaways, and trophies for winners. Several exciting new sponsors, including Lindgren-Pitman and GZ Lures, have joined alongside other returning HMTS sponsors, including presenting sponsor Coca-Cola, White Claw, POP Fishing & Marine, Hawaii Petroleum, Royal Kona Resort, and Kraken Fish Co.
These enhancements will take center stage at a season-opening celebration scheduled for June 27 at the Hawaii Big Game Fishing Club in Honokohau Harbor. The event will feature local food, entertainment, refreshments and giveaways. Marlin magazine’s Editor-in-Chief, Jack Vitek, will be on hand to meet anglers and hear feedback from the Kona sportfishing community as registration for the Kona Kick Off concludes. All HMTS participants are invited to attend.
About the Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series
Founded in 1987 by Capt. Jody Bright, the Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series is Hawaii’s preeminent billfishing competition, pitting the top Kona crews against one another for a season-long quest to be named HMTS Champion. The series comprises eight tournaments held between March and September. Points accrue throughout the season, while each individual tournament offers a unique mix of base and optional jackpots to drive strong competition within the Kona fleet. The HMTS was the first Hawaii tournament to pay cash for tagged and released fish, awarding a $2.5 million payout in 2024. Register at konatournaments.com
Upcoming tournaments:
- June 28-29: Kona Kick Off
- July 4-5: Firecracker Open
- July 7-9: Kona Throw Down
- July 11-13: Skins Marlin Derby
- July 18-20: Hawaii Lure Maker’s Challenge
- August 22-24: Big Island Marlin Tournament
- September 19-21: It’s a Wrap
About The Marlin Group
The Marlin Group is the world’s largest big-game fishing network reaching more than one million captains, anglers, mates and boat owners annually across a variety of touchpoints. The group publishes Marlin magazine, the industry’s No. 1 source since 1981, and operates the Offshore World Championship in Costa Rica; Los Cabos Billfish Tournament in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Scrub Island Billfish Series in the British Virgin Islands; Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series; the Bermuda Triple Crown; and the Marlin Global Challenge, making it the worldwide leader for international billfishing tournaments. Marlin Expeditions, formerly Marlin University, has led anglers on educational excursions to the globe’s top big-game fishing destinations for more than 20 years. The Marlin Group is a core division of the US-based outdoor adventure company Bonnier LLC.
Learn more at marlinmag.com and bonniercorp.com.
- Published in Other
Team Fish for Holly Wins the 2025 Costa Offshore World Championship
For Immediate Release
For inquiries, contact [email protected]
April 18, 2025 — Quepos, Costa Rica — The 2025 Offshore World Championship (OWC), produced by The Marlin Group and presented by Costa Sunglasses, once again affirmed its reputation as the world’s premier international billfishing tournament. Held April 6–10 at Marina Pez Vela, 34 teams representing 19 countries descended on Quepos, Costa Rica, each having qualified through top-tier tournaments worldwide.
Over three days of fishing, the fleet released 591 billfish—568 Pacific sailfish and 23 blue marlin—averaging more than 17 per team under idyllic tropical conditions on the water, and enjoying luxurious accommodations provided by the Parador Nature Resort & Spa back on land.
“The Costa Offshore World Championship embodies the spirit of international camaraderie and sportsmanship,” says Tournament Director, Jennifer Dudas. “We are deeply grateful to all participants who journeyed from around the globe to represent their homelands with such passion and integrity. Your dedication enriches this tournament’s legacy, and we eagerly anticipate welcoming you back next year.”
Claiming top honors, Team Fish for Holly delivered a commanding performance with 6,100 points and 29 billfish releases. Led by Capt. Robert Collins of Islamorada, Florida, the team—comprising Audrey Koocher, Ritchie White, Roy Godinez, and John Timura—fished aboard Top Notch, Monkey Shine, and Vuelto Loco over the three days. Their victory also honored the legacy of the Fish for Holly Sailfish Tournament, created in memory of Holly Given to support domestic abuse prevention in the Florida Keys.
Finishing in second place, Team Rake & Scrape of the Bahamas—representing the Lyford Cay Invitational Offshore Tournament—scored 5,400 points with 27 sailfish releases, fishing aboard Super Fly, Double Nickel, and Sueltalo II. Third place went to Team Sunshine Coast Game Fishing Club Classic from Australia, who also tallied 5,300 points with 24 sailfish and one blue marlin release.
Catherine “Cat” Bartels of Team Yellowfin earned both the Top Angler and Top Lady Angler honors with a standout performance that included 16 sailfish and one blue marlin for a total of 3,500 points.
The 2025 Costa Offshore World Championship reaffirmed its status as the zenith of international competitive angling, where excellence, tradition and sportsmanship converge in pursuit of greatness.
About The Marlin Group
The Marlin Group is the world’s largest big-game fishing network reaching more than one million captains, anglers, mates and boat owners annually across a variety of touchpoints. The group publishes Marlin magazine, the industry’s No. 1 source since 1981, and operates the Offshore World Championship in Costa Rica; Los Cabos Billfish Tournament in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Scrub Island Billfish Series in the British Virgin Islands; Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series; the Bermuda Triple Crown; and the Marlin Global Challenge, making it the worldwide leader for international billfishing tournaments. Marlin Expeditions, formerly Marlin University, has led anglers on educational excursions to the globe’s top big-game fishing destinations for more than 20 years. The Marlin Group is a core division of the US-based outdoor adventure company Bonnier LLC.Learn more at marlinmag.com and bonniercorp.com.
2025 Costa Offshore World Sponsors
The Costa Offshore World Championship is sponsored by many industry-leading companies, including title sponsor Costa Sunglasses, The Marlin Group, Marina Pez Vela, Parador Nature Resort & Spa, Bluefin USA, Yeti, Garmin, King Sailfish Mounts, AFTCO, Flor de Caña, IGFA, Bodo Muche Studio-Foundry, Pacifico Travel Services, Release Marine, 2Costa Rica Real Estate, VanMark Jewelry Designers, Coastal Carolina Cutting Boards, Star brite, Penn, Guy Harvey, Big T Lures, IWS ScaleMaster, Baby Je Creations, Ladies Love Pink, XTRATUF, danco sports, Port & Starboard and Conch Republic Apparel.
- Published in Marlin