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
The Marlin Group Acquires Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series and Expands Global Footprint
For Immediate Release
For inquiries, contact [email protected]
March 26, 2025 — The Marlin Group has acquired the prestigious Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series (HMTS) from Capt. Jody Bright and Tropidilla Productions. This strategic expansion of a renowned tournament series in one of the sport’s most iconic destinations further strengthens The Marlin Group’s position as the world’s premier operator of international big-game fishing tournaments.
Founded in 1987 by Capt. Bright, the HMTS now comprises eight distinct tournaments held between March and September, with the majority taking place in June and July. Collectively, these events in 2024 fielded 162 boat entries that fished a total of 22 days and caught a series record of 437 marlin, of which 96 percent were tagged and released. The series was the first in Hawaii to pay a cash purse for tag and release, awarding more than $2.5 million in 2024.
“Hawaii is the birthplace of our sport and probably the most renowned fishing grounds for marlin and other big game,” says David Ritchie, CEO of The Marlin Group. “Through our other tournaments, we have already established a strong presence in the Atlantic, Caribbean, and Central America. The HMTS fills that missing piece, expanding our reach and solidifying our position as a truly global enterprise.”
To ensure a seamless transition, Bright will remain actively involved throughout the season, collaborating with Marlin staff to uphold the series’ esteemed standards.
“I have been looking for the right successor for almost 10 years and cannot imagine a better new owner than The Marlin Group,” says Bright. “I wanted to find an owner who could elevate this tournament series through a strong network of integrated media properties, while also having the chops in the fishing world to continue the high level of competition the HMTS events have cultivated. Obviously with the Marlin magazine platform and their roster of first-class tournaments, The Marlin Group fits the bill perfectly. I am excited to work with them towards a smooth transition this season, and to watch them elevate this series to new heights in the coming years.”
The Marlin Group’s acquisition of the HMTS adds another prestigious series to its distinguished owned and operated tournament portfolio, which also includes:
- Offshore World Championship: The championship of champions, a truly global tournament, hosted annually in Costa Rica, that brings together winning teams from various qualifying events worldwide.
- Bermuda Triple Crown: A series of three premier tournaments held in Bermuda, attracting top anglers from around the world for a chance at a purse that exceeded $5 million in 2024 and is targeted at $6 million in 2025.
- Scrub Island Billfish Series: Hosted in the beautiful British Virgin Islands, this series offers anglers the chance to fish the renowned North Drop.
- Los Cabos Billfish Tournament: An annual event in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, known for its competitive spirit, big blue and black marlin, and big payouts.
- Marlin Global Challenge: A worldwide competition that allows anglers to compete to catch the biggest blue marlin of the year in a winner-takes-all format.
With the acquisition finalized prior to the start of the first tournament of the series, The Lazy Marlin Hunt, all tournaments in the 2025 HMTS will operate under The Marlin Group’s ownership. Participants can register at konatournaments.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; and the Bermuda Triple Crown, 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
The Marlin Group Recruits Connor Motsko as Sales Director to Drive Growth and Expansion
For Immediate Release
For inquiries, contact [email protected]
March 18, 2025 – The Marlin Group is pleased to welcome Connor Motsko as its new Sales Director, further enhancing the group’s team of industry professionals. In this role, Motsko will drive growth across all group activities through his focus on business development and integrated sales. His appointment is effective immediately.
Based in South Florida, Motsko will report directly to Marlin Publisher Dave Morel. He will play a pivotal role in expanding sales, strengthening industry partnerships, and working closely with senior leadership to identify new product and service opportunities.
“Connor’s passion for sportfishing, deep ties to the industry and business background give him a unique understanding of both the competitive and business aspects of the market,” says David Ritchie, CEO of The Marlin Group. “He will be a great addition to our team and we’re excited to bring him aboard.”
Motsko’s career has been deeply embedded in the marine world. He is a co-shareholder in the renowned White Marlin Open in Ocean City, Maryland. Born into that environment, Motsko possesses a profound and unique understanding of big-game fishing and world-class fishing tournaments.
Beyond the realm of competitive angling, Motsko has successfully launched both business and non-profit ventures within the marine sector, showcasing his ability to identify opportunities and execute impactful strategies. With experience ranging from sales leadership in fast-moving consumer goods to working with major billfish tournaments, he has earned a reputation as a results-driven leader with a strong entrepreneurial mindset.
“Marlin has always set the standard in the sport fishing industry, leading the way with innovation, expertise, and a true love for the sport,” says Motsko. “I’m beyond excited to join the team, contribute to its legacy, and connect with a community that shares the same passion that I’ve had since I was young. This is an amazing opportunity and I can’t wait to get started.”
For more information, please visit www.marlinmag.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; and the Bermuda Triple Crown, 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
Marlin Global Challenge 2025: Ready to Join the Hunt?
For Immediate Release
For inquiries, contact [email protected]
- Global competition recognizes year’s biggest tournament-caught blue marlin
- Winner-takes-all jackpot
- Honored as a MARLIN Achievement of the Year
February 27, 2025 – The Marlin Group, the world’s largest big-game fishing network, is making waves in 2025 with the launch of the Marlin Global Challenge. This high-stakes showdown invites teams from across the globe to battle for the biggest tournament-caught blue marlin of the year, with a winner-takes-all jackpot that could change the game for the winning team. With an ambitious $1 million target prize for its inaugural year, this new event is set to become the most electrifying annual challenge in big-game fishing.
“We awarded more than $5 million in cash payout in our international tournaments in 2024, and we’re targeting a payout exceeding $6 million this year,” said David Ritchie, CEO of The Marlin Group. “We recognize that a target payout of $1 million in our first year of operating this new Challenge format represents an ambitious goal, but that’s the scale of event we are intent on building.”
The winning team of the Challenge will be honored as an Achievement of the Year winner in a special annual edition of Marlin in December, 2025.
“Marlin has been a global leader and big-game authority for more than 40 years,” said Jack Vitek, Editor-in-Chief of Marlin. “The trust we’ve earned with readers, clients and tournament participants over four decades uniquely positions us with the expertise and credibility needed to execute this competition.”
Running from April 1, 2025, to October 31, 2025, the Marlin Global Challenge invites anglers who are participating in recognized blue marlin tournaments anywhere in the world to preregister with the Marlin Global Challenge for their chance at the title. Only catches from established tournaments with certified scales, weighmasters, and witness verification will be eligible. The registered team that catches the heaviest blue marlin over 500 pounds during this time will claim the title. With no divisions or regional limits, this is a truly global tournament that anyone who fishes an established tournament can win.
“We created the Marlin Global Challenge to fill a demand in the big-game fishing world,” said Jennifer Dudas, Tournament Director for The Marlin Group. “Teams that fish competitively can now chase a globally recognized achievement, no matter where, when or how often they fish. Our format really makes it easy for teams to participate. I couldn’t be more excited for the launch of the Marlin Global Challenge.”
The entry fee for each team is $2,000, with 85 percent of the prize pool awarded to the single heaviest blue marlin caught among registered boats. Total payout will be dependent on the number of boats participating, and will be awarded following a rigorous verification process to ensure the integrity of the competition.
With its straight-forward format, global participation, and a hefty payout, the Marlin Global Challenge is an easy and fun way to raise the bar even higher on your tournament plans for the year. Learn more or register today at marlinglobalchallenge.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; and the Bermuda Triple Crown, 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’s Motorsports & Outdoor Group Announces Bold Expansion Plans for 2025
For Immediate Release
For inquiries, contact [email protected]
- Off-Road Expo shifts into high gear with a new home in Orange County
- Bigger, bolder and better—expanding the ultimate off-road truck experience
- Bonnier supercharges growth plans for all event franchises
February 20, 2025 – Bonnier LLC, operator of several national hunting and automotive consumer event properties, is making bold moves to elevate its event franchises in 2025. At the forefront of this transformation is the relocation of the nation’s premier off-road truck showcase, the Off-Road Expo. Moving from its longtime home in Pomona, Calif., the event is launching an exciting new chapter at the Orange County Fair and Event Center in Costa Mesa—promising a larger footprint with exciting new features for off-road enthusiasts.
“We’re not just relocating. We are reigniting ORE as an iconic brand,” said Tracy Feinsilver, the group’s Senior Vice President. “The OC Fairgrounds in Costa Mesa provides the perfect space for growth, enabling us to introduce new features and experiences that weren’t possible in the past. This will give us the chance to showcase what truly sets ORE apart in the truck community. Our goal is to continue evolving, engaging with clients, and offering unparalleled experiences in 2025 and for years to come.”
In its new venue, the ORE will introduce a major expansion in its layout and structure, designed to maximize attendee flow and increase engagement. The newly optimized layout will also accommodate new features and activations, bringing exciting opportunities for both exhibitors and attendees.
“The new venue will open up endless possibilities for growth and innovation, allowing ORE to build on its reputation as a premier event destination,” Feinsilver said. “This is a huge moment for the off-road truck and SUV community, and we’re thrilled to offer this exciting new chapter to our loyal exhibitors and attendees.”
For more information or to sign up as an exhibitor, see offroadexpo.com.
Collectively, Bonnier’s Moto & Outdoor Group reaches more than a million hunting and offroad enthusiasts annually through its on-site events and digital properties. In addition to the venue change for ORE, the group has aggressive growth plans across all of its core franchises:
Open Season Sportsman’s Expo
In 2025, Bonnier’s primary hunting franchise, the Open Season Sportsman’s Expo, will operate its 31st annual event in Columbus, Ohio and 39th annual event in Wisconsin Dells, Wis., as the company evaluates additional locations for expansion in 2026.
Street Machine Nationals
Car show enthusiasts know the Street Machine Nationals franchise as a cornerstone event with a strong legacy dating back to its launch in 1977. In 2025, Bonnier will operate events in Du Quoin, Ill. and St. Paul, Minn. Expansion is the target for this franchise, with more than a dozen locations already under consideration for the new year.
Sand Sports Super Show
Bonnier’s flagship event, the Sand Sports Super Show will once again attract thousands of side-by-side offroad vehicles and enthusiasts to Costa Mesa, Calif., with sights set on making this year’s show the largest ever.
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; Scrub Island Billfish Series; and the Bermuda Triple Crown. 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
Bonnier’s Motorsports & Outdoor Group Strengthens and Expands Leadership Team
For Immediate Release
For inquiries, contact [email protected]
- Tracy Feinsilver to head group as new SVP
- Kyle Cunningham named Director of Operations
- Recruiting underway to expand marketing team
January 29, 2025 – Bonnier LLC, operator of several national hunting and automotive consumer event properties, has announced organizational changes and investments that will expand Bonnier’s footprint within the outdoor enthusiast community.
Leading this expansion is Tracy Feinsilver, who has been named as Senior Vice President of Bonnier’s Motorsports & Outdoor Group. Previously, Feinsilver served as the group’s Vice President of Operations. For Feinsilver, the advancement represents a natural progression, given the sustained excellence he has demonstrated for the past six years across a broad spectrum of event management responsibilities.
“When we considered the leadership needs this group had for 2025, we didn’t have to look far,” said David Ritchie, Bonnier CEO. “In fact, we didn’t have to look at all, because the solution was already staring us in the face. Not only was Tracy Feinsilver a proven executor of events, he was universally respected within the team, and by our exhibitors, for his steady hand, thoughtful approach, and solutions-based thinking. Once we began exploring this opportunity with Tracy, it became clear that he was not only the right man for the job, he was the only person fully equipped to execute Bonnier’s vision for growth.”
Feinsilver will lead a proven team of full-time and contract employees, focused on growth and expansion within the group’s current footprint of event properties. Supporting Feinsilver is a strong cast of industry veterans.
The highly successful sales team of Melissa DeMonaco, Joe Sebergandio and Brandon Censky will continue to lead sales activities, while Kyle Cunningham, an automotive industry authority and member of the Bonnier operations team since 2021, has been named Director of Operations. “In his previous role as Special Features Manager, Kyle showed tremendous initiative and ingenuity, and was a gifted, reliable right hand in effectively managing a complex event operation,” Feinsilver said. “ I will rely heavily on him as we continue to introduce new features and activations across our entire portfolio.”
Kristie Leader, a brand activation and event marketing specialist with strong experience with clients including NASCAR and the Super Bowl, has been leading the group’s marketing initiatives since May of 2024. Leader works the dual purpose role of marketing Bonnier’s properties to potential sponsors and exhibitors, while also ensuring strong consumer attendance at every stop throughout the year. Leader is currently recruiting for a full-time marketing coordinator.
Tina Rollins will continue to manage Bonnier’s Exhibitor Services, a role she has excelled at for the past six years. Robert Eldridge will continue to manage Box Office operations. Their commitment and proactive approach ensure that all client needs are met seamlessly, making them vital parts of the team.
“We are fortunate to have an incredibly talented team of specialists who each bring a set of strong, complementary skills to the table,” said Ritchie. “Under Tracy’s steady and thoughtful leadership, they will most certainly thrive.”
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; Scrub Island Billfish Series; and the Bermuda Triple Crown. 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 Corporate
The Marlin Group Names Industry Veteran, Dave Morel, as Publisher
Natasha Lloyd, retiring after 28 years, to remain on board as Publisher Emeritus
For Immediate Release
For inquiries, contact [email protected]
January 17, 2025 – WINTER PARK, FL – The Marlin Group, the world’s largest big-game fishing network, has named industry veteran, Dave Morel, as Publisher. Morel, who previously served as the group’s Sales Director, replaces Natasha Lloyd, who is retiring from day-to-day responsibilities after 28 years of service. Lloyd will continue to manage special projects for the brand as Publisher Emeritus.
“When we brought Dave Morel aboard as Sales Director, we did so knowing that we were also hiring Natasha Lloyd’s eventual successor,” said David Ritchie, Marlin Group CEO. “Dave has been a successful sales professional for some of the biggest media brands in the boating and fishing industry. He’s launched his own magazine, so he knows intuitively how to balance the needs of the client against the needs of the reader. And he also has been a client, working to manage a vibrant boat dealership during turbulent times. We know the Marlin brand is in good hands under his leadership.”
For Morel, the appointment represents a natural progression of leadership after selling across Bonnier’s former network of marine brands, which included the appointment as Publisher of both Salt Water Sportsman and Sport Fishing.
“This is such an amazing opportunity,” Morel said. “We are coming off the most significant year of strategic enhancements in Marlin’s 40-plus-year history, as we transformed what was just a magazine into a fully integrated network of complementary business pillars. Where we had advertisers before, we now have brand partners who benefit from integrated products and solutions that span across traditional media channels as well as a robust portfolio of best-in-class experiential events. The Marlin Group stands as the undisputed flagship for the global big-game community, and to be named Publisher at a time where we are positioned to strengthen that standing further is truly a dream come true.”
In announcing her retirement, effective at the end of February, Lloyd looks back on an impressive legacy in the big-game fishing industry.
“For more than 28 years, Natasha has carried the Marlin pennant proudly, and we are incredibly grateful for the many wonderful years that she dedicated to Marlin and to Bonnier,” Ritchie said. “Natasha is an icon in this industry, and for good reason. Setting Marlin up for success has been her steadfast mission, and she’s done that yet again in her departure, by hand-picking her successor. We are excited for her and wish her the very best in the future.”
In her new Publisher Emeritus role, Lloyd will provide consulting services and manage special projects for The Marlin Group. Recruiting is currently underway for an Associate Publisher/Sales Director to join The Marlin Group in a leadership position, reporting to Dave Morel. Interested candidates can apply here.
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; and the Bermuda Triple Crown, 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.
- Published in Marlin