One of the most anticipated events of the summer is the White Marlin Open, the premiere fishing tournament of the year in Ocean City. Long known as the “World’s Largest Billfish Tournament,” this year’s event, scheduled for August 4-8, marks the White Marlin Open’s 35th year of exciting fishing action.
The White Marlin Open generates terrific competition, excitement and great angling achievements. Not only is the tournament the world’s largest in number of boats and anglers, thousands of dollars are offered in prize money to the lucky angler who reels in the biggest billfish. The Open awards prize money for white marlin, blue marlin, tuna, wahoo, dolphin and shark. Of the six species of gamefish, three Maryland State Records have been landed while fishing the White Marlin Open.
The White Marlin Open is an event that can be fun and exciting for the spectators as well as the anglers. Early risers can view over 400 of the world’s most beautiful fishing machines race out of the Inlet each morning in search of a fish worth its weight in gold. Weigh-ins are held each evening of the tournament, from 4 to 9 p.m., at Harbour Island Marina, 14th Street and the bay, and are open to the public free of charge. It’s a great place to bring the whole family to watch the beautiful boats, view the day’s catch and join in on the excitement.
Parking tips: There is no parking available at Harbour Island. The Presbyterian Church on 14th Street, just a block away, offers parking for a small donation. Parking also is available at the Convention Center. Park for free there and then catch a trolley to the weigh-ins. For more information about the White Marlin Open, write: White Marlin Open, PO Box 737, Ocean City, MD 21843, or call 410-289-9229. You can also visit their web site at www.whitemarlinopen.com.
