Custom Shootout

The Custom Shootout returns May 13–16, 2026, at Abaco Beach Resort & Boat Harbour Marina. Hosted by Skips Tournaments, this invitation-only event assembles one of the most elite fleets of U.S. custom sportfish boats in the world.

Limited to just 50 custom inboard teams, 32 feet or larger, the Custom Shootout is a 100% billfish release tournament designed to showcase craftsmanship, performance, and competitive precision at the highest level.

Black Book Charters provides tournament-ready custom sportfish vessels for qualified teams competing in this prestigious event.

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The Most Elite Custom Fleet in Sportfishing

The Custom Shootout is exclusively reserved for invited custom boat teams. This is not a production-versus-custom debate — this is custom versus custom, where only premier builds take the stage.

Tournament Overview:

• Dates: May 13–16, 2026
• Location: Abaco, Bahamas
• Format: 100% billfish release
• Field: Limited to 50 invited custom inboard teams
• Minimum Size: 32 feet or larger

With a tightly curated field, every competitor arrives equipped and capable. This is one of the most respected custom-only tournaments in the Bahamas.

To coordinate your full spring schedule, view our Bahamas Fishing Tournament Calendar.

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Fishing Abaco in May

The Abacos sit along the edge of the Gulf Stream, offering prime access to bluewater billfish territory. May typically delivers:

• Blue Marlin opportunities
• Strong White Marlin activity
• Consistent offshore conditions

The Abaco fishery, combined with a concentrated, high-caliber field, makes the Custom Shootout both competitive and strategic for serious tournament anglers.

Learn more about how we structure events in our Sportfish Tournament Charter Guide.

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A Tournament That Gives Back

The Custom Shootout is an all-charity event supporting important causes both locally and nationally.

Proceeds benefit:

• Abaco Islands firefighters
• Local schools and community initiatives
• Breast Cancer Research Foundation
• International Game Fish Association
• Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital
• Additional nonprofit organizations

This event allows teams to compete at the highest level while directly supporting meaningful charitable initiatives.

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Charter a Custom Tournament Platform

Black Book Charters specializes in elite custom sportfish vessels built to compete in invitation-only tournaments like the Custom Shootout.

Our Bahamas Tournament Charter Packages include:

• Tournament registration coordination
• Logistics and marina planning
• Experienced, tournament-proven crews
• Fuel and operational cost projections
• Calcutta guidance and participation planning
• Full concierge-level support

We match teams with vessels that align with both competitive goals and tournament qualifications. Note: Bahamas charters are limited to vessels holding a valid Bahamas charter permit. Availability is restricted to approved boats only, please inquire for eligible options.

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Secure Your Custom Shootout Charter

With participation capped at 50 custom teams, vessel availability is highly limited. Qualified custom sportfish boats are reserved well in advance for this event.

If you have received a Custom Shootout invitation and are evaluating charter options, now is the time to secure your boat.

Contact Black Book Charters to review available custom vessels and coordinate your 2026 Custom Shootout campaign.

Charter Elite Sportfish Boats Around the World.