The Keli Wagner Lady Angler Tournament is one of the largest ladies-only billfish events in the world and the official opening event of Big Rock week in Morehead City, North Carolina. The 29th Annual runs June 5–6, 2026, with a one-day total release format out of Big Rock Landing. The tournament honors the memory of Keli Wagner, who lost her battle with cancer in 2008, with proceeds benefiting the local cancer clinic. The competitive field is serious — in 2023 the event drew 266 boats with a prize pool exceeding $396,000. Black Book has fielded vessels and crews at the KWLA and competed at the top of the leaderboard. If you want to fish the KWLA on a privately owned, tournament-rigged sportfish boat, this is where to start.
Availability for KWLA week is limited. Inquire early.
Dates: June 5–6, 2026
Location: Big Rock Landing, Morehead City, North Carolina
Format: One day, total release — billfish
Entry: $1,000
Official Site: thebigrock.com/lady-anglers
The KWLA opens Big Rock week — six days of competitive blue marlin fishing that follows immediately after.
Fish This Tournament on the Right Boat.
Black Book vessels are positioned across the most competitive billfish tournaments on the circuit. Privately owned, captain-maintained, and rigged to compete.
Christopher Perri Memorial Billfish Tournament
Charleston Billfish Invitational
Hatteras Village Offshore Open
Fish at the Highest Level.
Every inquiry is handled personally. Tell us where you want to fish, and we will match you with the right vessel and crew.
