The White Marlin Open is the largest billfish tournament in the world. The 53rd Annual runs August 3–8, 2026 out of Ocean City, Maryland, with a format change for 2026 — for the first time in tournament history, teams will fish three out of six available days, with the extra day added to the end of the week. The numbers speak for themselves: over $121 million paid out since 1974, 282 boats and more than 3,000 contestants in 2025, and a top individual prize of $3.9 million last year. Black Book has fielded vessels at the White Marlin Open with slips secured at Sunset Marina — one of the most sought-after positions on the docks during tournament week. Every boat in the fleet is privately owned, captain-maintained, and tournament-rigged. If you want to fish the WMO on the right build with a crew that competes at this level, this is where to start.
WMO availability is extremely limited. Slips fill months in advance. Inquire early.
Dates: August 3–8, 2026
Location: Sunset Marina / Harbour Island, Ocean City, Maryland
Annual: 53rd
Format: 3 out of 6 fishing days — new for 2026
2025 Purse: $7.24 million
Top Prize (2025): $3.9 million
Official Site: whitemarlinopen.com
Also fishing the Ocean City window? The Huk Big Fish Classic runs July 24–26. The MidAtlantic follows August 16–21.
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.
Huk Big Fish Classic
MidAtlantic Tournament
Virginia Beach Billfish Tournament
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.
