One of the most thrilling big-game fishing tournaments in the world is back! The 23rd Annual Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic (ECBC) returns to Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort® June 18–22, 2025—bringing high-stakes sportfishing, family-friendly fun, and unforgettable summer energy to Northwest Florida’s premier resort destination.
“The Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic has become a summertime tradition, and it’s all thanks to our generous sponsors and the passion of our teams including South Walton, Pelagic, Galati Yacht Sales, and MarineMax,” said Tournament Director Jason Draughn. “We’re excited to welcome back our anglers, crews, and spectators for another incredible year.”
With more than $2 million in cash and prizes, top-tier teams from across the Gulf Coast and beyond will compete to land the biggest blue marlin—each fish must measure at least 110 inches from the lower jaw to the fork of the tail to qualify. In past tournaments, winners have reeled in marlin weighing more than 650 pounds.
Beyond the blue marlin division, the tournament also features catch-and-release categories for blue marlin, white marlin, sailfish, and spearfish, as well as weighed competitions for tuna, wahoo, and dolphin (mahi-mahi)—scored one point per pound.
The tournament kicks off at noon on Thursday from the Destin Pass, with the biggest spectacle unfolding each evening at Baytowne Marina. Official weigh-ins on Friday and Saturday nights draw thousands of spectators who gather to watch the scales in action—cheering on crews as massive catches are hoisted on stage. The energy is electric, with live music setting the perfect summer vibe, vendor exhibitions showcasing coastal treasures, and on Friday night, fireworks lighting up the sky over the marina.
The ECBC is a qualifying event for the Florida Panhandle Billfish Series, InTheBite’s Captain of the Year Program, and the Gulf Coast Triple Crown Championship.
Early Bird Bonus: Teams that register by May 31, 2025, will be entered into a drawing to win $1,000 and complimentary dockageat Baytowne Marina during tournament week. To register, contact Julia Brakhage at julia@tournamentcontrol.com, call 910-264-3947, or visit fishecbc.com.
Also returning is the fan-favorite ECBC Golf Scramble, happening Wednesday, June 18, sponsored by Hancock Whitney Bankand Tito’s Handmade Vodka. Open to tournament anglers and sponsors, this friendly competition requires pre-registration. Entry fees are cash only. Sign up at fishecbc.com/scramble.
“We’re proud to host such a prestigious tournament that blends world-class sportfishing with the spirit of coastal camaraderie,” said April Sarver, Director of Marketing and Communications at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. “Whether you’re here to fish or simply soak up the excitement, this is a weekend you won’t want to miss.”
For full tournament details, registration, dockage, and the complete schedule of events, visit fishecbc.com. To book accommodations, call 800-320-8115 or reserve online at sandestin.com using Promo Code ECBC25.
About Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is a major destination for all seasons and all ages and was named the #1 Resort on Florida’s Emerald Coast. Sandestin invites guests to experience 2,400 acres and 70 charming neighborhoods featuring over 1,000 vacation rentals, condominiums, villas, town homes and Hotel Effie. As a member of Visit South Walton and Visit Florida, the resort features more than 7 miles of beaches and pristine bay front, four championship golf courses, 15 world-class tennis courts, 20 swimming pools, a 226-slip marina, a fitness center and spa. Shop, dine and play at the charming pedestrian village, The Village of Baytowne Wharf. New developments include Hotel Effie, a 250-room hotel that opened in February 2021, and Osprey Pointe which opened in the summer of 2020 adding an additional 77 vacation condominiums. For more info visit Sandestin.com @Sandestin | #Sandestin
