The White Marlin Open, the world’s largest and richest billfish tournament, is introducing a major update to its 2026 format. For the first time in tournament history, participants will now be able to fish three out of six days – with the additional fishing day added to the end of the week — Monday, August 3 through Saturday, August 8, 2026.
Traditionally structured as a 3-out-of-5-day event, this change is in response to recent offshore weather challenges that have forced last-minute schedule adjustments. By formally adding Saturday as an optional fishing day, tournament organizers aim to provide greater flexibility and certainty for anglers and crews alike.
“Unpredictable weather patterns have made it increasingly difficult for teams to plan their fishing days,” said Madelyne Motsko, Tournament Director. “By extending the window to six days, we’re giving every crew a better chance to compete under fair and favorable conditions.”
Under the new format, teams will select three days to fish, but now from a broader six-day window — offering improved opportunities to align with optimal fishing conditions offshore. Registration for the 2026 White Marlin Open will take place Saturday, August 1, and Sunday, August 2, 2026, at Harbour Island Marina in Ocean City, Maryland.
With millions in prize money on the line and a growing international field of competitors, the White Marlin Open continues to evolve while preserving the spirit and prestige that has defined it for over five decades.
October 28, 2025