Tournament Overview
The Pacific Blue Marlin Challenge is an elite, invitation-only sportfishing tournament focused on breaking IGFA world records. Held in Kona, Hawaii, this competition challenges anglers to land 1,000+ lb. Pacific Blue Marlin using 30 lb. and 50 lb. test lines, while following IGFA rules. The tournament also supports billfish research by deploying satellite tags under the IGFA Great Marlin Race (IGMR).
Event Details
- Location:
- Kona, Hawaii
- Eligibility:
- Invitation-only (must be an IGFA member)
- Base Team Entry Fee:
- $2,000 per team (1 or 2 anglers)
- Team:
- Includes 1 or 2 anglers. Additional anglers can be added—see the registration form. Boat captains and crew are included for social events.
Tournament Schedule
- June 23, 2025:
- Opening Night (6:00 PM, HBGFC Clubhouse)
- June 24, 2025:
- First Day of Fishing (7:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
- June 25, 2025:
- Second Day of Fishing (7:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
- June 26, 2025:
- Final Day of Fishing (7:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
- June 26, 2025:
- Awards Night (7:00 PM, HBGFC Clubhouse)
Fishing Rules & Scoring
IGFA Rules Apply
Daily start at the green buoy outside Honokohau Harbor
Hook up and Catch Reports made by cell phone. Supported by video documentation.
Daily Weigh-in at Honokohau Fuel Dock
Scoring System:
- 30 lb test line = 400 points per tagged blue marlin
- 50 lb test line = 300 points per tagged blue marlin
- Weighed fish = one point per pound
*minimum weight of 400 lbs for 30lb test line or 500 lbs for 50lb test line.
Awards
Trophies for:
- High Points - Team
- High Points - Individual Angler
- High Points - Junior Angler
Additional prizes and recognition may be awarded based on tournament performance and sponsor contributions.