In 1903, a boatman by the name of Harry Wylie landed the first marlin ever caught on rod and reel. The catch, a striped marlin, set off a media whirlwind and anglers from around the world clamored to hook and fight a marlin of their own. That 125-pound marlin may sound small by today’s standards, but it kicked off the sport of big-game fishing — and it all happened off the east end of Catalina Island.
The island of Catalina plays an integral role in the history of big-game angling and it is only fitting that this small piece of real estate off of Southern California host the largest marlin tournament series on the West Coast — the California Billfish Series.
The three events that make up the California Billfish Series take place in September, during the peak of California’s striped marlin season. The Zane Grey Invitational kicks off the series, running from September 11-13. The Avalon Billfish Classic and the Catalina Classic run simultaneously from September 18-20. The format of each event is unique and attracts a wide cross section of offshore anglers.
The Zane Grey is a modified-release tournament with a twist. Any qualifying marlin brought back to the scale is awarded two points per pound for any weight above and beyond the minimum 165 pounds. That makes for some exciting weigh ins. The Avalon Billfish Classic is an all-release tournament for those anglers who want to score points for any undersized marlin they catch while participating in the crown jewel of the series, the Catalina Classic. Collectively, the tournaments represent the top marlin events in the western United States.
For nearly two decades, the Catalina Classic has been known as the largest marlin tournament in California, with the biggest payouts and a mystique that few other events can match. With its range of optional daily jackpots that can send the prize money into the high six-figure range and an award’s banquet hosted in the historical Casino Building, the Classic is a one-of-a-kind event.
A new team took over the California Billfish Series in 2011 and aims to bring the luster and good times back to Catalina. The owners of www.BDoutdoors.com, the largest saltwater fishing website on the net, plans to improve upon the events with larger festivities and more boats. They will also bring back the top-notch dinners and prizes this event has always been known for.
Ali Hussainy
The three striped marlin tournaments will all take place on Catalina Island without any changes to the formats and rules.
“The new team promises to host the events on Catalina Island no matter what the fishing conditions dictate.”
However, they may alter the tournament grid depending on current conditions to help participants find fish. Because at the end of the day, it’s all about catching fish, having some fun and enjoying your time on the island.
For more information, contact Tournament Director Ali Hussainy at ali@catalinaclassic.com or 858.560.5525.
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