The 67th Annual Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament wrapped up last weekend in Morehead City, North Carolina, delivering a thrilling week of sportfishing that drew global attention. With millions of dollars on the line, dozens of blue marlin caught and released, and a few rule-related twists, this year’s event lived up to its reputation as one of the premier offshore fishing tournaments on the East Coast.
On the final day of competition, Big Trouble, a 64-foot Precision, secured the top prize with a 517.1-pound blue marlin reeled in around midday and weighed in at 2:30 p.m. The fish earned the team both the overall tournament title and the Level V Fabulous Fisherman’s Prize, pushing their total earnings to an estimated $2.5 million. Their well-timed catch unseated previous leaders and underscored how quickly fortunes can change in this high-stakes event. What made it even more special was that mates Darrin Cox, 23, and Peter Wann, 37, each experienced Big Rock heartbreak in years past — Cox in 2023 aboard Sensation, when a 619.4-pound marlin was disqualified due to bite marks; Wann in 2010 aboard Citation, when his lack of a fishing license nullified a tournament-winning 883-pound marlin.
Throughout the week, several teams took turns at the top of the leaderboard. Bankwalker, led by Captain Bryant Montague with angler Lizzie Montague, was a strong early contender with a 449.7-pound marlin. Their fish held the lead until the final day and still finished near the top in a field of more than 270 boats.
A significant moment came when Marsh Madness was reported to be fighting a marlin late in the final afternoon. However, the fish was released without weighing, reinforcing the tournament’s ongoing commitment to conservation through its release division.
One of the most talked-about moments came on Day 5, when Southern Grace brought in what would have been the tournament's heaviest marlin—653.7 pounds. After review, tournament officials disqualified the catch due to a rule infraction related to fish mutilation (shark bite). While disappointing for the team, the decision highlighted the event's strict adherence to integrity and fair play.
Conservation remained front and center throughout the week. On Day 6 alone, 254 boats released a total of 70 billfish, including 40 blue marlin, 16 sailfish, and 14 white marlin. These numbers reflect the growing emphasis on sustainable fishing practices while still celebrating the sport’s competitive spirit.A Pillar of the Coastal NC Community
The Big Rock Tournament continues to be a hallmark event for Morehead City and the entire Crystal Coast region, drawing attention to the local fishing community and providing a major economic boost to area businesses each June. In addition to its economic impact, the tournament contributes millions to local charities and scholarships through the Big Rock Foundation.
With the 2025 tournament now in the books, teams, sponsors, and spectators are already looking toward 2026. For businesses operating along the coast—including charter services, marinas, and hospitality providers—events like Big Rock offer not only marketing opportunities but also a reminder of the importance of having risk management strategies in place to protect operations before, during, and after high-profile coastal events.
Need help protecting your marine-related business or coastal property?
Wells Insurance has over 100 years of experience serving the needs of the coastal North Carolina community. From charter boat coverage to commercial marine policies, we offer custom insurance solutions tailored to your risks.
Contact our team to learn how we can help you prepare for the unexpected—onshore or offshore.