Band the Billfish Tournament Returns to the Crystal Coast

The Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament is history for this year, but that doesn't mean it's the end of sportfishing tournaments here on the Crystal Coast. The Morehead City waterfront is once again home to another big weekend of fishing. 

The North Carolina Ducks Unlimited (NCDU) Band the Billfish Tournament celebrates its 24th year on our coastal waters this weekend, July 26-28. The tournament raises funds and promotes awareness for the North Carolina wetland habitats as well as for the waterfowl breeding areas across the country.

Tournament events kick off Thursday, July 26 with the captains social and registration taking place at the Crystal Coast Civic Center in Morehead City. Fishing begins on Friday, July 27 from 9a.m. to 3p.m. with scales closing at 7p.m. and continues through Saturday, July 28 from 8a.m. to 2p.m. with scales closing at 6p.m. Weigh-ins occur at The Big Rock Landing.

The tournament wraps up on Saturday evening with the banquet and awards dinner at 7:30p.m. at the Civic Center. Individual awards including top lady angler and top greenwing angler are given, as well as awards for first, second, and third place for most points.

For a full listing of tournament events and details, visit the NCDU Band the Billfish Tournament's schedule of events page. Registration forms, tournament rules, and award categories can be found by visiting ncdubillfish.com.

Whether you are an avid sportfisherman (or sportfisherwoman) or you just like to throw a line in the water every now and again, the Crystal Coast is the place to be. Stay on our beaches, find some favorite fishing spots, and enjoy our coastal towns during your visit. We look forward to seeing you!

Do you have a favorite Crystal Coast sportfishing event? Tell us about it!