Honorable Mention
Not all of the great tournaments out there are big-money events. Some tournaments are all about bragging rights, while others are all about the party. Here are a few tournaments that deserve mention. Even though they don't distribute millions of dollars, the prestige of winning one of these events is priceless.
? Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament. This prestigious club tournament draws anglers from across the globe and helped establish many of the rules used by today's events. Known as the HIBT, the event is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Dates: July 20-24. Info: www.hibtfishing.com.
? IGFA Offshore World Championship. With more than 115 qualifying tournaments around the globe, the IGFA Offshore World Championship is the largest tournament series in the world. Hailed as the "Olympics" of offshore fishing, the championship takes place in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Dates: May 10-15. Info: www.igfaowc.com.
? Club Nautico de San Juan International Blue Marlin Tournament. For more than half a century, this Puerto Rico event has attracted some of the sport's best teams. The event, known for its classy parties and great blue marlin action, went all-release back in 2003. Dates: August 28-September 3. Info: www.sanjuaninternational.com.
