Contest Rules

1. The 2026 Marlin Photo of the Year Contest is open to eligible offshore fishing photographs submitted during the official entry period.
2. The submission period runs from Sept. 1 through Sept. 14, 2026.
3. Photographers may submit a maximum of two images. Entries should be submitted as high-resolution JPG files.
4. Following the close of submissions, the Marlin editorial staff will review all eligible entries and select the 10 strongest images based on photographic quality, composition, creativity, overall impact and their ability to capture the spirit of big-game fishing.
5. The 10 selected images will become the official finalists for the 2026 Marlin Photo of the Year Contest.
6. Public voting will take place from Sept. 15 through Sept. 30, 2026. The public will vote among the 10 finalist images to determine the overall winner.
7. One vote is permitted per valid email address. Finalists are encouraged to share their images and invite friends, family and followers to participate in the voting.
8. The finalist receiving the most valid public votes will be crowned the 2026 Marlin Photo of the Year.
9. The winning photograph and photographer will be featured and recognized in the 2027 Best of Big Game Annual Guide, published in December 2026, and the winner will also be honored at the 2027 Marlin Awards Ceremony.
10. A valid email address is required for voting. Automated, fraudulent or “bot” voting may result in disqualification.
11. By entering or voting, participants agree to receive communications from Marlin and consent to Marlin’s applicable Privacy and Data Policies. Participants may opt out of email communications or withdraw consent at any time.