The Marlin Group, the world’s largest big-game fishing network, has acquired The Pacific Cup, an international tournament that draws teams from as far away as New Zealand and Japan to the shores of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii each August.
The 2026 Pacific Cup will take place August 9-15, preceding the Big Island Marlin Tournament. This prime calendar slot gives participating teams the opportunity to extend their stay in Kona and double down on the competition—competing in both light- and heavy-tackle formats in a two-week run of world-class tournament fishing.
“This is a step forward in our efforts to draw greater international participation to Kona,” said David Ritchie, CEO of The Marlin Group. “The Pacific Cup has demonstrated innovation and stability each year since 2022 and has earned global respect for its light-tackle format. This tournament has the makings of a major international event. Now, with the full force of The Marlin Group behind it, that potential can be fully realized.”
The Pacific Cup’s signature 50-pound-class format offers a sharp contrast to the heavy-tackle battles that define most of the Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series (HMTS). It adds not only diversity, but depth—appealing to technical purists, international teams, and competitive crews seeking a unique angling challenge.
Crucially, the tournament’s founders—legendary Hawaii captains Boyd DeCoito and Simon Brown—will stay on board as co-chairs to ensure a seamless transition and preserve its competitive integrity and character that made the Pacific Cup a must-fish event.
“We started The Pacific Cup in 2022 because we saw strong, continuing interest among international teams for a light-tackle format that really challenged angling skill,” Brown said. “What began as an informal gathering has grown into a finely tuned operation, and with The Marlin Group now involved, we’re positioned to reach the next level. We’re excited to see what the future holds for the Pacific Cup.”
The Marlin Group’s acquisition of the Pacific Cup comes during a milestone first year at the helm of the HMTS—a season already marked by growth, fresh energy, and renewed global interest. Adding the Pacific Cup continues that momentum by adding a world-class, light-tackle event that complements Kona’s legacy and future.
“Jumping into the HMTS this season has shown me how ready this community is for thoughtful growth,” said Lacey Hagler, Tournament Director. “Kona’s energy is strong, and adding the Pacific Cup brings a new dimension—honoring technical skill and attracting even more international talent to this incredible fishery.”Teams looking to elevate their season—and their reputation—now have a new battleground. With the Pacific Cup now on board to complement the HMTS, Kona’s rich history in competitive sportfishing grows even stronger. Register now at pacific-cup.com.
