For the fourth consecutive year, the Guatemala Billfish Invitational delivered spectacular sailfish action while bringing together recreational fishing interests and the scientific community for a fun-filled, mutually beneficial three-day event.
The Billfish Invitational’s pro-am format allows anglers from around the world to fish with a select group of celebrities, with the proceeds benefiting Guatemala’s national commission for the protection of sailfish. Along with bragging rights and a prize package from sponsors, the winning team has their names added to the beautiful perpetual trophy that’s displayed prominently at Pacific Fins year-round.
The bite was as hot as ever this year with the 15 boats in the tournament totaling 446 sailfish and 3 blue marlin released during the three days of non-stop action on the water. With 44 sailfish releases worth 4,400 points, team King and I took this year’s top honors. Team Sirena was a close second with 4,200 points from 42 sailfish releases. Finishing in third place was team Fishy Business with 3,700 points from 34 sailfish releases and one blue marlin.
Dr. Nelson Erhardt and Bruce Pohlot from the University of Miami were on hand to present a lesson in sailfish conservation efforts and review data collected from satellite tagging of 8 of the 10 sailfish that were tagged during last year’s tournament.
This year’s celebrity guests included NFL Hall of Famer Warren Sapp, MLB Hall of Famer Wade Boggs, Food Network star chef Terry French and fishing television personalities Peter Miller, Scott Walker and George Gozdz.
