Michelle Gaylord, Tournament Director
[email protected]
While all efforts are made to keep this information current, all published rules shall be considered unofficial. Official rules will be distributed and announced at the registration check-in and captains meeting. All participants agree to the terms of these rules by participating in the tournament.
ENTRY:
Boats and participants competing in the Bermuda Billfish Blast July 3-7, Bermuda Big Game Classic July 10-14, or Sea Horse Anglers Club Billfish Tournament July 17-21 are eligible for the Bermuda Triple Crown (BTC) Billfish Championship 2026. There is no additional entry fee to compete in the championship. Winners receive Champion Rings, Trophies, Apparel and many other prizes. The series also offers optional jackpots to compete for cash awards.
RULES:
All participants competing in the BTC must follow the rules governing each qualifying tournament. Boats earning points do not have to use the same participants/anglers at each event. The sum of all official points earned at each qualifying event will determine the total points awarded for the BTC. The boat with the highest total points will win the series. In the event of a tie, the boat accumulating the points first will be the champion.
SCORING:
Each qualifying event has the same scoring system for billfish. Boats receive 500 points for blue marlin releases and one point per pound for every blue marlin that meets or exceeds the minimum 500-pound weight. White marlin, spearfish and sailfish are worth 100 points. Boats weighing undersized blue marlin are penalized 500 points plus two points for every pound the fish is underweight. Points are accumulated during the three events with the high point boat winning the championship.
AWARDS:
This is a boat championship with awards going to the boat with the highest point total. A total of four championship rings and trophies will be awarded to the winners at the final leg of the tournament series. Only registered anglers, captains and mates who competed in the qualifying events are eligible for the awards. The champion boat captain, mate and high point anglers will determine the recipients. Boats are not required to have the same team representative or anglers competing in each tournament.
All optional jackpot divisions are 85% payback. Only teams entered in the optional jackpots are eligible for jackpot cash and prizes. The tournament rules apply to all optional jackpots.
BTC OVERALL POINTS JACKPOT
$5,000
The fee to enter the BTC Overall Points Jackpot is $5,000 and is optional. Teams must register before their first entered tournament fishing day in the series to be eligible. The Bermuda Triple Crown Points Jackpot will be awarded to the top three teams with the most overall series points of the three event series and will be awarded accordingly;
First place 50%, Second Place 30%, Third Place 20%.
Only teams registered in the Bermuda Triple Crown Points Jackpot will be eligible for these cash awards
BTC BIG THREE MARLIN
$5,000
The fee to enter the BTC Big Three Marlin Jackpot is $5,000 and is optional. Teams must register before their first entered tournament fishing day in the series to be eligible. The BTC Big Three Marlin Jackpot will be awarded to the top three teams with the three largest marlin by weight in the series and will be awarded accordingly; First place 50%, Second Place 30%, Third Place 20%
Only teams registered in the BTC Big Three Marlin Jackpot will be eligible for these cash awards. In the event that no teams in the BTC Big Three Marlin Jackpot catch a qualifying fish (500 lbs or greater), the BTC Big Three Marlin Jackpot entry will be returned less a 15% fee. Only teams entered in this jackpot are eligible for these cash awards.
BTC HEAVY HITTER WINNER-TAKE-ALL
$10,000
The fee to enter the BTC Heavy Hitter Winner-Take-All Largest Marlin Jackpot is $10,000 and is optional. Teams must register before their first entered tournament fishing day in the series to be eligible. BTC Winner-Take-All Largest Marlin Jackpot will be awarded to the team catching the largest blue marlin by weight in the series.
Only teams registered in the BTC Winner-Take-All Largest Marlin Jackpot will be eligible for this cash award. In the event that no teams in the BTC Winner-Take-All Largest Marlin Jackpot catch a qualifying fish (500 lbs or greater), the BTC Winner-Take-All Largest Marlin Jackpot entry will be returned less a 15% fee. Only teams entered in this jackpot are eligible for these cash awards.
BTC CROWN JEWEL WINNER-TAKE-ALL TOP RELEASE POINTS JACKPOT
$20,000
The fee to enter the BTC Crown Jewel Winner-Take-All Top Release Points Jackpot is $20,000 and is optional. Teams must register before their first entered tournament fishing day in the series to be eligible. The BTC Crown Jewel Winner-Take-All Top Release Points Jackpot will be awarded to the top release points team of the Bermuda Triple Crown series. Only teams registered in the BTC Crown Jewel Winner-Take-All Top Release Points Jackpot will be eligible for these cash awards
AWARDS PRESENTATION:
The Bermuda Triple Crown Billfish champions will be recognized during the Sea Horse Anglers Club awards presentation July 21, 2026.
PRIZE DISBURSEMENT
Each registered team representative is in control of any prize winnings and must sign a prize disbursement form specifying how the funds are to be distributed. If the funds are intended to be disbursed to multiple parties, each party must fill out a form signing off on their portion of the winnings and specifying how the funds are to be distributed (check, ACH or wire), in addition to providing a signed form W-9, if applicable. Funds will be disbursed 30 days from receipt of all necessary documents, as long as all tournament entry fees have cleared the bank. All funds will be paid from a US bank account in US dollars.
Michelle Gaylord, Tournament Director
[email protected]
THE TOURNAMENT
The Bermuda Billfish Blast is a three-day, team-based event with top-team honors going to the team that accumulates the most points during the tournament. Prizes are awarded to the top three teams—first, second, and third place.
Additional awards are given to the team or teams that land the heaviest blue marlin and the largest meat fish by weight. There are also trophies and prizes for teams earning the most billfish release points.
Individual honors include awards for the high-point angler, top lady angler, and top junior angler (17 and under), each receiving a trophy and prize package.
Eligible species include blue marlin, white marlin, spearfish, sailfish, yellowfin tuna, bigeye tuna, and wahoo.
BASE ENTRY FEE
The base entry fee is $5,000 per team and includes up to six(6) registered anglers. This fee covers both tournament participation and access to all scheduled entertainment and social events for those six participants.
Guests are welcome to attend; however, they must purchase a participation ticket to access all scheduled entertainment and social events. Non-angler participation packages are $250 per person.
The tournament committee reserves the right to refuse entry to any individual, organization, or corporation.
OPTIONAL JACKPOTS
Jackpots are completely optional, and you must be entered into each specific category in order to be eligible for cash prizes. See “Prizes & Jackpots” for more information.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Event Locations: The Hamilton Princess Hotel. Weigh-ins and release video check in at the Barr’s Bay Park Waterfront.
July 3 — Final registration, captains’ meeting and kickoff party from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Hamilton Princess Hotel. Dinner is served at 6:30 p.m. The captain’s meeting will be held at 7:30 p.m.
July 4 — Fishing day: 8:30 a.m. start, 4:30 p.m. lines out. Release Video Check-In, Private Bar and Weigh Station at Barr’s Bay Park.
July 5 — Fishing day: 8:30 a.m. start, 4:30 p.m. lines out. Release Video Check-In, Private Bar and Weigh Station at Barr’s Bay Park.
July 6 — Fishing day: 8:30 a.m. start, 4:30 p.m. lines out. Release Video Check-In, Private Bar and Weigh Station at Barr’s Bay Park.
July 7 — Awards Banquet Dinner will be held at 6:30 p.m. at the Hamilton Princess Hotel.
ANGLERS AND CREW
Each boat must carry one designated captain and one designated mate at all times, without exception. Any changes to the captain or crew must be reported to the tournament committee prior to the start of fishing on that day.
A maximum of six registered anglers is allowed per boat. If an angler drops out, a replacement may be added, provided they are registered and the change is communicated to the tournament committee before the start of that day’s fishing. Designated captains and mates may also be registered as anglers.
Guests are permitted on board.
All participants are expected to conduct themselves with professionalism and good sportsmanship at all times—whether at the dock, underway, or while fishing.
TEAM REGISTRATION
Final registration will be held from 5:00 to 9:30 p.m. on July 3, 2026 at the Hamilton Princess Hotel. All preregistered teams, as well as those registering onsite, must have at least one representative present to collect tournament credentials and the captain’s bag.
To encourage maximum participation, registrations will remain open until 8:29 a.m. (Bermuda time) on July 4, 2026.
CAPTAINS MEETING
The mandatory tournament rules briefing will take place at 7:30 p.m. on July 3, 2026, at the Hamilton Princess. All anglers and captains are required to attend. Those who do not attend agree to be bound by any instructions or rule changes issued during the meeting, whether communicated verbally or in writing.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Cancellations made more than 30 days prior to the tournament start date will receive a full refund of the base entry fee and all optional jackpots. Cancellations within 30 days of the start date will receive a 50% refund of the base entry fee, along with a full refund of any optional jackpots.
CANCELLATION OF ENTIRE TOURNAMENT
If the tournament is canceled prior to any scheduled fishing days due to circumstances beyond Bonnier’s control—such as extreme weather, natural disasters, acts of terrorism, or other force majeure events—50% of the entry fee and 85% of any optional jackpot funds will be refunded.
If the tournament is canceled by Bonnier for any other reason, including insufficient participation, all entry fees and optional jackpot payments will be refunded in full.
Refunds will be issued to the Team Representative via ACH, check, or wire transfer within four weeks, provided all tournament entry fees have cleared the bank.
ELIGIBLE SPECIES
Blue Marlin, White Marlin, Sailfish, Spearfish, Yellowfin and Bigeye Tuna, and Wahoo.
FISHING DATES/TIMES
Tournament fishing days are July 4, 5, and 6. Lines-in: 8:30 a.m., Lines-out: 4:30 p.m. daily
Lines-in and Lines-out calls will be announced via tournament radio—no fishing is permitted before the “lines-in” call.
The tournament committee reserves the privilege of changing starting and finishing times for any reason it deems necessary.
LATE HOOK-UPS
Hookups occurring within the final 15 minutes of fishing must be called in immediately. If a fish is still hooked at lines-out, the angler may continue fighting until the fish is released, boated, or lost; however, tournament control must be notified once the fight ends.
FIGHTING TIMES
All fish must be at the weigh station, or the boat must be back in its slip, by 11:59 p.m. on the day of fishing.
RULES
IGFA angling and tackle rules apply unless otherwise stated. All registered anglers must hook and fight their own fish until it is released or boated. All participants—anglers, captains, and crew—are responsible for knowing, understanding, and complying with IGFA and tournament rules throughout the competition. Any participant who intentionally breaks these rules is subject to expulsion and disqualification, upon determination by the tournament committee, from this and future tournaments without a refund of any registration fees. For a complete list of IGFA angling and tackle rules, go to igfa.org.
BILLFISH RELEASE RULES
All teams are responsible for supplying and operating their own video equipment to verify billfish releases. To validate a catch, all recordings must be time- and date-stamped in accordance with the official time as stated by Tournament Control prior to each day’s fishing. Teams must use the official release cards included in the team packets received at the captains’ meeting, and it is their responsibility to ensure the cards are on board before fishing begins. Teams will be notified which release card to use prior to the start of each day’s fishing.
To score an official release, the video footage must include clear and sufficient evidence of the following:
After each release, the official time, species, and angler name must be recorded on the catch affidavit. The affidavit must be signed by each registered angler and the boat captain.
At the end of each fishing day, teams must bring their camera, signed catch-report affidavit, and all original video footage to Barrs Park for verification. Catch reports must be submitted by 7:00 p.m., unless a team is actively fighting a fish after lines out at 4:30 p.m.
POINTS
Overall points are determined by the combination of billfish release points and blue marlin weigh-in points.
Blue Marlin:
White Marlin, Spearfish, or Sailfish:
If a blue marlin brought to the scales does not meet the 500-pound minimum, the team will be penalized 500 points, plus two points for every pound under the minimum. For example, a 480-pound fish results in a 540-point penalty (500 points plus 40 additional points for being 20 pounds under), and no points will be awarded for that fish.
Any boated blue marlin must be weighed. Failure to do so will result in immediate disqualification from the remainder of the tournament and forfeiture of all previously earned points.
Only one blue marlin may be boated and weighed per day. All white marlin, sailfish, and spearfish must be released.
If a team is entered in the World Cup on July 4, 2026 and chooses to boat a second blue marlin, that fish will not count as either a catch or release in the Billfish Blast.
Once a blue marlin is boated, the team must photograph or video the fish while measuring its short length, girth, and tail circumference, and report those measurements to the tournament committee.
In the event of a tie, rankings will be determined by the team that first reaches the highest combined point total, based on release or boated time.
MEATFISH
Eligible species include yellowfin tuna, bigeye tuna, and wahoo. Scoring is calculated to the tenth of a pound for fish up to 200 pounds, and to the nearest pound for fish over 200 pounds. The minimum qualifying weight is 25 pounds.
Once a meatfish is boated and the team intends to weigh it, tournament control must be notified. Teams must use the designated card of the day and capture a photo or video of the fish with the card once boated; this will serve as the official time of catch.
In the event of a tie, the team that first reaches the highest score—based on the recorded time of the boated fish—will be awarded the higher placement.
WEIGH-IN/RELEASE VIDEO CHECK IN
The weigh station and release video check-in will be at Barr’s Bay Park.
CATCHSTAT
The Bermuda Billfish Blast tournament uses CatchStat for registration and team management and live scoring updates. All content on CatchStat is for entertainment purposes only. All content on CatchStat is for entertainment purposes only and may not reflect official standings or payout amounts. For official results, please contact the tournament committee directly.
BOATS WITH SONAR
Sonar devices may not be deployed prior to Lines In (8:30 a.m.) and must be powered off no later than 15 minutes after Lines Out (4:30 p.m.) each day.
LINE
Because the Bermuda Billfish Blast and the World Cup Blue Marlin Tournament are fished on the 4th of July, the line restrictions must be identical. Any line (monofilament, Dacron or braided line) with a manufacturer’s stated breaking strength of 100 pounds or less is accepted; also accepted is any line labeled as “IGFA-rated or Tournament-rated” with a breaking strength of 130 pounds or less. Backing of any size is permitted as long as the top shot does not exceed 130-pound-test IGFA or 100-pound manufacturers stated breaking strength. The catch shall be classified under the breaking strength of the first five meters of line directly preceding the double line, leader or hook. This section must consist of a single, homogenous piece of line.
LEADERS
The length of the leader is the overall length, including any lure or hook arrangement. In all line classes exceeding 20-pound (10 kg), the leader shall be limited to 30 feet (9.14 meters). The combined length of the double line and the leader shall not exceed 40 feet (12.19 meters) total. The tournament committee holds the right to examine any hook sets, line and/or leaders at any time during the event. Refusal to allow the committee to examine any hook sets, line and/or leaders will result in immediate disqualification from the event without a refund of any jackpot or registration fees.
RODS
Unlimited in use or numbers.
TEASERS
Unlimited in use or numbers.
BAITS
Live bait, dead bait, lures and any combination thereof are permitted in this tournament.
HOOKS
Bait must be rigged with non-offset circle hooks only. Artificial lures without natural bait may be rigged with conventional J-hooks.
RADIO/COMMUNICATIONS
The official tournament channel is 7 International. Tournament control may also be reached by phone or WhatsApp at (813) 928-6266 or the official radio Whatsapp group. If out of radio range, all catches must be reported via radio or phone as soon as possible.
Tournament control’s time will serve as the official time for all starts, hookups, and stops, without exception. All billfish releases and any boated blue marlin or meatfish intended for weigh-in must be reported to tournament control, along with the angler’s name and species. All hookups must be reported during the final 15 minutes of fishing each day.
The tournament channel is reserved strictly for official announcements and catch reports. Competitor communications must take place on alternate channels.
WEATHER
There is no weather committee. The tournament is conducted on a “fish at your own risk” basis. If any portion of the tournament is fished and a team or teams land or release fish that match the tournament’s eligible species and minimum weight limits, then prizes will be awarded.
PROTESTS
Participants may lodge protests against any catch which they believe was not made in accordance with these rules. All protests must be stated in writing and accompanied by $500. All protests will be settled the day of the incident. All protests on July 4, 5 and 6 must be in the hands of the tournament’s designated rules official by 7 p.m. on the day of the alleged incident unless there is a protest regarding a fish that comes to the scales late, in which case the deadline is extended one (1) hour following the weighed fish. The tournament committee may call a protest hearing at their discretion; a protest hearing is not guaranteed. The protesting party, as well as the accused team members, captain and crew, must be present in any official protest hearing. The tournament committee may refuse to consider any protest evidence not submitted at the protest hearing in the presence of the protested team. If the protesting or protested team fails to show up for the protest hearing, that team forfeits its right to submit evidence. Official tournament release video footage may only be viewed by the tournament committee and the team who submitted it. Decisions of the tournament committee with regard to protests are final, non-appealable, and nonjusticiable.
SPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT
All participants are expected to conduct themselves in a professional and sportsmanlike manner at all times. Any unsportsmanlike or threatening behavior toward tournament organizers or other participants—or any conduct deemed inappropriate by the tournament committee, at its sole discretion—may result in immediate disqualification of the entire team without refund and possible exclusion from future events.
The Bermuda Billfish Blast tournament committee reserves the right to update or change these rules at any time. By entering the Bermuda Billfish Blast tournament and paying the entry fees, all participants agree to abide by the tournament rules and accept all decisions made by the Tournament Committee as final.
Michelle Gaylord, Tournament Director
[email protected]
READ CAREFULLY! This Release affects your legal rights and its completion is a prerequisite for your enrollment and participation in the Bermuda Billfish Blast tournament (the “Tournament”). Your entry indicates your FULL acceptance of these terms.
By entering the Bermuda Billfish Blast tournament and paying the entry fees, I AGREE AS FOLLOWS: I am applying to participate in the Tournament; acceptance of my application is at the sole discretion of the Tournament organizers. In consideration of being permitted to apply for, enroll or participate in the Tournament and such activities as may be arranged for me in connection with such application, enrollment and participation (collectively, the “Tournament Activities”), individually for myself and on behalf of my personal representatives, heirs, assigns, executors, administrators, and next of kin, and as the vessel’s master (if I am the vessel’s master):
I HAVE READ THIS RELEASE AND FULLY UNDERSTAND ITS TERMS. I UNDERSTAND THAT I HAVE GIVEN UP SUBSTANTIAL LEGAL RIGHTS BY SIGNING IT. MY ACCEPTANCE AND TOURNAMENT ENTRY IS GIVEN VOLUNTARILY, WITHOUT ANY INDUCEMENT OR ASSURANCE BEING MADE TO ME, AND I INTEND MY ENTRY TO BE A COMPLETE AND UNCONDITIONAL RELEASE OF ALL LIABILITY TO THE GREATEST EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW.
Participants in Tournaments are advised to obtain their own insurance covering them and their vessel’s participation. By entering the tournament, I hereby affirm receipt of the rules of the Tournament. I also affirm that I will abide by and accept all decisions made by Tournament management.
In consideration for being permitted to enroll and participate in the Bermuda Billfish Blast tournament (the “Tournament”), I hereby agree to the following terms:
THE TOURNAMENT
The Bermuda Big Game Classic is a three-day, team-based event with top-team honors going to the team that accumulates the most points during the tournament. Prizes are awarded to the top three teams—first, second, and third place.
Additional awards are given to the team or teams that land the heaviest blue marlin and the largest meat fish by weight. There are also trophies and prizes for teams earning the most billfish release points.
Individual honors include awards for the high-point angler, top lady angler, and top junior angler (17 and under), each receiving a trophy and prize package.
Eligible species include blue marlin, white marlin, spearfish, sailfish, yellowfin tuna, bigeye tuna, and wahoo.
BASE ENTRY FEE
The base entry fee is $5,000 per team and includes up to six(6) registered anglers. This fee covers both tournament participation and access to all scheduled entertainment and social events for those six participants.
Guests are welcome to attend; however, they must purchase a participation ticket to access all scheduled entertainment and social events. Non-angler participation packages are $250 per person.
The tournament committee reserves the right to refuse entry to any individual, organization, or corporation.
OPTIONAL JACKPOTS
Jackpots are completely optional, and you must be entered into each specific category in order to be eligible for cash prizes. See “Prizes & Jackpots” for more information.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Event Locations: The Hamilton Princess Hotel. Weigh-ins and release video check in at the Barr’s Bay Park Waterfront.
July 10 — Final registration, captains’ meeting and kickoff party from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Hamilton Princess Hotel. Dinner is served at 6:30 p.m. The captain’s meeting will be held at 7:30 p.m.
July 11 — Fishing day: 8:30 a.m. start, 4:30 p.m. lines out. Release Video Check-In, Private Bar and Weigh Station at Barr’s Bay Park.
July 12 — Fishing day: 8:30 a.m. start, 4:30 p.m. lines out. Release Video Check-In, Private Bar and Weigh Station at Barr’s Bay Park.
July 13 — Fishing day: 8:30 a.m. start, 4:30 p.m. lines out. Release Video Check-In, Private Bar and Weigh Station at Barr’s Bay Park.
July 14 — Awards Banquet Dinner will be held at 6:30 p.m. at the Hamilton Princess Hotel.
ANGLERS AND CREW
Each boat must carry one designated captain and one designated mate at all times, without exception. Any changes to the captain or crew must be reported to the tournament committee prior to the start of fishing on that day.
A maximum of six registered anglers is allowed per boat. If an angler drops out, a replacement may be added, provided they are registered and the change is communicated to the tournament committee before the start of that day’s fishing. Designated captains and mates may also be registered as anglers.
Guests are permitted on board.
All participants are expected to conduct themselves with professionalism and good sportsmanship at all times—whether at the dock, underway, or while fishing.
TEAM REGISTRATION
Final registration will be held from 5:00 to 9:30 p.m. on July 10, 2026 at the Hamilton Princess Hotel. All preregistered teams, as well as those registering onsite, must have at least one representative present to collect tournament credentials and the captain’s bag.
To encourage maximum participation, registrations will remain open until 8:29 a.m. (Bermuda time) on July 11, 2026.
CAPTAINS MEETING
The mandatory tournament rules briefing will take place at 7:30 p.m. on July 10, 2026, at the Hamilton Princess. All anglers and captains are required to attend. Those who do not attend agree to be bound by any instructions or rule changes issued during the meeting, whether communicated verbally or in writing.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Cancellations made more than 30 days prior to the tournament start date will receive a full refund of the base entry fee and all optional jackpots. Cancellations within 30 days of the start date will receive a 50% refund of the base entry fee, along with a full refund of any optional jackpots.
CANCELLATION OF ENTIRE TOURNAMENT
If the tournament is canceled prior to any scheduled fishing days due to circumstances beyond Bonnier’s control—such as extreme weather, natural disasters, acts of terrorism, or other force majeure events—50% of the entry fee and 85% of any optional jackpot funds will be refunded.
If the tournament is canceled by Bonnier for any other reason, including insufficient participation, all entry fees and optional jackpot payments will be refunded in full.
Refunds will be issued to the Team Representative via ACH, check, or wire transfer within four weeks, provided all tournament entry fees have cleared the bank.
ELIGIBLE SPECIES
Blue Marlin, White Marlin, Sailfish, Spearfish, Yellowfin and Bigeye Tuna, and Wahoo.
FISHING DATES/TIMES
Tournament fishing days are July 11, 12, and 13. Lines-in: 8:30 a.m., Lines-out: 4:30 p.m. daily
Lines-in and Lines-out calls will be announced via tournament radio—no fishing is permitted before the “lines-in” call.
The tournament committee reserves the privilege of changing starting and finishing times for any reason it deems necessary.
LATE HOOK-UPS
Hookups occurring within the final 15 minutes of fishing must be called in immediately. If a fish is still hooked at lines-out, the angler may continue fighting until the fish is released, boated, or lost; however, tournament control must be notified once the fight ends.
FIGHTING TIMES
All fish must be at the weigh station, or the boat must be back in its slip, by 11:59 p.m. on the day of fishing.
RULES
IGFA angling and tackle rules apply unless otherwise stated. All registered anglers must hook and fight their own fish until it is released or boated. All participants—anglers, captains, and crew—are responsible for knowing, understanding, and complying with IGFA and tournament rules throughout the competition. Any participant who intentionally breaks these rules is subject to expulsion and disqualification, upon determination by the tournament committee, from this and future tournaments without a refund of any registration fees. For a complete list of IGFA angling and tackle rules, go to igfa.org.
BILLFISH RELEASE RULES
All teams are responsible for supplying and operating their own video equipment to verify billfish releases. To validate a catch, all recordings must be time- and date-stamped in accordance with the official time as stated by Tournament Control prior to each day’s fishing. Teams must use the official release cards included in the team packets received at the captains’ meeting, and it is their responsibility to ensure the cards are on board before fishing begins. Teams will be notified which release card to use prior to the start of each day’s fishing.
To score an official release, the video footage must include clear and sufficient evidence of the following:
After each release, the official time, species, and angler name must be recorded on the catch affidavit. The affidavit must be signed by each registered angler and the boat captain.
At the end of each fishing day, teams must bring their camera, signed catch-report affidavit, and all original video footage to Barrs Park for verification. Catch reports must be submitted by 7:00 p.m., unless a team is actively fighting a fish after lines out at 4:30 p.m.
POINTS
Overall points are determined by the combination of billfish release points and blue marlin weigh-in points.
Blue Marlin:
White Marlin, Spearfish, or Sailfish:
If a blue marlin brought to the scales does not meet the 500-pound minimum, the team will be penalized 500 points, plus two points for every pound under the minimum. For example, a 480-pound fish results in a 540-point penalty (500 points plus 40 additional points for being 20 pounds under), and no points will be awarded for that fish.
Any boated blue marlin must be weighed. Failure to do so will result in immediate disqualification from the remainder of the tournament and forfeiture of all previously earned points.
Only one blue marlin may be boated and weighed per day. All white marlin, sailfish, and spearfish must be released.
Once a blue marlin is boated, the team must photograph or video the fish while measuring its short length, girth, and tail circumference, and report those measurements to the tournament committee.
In the event of a tie, rankings will be determined by the team that first reaches the highest combined point total, based on release or boated time.
MEATFISH
Eligible species include yellowfin tuna, bigeye tuna, and wahoo. Scoring is calculated to the tenth of a pound for fish up to 200 pounds, and to the nearest pound for fish over 200 pounds. The minimum qualifying weight is 25 pounds.
Once a meatfish is boated and the team intends to weigh it, tournament control must be notified. Teams must use the designated card of the day and capture a photo or video of the fish with the card once boated; this will serve as the official time of catch.
In the event of a tie, the team that first reaches the highest score—based on the recorded time of the boated fish—will be awarded the higher placement.
WEIGH-IN/RELEASE VIDEO CHECK IN
The weigh station and release video check-in will be at Barr’s Bay Park.
CATCHSTAT
The Bermuda Big Game Classic tournament uses CatchStat for registration and team management and live scoring updates. All content on CatchStat is for entertainment purposes only. All content on CatchStat is for entertainment purposes only and may not reflect official standings or payout amounts. For official results, please contact the tournament committee directly.
BOATS WITH SONAR
Sonar devices may not be deployed prior to Lines In (8:30 a.m.) and must be powered off no later than 15 minutes after Lines Out (4:30 p.m.) each day.
LINE
The maximum line strength allowed is 130-pound-test. Tournament and/or non-tournament lines are eligible. If the line test stated on the label is 130 pounds or less, the line will be allowed in the tournament. The catch shall be classified under the breaking strength of the first five meters of line directly preceding the double line, leader or hook. This section must consist of a single, homogenous piece of line.
LEADERS
The length of the leader is the overall length, including any lure or hook arrangement. In all line classes exceeding 20-pound (10 kg), the leader shall be limited to 30 feet (9.14 meters). The combined length of the double line and the leader shall not exceed 40 feet (12.19 meters) total. The tournament committee holds the right to examine any hook sets, line and/or leaders at any time during the event. Refusal to allow the committee to examine any hook sets, line and/or leaders will result in immediate disqualification from the event without a refund of any jackpot or registration fees.
RODS
Unlimited in use or numbers.
TEASERS
Unlimited in use or numbers.
BAITS
Live bait, dead bait, lures and any combination thereof are permitted in this tournament.
HOOKS
Bait must be rigged with non-offset circle hooks only. Artificial lures without natural bait may be rigged with conventional J-hooks.
RADIO/COMMUNICATIONS
The official tournament channel is 7 International. Tournament control may also be reached by phone or WhatsApp at (813) 928-6266 or the official radio Whatsapp group. If out of radio range, all catches must be reported via radio or phone as soon as possible.
Tournament control’s time will serve as the official time for all starts, hookups, and stops, without exception. All billfish releases and any boated blue marlin or meatfish intended for weigh-in must be reported to tournament control, along with the angler’s name and species. All hookups must be reported during the final 15 minutes of fishing each day.
The tournament channel is reserved strictly for official announcements and catch reports. Competitor communications must take place on alternate channels.
WEATHER
There is no weather committee. The tournament is conducted on a “fish at your own risk” basis. If any portion of the tournament is fished and a team or teams land or release fish that match the tournament’s eligible species and minimum weight limits, then prizes will be awarded.
PROTESTS
Participants may lodge protests against any catch which they believe was not made in accordance with these rules. All protests must be stated in writing and accompanied by $500. All protests will be settled the day of the incident. All protests on July 11, 12 and 13 must be in the hands of the tournament’s designated rules official by 7 p.m. on the day of the alleged incident unless there is a protest regarding a fish that comes to the scales late, in which case the deadline is extended one (1) hour following the weighed fish. The tournament committee may call a protest hearing at their discretion; a protest hearing is not guaranteed. The protesting party, as well as the accused team members, captain and crew, must be present in any official protest hearing. The tournament committee may refuse to consider any protest evidence not submitted at the protest hearing in the presence of the protested team. If the protesting or protested team fails to show up for the protest hearing, that team forfeits its right to submit evidence. Official tournament release video footage may only be viewed by the tournament committee and the team who submitted it. Decisions of the tournament committee with regard to protests are final, non-appealable, and nonjusticiable.
SPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT
All participants are expected to conduct themselves in a professional and sportsmanlike manner at all times. Any unsportsmanlike or threatening behavior toward tournament organizers or other participants—or any conduct deemed inappropriate by the tournament committee, at its sole discretion—may result in immediate disqualification of the entire team without refund and possible exclusion from future events.
The Bermuda Big Game Classic tournament committee reserves the right to update or change these rules at any time. By entering the Bermuda Big Game Classic tournament and paying the entry fees, all participants agree to abide by the tournament rules and accept all decisions made by the Tournament Committee as final.
Michelle Gaylord, Tournament Director
[email protected]
READ CAREFULLY! This Release affects your legal rights and its completion is a prerequisite for your enrollment and participation in the Bermuda Big Game Classic tournament (the “Tournament”). Your entry indicates your FULL acceptance of these terms.
By entering the Bermuda Big Game Classic tournament and paying the entry fees, I AGREE AS FOLLOWS: I am applying to participate in the Tournament; acceptance of my application is at the sole discretion of the Tournament organizers. In consideration of being permitted to apply for, enroll or participate in the Tournament and such activities as may be arranged for me in connection with such application, enrollment and participation (collectively, the “Tournament Activities”), individually for myself and on behalf of my personal representatives, heirs, assigns, executors, administrators, and next of kin, and as the vessel’s master (if I am the vessel’s master):
I HAVE READ THIS RELEASE AND FULLY UNDERSTAND ITS TERMS. I UNDERSTAND THAT I HAVE GIVEN UP SUBSTANTIAL LEGAL RIGHTS BY SIGNING IT. MY ACCEPTANCE AND TOURNAMENT ENTRY IS GIVEN VOLUNTARILY, WITHOUT ANY INDUCEMENT OR ASSURANCE BEING MADE TO ME, AND I INTEND MY ENTRY TO BE A COMPLETE AND UNCONDITIONAL RELEASE OF ALL LIABILITY TO THE GREATEST EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW.
Participants in Tournaments are advised to obtain their own insurance covering them and their vessel’s participation. By entering the tournament, I hereby affirm receipt of the rules of the Tournament. I also affirm that I will abide by and accept all decisions made by the Tournament committee.
In consideration for being permitted to enroll and participate in the Bermuda Big Game Classic tournament (the “Tournament”), I hereby agree to the following terms:
THE TOURNAMENT
The Sea Horse Anglers Club Billfish Tournament is a three-day, team-based event with top-team honors going to the team that accumulates the most points during the tournament. Prizes are awarded to the top three teams—first, second, and third place.
Additional awards are given to the team or teams that land the heaviest blue marlin and the largest meat fish by weight. There are also trophies and prizes for teams earning the most billfish release points.
Individual honors include awards for the high-point angler, top lady angler, and top junior angler (17 and under), each receiving a trophy and prize package.
Eligible species include blue marlin, white marlin, spearfish, sailfish, yellowfin tuna, bigeye tuna, and wahoo.
BASE ENTRY FEE
The base entry fee is $4,000 per team and includes up to six(6) registered anglers. This fee covers both tournament participation and access to all scheduled entertainment and social events for those six participants. The tournament committee reserves the right to refuse entry to any individual, organization, or corporation.
OPTIONAL JACKPOTS
Jackpots are completely optional, and you must be entered into each specific category in order to be eligible for cash prizes. See “Prizes & Jackpots” for more information.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Event Locations: Kickoff will take place at Docksider Pub. Weigh-ins and release video check in at the Barr’s Bay Park Waterfront. Awards will take place at the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club.
July 17 — Final registration, captains’ meeting and kickoff party from 5 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Docksider Pub. The captain’s meeting will be held at 7:00 p.m.
July 18 — Fishing day: 8:30 a.m. start, 4:30 p.m. lines out. Release Video Check-In, Private Bar and Weigh Station at Barr’s Bay Park.
July 19 — Fishing day: 8:30 a.m. start, 4:30 p.m. lines out. Release Video Check-In, Private Bar and Weigh Station at Barr’s Bay Park.
July 20 — Fishing day: 8:30 a.m. start, 4:30 p.m. lines out. Release Video Check-In, Private Bar and Weigh Station at Barr’s Bay Park.
July 21 — Awards Banquet Dinner will be held at 6:00 p.m. at the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club.
ANGLERS AND CREW
Each boat must carry one designated captain and one designated mate at all times, without exception. Any changes to the captain or crew must be reported to the tournament committee prior to the start of fishing on that day.
A maximum of six registered anglers is allowed per boat. If an angler drops out, a replacement may be added, provided they are registered and the change is communicated to the tournament committee before the start of that day’s fishing. Designated captains and mates may also be registered as anglers.
Guests are permitted on board.
All participants are expected to conduct themselves with professionalism and good sportsmanship at all times—whether at the dock, underway, or while fishing.
TEAM REGISTRATION
Final registration will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on July 17, 2026 at Docksider Pub in Hamilton. All preregistered teams, as well as those registering onsite, must have at least one representative present to collect tournament credentials and the captain’s bag.
To encourage maximum participation, registrations will remain open until 8:29 a.m. (Bermuda time) on July 18, 2026.
CAPTAINS MEETING
The mandatory tournament rules briefing will take place at 7:00 p.m. on July 17, 2026, at Docksider Pub in Hamilton. All anglers and captains are required to attend. Those who do not attend agree to be bound by any instructions or rule changes issued during the meeting, whether communicated verbally or in writing.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Cancellations made more than 30 days prior to the tournament start date will receive a full refund of the base entry fee and all optional jackpots. Cancellations within 30 days of the start date will receive a 50% refund of the base entry fee, along with a full refund of any optional jackpots.
CANCELLATION OF ENTIRE TOURNAMENT
If the tournament is canceled prior to any scheduled fishing days due to circumstances beyond Bonnier’s control—such as extreme weather, natural disasters, acts of terrorism, or other force majeure events—50% of the entry fee and 85% of any optional jackpot funds will be refunded.
If the tournament is canceled by Bonnier for any other reason, including insufficient participation, all entry fees and optional jackpot payments will be refunded in full.
Refunds will be issued to the Team Representative via ACH, check, or wire transfer within four weeks, provided all tournament entry fees have cleared the bank.
ELIGIBLE SPECIES
Blue Marlin, White Marlin, Sailfish, Spearfish, Yellowfin and Bigeye Tuna, and Wahoo.
FISHING DATES/TIMES
Tournament fishing days are July 18, 19, and 20. Lines-in: 8:30 a.m., Lines-out: 4:30 p.m. daily
Lines-in and Lines-out calls will be announced via tournament radio—no fishing is permitted before the “lines-in” call.
The tournament committee reserves the privilege of changing starting and finishing times for any reason it deems necessary.
LATE HOOK-UPS
Hookups occurring within the final 15 minutes of fishing must be called in immediately. If a fish is still hooked at lines-out, the angler may continue fighting until the fish is released, boated, or lost; however, tournament control must be notified once the fight ends.
FIGHTING TIMES
All fish must be at the weigh station, or the boat must be back in its slip, by 11:59 p.m. on the day of fishing.
RULES
IGFA angling and tackle rules apply unless otherwise stated. All registered anglers must hook and fight their own fish until it is released or boated. All participants—anglers, captains, and crew—are responsible for knowing, understanding, and complying with IGFA and tournament rules throughout the competition. Any participant who intentionally breaks these rules is subject to expulsion and disqualification, upon determination by the tournament committee, from this and future tournaments without a refund of any registration fees. For a complete list of IGFA angling and tackle rules, go to igfa.org.
BILLFISH RELEASE RULES
All teams are responsible for supplying and operating their own video equipment to verify billfish releases. To validate a catch, all recordings must be time- and date-stamped in accordance with the official time as stated by Tournament Control prior to each day’s fishing. Teams must use the official release cards included in the team packets received at the captains’ meeting, and it is their responsibility to ensure the cards are on board before fishing begins. Teams will be notified which release card to use prior to the start of each day’s fishing.
To score an official release, the video footage must include clear and sufficient evidence of the following:
After each release, the official time, species, and angler name must be recorded on the catch affidavit. The affidavit must be signed by each registered angler and the boat captain.
At the end of each fishing day, teams must bring their camera, signed catch-report affidavit, and all original video footage to Barrs Park for verification. Catch reports must be submitted by 7:00 p.m., unless a team is actively fighting a fish after lines out at 4:30 p.m.
POINTS
Overall points are determined by the combination of billfish release points and blue marlin weigh-in points.
Blue Marlin:
White Marlin, Spearfish, or Sailfish:
If a blue marlin brought to the scales does not meet the 500-pound minimum, the team will be penalized 500 points, plus two points for every pound under the minimum. For example, a 480-pound fish results in a 540-point penalty (500 points plus 40 additional points for being 20 pounds under), and no points will be awarded for that fish.
Any boated blue marlin must be weighed. Failure to do so will result in immediate disqualification from the remainder of the tournament and forfeiture of all previously earned points.
Only one blue marlin may be boated and weighed per day. All white marlin, sailfish, and spearfish must be released.
Once a blue marlin is boated, the team must photograph or video the fish while measuring its short length, girth, and tail circumference, and report those measurements to the tournament committee.
In the event of a tie, rankings will be determined by the team that first reaches the highest combined point total, based on release or boated time.
MEATFISH
Eligible species include yellowfin tuna, bigeye tuna, and wahoo. Scoring is calculated to the tenth of a pound for fish up to 200 pounds, and to the nearest pound for fish over 200 pounds. The minimum qualifying weight is 25 pounds.
Once a meatfish is boated and the team intends to weigh it, tournament control must be notified. Teams must use the designated card of the day and capture a photo or video of the fish with the card once boated; this will serve as the official time of catch.
In the event of a tie, the team that first reaches the highest score—based on the recorded time of the boated fish—will be awarded the higher placement.
WEIGH-IN/RELEASE VIDEO CHECK IN
The weigh station and release video check-in will be at Barr’s Bay Park.
CATCHSTAT
The Sea Horse Anglers Club Billfish Tournament uses CatchStat for registration and team management and live scoring updates. All content on CatchStat is for entertainment purposes only. All content on CatchStat is for entertainment purposes only and may not reflect official standings or payout amounts. For official results, please contact the tournament committee directly.
BOATS WITH SONAR
Sonar devices may not be deployed prior to Lines In (8:30 a.m.) and must be powered off no later than 15 minutes after Lines Out (4:30 p.m.) each day.
LINE
The maximum line strength allowed is 130-pound-test. Tournament and/or non-tournament lines are eligible. If the line test stated on the label is 130 pounds or less, the line will be allowed in the tournament. The catch shall be classified under the breaking strength of the first five meters of line directly preceding the double line, leader or hook. This section must consist of a single, homogenous piece of line.
LEADERS
The length of the leader is the overall length, including any lure or hook arrangement. In all line classes exceeding 20-pound (10 kg), the leader shall be limited to 30 feet (9.14 meters). The combined length of the double line and the leader shall not exceed 40 feet (12.19 meters) total. The tournament committee holds the right to examine any hook sets, line and/or leaders at any time during the event. Refusal to allow the committee to examine any hook sets, line and/or leaders will result in immediate disqualification from the event without a refund of any jackpot or registration fees.
RODS
Unlimited in use or numbers.
TEASERS
Unlimited in use or numbers.
BAITS
Live bait, dead bait, lures and any combination thereof are permitted in this tournament.
HOOKS
Bait must be rigged with non-offset circle hooks only. Artificial lures without natural bait may be rigged with conventional J-hooks.
RADIO/COMMUNICATIONS
The official tournament channel is 7 International. Tournament control may also be reached by phone or WhatsApp at (813) 928-6266 or the official radio Whatsapp group. If out of radio range, all catches must be reported via radio or phone as soon as possible.
Tournament control’s time will serve as the official time for all starts, hookups, and stops, without exception. All billfish releases and any boated blue marlin or meatfish intended for weigh-in must be reported to tournament control, along with the angler’s name and species. All hookups must be reported during the final 15 minutes of fishing each day.
The tournament channel is reserved strictly for official announcements and catch reports. Competitor communications must take place on alternate channels.
WEATHER
There is no weather committee. The tournament is conducted on a “fish at your own risk” basis. If any portion of the tournament is fished and a team or teams land or release fish that match the tournament’s eligible species and minimum weight limits, then prizes will be awarded.
PROTESTS
Participants may lodge protests against any catch which they believe was not made in accordance with these rules. All protests must be stated in writing and accompanied by $500. All protests will be settled the day of the incident. All protests on July 18, 19 and 20 must be in the hands of the tournament’s designated rules official by 7 p.m. on the day of the alleged incident unless there is a protest regarding a fish that comes to the scales late, in which case the deadline is extended one (1) hour following the weighed fish. The tournament committee may call a protest hearing at their discretion; a protest hearing is not guaranteed. The protesting party, as well as the accused team members, captain and crew, must be present in any official protest hearing. The tournament committee may refuse to consider any protest evidence not submitted at the protest hearing in the presence of the protested team. If the protesting or protested team fails to show up for the protest hearing, that team forfeits its right to submit evidence. Official tournament release video footage may only be viewed by the tournament committee and the team who submitted it. Decisions of the tournament committee with regard to protests are final, non-appealable, and nonjusticiable.
SPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT
All participants are expected to conduct themselves in a professional and sportsmanlike manner at all times. Any unsportsmanlike or threatening behavior toward tournament organizers or other participants—or any conduct deemed inappropriate by the tournament committee, at its sole discretion—may result in immediate disqualification of the entire team without refund and possible exclusion from future events.
The Sea Horse Anglers Club Billfish Tournament committee reserves the right to update or change these rules at any time. By entering the Sea Horse Anglers Club Billfish Tournament and paying the entry fees, all participants agree to abide by the tournament rules and accept all decisions made by the Tournament Committee as final.
Sea Horse Anglers Club Billfish Tournament
Michelle Gaylord, Tournament Director
[email protected]
Edward Barnes
[email protected] (441) 335-2383
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