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The 2025 Custom Shootout, the second and final leg of Skip’s Tournament series, was held from May 14–17 at Abaco Beach Resort & Boat Harbour Marina in Marsh Harbour, Bahamas, and showcased an impressive fleet of custom sportfishing boats in a thrilling competition. Fifty-five elite teams participated, releasing a total of 270 billfish—104 blue marlin, 102 white marlin, and 64 sailfish—demonstrating the rich fishing grounds of the northern Abacos.
Team Bear Trap, aboard their 66′ Spencer, clinched the top spot with an impressive 3,900 points. Captained by Ed Dwyer, the team released six blue marlin and two white marlin, showcasing consistent performance across all three days. Angler Kyle Schiedel contributed significantly, earning Top Professional Angler honors with 2,550 points. Their stellar performance also secured them the Top Boat, Top Crew, and a substantial $311,575 payout.
Close on their heels was MJ’s, a 61′ Spencer captained by Michael Yocco. The team amassed 3,750 points, thanks to six blue marlin and one white marlin releases, and took home $70,125. Angler Dante Soriente led the charge, earning Top Angler with 1,800 points.
Electric Bill, a 60′ Spencer under the guidance of Capt. Mark McDevitt, secured third place with 3,450 points. Their tally included four blue marlin, three white marlin, and three sailfish releases, earning them $28,050. Angler Jimbo Brogan’s exceptional performance earned him the second spot in the Top Professional Angler category with 2,950 points.
In the meat fish division, notable catches included a 51.6-pound mahi and 83.1-pound wahoo aboard Kickin’ Tires, earning them top spot in both of the respective divisions and a hefty $55,000 payout.
Top Lady Angler honors went to Nicole Scotti on Gina Lisa with 1,200 points, while Sutton Paul aboard Waterman earned Top Junior Angler with 150 points.
Throughout the tournament, participants enjoyed the hospitality of Abaco Beach Resort, with events like the kickoff party, daily dinners, and the awards ceremony, all contributing to the camaraderie and spirit of the Custom Shootout.
The 2025 Custom Shootout reaffirmed its status as a premier event in the sportfishing calendar, blending fierce competition with philanthropy, as proceeds benefited various charitable organizations.
