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The 2025 Walker’s Cay Invitational hosted 55 elite teams in the northern Bahamas for four days of world-class fishing and million-dollar stakes. Hosted in the legendary Walker’s Cay, the tournament offered a total payout of $1,274,850 and showcased the venue’s continued rise as a premier billfish battleground.
At the top of the standings, Marlin Darlin, a 66′ Spencer captained by Shay Danzig, delivered a strong and steady performance, earning 2,550 points to secure first place honors and a $186,300 payout. Close behind, Seven, a 62′ Bayliss helmed by Capt. Jimmy Hardee, posted 2,450 points to take second place and a check for $153,900. Remix Main Stage, a 62′ Viking run by Capt. JC Cleare, rounded out the top three with 1,900 points.
With 67 blue marlin, 69 sailfish, and six white marlin caught and released, the tournament delivered consistent action across the board. The week’s biggest blue came courtesy of Wave Paver, a 75’ Bayliss captained by Doug Southworth, weighing in at 540.2 pounds to claim top honors in that category, as well as a hefty $145,800 payout.
Individual angler awards highlighted standout performances across divisions. Jim Jensen, fishing aboard Plane Simple, earned Top Overall Angler with 1,800 points. Nicole Scotti on Gina Lisa claimed Top Lady Angler with 1,300 points, while junior standout Payton Weber matched that total aboard JUJU to secure Top Junior Angler.
In the meat fish divisions, Reel Easy landed the heaviest tuna at 35.2 pounds, MJ’s posted the top wahoo at 32.4 pounds, and Liability brought in the heaviest mahi at 31.6 pounds.
With its exclusive island setting, great fishing, and a payout that topped $1.2 million, the Walker’s Cay Invitational continues to grow in popularity with some of the sport’s top competitive teams.
