The fourth annual Charter Boat Billfish Tournament is returning to Orange Beach next month, bringing together the area’s licensed charter fishing fleet for three days of competition. The tournament, scheduled for Aug. 26-28, will be headquartered at Zeke’s Landing Marina on Perdido Beach Boulevard. Unlike many Gulf Coast fishing tournaments, competition is limited to licensed charter boats, giving professional captains and crews a chance to compete against one another rather than recreational anglers.
Proceeds from the tournament benefit the Orange Beach Fishing Association Compassion Fund, a nonprofit that supports members of the charter fishing community and their families during times of hardship. Organizers describe the fundraiser as a key part of the annual event, helping provide assistance to captains and crews facing unexpected difficulties.
The tournament opens Wednesday, Aug. 26, with a captain’s meeting at 9 a.m., followed by a shotgun start at noon at Perdido Pass. Competition wraps up Friday, Aug. 28, with a public weigh-in at Mo’ Fishin Bar at Zeke’s Landing from 5 to 10 p.m. Boats must return beneath the Perdido Pass Bridge by 7 p.m. to remain eligible, after which an awards ceremony will recognize the tournament’s top performers. The public weigh-in celebration will also feature live music from 6 to 10 p.m. along with food and drink specials, and organizers are inviting residents and visitors to attend.