The 65th Annual Big Rock Tournament / June 9-18, 2023

Get ready for the Big Rock Tournament: Eastern North Carolina's ultimate fishing spectacle!

The 65th Annual Big Rock Tournament

June 9 - 18, 2023

Are you ready for the most thrilling fishing event of the year? Brace yourselves, folks, because the Big Rock Tournament is just around the corner! From June 9 to June 18, Eastern North Carolina will host this epic fishing tournament that brings together anglers from all over the world. So, grab your fishing gear, put on your lucky hat, and get ready to experience the excitement!

Let's dive into the history of this legendary tournament. Back in the day, no one was even sure if billfish existed in our local waters. Can you believe it? But a group of fearless fishing enthusiasts decided to settle the debate once and for all. Bob, Mary, Bill, Tom, and Dick formed the Fabulous Fishermen Club and announced a cash prize for the first person to catch a blue marlin off the Crystal Coast. And that's how it all started!

Now, you might be wondering what the prize was back then. Well, hold onto your fishing rods because it was a child's red wagon filled with silver dollars! Yes, you heard that right. From a red wagon to the multimillion-dollar purse we have today, the Big Rock Tournament has come a long way.

Over the years, the tournament has seen some incredible changes. The format, rules, and even the sponsorship have evolved to ensure the event always represents good times and great fishing. 

But it's not just about the fishing. The Big Rock Tournament has become a major attraction for both locals and visitors alike. People from 22 states and even international teams participate in the six-day offshore competition. And let's give a shoutout to the incredible lady anglers who have dominated the headlines. They prove that fishing is not just a "man's" sport!

The Big Rock is not just about the professionals. It's also about passing the torch to the next generation of anglers. Junior anglers have a chance to showcase their skills and earn some impressive rewards. The tournament even added a Kids Billfish Tournament to raise funds for children's charities. Talk about making a positive impact!

For those who can't make it to the waterfront, don't worry! The Big Rock Tournament provides outstanding coverage through its website, social media platforms, and even live radio broadcasts. You can follow the action, get updates on hookups, and listen to the exciting play-by-play commentary. It's almost like being right there on the boat!

So, mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and head to Eastern North Carolina for an unforgettable week of fishing frenzy. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just a spectator cheering on your favorite team, the Big Rock Tournament promises to be an exhilarating experience. And who knows, maybe you'll witness history being made as a new record-breaking blue marlin hits the scales!

Let the fishing games begin!