The Bisbee’s Black & Blue Marlin Tournament is the crown jewel of Cabo San Lucas’s sportfishing calendar—and one of the most iconic big-game fishing tournaments in the world. Dubbed the “Super Bowl of Sportfishing,” this high-stakes, adrenaline-charged event brings together elite anglers, luxury yachts, and massive payouts, with prize pools often exceeding $4 million USD.

Held every October since 1981, the tournament is centered around the pursuit of black and blue marlin, with anglers competing to land the heaviest catch over three intense days of fishing. It’s not just about the fish, though—the event is a full-blown spectacle. From dramatic shotgun starts at sunrise to buzzing weigh-ins at the Cabo marina, the atmosphere is electric. Spectators, families, and tourists flood the waterfront to witness the action, snap photos with the day’s top catches, and soak in the festive vibe.

What sets Bisbee’s apart is not only the size of the purse, but the prestige and legacy it carries in the sportfishing world. Boats travel from around the globe just for a chance to write their name into tournament history—and maybe take home a check with seven figures on it.

When & Where:

Dates: October 20–25, 2025 

Location: Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur; registration and opening ceremonies at Puerto Paraiso Mall, with weigh-ins at the marina 

Format & Schedule:

October 20: Registration (2:00–6:00 pm), Captain’s Meeting and opening ceremonies including naval honors, torch lighting, cultural performances 

October 21–24: Tournament fishing days. Each day starts with an 8:00 am shotgun start; lines must be out by 5:00 pm. Weigh station open 2:00–9:00 pm 

October 25: Awards celebration and official blend of ceremony and festivities 

Entry Fee & Prizes:

Base Entry: US $5,000 per team—includes standard participation plus team merchandise and four wristbands for awards access 

Across-the-Board (All Categories) Entry: Up to US $84,500 

Additional Highlights:

Established in 1981 with just six teams, the tournament now hosts over 150 teams annually  .

Some of the largest payouts in sportfishing history include US $4 million+ in 2006 and US $2.5 million in 2012  . A tournament-record blue marlin weighing 993 pounds was also caught  .

The event transforms the marina into a festival-like atmosphere—spectators flock to watch weigh-ins, enjoy local food, live music, and the vibrant celebratory scene.