White Marlin Open makes changes due to expected weather
OCEAN CITY, Md. – The world’s largest and richest billfish tournament started on Monday, and community members were excited. For the 52nd year, the White Marlin Open has taken over the popular resort town. Two hundred eighty-two boats are expected to chase the $7.2 million prize pot.
For the second year in a row, tournament officials made changes due to the tough weather forecast. The tournament has been extended by two fishing days, meaning each boat can use its allotted three fishing days from Monday, Aug. 4, through Sunday, Aug. 10.
WMDT meteorologist Erich Alhff called the move brilliant because the weather could affect how anglers fish.
“Wave heights will increase midweek. We have high pressure to our north and developing areas of low pressure to our south. This will create a tight pressure gradient, which will increase easterly winds from Wednesday to Friday.”
Originally, more boats were set to enter; however, many smaller boats were forced out due to the dangers of choppy waters. “There will be increased onshore winds at 15 to 20 knots, which could create choppy waves. Just something to keep in mind,” said Alhff.
He said the likelihood of a small craft advisory is high. Tournament director Madelyne Motsko remains optimistic, saying the competition will still showcase high-level anglers. “We were still able to secure a $7.3 million purse, so we’re definitely pleased with that—still a huge chunk of change for 282 boats to be competing for.”
One of the anglers, Thomas Adkins, traveled from South Carolina to compete. He is part of the Bad Becky team and said the weather has been unpredictable. “I know they extended it, and it looks good for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, but the problem is, it changes so much. It’s been changing all week.”
With that unpredictability comes even more pressure when you’re not just facing the fish but also nature. “The hard thing is, do you wait it out to the end and risk the weather turning for the worse, missing a fishing day? It’s so bad you can’t go, or you’re out there and break something on the boat. We’re just hoping it calms down some, and whatever is flipping out there settles.”
The weigh-ins will be held from 4 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. at Harbour Island and are open to the public.
Marlin Fest is held at the inlet each day from 11 a.m. through 9 p.m. and includes music, food and drink, WMO and Marlin Fest merchandise.
For a livestream and more information click here.
