Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic at Sandestin June 19-23

The 11th Annual Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic (ECBC) runs June 19-23 at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. Some of the world's most impressive boats roar from the docks and out the pass into the Gulf of Mexico, one of the best fishing grounds on the planet.

ECBC is the richest tournament on the Gulf, having reached cash purses as high as $1.5 million, and was ranked by Marlin magazine as the #5 big money tournament in the world. ECBC is also a key stop for the World Billfish Series and the International Game Fish Association’s Offshore Championship. The tournament is a supporter of The Billfish Foundation, Sandestin Foundation for Kids and Harvest House.

The Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic is a "modified release" tournament. Blue Marlin are the only billfish that may be weighed with one of the highest minimum lengths on the Gulf coast. Release points are awarded for blue marlin, white marlin, sailfish and spearfish. With cash categories for dolphin, tuna and wahoo as well as individual angler trophies, fishermen have a multitude of ways to stake their claim on Destin fishing tournament history.

“The Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic in now in its 11th season, with the event and payout growing every year,” says Shawna Harris, tournament director. “Each time we look forward to breaking new records on the challenging Gulf of Mexico billfish circuit and entertaining fisherman and families alike.”

Tournament week at Sandestin offers something for everyone, from family fun including live entertainment and activities for the kids all weekend long, special events and sponsor exhibits, to the spectacular weigh-ins at Baytowne Marina Saturday night. Spectators and participants alike will have the opportunity to enjoy the excitement of the biggest catch and discover the new 2013 winners. Admission is free and it is open to the public. Details are subject to change based on weather. For more information, call 866-505-4458, email  info@FishECBC.com or visit www.fishecbc.com.

MOJO Sportfishing Gear will be the presenting sponsor for the third year in a row, featuring their Sportfishing line, which offers everything from surfer-inspired moisture-wick fabrics to cutting edge marine life graphics. Additional sponsors include Alexseal, ATT-Yellowpages, Coca-Cola, Florida Detroit Diesel-Allison & MTU, Galati Yacht Sales & Viking Yachts, Joe Donovan Insurance, Elephant Walk, Hancock Bank, Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q, Marlin Grill, King Sailfish Mounts, Miller Marine, News Channel 7 (WJHG-TV NBC), Saunders Yachtworks, Sunbelt Rentals, Salty Dog and Visit South Walton.

All of Sandestin’s lodging options provide easy access to dining, shopping, world-famous sugar sand beaches and other area attractions. For information or reservations: www.sandestin.com, 866-91-BEACH.