The 23rd Annual Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic (ECBC) returned to Baytowne Marina at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort from June 18–22, 2025, bringing together 78 elite sportfishing teams for a week of high-stakes competition, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments. With a total payout of $1,851,937.56, this year’s tournament delivered impressive catches and tight races across all categories.
The action-packed week kicked off with the Captain’s Meeting on Wednesday night, followed by the thrilling Thursday shotgun start. By Friday and Saturday, Baytowne Marina was the center of attention as teams backed into slips and weighed in some of the Gulf’s finest gamefish.
In the Heaviest Blue Marlin category, All-In Southern Charm with angler Ron Davis claimed first place with a 654.60 lb. marlin, earning over $522,000 in total winnings. DEVOTION and A Work of Art rounded out the top three with fish weighing 640.40 lbs. and 604.40 lbs. respectively.
Other top winners included:
- Heaviest Tuna: Knot Done Yet, 181.40 lbs (Blake Garland)
- Heaviest Dolphin: MAE, 50.50 lbs (Drew Marshall)
- Heaviest Wahoo: SQUID ROW, 54.90 lbs (Buck Gosnay)
The Release Division was dominated by Team Supreme, taking home over $200,000 with 2175 points. DEVOTION and NIKKI BELLA secured second and third in a close contest.
Top Angler honors went to Ron Davis (All-In Southern Charm), while Team Supreme’s Alex Krake was awarded Top Release Angler. In the Top Lady Angler category, Helen DeLaney aboard Yellow Steel earned her title with 1,000 points.
The tournament also recognized young talent:
- Top Junior Angler – Billfish: Leah Pratt on It Just Takes Time, 700 points
- Top Junior Angler – Gamefish: Ethan Cruz on NIKKI BELLA, 153.10 lbs
The ECBC team extends a sincere thank you to every angler, crew member, sponsor, volunteer, and vendor who helped bring the 2025 tournament to life. Your passion fuels the heart of this Gulf Coast tradition.
Mark your calendars, the 24th Annual Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic will return to Sandestin’s Baytowne Marina, June 17–21, 2026.
