Chasing Giants on the Gulf
Every May on Alabama’s Beaches, anglers and fishing enthusiasts gather at The Wharf Marina to witness a spectacular fishing feat, the Orange Beach Billfish Classic (OBBC). This year’s event on May 12-16 marks the 30th tournament and kicks off the Eastern Gulf tournament circuit and Gulf Coast Triple Crown Championship Series. Whether you plan to compete or just want to watch, this Orange Beach fishing tournament is an incredible coastal event.
2026 Orange Beach Billfish Classic
Fishing Conservation
Fishing Conservation
The Orange Beach Billfish Classic is a family-run tournament that promotes big-game fishing while also emphasizing billfish conservation. The OBBC donates all its net profits to conservation groups, including The Billfish Foundation, a worldwide organization that helps preserve bluewater species such as swordfish, spearfish, sailfish, and marlin.
Tournament Categories
Tournament Categories
Competitors reel in an array of impressive species during the event. Tournament categories include blue marlin, catch and release, tuna, dolphin, wahoo, top lady angler, and top junior angler. Cash prizes are awarded to the winners of each category.
Event Schedule
Event Schedule
On Tuesday and Wednesday, the tournament hosts private events for captains, crew, and participants. Fishing begins on Thursday, May 14, as boats make their way from The Wharf to Perdido Pass at 9 am. Boats then take off from The Pass at 11 am with a shotgun start. The public is welcome to view the boats leave from The Wharf or The Pass. The Perdido Pass Seawall Park and Alabama Point beach access are two excellent locations to witness the massive vessels venture into the Gulf.
Weigh-Ins
Weigh-Ins
Undoubtedly the most exciting portion of the tournament, the weigh-ins are a can’t-miss spectacle that even non-anglers will appreciate. On Friday, weigh-ins are from 7-8 am and again from 7-10 pm. On Saturday, weigh-ins are from 6-10 pm with the awards ceremony following the final weigh-in. All weigh-ins take place at Marlin Circle at The Wharf and are free for spectators to watch.
Plan Your Spring Beach Trip
The warm weather and lineup of fantastic events make May an excellent time for a vacation on Alabama’s Beaches. Make plans to attend this year’s Orange Beach Billfish Classic at The Wharf, so you don’t miss out on any of the angling action!
