The Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament runs each summer in Honolulu and draws anglers from across the Pacific to compete for marlin, tuna, and wahoo

The Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament (HIBT) is an annual fishing competition held in Honolulu, typically in July or August. The tournament focuses on catching billfish — primarily Pacific blue marlin, striped marlin, and yellowfin tuna — though wahoo and other species also count toward scoring. Anglers fish from charter boats in the waters off Oahu, competing in divisions based on boat size and tackle weight. The tournament has run since the 1950s and remains one of the most respected billfish competitions in the world, known for strict catch-and-release rules and rigorous weigh-in procedures.

The event draws both professional tournament anglers and recreational fishers who want to test themselves against the Pacific's largest game fish. Entry is open to anyone with a boat or the ability to charter one, though the cost of participation — charter fees, entry fees, and travel — means most competitors are serious about the sport. The tournament is also a major social event in Honolulu's fishing community, with daily weigh-ins at the harbor, evening gatherings, and awards ceremonies that celebrate the year's catches.

Key Takeaways

  • The Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament takes place each July or August in Honolulu and focuses on billfish species, especially Pacific blue marlin.
  • Anglers fish from charter boats in designated waters off Oahu and compete in divisions based on boat size and tackle class.
  • Most fish are caught and released under tournament rules, with scoring based on species, size, and the tackle weight used.
  • Entry requires a boat (your own or a charter) and an entry fee, and participation costs are significant when you include charter fees and travel.
  • The tournament runs for several days with daily weigh-ins at Honolulu Harbor and concludes with awards and a celebration dinner.

Tournament Dates and Registration

The Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament typically runs for four to five days in mid-July through early August, though the exact dates shift slightly each year. You can find the current year's schedule on the tournament's official website or through the Honolulu fishing charter associations that help organize the event. Registration usually opens several months in advance and closes about two weeks before the tournament begins.

To register, you need a boat (either your own or a chartered vessel) and the names of all anglers who will fish from that boat. Entry fees cover access to the tournament waters, official weigh-in procedures, and the awards ceremony. Charter boat captains who regularly participate in HIBT can often handle registration for their clients, so if you are booking a charter specifically for the tournament, ask whether the captain will manage the paperwork.

What Fish Count and How Scoring Works

The tournament recognizes several species, with Pacific blue marlin as the primary target. Striped marlin, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and ono also score points, though marlin catches typically dominate the leaderboard. Fish are scored by species and weight, with larger fish earning more points. The tournament uses a handicap system based on tackle class — boats fishing with lighter line or smaller reels receive bonus points to level the competition.

Most fish caught during HIBT are released alive, and the tournament enforces strict catch-and-release protocols. Anglers must follow specific handling procedures to ensure fish survival, and tournament observers monitor compliance. A fish only counts if it is properly documented at the official weigh-in, where tournament staff record the species, weight, and the tackle class used. This means you cannot simply catch a fish and keep it; the catch must be verified by the tournament to score.

Boat Divisions and Tackle Classes

The tournament divides boats into categories based on size and fishing setup. Smaller recreational boats compete separately from larger charter vessels, ensuring fair competition within each group. Tackle classes range from light line (20-pound test) to heavy line (130-pound test and above), and anglers fish in the class that matches their equipment.

If you are chartering a boat for the tournament, the captain will already be registered in a specific division and tackle class. If you own your own boat, you choose the division and tackle class when you register. Switching between classes or divisions after registration is usually not allowed, so confirm your setup before the entry deadline.

Chartering a Boat for the Tournament

Most recreational anglers fish HIBT through a charter boat rather than bringing their own vessel. Honolulu has dozens of charter operations that specialize in billfish, and many captains compete in the tournament regularly. Charter costs for a full day of tournament fishing typically run several hundred dollars, and you may need to book multiple days if the tournament spans four or five days.

When booking a charter for HIBT, confirm that the captain is registered in the tournament and understands the catch-and-release rules. Ask whether the charter fee includes the tournament entry fee or if that is separate. Some charter companies offer tournament packages that bundle the boat, crew, and entry into one price. Book well in advance — popular captains fill their tournament slots months ahead.

Preparing for the Tournament

Billfish fishing requires physical stamina and specific skills. If you have not fought a large marlin before, practice on smaller game fish first or ask the charter captain to teach you proper fighting technique. Bring sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a hat — the sun reflects intensely off the water, and you will be on deck for eight or more hours. Wear non-slip shoes and clothes that dry quickly.

The charter crew handles most of the technical work — rigging baits, setting lines, and fighting the fish initially — but you will need to take the rod when it is time to bring the fish to the boat. Eat a substantial breakfast before heading out, bring water and snacks, and be prepared for seasickness if you are sensitive to motion. The waters off Oahu can be rough, especially in summer, so take medication if you need it.

Daily Weigh-Ins and Awards

Each day of the tournament concludes with an official weigh-in at Honolulu Harbor, usually in the late afternoon. Boats return to the dock, and tournament staff weigh and measure each catch. The weigh-in is open to spectators, so friends and family can watch the day's results come in. Leaderboards are posted daily, showing which boats and anglers are leading in each division.

The tournament concludes with an awards ceremony and dinner, typically held the evening after the final day of fishing. Awards are given for the largest fish by species, the most fish caught, and the highest overall score in each division. Even if you do not win, the ceremony is a chance to meet other anglers and celebrate the week's fishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to keep the fish I catch, or can I release it?

You must release most fish caught during the tournament. The HIBT operates under strict catch-and-release rules to protect billfish populations. Fish are scored based on species and weight documented at the official weigh-in, not on whether you keep them. The tournament crew handles the fish carefully to maximize survival after release.

What if I have never fished for marlin before?

Many tournament participants are fishing for marlin for the first time. Charter captains expect this and will teach you how to handle the rod and fight the fish. Book a charter with a captain who has experience working with beginners, and let them know your skill level when you reserve the boat. You will learn quickly once you are on the water.

Can I fish the tournament on my own boat?

Yes, if you own a boat and are registered in the tournament. You will need to follow all tournament rules, including catch-and-release protocols and official weigh-in procedures. You are responsible for knowing the fishing regulations for Hawaii waters and obtaining any required state fishing licenses.

How much does it cost to fish the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament?

Costs vary depending on whether you charter a boat or use your own. Charter costs typically range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars per day, depending on the boat size and captain reputation. Add the tournament entry fee, travel to Honolulu, meals, and accommodations. Total cost for a week of tournament fishing can easily reach several thousand dollars.

What should I bring on the boat?

Bring sunscreen, a hat, polarized sunglasses, non-slip shoes, and a light jacket for early morning. Pack snacks and water, though most charter boats provide these. Bring any seasickness medication you might need. Wear clothes that dry quickly and avoid cotton. Leave valuables on shore — the boat will be wet and active, and you do not want to lose anything important.