Ahoy! The BVI is offering anglers far and wide an amazing opportunity to triumph against the ultimate game fish. The 2023 Scrub Island Invitational Billfish Series will see fishing teams engaging in a fun and exhilarating sportfishing competition with the hope of claiming the title.

With the annual invitational scheduled from 27 August 2023 to 4 September 2023, the BVI waterways will be teeming with vessels. The fishing tournament comprises two legs with three fishing days, an opening ceremony, and daily weigh-ins. The event will close with an award ceremony honouring the winners. There will also be a series of entertaining activities on land for all to enjoy.

Over the course of the competition, crews will display their dexterity and stamina as they battle against one of the ocean’s chief predators. Powerful and graceful, billfishes are a force with which to be reckoned. The Scrub Island Invitational Billfish Series notably maintains its remarkable catch-and-release format as in previous years. Hence, the contest of wills will end with the teams providing proof of their catch and its release into the ocean.

There is no time to waste, prep your boat and gather your crew as blue and white marlins, spearfish and sailfish await. Here’s a look at the official schedule of events occurring over the 10 days.

Leg One

Sunday 27 August – Final registration, Captain’s meeting, and kick-off party at Scrub Island Resort & Marina

Monday 28 August – Day one of fishing with the tournament starting at 8:30am. Lines-out and release of video check at 4:30pm

Tuesday 29 August – Day two of fishing commences at 8:30am. with lines out and release video check-in at 4:30pm.

Wednesday 30 August – Anglers begin their last day of fishing at 8:30am. Lines-out and release video check-in occur at 4:30pm.

Thursday 31 August – Close of leg one with award banquet at Scrub Island Marina & Resort, 7pm.

Leg Two

Thursday 31 August – Final registration, Captain’s meeting, and kick-off party at Scrub Island Resort & Marina

Friday 1 September – Day one of fishing with the tournament starting at 8:30am. Lines-out and release of video check at 4:30pm

Saturday 2 September – Day two of fishing commences at 8:30am. with lines out and release video check-in at 4:30pm.

Sunday 3 September – Leg two’s anglers’ last day of fishing beginning at 8:30am. Lines-out and release video check-in occur at 4:30pm.

Monday 4 September – Leg two’s and series’ award banquet at Scrub Island Marina & Resort, 6pm.

You can visit the Scrub Island Invitational Billfish Series website to register or for more information on this year’s invitational billfish series and past events. 

Want to join the fun and need supplies? Do browse our Fishing Tackle & Supplies listing.

Sources: BVI Tourism and Scrub Island Billfish Invitation Series.