People fishing

Fishing Tournaments

Get hooked on fishing at these great tournaments across the state.

People fishing

Maryland Fishing Tournaments

The one that got away doesn't count in these great Maryland fishing tournaments.  Also - check out Fish and Hunt Maryland.

1
Mid-Shore Fishing Club Invasive Species Tournament
March 1 - December 1, 2024
Catfishing with Marko

Sponsored by the Mid-Shore Fishing Club of Maryland, anglers target blue catfish and northern snakehead inside the boundaries of the Eastern Shore. Payouts are awarded for the most fish and largest fish.

2
RHVFC Guardian Of The Pearl Rockfish Tournament
June 7-9, 2024
RHVFC Guardian Of The Pearl Rockfish Tournament
Rock Hall Volunteer Fire Company

Situated on the eastern shore of the Chesapeake Bay, Rock Hall is a charming village known as The Pearl of the Chesapeake. The tournament promotes heritage, tourism, and fishing for the town while raising funds for the RHVFC which serves it and surrounding communities.

3
Ocean City Tuna Tournament
July 12-14, 2024
Fisherman holding a large tuna

 

Entering our 35th anniversary in 2022, the Ocean City Tuna Tournament has become the world’s largest tuna tournament with a record payout that eclipsed $1,000,000 in 2021. The three-day event is full of anticipation, excitement, and fun for all. While spectators wait for the scales to open, they can enjoy cold cocktails and delicious food at our on-site restaurant, Micky Fins Bar & Grill. Local vendors selling everything from boats and tackle to jewelry are on display daily. After the scales have closed, the tournament provides dinner and entertainment for participants and sponsors.

4
Big Fish Classic
July 26-28, 2024
Big Fish Classic Tournament

2021 had “The Largest Swordfish Payout in the World” caught by the Team “Real One” $542,648 which broke a new Maryland State Record Swordfish, a Record $1.2 Million Total Purse and a Record 110 Boats!  Breaking the Million Dollar mark has put the Huk Big Fish Classic on the map as one of the fastest growing tournaments in the world!

5
White Marlin Open, Ocean City
August 5-9, 2024
White Marlin Open

The  annual White Marlin Open will be fun and exciting for both spectators and anglers.  All fish must be weighed on the official scale at Harbour Island, (14th St and the Bay), and the weigh-ins are held each day of the tournament and are free and open to the public. As the week goes on, the suspense builds, as potential lottery sized fortunes change hands with a tip of the scale.

6
Poor Girls Open, Ocean City
August 15-17, 2024
Women's fishing tournament

Ladies only billfish release tournament benefiting breast cancer research. Participation is not limited only to anglers as there are silent auctions, 50/50 tickets, T-shirts for sale, and other fun events helping to raise money for breast cancer research.

7
Annual Labor Day White Marlin Tournament, Ocean City
Ocean City Marlin Club Logo
Ocean City Marlin Club

The Annual Labor Labor Day White Marlin Tournament hosted by the Ocean City Marlin Club is open to everyone, even those without a membership to the club.

 

8
Flounder Pounder, Ocean City
September 8, 2024
flounder pounder

The Bahia Marina Flounder Pounder is a one-day fishing tournament for flounder. This tournament is a lot of fun and great for kids. You may fish from your own boat or rent a skiff, skimmer, or pontoon from the Bahia Marina.

9
Fish for a Cure, Annapolis
November 9, 2024
Fish for a cure logo

Fish for a Cure, wraps up the striped bass and white perch season with a worthy cause and a great party in Annapolis. Proceeds support the DeCesaris Cancer Institute at Anne Arundel Medical Center.

 

10
Youth Fishing Rodeos, statewide
girl catching a fish

Youth fishing rodeos are a great way to introduce a child to fishing - even if you have never been fishing yourself. Fishing rodeos are typically held at small ponds or lakes and help beginners successfully catch a fish.  Each year, thousands of children get their first fishing experience at a rodeo event -  a fun and exciting time. Most events orgainzers pro​vide bait and/or fishing gear and have volunteers on hand to help the kids learn to fish. 

If you are interested in introducing your child to fishing at a youth fishing rodeo, the most current listing of events​ is now available. Throughout the spring and summer months, several Maryland State Pa​rks ​are hosting their own youth fishing events.