The 22nd Annual Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic at Sandestin®

The 22nd Annual Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic (ECBC), held at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort from June 19–23, 2024, once again proved to be a thrilling event for anglers and spectators alike. Despite schedule adjustments due to marine conditions, the tournament saw fierce competition, culminating in a total payout of $849,200.

Initially set for Thursday, the shotgun start was moved to Friday, June 21, with optional weigh-ins on Saturday and the grand weigh-in and awards ceremony on Sunday. Participants demonstrated exceptional skill and sportsmanship throughout the event, with numerous notable catches across various categories.

Photo by Matt Christopher / Max Impact Photos

In the Heaviest Blue Marlin category, Paul McMullen on Just The Tip landed the top prize with a 508.6-pound catch, earning $95,040.00 ($165,189.00 total purse). The Heaviest Dolphin category saw Devin Sarver on GreSaMar take first place with a 28.8-pound catch, winning a $10,560 total purse, followed by Liam O’Brien on Panhandler with 20.5 pounds and Jack Rushing on Just The Tip with 20.3 pounds. Allen Krake Jr. on Team Supreme secured the Heaviest Tuna with a 213.60-pound catch, earning $10,560.00 ($97,202.50 total purse), while the Heaviest Wahoo was caught by Ryan Doxey on Bimini Babe at 95.40 pounds, also winning $10,560.00 total purse.

Team Supreme took first place in the Release Division with 3500.00 points, earning $18,062.50 ($97,202.50 total purse). Panhandler led the Crew Division with 2045.70 points, securing $3,000.00 ($23,241.00 total purse). Paul McMullen on Just The Tip was recognized as the Top Angler for the Heaviest Blue Marlin. Sherry Polk on Share-E was awarded Top Release Angler and Top Lady Angler, with 1500.00 points. Liam O’Brien on Panhandler excelled as the Top Junior Angler in the Billfish and Gamefish categories.

Photo by Matt Christopher / Max Impact Photos

The tournament’s adaptability in rescheduling and the participants’ enthusiasm ensured that the event remained a success despite weather challenges. The ECBC team extends heartfelt thanks to all participants, sponsors and volunteers who contributed to this year’s unforgettable tournament.

For more information about the Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic and to stay updated on future events, please visit FishECBC.com or follow on social media. The 23rd Annual Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic is set for June 18–22, 2025, at Baytowne Marina.

About Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort®
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is a major destination for all seasons and ages and was named the #1 resort on Florida’s Emerald Coast. Sandestin invites guests to experience 2,400 acres and 70 charming neighborhoods featuring over 1,000 vacation rentals, condominiums, villas, townhomes and Hotel Effie. As a member of Visit South Walton and Visit Florida, the resort features more than seven miles of beaches, a pristine bay front, four championship golf courses, 15 world-class tennis courts, 20 swimming pools, a 226-slip marina, a fitness center and a spa. Shop, dine and play at the charming pedestrian village, The Village of Baytowne Wharf. New developments include Hotel Effie, a 250-room hotel that opened in February 2021, and Osprey Pointe, which opened in the summer of 2020, adding 77 vacation condominiums. For more information, visit Sandestin.com @Sandestin | #Sandestin | #Sandestin50.