Grand Caribe Deep Sea Classic Fishing Tournament
The Grand Caribe Deep Sea Classic Fishing Tournament is Belize’s premier offshore event, growing in the number of participants every year. The four-day event takes place in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, during the summer to boost tourism on the island. The competition attracts anglers from across the region, including the United States, Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Jamaica. It sparks a cultural exchange between local and international participants, as they share practices and techniques.
Captain’s Dinner
It starts with the Captain’s Dinner as teams gather for registration and briefing before mingling over cocktails and a buffet-style dinner.
Two Days of Competition
At the crack of dawn, anglers start loading their boats as the official’s horn kicks off the competition at 6 am. The Grand Caribe Deep Sea Classic is the country’s only release-only billfish (marlin, sailfish, and spearfish) tournament. It is to protect Belize’s marine life and the future of fishing experiences. It is two full days at sea, trolling and drifting beyond the Belize Barrier Reef to rack up as many points for your team. Anglers are added to a group chat to document their catch and to send footage of releasing any of the billfish. The tournament also serves as an opportunity to encounter other marine wildlife.
The Awards Ceremony
The Grand Caribe Deep Sea Classic boasts over $100,000 in cash and prizes, including a signed artwork by Carey Chen. There are several award categories:
- Top 5 Boats
- Junior Anglers (Top Junior Billfish, 1st and 2nd Place)
- Top Angler
- Top Female Angler
- Heaviest Tuna
- Heaviest Wahoo
- Heaviest Dorado
Though it is a competition, the atmosphere is filled with lively music, delicious food, and refreshing beverages after every eventful day. The Grand Caribe Deep Sea Classic continues to attract not only anglers, but families and the general public to experience the thrill of the sea!
