NEWS

The Marlin Group Launches Enhancements with Hawaii Big-Game Season Opening

For Immediate Release
For inquiries, contact [email protected]

  • Tournament Director Lacey Hagler to lead team of Hawaii veterans
  • Expanded jackpot structure to increase payout
  • Season-opening celebration planned for Kona Kick Off

Kailua-Kona, Hawaii – June 10, 2025 — The countdown is on for the 2025 Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series (HMTS), and The Marlin Group has announced a series of strategic enhancements ahead of what promises to be a thrilling summer of sportfishing action. Teams return to the Big Island’s fabled calm waters in late June for the Hawaii season kickoff.

“Since acquiring the HTMS in March, we’ve spent a lot of time listening to the teams in Kona, and the feedback has been incredible,” said David Ritchie, Marlin Group CEO. “The participants are excited about our plans for increasing the promotion of Hawaii’s incredible fishery, and they’ve expressed tremendous support for our plans to reinvest back in the tournament as we seek to elevate its profile across all activities.”

The HMTS tournament team will mainly consist of many familiar faces. Laura Dowsett will handle registration and payouts, Robbie Engelhard will be on the radio, and Capt. Bradley Damasco will lead tackle verification efforts. A rules committee, including HMTS founder Capt. Jody Bright, will be on hand to ensure fair competition. These respected Kona experts will ensure continued professionalism in what is one of the world’s most stringent competitions. The HMTS ranks the only tournament series in the world that requires that a fish be tagged to earn release points, while also verifying daily that all tackle adheres to IGFA rules. 

Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series

Joining the HMTS leadership team this year is Lacey Hagler, who steps in as Tournament Director for the 2025 season. A tenured member of The Marlin Group’s tournament team and a familiar face in the big-game fishing community, Hagler brings a deep passion for the sport and years of tournament experience at the highest levels. 

“Based on participant feedback, we’re introducing several elements to enhance the tournament experience for the 2025 season,” Hagler said. “These include a variety of event amenities to boost participant enjoyment, and an expanded optional jackpot structure designed to increase total payouts and broaden prize access to more teams. We’ve left base entry fees unchanged, and all core optional jackpots return—plus, we’re introducing several creative new ones as well. While fairness is paramount alongside the pursuit of granders, additional goals are to encourage friendly competition, and build an enduring camaraderie between teams, sponsors and the Kailua-Kona fishing community.” 

Other investments that will debut at the Kona Kick Off include implementing CatchStat live-scoring software, official tournament apparel by Conch Republic Apparel, product giveaways, and trophies for winners. Several exciting new sponsors, including Lindgren-Pitman and GZ Lures, have joined alongside other returning HMTS sponsors, including presenting sponsor Coca-Cola, White Claw, POP Fishing & Marine, Hawaii Petroleum, Royal Kona Resort, and Kraken Fish Co. 

These enhancements will take center stage at a season-opening celebration scheduled for June 27 at the Hawaii Big Game Fishing Club in Honokohau Harbor. The event will feature local food, entertainment, refreshments and giveaways. Marlin magazine’s Editor-in-Chief, Jack Vitek, will be on hand to meet anglers and hear feedback from the Kona sportfishing community as registration for the Kona Kick Off concludes. All HMTS participants are invited to attend.

About the Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series
Founded in 1987 by Capt. Jody Bright, the Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series is Hawaii’s preeminent billfishing competition, pitting the top Kona crews against one another for a season-long quest to be named HMTS Champion. The series comprises eight tournaments held between March and September. Points accrue throughout the season, while each individual tournament offers a unique mix of base and optional jackpots to drive strong competition within the Kona fleet. The HMTS was the first Hawaii tournament to pay cash for tagged and released fish, awarding a $2.5 million payout in 2024. Register at konatournaments.com

Upcoming tournaments:

  • June 28-29: Kona Kick Off
  • July 4-5: Firecracker Open
  • July 7-9: Kona Throw Down
  • July 11-13: Skins Marlin Derby
  • July 18-20: Hawaii Lure Maker’s Challenge
  • August 22-24: Big Island Marlin Tournament
  • September 19-21: It’s a Wrap

About The Marlin Group
The Marlin Group is the world’s largest big-game fishing network reaching more than one million captains, anglers, mates and boat owners annually across a variety of touchpoints. The group publishes Marlin magazine, the industry’s No. 1 source since 1981, and operates the Offshore World Championship in Costa Rica; Los Cabos Billfish Tournament in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Scrub Island Billfish Series in the British Virgin Islands; Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series; the Bermuda Triple Crown; and the Marlin Global Challenge, making it the worldwide leader for international billfishing tournaments. Marlin Expeditions, formerly Marlin University, has led anglers on educational excursions to the globe’s top big-game fishing destinations for more than 20 years. The Marlin Group is a core division of the US-based outdoor adventure company Bonnier LLC.

Learn more at marlinmag.com and bonniercorp.com.

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Team Fish for Holly Wins the 2025 Costa Offshore World Championship

Team Fish for Holly stands celebrating at the awards ceremony of the Offshore World Championship.

For Immediate Release
For inquiries, contact [email protected]

April 18, 2025 — Quepos, Costa Rica — The 2025 Offshore World Championship (OWC), produced by The Marlin Group and presented by Costa Sunglasses, once again affirmed its reputation as the world’s premier international billfishing tournament. Held April 6–10 at Marina Pez Vela, 34 teams representing 19 countries descended on Quepos, Costa Rica, each having qualified through top-tier tournaments worldwide. 

Over three days of fishing, the fleet released 591 billfish—568 Pacific sailfish and 23 blue marlin—averaging more than 17 per team under idyllic tropical conditions on the water, and enjoying luxurious accommodations provided by the Parador Nature Resort & Spa back on land. 

“The Costa Offshore World Championship embodies the spirit of international camaraderie and sportsmanship,” says Tournament Director, Jennifer Dudas. “We are deeply grateful to all participants who journeyed from around the globe to represent their homelands with such passion and integrity. Your dedication enriches this tournament’s legacy, and we eagerly anticipate welcoming you back next year.”

Claiming top honors, Team Fish for Holly delivered a commanding performance with 6,100 points and 29 billfish releases. Led by Capt. Robert Collins of Islamorada, Florida, the team—comprising Audrey Koocher, Ritchie White, Roy Godinez, and John Timura—fished aboard Top Notch, Monkey Shine, and Vuelto Loco over the three days. Their victory also honored the legacy of the Fish for Holly Sailfish Tournament, created in memory of Holly Given to support domestic abuse prevention in the Florida Keys.

Finishing in second place, Team Rake & Scrape of the Bahamas—representing the Lyford Cay Invitational Offshore Tournament—scored 5,400 points with 27 sailfish releases, fishing aboard Super Fly, Double Nickel, and Sueltalo II. Third place went to Team Sunshine Coast Game Fishing Club Classic from Australia, who also tallied 5,300 points with 24 sailfish and one blue marlin release.

Catherine “Cat” Bartels of Team Yellowfin earned both the Top Angler and Top Lady Angler honors with a standout performance that included 16 sailfish and one blue marlin for a total of 3,500 points. 

The 2025 Costa Offshore World Championship reaffirmed its status as the zenith of international competitive angling, where excellence, tradition and sportsmanship converge in pursuit of greatness.

About The Marlin Group
The Marlin Group is the world’s largest big-game fishing network reaching more than one million captains, anglers, mates and boat owners annually across a variety of touchpoints. The group publishes Marlin magazine, the industry’s No. 1 source since 1981, and operates the Offshore World Championship in Costa Rica; Los Cabos Billfish Tournament in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Scrub Island Billfish Series in the British Virgin Islands; Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series; the Bermuda Triple Crown; and the Marlin Global Challenge, making it the worldwide leader for international billfishing tournaments. Marlin Expeditions, formerly Marlin University, has led anglers on educational excursions to the globe’s top big-game fishing destinations for more than 20 years. The Marlin Group is a core division of the US-based outdoor adventure company Bonnier LLC.Learn more at marlinmag.com and bonniercorp.com.

2025 Costa Offshore World Sponsors
The Costa Offshore World Championship is sponsored by many industry-leading companies, including title sponsor Costa Sunglasses, The Marlin Group, Marina Pez Vela, Parador Nature Resort & Spa, Bluefin USA, Yeti, Garmin, King Sailfish Mounts, AFTCO, Flor de Caña, IGFA, Bodo Muche Studio-Foundry, Pacifico Travel Services, Release Marine, 2Costa Rica Real Estate, VanMark Jewelry Designers, Coastal Carolina Cutting Boards, Star brite, Penn, Guy Harvey, Big T Lures, IWS ScaleMaster, Baby Je Creations, Ladies Love Pink, XTRATUF, danco sports, Port & Starboard and Conch Republic Apparel.

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The Marlin Group Acquires Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series and Expands Global Footprint

David Ritchie of Bonnier and Capt. Jody Bright of Kona Tournaments shake hands at an announcement.

For Immediate Release
For inquiries, contact [email protected]

March 26, 2025 — The Marlin Group has acquired the prestigious Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series (HMTS) from Capt. Jody Bright and Tropidilla Productions. This strategic expansion of a renowned tournament series in one of the sport’s most iconic destinations further strengthens The Marlin Group’s position as the world’s premier operator of international big-game fishing tournaments.​

Founded in 1987 by Capt. Bright, the HMTS now comprises eight distinct tournaments held between March and September, with the majority taking place in June and July. Collectively, these events in 2024 fielded 162 boat entries that fished a total of 22 days and caught a series record of 437 marlin, of which 96 percent were tagged and released. The series was the first in Hawaii to pay a cash purse for tag and release, awarding more than $2.5 million in 2024.

“Hawaii is the birthplace of our sport and probably the most renowned fishing grounds for marlin and other big game,” says David Ritchie, CEO of The Marlin Group. “Through our other tournaments, we have already established a strong presence in the Atlantic, Caribbean, and Central America. The HMTS fills that missing piece, expanding our reach and solidifying our position as a truly global enterprise.”

Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series Logo

To ensure a seamless transition, Bright will remain actively involved throughout the season, collaborating with Marlin staff to uphold the series’ esteemed standards.​

“I have been looking for the right successor for almost 10 years and cannot imagine a better new owner than The Marlin Group,” says Bright. “I wanted to find an owner who could elevate this tournament series through a strong network of integrated media properties, while also having the chops in the fishing world to continue the high level of competition the HMTS events have cultivated. Obviously with the Marlin magazine platform and their roster of first-class tournaments, The Marlin Group fits the bill perfectly. I am excited to work with them towards a smooth transition this season, and to watch them elevate this series to new heights in the coming years.”    

The Marlin Group’s acquisition of the HMTS adds another prestigious series to its distinguished owned and operated tournament portfolio, which also includes:​

  • Offshore World Championship: The championship of champions, a truly global tournament, hosted annually in Costa Rica, that brings together winning teams from various qualifying events worldwide.
  • Bermuda Triple Crown: A series of three premier tournaments held in Bermuda, attracting top anglers from around the world for a chance at a purse that exceeded $5 million in 2024 and is targeted at $6 million in 2025. ​
  • Scrub Island Billfish Series: Hosted in the beautiful British Virgin Islands, this series offers anglers the chance to fish the renowned North Drop.
  • Los Cabos Billfish Tournament: An annual event in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, known for its competitive spirit, big blue and black marlin, and big payouts. ​
  • Marlin Global Challenge: A worldwide competition that allows anglers to compete to catch the biggest blue marlin of the year in a winner-takes-all format.

With the acquisition finalized prior to the start of the first tournament of the series, The Lazy Marlin Hunt, all tournaments in the 2025 HMTS will operate under The Marlin Group’s ownership. Participants can register at konatournaments.com. 

About The Marlin Group
The Marlin Group is the world’s largest big-game fishing network reaching more than one million captains, anglers, mates and boat owners annually across a variety of touchpoints. The group publishes Marlin magazine, the industry’s No. 1 source since 1981, and operates the Offshore World Championship in Costa Rica; Los Cabos Billfish Tournament in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Scrub Island Billfish Series in the British Virgin Islands; and the Bermuda Triple Crown, making it the worldwide leader for international billfishing tournaments. Marlin Expeditions, formerly Marlin University, has led anglers on educational excursions to the globe’s top big-game fishing destinations for more than 20 years. The Marlin Group is a core division of the US-based outdoor adventure company Bonnier LLC.

Learn more at marlinmag.com and bonniercorp.com.

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The Marlin Group Recruits Connor Motsko as Sales Director to Drive Growth and Expansion

Connor Motsko

For Immediate Release
For inquiries, contact [email protected]

March 18, 2025 – The Marlin Group is pleased to welcome Connor Motsko as its new Sales Director, further enhancing the group’s team of industry professionals. In this role, Motsko will drive growth across all group activities through his focus on business development and integrated sales. His appointment is effective immediately. 

Based in South Florida, Motsko will report directly to Marlin Publisher Dave Morel. He will play a pivotal role in expanding sales, strengthening industry partnerships, and working closely with senior leadership to identify new product and service opportunities.

“Connor’s passion for sportfishing, deep ties to the industry and business background give him a unique understanding of both the competitive and business aspects of the market,” says David Ritchie, CEO of The Marlin Group. “He will be a great addition to our team and we’re excited to bring him aboard.” 

Motsko’s career has been deeply embedded in the marine world. He is a co-shareholder in the renowned White Marlin Open in Ocean City, Maryland. Born into that environment, Motsko possesses a profound and unique understanding of big-game fishing and world-class fishing tournaments. 

Beyond the realm of competitive angling, Motsko has successfully launched both business and non-profit ventures within the marine sector, showcasing his ability to identify opportunities and execute impactful strategies. With experience ranging from sales leadership in fast-moving consumer goods to working with major billfish tournaments, he has earned a reputation as a results-driven leader with a strong entrepreneurial mindset.

“Marlin has always set the standard in the sport fishing industry, leading the way with innovation, expertise, and a true love for the sport,” says Motsko. “I’m beyond excited to join the team, contribute to its legacy, and connect with a community that shares the same passion that I’ve had since I was young. This is an amazing opportunity and I can’t wait to get started.”

For more information, please visit www.marlinmag.com.

About The Marlin Group
The Marlin Group is the world’s largest big-game fishing network reaching more than one million captains, anglers, mates and boat owners annually across a variety of touchpoints. The group publishes Marlin magazine, the industry’s No. 1 source since 1981, and operates the Offshore World Championship in Costa Rica; Los Cabos Billfish Tournament in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Scrub Island Billfish Series in the British Virgin Islands; and the Bermuda Triple Crown, making it the worldwide leader for international billfishing tournaments. Marlin Expeditions, formerly Marlin University, has led anglers on educational excursions to the globe’s top big-game fishing destinations for more than 20 years. The Marlin Group is a core division of the US-based outdoor adventure company Bonnier LLC.

Learn more at marlinmag.com and bonniercorp.com.

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