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Every October, the world’s richest billfish tournament unfolds in Cabo San Lucas, drawing anglers, sponsors, and spectators from across the globe. The Bisbee’s Black & Blue, known for its record-breaking prizes and competitive atmosphere, continues to define the region’s status as a premier sportfishing destination. The 2025 edition brings together 178 teams and 1,242 anglers, all competing for an impressive US$7,461,700 purse.
The tournament is headquartered at the Marina Cabo San Lucas, where boats line up before dawn each day. The starting shot fires at 7:00 a.m., signaling the fleet’s departure into the Pacific and the Sea of Cortez. Fishing continues until 5:00 p.m., when teams return for the weigh-ins at the Puerto Paraiso Mall’s marina-side stage. The 2025 competition runs from October 22 to 25, with three consecutive fishing days following the opening ceremonies and captain’s meeting. Spectators are welcome to observe both the daily starting shot and the daily weigh-ins, where qualifying catches — Blue and Black Marlin weighing at least 300 pounds — are brought to the scales amid cheering crowds and cameras.
Understanding the Bisbee’s Black & Blue Rules and Daily Jackpots
At the heart of the Bisbee’s format lies their signature daily jackpot system that rewards both consistency and luck. Teams buy into optional jackpot categories covering different weight brackets and species. Each day, the largest qualifying marlin caught earns the corresponding day’s jackpot. If no fish meets the 300-pound minimum, that day’s prize rolls over, increasing the stakes for subsequent days. This structure keeps the tournament unpredictable, ensuring that even a single catch can dramatically shift the leaderboard.
Alongside the main jackpots, the tournament features a Daily Release Division, which honors teams for tagging and releasing billfish instead of weighing them. Each released marlin or sailfish is documented and recorded, earning points that contribute to daily and overall release standings. This division reflects Los Cabos’ growing commitment to marine conservation and sustainable sportfishing practices. Local organizations and the Bisbee’s team have increasingly emphasized responsible angling, aligning the excitement of competition with the protection of Baja California Sur’s rich marine ecosystems.
Bisbee’s Black & Blue 2025: Current Standings, Catches, and Highlights
With the first day of fishing still underway, we already have live scorings to follow the action. Over 40 marlins have been caught and released, underscoring the abundance of fish and the tournament’s balanced approach between sport and conservation. Team Another Line currently leads the standings with a 389-pound Blue Marlin, positioning them as early contenders for one of the most lucrative prizes in competitive fishing. With two more days of action ahead, the leaderboard remains open, and the weigh-ins continue to draw large crowds to the marina each evening.
The Economic and Cultural Impact of the Bisbee’s Black & Blue in Los Cabos
The Bisbee’s Black & Blue extends beyond sportfishing into the heart of Cabo’s economy and culture. Each October, hotels fill, restaurants stay busy, and local businesses thrive as visitors arrive to witness one of the most prestigious events in the region. For anglers, it remains a test of skill, patience, and timing. For Los Cabos, it is a celebration of community, tradition, and the enduring appeal of the sea.