Beach Haven White Marlin Invitational
The Beach Haven Marlin & Tuna Club's White Marlin Invitational is one of the premier offshore tournaments on Long Beach Island. This prestigious event draws serious offshore angler...
The Beach Haven Marlin & Tuna Club's White Marlin Invitational is one of the premier offshore tournaments on Long Beach Island. This prestigious event draws serious offshore anglers from throughout the region, with significant prize money and bragging rights on the line.
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Tournament Overview
Hosted by the historic Beach Haven Marlin & Tuna Club, this invitational tournament focuses on white marlin but includes categories for tuna, wahoo, and dolphin. The club's long history and waterfront facilities make it a favorite among the offshore fishing community.
History
The Beach Haven Marlin & Tuna Club has been a fixture on LBI for generations, with tournament traditions dating back decades. The White Marlin Invitational has evolved into one of the club's signature events, attracting boats from throughout the Mid-Atlantic.
Location
Dates & Entry Information
Schedule
- Tournament Dates
- Mid-August (3-day event)
- Registration
- Registration opens in summer, contact club for deadlines
- Weigh-In
- Club facilities in Beach Haven
Entry Information
- Entry Fees
- Entry fees vary by calcutta level; contact club for current pricing
- How to Register
- Through Beach Haven Marlin & Tuna Club
Requirements
- ✓Club membership or guest invitation for some categories
- ✓Vessel registration
- ✓IGFA rules compliance
Target Species
Tournament Divisions
White Marlin
Rules
- •IGFA rules apply
- •Minimum size requirements
- •Release categories available
Tuna
Rules
- •Heaviest fish wins category
- •Daily limits apply
Prize Categories
White Marlin Champion
Cash and trophies
Tuna Champion
Cash and trophies
Top Boat Overall
Championship trophy
Tournament Rules
- 1IGFA tackle and rules
- 2Designated fishing boundaries
- 3Check-in and check-out requirements
- 4Weigh-in protocols
Winning Strategies
- ✓Focus on the canyons showing warmest, cleanest water
- ✓White marlin prefer floating debris and temperature edges
- ✓Have both trolling and live baiting setups ready
- ✓Monitor VHF for fleet reports but think independently
- ✓Dawn and dusk often produce the best marlin action
Where to Stay
Long Beach Island offers numerous rental options. Beach Haven has hotels and vacation rentals close to the weigh-in location.
Recommended Accommodations
- ✓Vacation rentals in Beach Haven
- ✓Hotels on LBI
- ✓Nearby marinas with transient slips
Book a Fishing Charter
Book online through FishingBooker
Pro Tips
- ✓Join or connect with club members for local knowledge
- ✓Pre-fish the canyons before tournament days
- ✓LBI has a dedicated offshore community - network for tips
- ✓Book accommodations early, especially waterfront properties
- ✓Check club schedule for associated social events
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a club member?
Some tournament levels are open to non-members, others require membership or guest invitation. Contact the club for current policies.
Where do boats depart from?
Most boats depart from Barnegat Inlet. Some larger vessels fish out of Beach Haven or other nearby marinas.
What are typical weights for winning marlin?
Winning white marlin typically range from 60-80+ pounds, though release tournaments may not require weighing.