Blog Layout

Orange Beach Billfish Classic Kicks Off 2024 Big Game Fishing Season

R. Ken Cooper • Apr 25, 2024

Alabama Gulf Coast Hosts Prestigious Billfish Tournament in May

2023 Orange Beach Billfish Classic Winners

Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – The 28th Annual Orange Beach Billfish Classic (OBBC) will be held from May 14-19, 2024 at The Wharf in Orange Beach, Alabama.


This prestigious tournament is the start of the Gulf Coast Triple Crown Series and is committed to sustainable billfishing, donating over $730,000 to the Billfish Foundation and other conservation entities over the years.


The tournament will feature various events throughout the week, including a Captain and Crew Party on Tuesday, May 14th, an Optional Cash Awards Pot Party on Wednesday, May 15th, and a Mandatory Captain's Meeting on Thursday, May 16th.


 Fishing will commence at 12:00 noon on Thursday, May 16th, with weigh-ins taking place on Friday, May 17th from 7:00-10:00 PM and Saturday, May 18th from 6:00-10:00 PM. 


The tournament will conclude with an Awards Breakfast on Sunday, May 19th.


Anglers can register for the tournament by mailing a $2,000 deposit to the OBBC at PO Box 1645, Orange Beach, AL 36561, or by calling Kate Ferrara-Dorland at 225-892-2146 to pay by credit card.


The tournament is open to both private and charter boats, and there are various cash award categories for different species of billfish.


The Orange Beach Billfish Classic is known for its competitive format and stunning coastal setting, drawing top anglers and teams from across the region.


2023 Winners Article from OBA News


2024 Schedule of Events

Tuesday, May 14th

7:00 pm: Captain and Crew Party under the big tent at the Wharf (Private)


Wednesday, May 15th

4:00 – 10:30 pm: Registration and Optional Cash Awards open under the big tent

6:00 – 10:30 pm: Optional cash Awards Pot Party with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and dinner (Private)


Thursday, May 16th

9:30 am: Mandatory Captain’s Meeting under the big tent

10:00 am: Boats may leave The Wharf through Perdido Bay to Perdido Pass

12:00 noon: Boats may leave Perdido Pass. Any boat choosing to leave through Sailboat Bay may not leave The Wharf Marina until NOON, May 16th

12:00 noon: Fishing Commences


Friday, May 17th

7:00 -10:00 pm: Weigh in at The Wharf


Saturday, May 18th

6:00 pm – 10:00 pm: Weigh in at The Wharf


Sunday, May 19th

9:00 am: Tournament Awards Breakfast (Private)

Share this article w/ Friends...

Foley Police Patch

Foley Police Partners with High School on Public Safety Program

By R. Ken Cooper • 04 May, 2024
The Foley Police Department and Foley High School are collaborating to introduce a new public safety program aimed at students interested in law enforcement careers. This initiative adds a specialized track to the school's curriculum, helping students explore potential careers in public safety.
The Gulf State Park Pier missing section has been replaced, allowing workers to reach the octagon.

Gulf State Park Pier Repairs Reach Major Milestone

By David Rainer • 04 May, 2024
The reconstruction of the Gulf State Park Pier reached a milestone recently when the walkway to the octagon on the end was partially completed. Lamar Pendergrass, the South Region Operations Supervisor for the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ (ADCNR) State Parks Division, said missing pilings and decking components have been replaced all the way to the octagon, which will allow construction workers much easier access to the entire 1,544-foot pier.
Vehicle Plunges into Water in Fatal Gulf Shores Crash

Vehicle Plunges into Water in Fatal Gulf Shores Crash

By R. Ken Cooper • 03 May, 2024
A tragic traffic incident claimed the life of a driver in Gulf Shores early this morning. The accident occurred around 1:24 AM near Tacky Jacks, at the intersection of East Canal Drive and East Second Street. Authorities reported that the vehicle was heading west on East Canal Drive when it breached the guard rail and plunged into the water below. The driver was declared deceased at the scene.
Foley Dedicates Memorial Plaque to City Founder

Foley Dedicates Memorial Plaque to City Founder

By Guy Busby • 03 May, 2024
Almost a century after the death of the community’s founder, the vision of John Foley is still guiding the growing city. The city of Foley dedicated a plaque recognizing John Foley set into the renovated fountain in the park named for the community founder.
Sea Turtle Nesting Season

Turtle Nesting Season Is Underway on the Gulf Coast

By OBA Staff • 03 May, 2024
The support of Alabama coastal residents is needed to raise awareness and educate our visitors to Keep Light’s Out for turtles. The sea turtle nesting season is May through October. Nesting occurs on the beaches from Fort Morgan to Orange Beach and the Florida Panhandle.
Advance Auto Parts

Gulf Shores Launches Unique Roadway Safety Initiative with Advance Auto Parts

By OBA Staff • 02 May, 2024
Advance Auto Parts, a major provider of automotive aftermarket parts, is collaborating with the Gulf Shores Police Department (GSPD) to enhance roadway safety. The initiative, named "Advancing Our Roads," was unveiled today at 11am, during the grand opening of the new Advance store located at 3808 Gulf Shores Parkway.
Lisa Christian

Lisa Christian Wins Island Spirit Award

By OBA Staff • 02 May, 2024
You might listen to her middays on Sunny 105.7 or you may listen to her at one of your favorite restaurants in Gulf Shores. Either way, you have probably heard the sounds of Lisa Christian if you live in Gulf Shores. Her smooth, bluesy sound and offbeat charm has kept her a local favorite for nearly twenty years. She is currently recording her newest album and it’s due for release in summer of 2024.
Recreational Red Grouper Fishing in Gulf of Mexico Pauses in July

Recreational Red Grouper Fishing in Gulf of Mexico Pauses in July

By R. Ken Cooper • 02 May, 2024
Starting from July 1, 2024, at 12:01 am local time, recreational fishing for red grouper in the federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico will be prohibited. This closure, extending through the end of the year, is enforced by NOAA Fisheries due to the expected meeting of the annual catch target of 1,840,000 pounds gutted weight by June 30, 2024.
Haley Kellogg piloted the first flight with Dr. Mackey

Gulf Shores High School Aviation Students Achieve Milestone

By R. Ken Cooper • 01 May, 2024
Nervous anticipation filled the air at Gulf Shores International Airport at Jack Edwards Field as Gulf Shores High School Aviation Academy students achieved a historical milestone by successfully flying the light-wight experimental aircraft that they built for the first time. The event took place this morning, Wednesday, May 1, at 10:00 AM, drawing a crowd of students, parents, educators, aviation enthusiasts, and media.
Gulf Shores Gears Up for National Bike Month

Gulf Shores Gears Up for National Bike Month

By Puffer Thompson • 01 May, 2024
Hopping on a bike is the ideal way to experience this beautiful place we call home. Whether you prefer leisurely rides along the beach or more challenging routes, there's a trail for everyone. For instance, the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail in Gulf State Park offers over 25 miles of paved pathways through diverse ecosystems, providing endless opportunities for exploration.
Show More
Share by: