The 2025 Los Cabos Billfish Tournament, despite being shortened to just one day due to adverse weather, proved to be an exciting event for both anglers and spectators alike. On October 16, amidst the backdrop of Cabo San Lucas, 28 teams set out to compete and made the most of the challenging fishing conditions.
“Even though we faced port closures and rough weather, the fishing was still phenomenal,” said Capt. Brett Eller, leader of Team Overtime. It was this very spirit of resilience that defined the tournament, as teams gathered for a single shootout that resulted in notable catches, including 10 blue marlin, 10 striped marlin, 20 sailfish, and several other species.
Though the week was marred by delays and uncertainty, the camaraderie and festive atmosphere remained unshaken. Participants took advantage of their time in Cabo, engaging in nightlife and dining, and enjoying beachfront gatherings at Playa Grande Resort & Grand Spa. “We made memories, regardless of the challenges,” noted one participant, reflecting on the camaraderie shared among competitors.
When the competition concluded, Team Overtime emerged victorious, dominating the leaderboard with an impressive total of 1,125 points. “Our teamwork and precision fishing really paid off,” قال Eller, whose team released three blue marlin and nine sailfish, ultimately earning them $147,740 in prize money.
Austin French of Team Overtime had a standout individual performance, securing the inaugural Top Angler award for his successful releases of two blue marlin and two sailfish. “Winning this award means a lot to me, especially against such tough competition,” said French. He also boasted the event's largest dorado catch at 34 pounds.
Finishing in second place was Team Magic Touch, captained by Kim Manning. “We adjusted well to the conditions and stayed focused,” Manning said, highlighting the team's releases of two blue marlin and one striped marlin, which accounted for 625 points and $28,254 in winnings. Manning's crew exhibited consistency and tenacity throughout the day.
In third place was Team Northstar, under the guidance of Capt. Roberto Beltran. The team weighed in the heaviest marlin of the tournament—a 414-pound black marlin—and a 38-pound wahoo. “We’re thrilled to see our hard work rewarded,” remarked Beltran. Their haul earned them 621 points and a total prize of $33,500, along with accolades for the biggest marlin and biggest wahoo, validating their prowess on the water.
The tournament also recognized additional standout performers, with Team Reel EZE notching 400 points and Team Meshuga Fish following closely behind with 375 points. They received $18,216 and $7,920 respectively, underscoring the competitive nature of the event.
The Los Cabos community rallied behind the tournament, with prominent guests in attendance, including Señora Charo Bulnes from Solmar Hotels & Resorts and Municipal Director of Los Cabos Fishing Señor Juan Javier García, who showed their support for the fishing industry and community development.
Following the competition, Marlin Group’s Pacific Tournaments Director Lacey Hagler expressed appreciation for the fleet’s commitment and spirit during this extraordinary event. “Thank you all for participating and making this tournament a success, despite the circumstances,” Hagler said during the awards ceremony at Playa Grande.
The success of this year's tournament raises hopes for future events in Los Cabos as fishermen look forward to returning next year, potentially under more favorable conditions. The resilience demonstrated by the teams this year will surely inspire the spirit of competition and camaraderie that define the Los Cabos Billfish Tournament.
