DESTIN, FL, June 20, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -    

TO:	PHOTO EDITORS, PLANNING EDITORS TV ASSIGNMENT EDITORS, SPORTS, BUSINESS, TRAVEL AND WEATHER MEDIA
WHAT:	RETURN OF TOURISM, SPORT FISHING ON GULF COAST  EMERALD COAST BLUE MARLIN CLASSIC EXPECTED TO BE BIGGEST ONE YET
	Stunning Visuals Will Be Available
WHEN:	This Week, Thursday June 23 - Saturday, June 25

Ranked as one of the Top 10 bill fish tournaments in the world, the Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic (ECBC) at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is the fastest growing billfish tournaments.

Excitement is at an all-time high this year with hopes of capturing new records.  Fishing conditions in the Gulf region are reported to be excellent. 

Relevant Stats

• ECBC is one of the top 10 billfish tournaments in the world
• Last year, the event was cancelled because of the Deepwater Horizon incident.
• The last ECBC season broke records with a 714.7-pound blue marlin, brought in by Angler Chip Temple.  It also showcased 350 anglers aboard 67 sport fishing yachts.
• More than 37 billfish were released among the fleet, with 87 yellowfin tuna, wahoo and dolphin brought to the scales.
• ECBC has had prize purses of more than $1 million.
• 70-80 boats are expected to participate this year.
• Thousands of visitors and spectators will be at Sandestin.

2011 Highlights Include:
Live scoring and video on www.fishecbc.com during the weigh ins.

Thursday, June 23  4:00 p.m.	Official Start of Tournament Fishing
Friday, June 24 All Day     4-9 p.m.	Special Events & Sponsor Exhibits Weigh-Ins at Baytowne Marina
Saturday, June 25 All Day     4-10 p.m.	Special & Exhibits Weigh-Ins at Baytowne Marina

The strength of ECBC is another example of the rebound of travel, tourism and fishing in the region.  ECBC has become a key stop for the World Billfish Series and the International Game Fish Association Offshore Championship.   Charitable contributions from this event are made to the Boys & Girls Club, Harvest House and The Billfish Foundation, a non-profit marine conservation organization.

Broll is available.

 

 

SOURCE Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

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