"Stream Weaver" Wins!

The 21st annual "Band the Billfish" has concluded with a near record number of billfish released. This year's event totaled 83 billfish releases, which is second only to 2005's 96 billfish in the tournament's history. This year's record average of 1.8 billfish per boat crushed the previous record of 1.35 set in 1998.

Overall, 46 boats competed for honors and a total purse of $161,900. With an incredible 6 Sailfish and 2 White Marlin, "Stream Weaver" secured top honors. "Barbara B" ran a close second with 5 Sails and 2 Whites, taking the lion's share of the purse for their effort. Close behind in third is "Salvation" with 4 Sails and 2 Whites.

Mary Temple Mullis, with "Barbara B" once again captured the Top Lady Angler spot with her 5 billfish. From aboard "Caroline", young Watson Caviness III caught 3 billfish to take the Top Greenwing Angler award.

In the game fish category, Kyle Culpepper hauled in a 64.20 lb Yellowfin while aboard "Figment" for the 1st place Tuna. "Sea Witch" angler Mark Roy caught the 1st Place Wahoo, weighing in at 41.10 lbs. The top Dolphin, at 22.55lbs, was caught by Peter Barbier from the deck of "Sensation".

For full details and prize distributions, visit the results page.

The annual "Band the Billfish" Tournament benefits wetland habitats in North Carolina and waterfowl breeding areas across North America through Ducks Unlimited's Sound CARE program. Since 1988, "Band the Billfish" has raised over $950,000 for conservation in North Carolina, all thanks to the generous contributions of the tournament participants and sponsors.