The 2009 N.C. Ducks Unlimited "Band the Billfish" Tournament is just a few months away.

Last year's event saw 48 boats compete for a purse of $161,500. Four Blue Marlin, five White, and eighteen Sailfish were caught and released over the two days of fishing.

Congratulations to the anglers and crew of Impulse, who's capture of one Blue Marlin and three Sailfish topped the leaderboard last summer in both total points and total release points categories. For complete details, see the 2008 Results.

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.