The 2025 Orange Beach Billfish Classic concluded this weekend, celebrating a successful event filled with competitive spirit and impressive catches at The Wharf in Orange Beach, Alabama. The tournament saw an impressive gathering of anglers from the Gulf Coast, ready to demonstrate their skills in one of the region's top fishing competitions.
The standout moment of the weekend came from Scott Cooper and his team aboard the yacht CE, who captured first place in the Blue Marlin division with a remarkable 640.2-pound catch. "It was an unforgettable experience, and I’m incredibly proud of our team,” said Scott Cooper, the angler and owner of the CE, reflecting on the achievement.
Following closely was Jim Murdica of the team Never Settle, whose impressive 468.4-pound marlin earned them second place. The level of competition was intense, showcasing the talent of anglers gathered for this premier tournament.
Efforts to promote marine conservation were also evident in the Catch and Release division, where the team Lifeline took home the top honors. "We recognize the importance of sustainable fishing practices, and it's great to see that reflected here," said a spokesperson for the Lifeline team.
In the Tuna category, the competition was equally fierce. Bill Butler, at the helm of Crawgator, took first place with a 204.2-pound tuna. "This is what we train for all year, to compete at this level and bring home a trophy for our team," said Butler, showcasing his enthusiasm for the event. Captain Rene Cross secured second with a notable 145.8-pound catch from their boat Miss Remy, while Connor McCann, fishing with Diane Kay, clinched third with a 141-pound tuna.
Other divisions were filled with excitement as Mike Akiu from the team Relentless Pursuit reeled in a 24.2-pound wahoo, while Caston Phillips from Fleur de Lis took first place in the Dolphin division with a catch weighing in at 24 pounds. Sherry Polk was recognized as this year's Top Lady Angler aboard the Share-E, while Junior Angler honors went to Jonah Smith of Fall Line, marking another successful category for the youth.
The Orange Beach Billfish Classic is more than just a fishing tournament; it serves as a platform for promoting marine conservation and supporting the local economy. The event draws participants and spectators eager to enjoy the beautiful weather and the camaraderie among fishing enthusiasts.
Scott Cooper, an influential figure in Gulf Coast sportfishing, has been part of the Orange Beach Billfish Classic since its inception in 1996. His commitment to the tournament underscores his passion for both sportfishing and marine conservation. After upgrading to the CE, an 80-foot Viking yacht named in honor of his sister, Cooper's presence at the tournament has only grown more prominent.
"We fish for the memories," Cooper states, emphasizing the value of shared experiences over accolades. This familial approach not only enriches Cooper's own fishing adventures with his sons, Ryan and Scotty, but also instills a sense of tradition within the sport.
The success at this year's Billfish Classic has further solidified CE's reputation in the competitive fishing community. With a remarkable catch, Cooper and his team look forward to future tournaments in pursuit of new challenges and memories.
As the fishing season continues, the Orange Beach Billfish Classic remains a highlight on the sportfishing calendar, inspiring both seasoned anglers and newcomers alike. With every engagement, it reinforces the importance of community, competition, and conservation in the world of sport fishing.