The 72nd San Juan International Billfish Tournament (IBT) took place from November 4 to 9, 2025, hosted by Club Náutico de San Juan, showcasing a remarkable change in both format and timing. The tournament attracted 62 boats and saw an impressive tally of 107 blue marlin releases, marking a successful first year for its revamped structure.
This year’s event represented a significant shift as organizers moved the IBT’s dates to November, aligning it with the peak migration of blue marlin through the renowned "Blue Marlin Alley". "The change paid off—strong fishing, smooth seas, and spirited international competition underscored the tournament’s continuing evolution," said Richard H. Christiansen, Jr., Chairman of the tournament.
The innovations introduced in 2025 aimed to create a more inclusive and competitive environment. The tournament offered $75,000 in cash and prizes alongside prestigious trophies. For the first time, separate Sonar and Non-Sonar divisions were established, designed to level the competitive landscape between traditional and technologically advanced fishing vessels.
Additionally, a new youth category was launched for anglers aged 13 to 17, joining existing women's, boat, and team divisions. "This is about encouraging the next generation of anglers to participate in a beloved tradition," Christiansen noted.
The Sonar Division was dominated by the team from Fresh Air, which secured victory with six blue marlin releases. Notably, owner Faustino García played a key role with three of the releases, demonstrating strong teamwork within a competitive field. "We worked hard out there, and it truly paid off," said García after the tournament.
Sari Victoria emerged triumphant in the Non-Sonar Division, recording seven blue marlin releases. Owner Tito Saavedra praised the unwavering teamwork of captain Miguelito Tirado and the crew. "This victory is a testament to our team’s dedication and skill, especially in such fierce competition," Saavedra remarked during the awards ceremony.
The tournament saw participation from teams hailing from Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, the United States, and the British Virgin Islands. Teams formed either over familiar affiliations or through local charters under a four-angler format, kicking off the festivities with a traditional Flag Ceremony that led into nightly socials culminating in an awards gala.
Following Sari Victoria in the Non-Sonar Division was Release, which finished in second place with four billfish releases, while Chu-lería secured third place, also with four releases, highlighting the fierce competition across all divisions.
The new November dates and the introduction of the sonar and non-sonar divisions, along with the implementation of video verification, marked a pioneering shift for the historic tournament. "It’s a fresh, exciting evolution of this iconic tournament," Christiansen shared, reflecting on the sweeping changes implemented.
In the newly established Sonar Division, Fishing Time claimed second place with four releases led by standout angler Gabriel Cadenas, while Pícara also recorded four blue marlin catches to finish in third.
Top Angler honors were awarded to AJ Cabrer, who released four marlins, along with Faustino García and Hans Mangual, who had three and two releases respectively. Their impressive skills and competitive spirit added to the overall excitement of the event.
With over 100 billfish released and fierce competition as a backdrop, the IBT reaffirmed its status as a cornerstone of the international big-game fishing circuit. As it moves into the future, local leaders and competitors alike are eager to build on the innovations introduced this year, ensuring that the San Juan IBT continues to thrive in the years to come.