Dock Talk: 2026 TOURNAMENT RULES

PCBT RULES In VS Out: 2026 INS & OUTS: TOURNAMENT RULES EDITION

As we look toward the 2026 season, we are committed to keeping the Pirate’s Cove Billfish Tournament at the forefront of the sport. To ensure a fair and exciting competition, we have updated several key regulations. Below is a breakdown of the 2026 "Ins & Outs" exactly as they appear in our official update.

This season marks a shift in how we approach technology, scoring, and crew participation. We’ve listened to feedback from the docks to ensure the rules reflect the evolving landscape of billfishing while honoring the traditions that make this tournament legendary.

Sonar & Release Points

IN Blue Marlin releases with clear photo/video verification of the species and the 'card color of the day' will earn 300 points. All White Marlin, Sailfish, Spearfish, and unverified Blue Marlin releases will earn 100 points. Points remain the same regardless of the use of Omni-Directional Sonar.

OUT There will be a points handicap for all Sonar equipped boats in the tournament. For 2025, our Billfish Points will be scored as follows: White Marlin, Sailfish, Spearfish and unverified Blue Marlin Release 100 pts non-sonar | 75 pts sonar equipped Blue Marlin (with photo/video verification) 300 pts non-sonar | 225 pts sonar equipped.

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Blue Marlin Weight & Scoring

IN Blue Marlin 700 pounds and over will receive 1.5 points per pound. There will be no penalty for a 110+ inch Blue Marlin that does not meet the minimum weight of 400 lbs. That fish will receive 1 point per pound as long as it is 110 inches or longer. In this case only, a Blue Marlin weighing 392 lbs would receive 392 points toward overall points and daily points.

OUT Blue Marlin over 700 pounds will receive 2 points per pound. In order to weigh a Blue Marlin, it must meet one of the size requirements: 110 inches forked length or 400 pounds. There will be no penalty for a 110+ inch Blue Marlin that does not meet the minimum weight of 400 pounds, however, a blue marlin must weigh 400 pounds or more to receive points.

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Professional Crew Rules

IN Two (2) registered professional crew members may hook any billfish and pass the rod one time to a registered angler. Professional crew members are also permitted to reel in all billfish for an official release or the capture of a Blue Marlin; however, they are ineligible for all individual angler trophies.

OUT Professional crew members may hook billfish and pass the rod. Professionals may not score points.

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Gamefish Qualifications (Tuna)

IN Tuna (Bigeye, Yellowfin, and Blackfin, all qualify as "Tuna") determined by weight. Bluefin Tuna do not qualify in this tournament.

OUT Tuna (Bigeye, Yellowfin, Blackfin, and Bluefin all qualify as "Tuna") determined by weight.

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See a full list of the 2026 rules on our website. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us! We look forward to seeing you at the marina for the 2026 season.