On an incredible barrier island, surrounded by the blazing blue Atlantic and Bogue Sound, is one of North Carolina’s most precious gems: Atlantic Beach. This part of the country is a vacationer’s dream, known for abundant beaches, parks, hiking and biking trails, sailing, and so much more. It won’t take long for you to discover why this destination truly does have it all, and with so much world-class dining, shopping, and ways to relax, you’ll want to call it home!
There are so many things to do in Atlantic Beach, but one of the best has to be Atlantic Beach fishing. You never know what you might haul in, from tuna, wahoo, sailfish, marlin, snapper, grouper, and sea bass. But for the serious anglers in your party, the crown jewel of the fishing season is the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament – being held from June 10-19, 2022. Read on to learn about the different levels this legendary event offers. When you’re done, get ready to browse our incredible selection of Atlantic Beach rentals that will get you close to all the action!
Big Rock Fishing Tournament
The Atlantic Beach area is gearing up for the 64th annual tournament in 2022. With the success of 2021’s event, it will be a fantastic time. In 2021, 270 boats participated, and the total prize purse was $4,749,200 – with a top prize of $1,678,250! That should tell you all you need to know about this legendary tourney. But it wasn’t always that big.
Over six decades ago, the first tournament winner got a red wagon filled with silver dollars; and the locals weren’t even sure that blue marlins existed in the waters they were fishing in! But one day, the Fabulous Fishermen Club announced a cash prize to anyone who could catch one of the legendary fish. On September 14, 1957, Jimmy Croy pulled a 143-pounder from the sea. He got the silver dollars and some local fame, and an annual tradition was born. The tournament now donates millions to charity ($7.5 million since its inception) and has committed to conservation efforts. The Big Rock Tournament has transformed the lives of winners, yes, and the lives of participants and businesses in the surrounding areas. It’s an event with an impact beyond a few days in June.
The Big Rock event will start on June 13, 2022, and runs until June 18, 2022. Anglers can fish four out of the six available days. Available fishing times are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For gamefish, the scales close at 7 p.m. daily. If you plan to register a boat, you must register and pay the entry fee before qualifying for prizes and trophies. You can hand in your registration form at the Big Rock Office or the Captain’s Meeting before 9 a.m. on Monday, June 13. You can check out www.thebigrock.com to find out more details and to see all the rules and regulations for this incredible adventure, and a complete schedule of other exciting events such as parties, the pork chop dinner, the fashion show, and a whole lot more. You can also reach the tournament by phone at (252) 725-1568.
KWLA Tournament
The Keli Wagner Lady Angler (KWLA) Tournament prides itself on being one of the most significant ladies-only events in the world. It’s a one-day billfish release tournament, and it is a lot of fun! The event was named to honor the late wife of a Big Rock board member who battled cancer until 2008. Keli loved the tournament and was equally passionate about donating proceeds to a cancer clinic. The 2020 event saw $25,000 donated to improve patient comfort and care.
In 2021, 132 boats participated for a record prize of just under $190,000. The KWLA tournament events kick off on Friday, June 10, 2022, with the Lady Angler Event from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., featuring a best-dressed contest, food, drinks, and more. The fishing fun happens on Saturday, June 11, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., with the weigh-in happening live at 2 p.m. at Big Rock Landing.
All boats must register and pay an entry fee before fishing at 8 a.m. You can find the official rules and regulations at www.thebigrock.com or call (252) 725-1568 for more information.
Big Rock Kids Billfish Tournament
The Big Rock group wants to pass on the joy and adventure of fishing down the generations, and the best way they have found to do it is with the Big Rock Kids Tournament. A portion of the proceeds from this tournament benefits children’s charities in the Eastern North Carolina area. The tournament is a 3-day total release tournament. It started with 59 boats and over 200 junior anglers and is only growing.
The 2022 event begins on Wednesday, July 13, with registration and a captain’s party, including a Pig Picking Dinner at Big Rock Landing. Fishing happens between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. from July 14-16, with awards being handed out at 7 p.m. on the 16th. As with the other two events, all boats must be registered and all entry fees paid before fishing and no later than 8 a.m. on July 14. You can find official rules at www.thebigrock.com or contact them at (919) 801-8346.
Plan Your Visit!
Ready for an unforgettable Crystal Coast adventure? Begin planning your trip with Cannon and Gruber today! Simply view our Atlantic Beach vacation rentals, book your favorite, and get ready for an unforgettable getaway!
Book Your Atlantic Beach Rental
Fishing in Atlantic Beach, NC, is not to be missed – and an Atlantic Beach fishing tournament is a fantastic way to meet fellow anglers and put your rod and reel skills to the test. Whether it’s the Big Rock, KWLA, or Big Rock Kids, there’s an event for every member of your party – an event that no one will forget! But to play here, you have to stay here, and we have you covered. Cannon & Gruber Realtors has the Atlantic Beach condo rentals and Atlantic Beach pet-friendly rentals to get you close to all the best spots the Atlantic Beach area has to offer.
If you want to plan your excellent Atlantic Beach stay and take advantage of all the fantastic things this part of North Carolina offers, you need to browse our incredible selection. We have condo rentals from 1 to 4 bedrooms with 1.5 to 4 bathrooms that have fully equipped kitchens and amenities you want, which may include private beach access, an indoor pool or hot tub, access to tennis and basketball courts, miniature golf and shuffleboard, BBQ grills, internet access, and laundry facilities.
We also have centrally located units that put you a short distance from all the restaurants, shopping, and other fantastic adventures in the area. Whether you want to wander the beaches, see the boats at the marina, check out the local wildlife, or pick up some beautiful souvenirs, we have you covered; and our pet-friendly rentals mean that everyone – and we mean everyone! – in your party can stay and be happy.
If you’re coming to Atlantic Beach to try your luck in the Big Rock Tournament – or to have a memorable vacation – let Cannon & Gruber Realtors be your partner. Find the rental you want for the rest, relaxation, and adventure you deserve.
