Playa del Carmen’s 44th Annual Sport Fishing Tournament Begins

Playa del Carmen, Mexico — The 44th annual "Nuestra Señora del Carmen" Sport Fishing Tournament, a tradition promoting marine conservation and family-friendly competition, is set to begin on July 20 at 8:00 a.m. at Fundadores Park Beach.

A Legacy of Conservation and Competition

The event, deeply rooted in Playa del Carmen’s cultural heritage, emphasizes responsible fishing practices and the preservation of marine ecosystems. Antón Bojórquez, Secretary of Economic Development and Investment Attraction, stated that Mayor Estefanía Mercado has prioritized elevating the tournament’s profile.

During a press conference at the historic Red Gómez Hall in the former municipal palace, organizers announced cash prizes of 150,000 pesos for first place, 100,000 pesos for second, and 50,000 pesos for third. Additional prizes will be provided by official sponsor Shimano.

International Participation and Economic Impact

The tournament attracts anglers from across Mexico, including Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Puerto Aventuras, Puerto Morelos, Cancún, Xpuha, Tulum, and Punta Allen, as well as international participants from the United States. Approximately 50 boats are expected to compete.

Estefanía Hernández, Secretary of Tourism, highlighted the event’s role in boosting local economies. "Mayor Mercado has championed sports tourism since day one," she said. "This benefits not only small hotels but also various sectors of our community, generating regional and local tourism."

Sustainable Fishing Practices

Alejandro López, Director of Agricultural and Fisheries Development, emphasized the tournament’s balance between tradition and environmental responsibility. "This competition represents more than a contest—it’s a vision where sport fishing becomes a tool for awareness," he said. "Catch-and-release practices demonstrate respect for marine life."

Tournament Logistics

Registration is open at the Secretary of Economic Development and Investment Attraction. On July 20, boat check-in begins at 6:00 a.m., with the starting signal at 8:00 a.m. Catch registration and weigh-ins open at 3:00 p.m., closing at 5:00 p.m. The awards ceremony will take place at 6:00 p.m.

Scoring System:

• Wahoo: 50 points
• Sierra: 40 points
• Dorado: 35 points
• Tuna: 30 points
• Bonito (Barrilete): 25 points
• Barracuda: 10 points

Catch-and-Release Bonus Points:

• Blue Marlin: 6,000 points (plus 300 for release)
• White Marlin: 3,000 points (plus 300 for release)
• Sailfish: 1,000 points (plus 300 for release)
• Grand Slam (all three species): 5,000 bonus points in addition to individual scores

Judging will be overseen by Pescando en el Caribe, led by Gamaliel Ek.