FAQ

How do I register for the tournament?

Register online at marlinmajors.com or call the office at 954-725-4010. All registrations and payments for 2026 El Jefe Invitational must be complete by March 4, 2026. There is no onsite or Calcutta payments during the kickoff party at Abaco Beach Resort.

What is the entry fee?

The general entry fee is $7,500 per boat (plus tax) and includes (8) social bands for event festivities. There are additional optional entry calcuttas that teams can enter as well. Additional social bands may be purchased if needed as well.

What are the eligible species of fish?

Eligible Billfish – Blue Marlin, White Marlin, Hatchet Marlin, Spearfish, Sailfish
Eligible Gamefish – Dolphin, Wahoo, Tuna (Blackfin, Big Eye and Yellowfin)

How Many Days of Fishing Are There?

There are three consecutive days of fish (Thursday, Friday and Saturday)

What are the hook requirements?

All natural baits must be fished with a non-offset circle hook. Artificial lures may be fished with a J hook. See rules for additional details.

How many anglers are permitted?

A maximum of 6 anglers are permitted. Paid crew may also be anglers.

Is there a limit on paid crew?

Yes, paid crew is limited to the captain and one additional paid crew in the bridge or tower and no more than three paid crew in the cockpit.

What are the rules regarding leader length and test?

Maximum line test is 130lb and maximum leader length is 30 feet and maximum combined length with double line is 40 feet.

How many lines can we fish?

All boats are permitted to fish up to (6) lines in the water during each tournament. Artificial and natural teasers do not factor into the line count.

Is Sonar Permitted?

Yes. Sonars may be turned on 30 minutes prior to lines in each day.

What are the boundaries in the tournament?

The tournament boundary is a 60 nautical mile radius in any direction from Abaco Beach Resort Marina.

What time are lines in/lines out?

8am & 4pm

What method is used to verify billfish releases in the tournament?

All releases must be documented on video by each team as stated in the rules. SD Cards are the only acceptable form of video media in the tournament. Teams must provide their own media.

Is there a kill division in the tournaments?

No. Advocacy for billfish release in tournaments lies at the heart of the Marlin Majors mission. As such, there is no kill division in any of the events.