The 2011 Port Douglas Marlin Challenge will reach new heights as registrations are expected to be double that of 2010 where ten boats and 70 competitors took part.

In its second year, the tag and release tournament is scheduled to take place from 2 November to 7 November in what are know as the best Black Marlin fishing waters in the world.

Tournament director, Terry Murphy, has gone to great lengths to promote the event which he says attracts "high net worth individuals" to the region at what is traditionally a quieter time of the year.

"The competition has exceeded expectations and the promo video highlights some of the spectacular area and action surrounding this sport," Mr Murphy said.

"The Douglas Fishing Club has produced a video that will be distributed nationally and internationally to focus on the region and what it has got to offer."

The emergence of high definition cameras has also brought the action into the lounge room, with organsiers running multiple HD cameras including a new and exciting addition called ‘RiggerCam’ giving an amazing perspective of the back of the boat, and even a unique view through 'SunglassCam'.

"It (RIggerCam) was used two weeks ago by a seasoned veteran ‘Gorilla’ and they had a 850lb fish ram the back of the boat, holing it and causing it to take on water. One for the Fish!" said Mr Murphy

INCREDIBLE VIDEO FOOTAGE (top left)

"Typically experienced crews will have the fish beside the boat in a very short time and then tagged and released in perfect condition."

Winners will share in around $30,000 in prizes and will have the honour of being named on the $5500 perpetual trophy. But there are bigger fish to fry according to Mr Murphy.

"Plans are already in place for 2012 to run the Challenge as well as a “Shootout.' This will have a first prize that could be as high as $500,000 depending on the amount of entries.

Entries for the 2011 Port Douglas Marlin Challenge can be made by contacting Terry Murphy on 0419 006 258 or by email on info@portdouglasmarlinchallenge.com. Visit the website for more information.

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