Anglers from across Australia cast their lines in Port Douglas on Wednesday, kicking off one of the region’s most prestigious events, the annual Port Douglas Marlin Challenge.

Tourism Port Douglas and Daintree executive officer Doug Ryan said the event was one of the most popular events on anglers’ calendars and he said the large fishing vessels had been sailing into the region over the past week.

The event, which will see 12 vessels vying for the title of champion, runs until November 10.

“This is pencilled in the calendar as the must do blue ribbon tournament by the best in the industry.”

As a result, Mr Ryan said the tournament was also a great economic driver for the destination. “The Marlin Challenge brings into the region top end clientele who have one of the highest spends in the region,” he added.

Now in its fourth year, tournament director Lynton Heffer said conditions were “red hot” for the four-day event. “We have the best marlin fishing ground on our doorstep with statistics showing 85 per cent of the world’s 1000 pound marlins are caught in our local waters.

“This is a big drawcard for the anglers who have come as far south as Sydney to take part. Not only does Port Douglas have the best access to marlin fishing, it also great stop for skippers, friends, family and onlookers as well.”

Mr Heffer said the event would not be possible without the support of major sponsor Cairns Sheet Metal. He said there was a great range of prizes up for grabs including wall mounted trophies for the winners as well as beer product, fishing reels, game fishing tackle, gift vouchers and more.

The tournament is open to all members of clubs affiliated with the Game Fishing Association of Australia or the International Game Fish Association. It is also strictly tag and release, in which the angler attaches a tag to the marlin and records data such as date, time, place, size and approximate weight.

“By tagging and releasing we play an important and vital role in monitoring the movements of marlins and the information that we can provide is integral to long-term survival of these species,” Mr Heffer said.

For more information on The Port Douglas Marlin Challenge, contact Lynton Heffer on 0409 610 869.