Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament

Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament Postpones 2026 Event

The iconic Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament has historically drawn competitors from around the world to Kailua-Kona since 1959. As the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament planning process moved forward this year, it became clear that current global and economic conditions present significant challenges to successfully relaunching an international fishing tournament of this scale. The organizers of the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament unfortunately decided that the tournament will not move forward this year.

"Ongoing shifts in international travel patterns, rising operational and transportation costs, and continued uncertainty in the world have made it difficult to ensure the strong international field that has long defined the tournament’s legacy,” said Tournament Director Bobbie Fithian. “All of us involved in HIBT have a deep appreciation for the continued support from the global fishing community, partners, and the Kona community.”

The Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament Returns to Kona in 2026!

We’re thrilled to announce that one of the world’s most prestigious big-game fishing tournaments is returning to the iconic waters of Kailua-Kona! 🎉

Tournament set for August 1-9, 2026. Five days of tournament fishing start Monday, August 3 through Friday, August 7.

HIBT 2026 is set to bring global teams, legendary competition, and a legacy of aloha back to the birthplace of sportfishing. And, the exciting PORF Four Flag Tournament returns as part of the HIBT celebration.

Kona’s deep-sea heritage lives on — we can’t wait to welcome anglers, fans, and our fishing ‘ohana back to the pier!

Stay tuned for dates, registration info, and community events.

It is with great sorrow in our hearts we are informing you of the passing of our beloved HIBT founder.

Peter S. Fithian: Founder of the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament

Peter Stalker Fithian, founder of the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament (HIBT) and a beloved figure in the global fishing community, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2025. Born July 7, 1928, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Peter's passion for sportfishing forever shaped the industry.

After arriving in Hawaii in 1955, Peter quickly immersed himself in Kona's burgeoning fishing scene, establishing HIBT in 1959, just days after Hawaii's statehood. Under his visionary leadership, HIBT gained international acclaim, drawing anglers worldwide and setting high standards in ethical angling and marine conservation.

Peter was instrumental in integrating scientific research into sportfishing, founding the Pacific Ocean Research Foundation (PORF), and initiating groundbreaking conservation efforts like the IGFA Great Marlin Race, significantly advancing global billfish research.

As a mentor and trailblazer, Peter profoundly impacted countless anglers and conservationists. His generosity, wisdom, and dedication inspired generations and left an indelible mark on the sportfishing community.

Peter is survived by his devoted wife Bobi, his children Peter Jr. and Marsha, and grandchildren Elizabeth and Jordan Siliato. The fishing community deeply mourns his passing and celebrates his extraordinary contributions.

A hui hou, Peter, may you find endless tight lines in the great fishing grounds in the sky.

Your legacy will forever guide us on and off the water.

Memorial services for Doc Halliday have been set.

On Thursday, October 17 a Military and Masonic service will be held at the West Hawaii Veterans Cemetery starting at 11 am.

A Celebration of Life reception will follow at Kona Elks Lodge starting at 2 pm. Lunch to follow.

Friends, and all who knew Doc are invited to join his family in remembering and celebrating a life well-lived.

A moving tribute to the great Joe Yee. Mahalo

Remembering Joe Yee, an Industry Icon | Marlin Joe Yee, a legendary figure in the sport fishing world, passed away recently at the age of 96. Renowned for his handcrafted marlin lure, Yee’s creations, such as the Super Plunger, became iconic in sport fishing, catching more grander marlin than any other handmade lure. His dedication to craftsma...

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of legendary lure maker and HIBT angler Joe Yee. His artistry and innovation in crafting lures have left an indelible mark on the fishing community worldwide. Joe’s creations brought countless memories and success to anglers, and his legacy will live on in every strike and every catch. Our thoughts are with his family and all who were touched by his work.

Rest in peace, Joe Yee. You will be deeply missed.

In Memoriam: Doc Halliday Our Friend and Longtime Scorekeeper and Weighmaster of the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament

With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Doc Halliday, the esteemed longtime Scorekeeper and Weighmaster of the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament. He was a cornerstone of the HIBT community for many years.

For over fifty years, Doc volunteered with HIBT with unwavering commitment, ensuring that the tournament not only thrived but also continued to honor its rich traditions while embracing the spirit of aloha.

Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Doc’s family, wife Virginia, friends, and the entire HIBT community during this difficult time. His spirit will live on in the waves of the ocean he loved and in the hearts of all those who were touched by his life.

Aloha ‘Oe, Doc, Until we meet again.

2024 Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament Cancelled
Low World-Wide Participation Drives Decision

Kona, Hawaii (May 1, 2024) –The organizing committee of the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament (HIBT) regretfully announced the cancellation of the 2024 tournament scheduled for July 27 through August 3, 2024. Despite extensive efforts to attract participants from around the globe, including robust outreach campaigns and promotional initiatives, the desired level of interest necessary to uphold the tournament's standards has not been achieved. The 2024 billfish tournament would have been the 62nd annual.

"The decision to cancel the 2024 tournament was made after careful consideration of various factors impacting the event's viability. It breaks my heart to cancel the tournament. While this decision comes with extreme disappointment, it underscores our commitment to upholding the tournament's esteemed legacy and ensuring a quality experience for all participants,” said HIBT Director Roberta Fithian.

In 1959, just two days after the territory of Hawaii became the 50th state, the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament launched its first sports fishing tournament in Kona. A Hawaii team won that first year with competition from teams from Australia and New Zealand. A tradition of international fishing teams coming to Kona began. In 1960, a female angler caught a world record Pacific blue marlin in a preliminary event proving that women could fish. Women were invited to participate in the third year of the tournament.

Before sustainability became a buzz word and over 40 years ago, HIBT introduced it tag and release initiative giving valuable team points for marlin under 300 pounds released back into the ocean.

Teams from Australia, Canada, China, Japan, New Zealand, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, South Africa, Vanuatu, Fiji, Palau, Taiwan, Russia, Korea, France and French Territories, Marshall Islands, Tahiti, British Isles, the Bahamas, American Samoa, the Gilbert and Ellis Islands, Philippines, Guam, Hong Kong and Bermuda and the US have competed over the years. The HIBT organizing committee looks forward to Start Fishing, Start Fishing, Start Fishing from the calm waters of Kona in 2025.