The 2025 MidAtlantic Tournament: Competition, Big Catches, and Lasting Memories
Each summer, the MidAtlantic Tournament takes center stage as one of the most prestigious billfishing competitions on the East Coast. Held simultaneously out of Cape May, and Ocean City this event has become a staple in the sportfishing community. Drawing in anglers, crews, and boat owners from across the country this is a tournament you don’t want to miss. The MidAtlantic is known not only for its world-class competition, but also for its electric atmosphere, where excitement builds each evening as boats return to the docks for the official weigh-ins.
Fishing Through the Storm: Hurricane Erin Shakes Things Up
The 2025 tournament carried a bit of extra drama thanks to Hurricane Erin, which rolled into the region just as crews were preparing to head offshore. While the storm created delays, the organizers adapted by extending the number of days available for fishing. Each team is allowed to choose three out of the five days to compete, leaving two “lay days” for rest, strategy, or simply waiting for the right weather window. This flexibility kept the playing field level while also adding a layer of tactical decision-making. For many crews, choosing the right fishing days became just as critical as finding the fish themselves.
High Stakes and Rich Rewards
The MidAtlantic is as much about strategy as it is about skill. With a $3,500 entry fee, teams gain access to the standard tournament divisions, but the real excitement comes from the optional calcuttas—side pots that allow anglers to buy into higher stakes categories. These calcuttas often create massive payouts, sometimes reaching into the millions, and add an extra thrill to each fish brought to the scales. Categories include white marlin, blue marlin, tuna, dolphin, and wahoo, giving every crew multiple chances to win big.
The scoring system rewards both catch-and-release and weight-based categories. White marlin are worth 75 points per release, while blue marlin count for 150 points. Additional weight-based points are awarded for heavier fish, which keeps the leaderboard dynamic and competitive until the very end. Tuna, dolphin, and wahoo categories add even more variety, ensuring that every day on the water can shift the standings in surprising ways.
Tradition, Prestige, and Community
For over three decades, the MidAtlantic has been more than just a fishing tournament—it has become a tradition. Crews return year after year, not only for the competition but also for the camaraderie, the thrill of the chase, and the chance to be part of something bigger than themselves. The event is broadcast online, with weigh-ins livestreamed for fans around the world, adding to the excitement and making the MidAtlantic a true spectator sport. Whether you’re on the dock in Cape May, enjoying the action in Ocean City, or tuning in from home, the MidAtlantic captures the spirit of competitive sportfishing like no other.
Get Tournament-Ready with MacGregor Yachts
Watching the MidAtlantic unfold often inspires anglers to start planning for their own time in the spotlight. Success in a tournament comes down not just to skill and luck, but also to having the right boat. At MacGregor Yachts, we understand what it takes to compete at the highest level. Our team specializes in tournament-ready sportfishing boats, from custom Carolina builds to production sportfish.
If you’re ready to step up your game this tournament season, we can help you find the right boat to fit your goals. If your sights are set on chasing billfish in Cape May, tuna in the canyons, or sailfish in South Florida, MacGregor Yachts has the expertise and inventory to get you tournament-ready. Browse our current listings or reach out today to begin your journey toward the next big win.
