2017 Offshore World Championship Photo Gallery

Two different fishing teams from Brazil topped the leaderboard on the final day of the 2017 Offshore World Championship in beautiful Quepos, Costa Rica. Teams Torneio de Peixes de Bico and Torneio Marlin do Rio de Janeiro finished just 500 points apart, the equivalent of a single blue marlin catch.

“The Brazilian teams are often experienced and committed to the competition,” said Vicente Arruda, of the Torneio Marlin do Rio de Janeiro team. “Some of our teams fish together all year, even in rough conditions. We are always learning new fishing tips and techniques, and we love to visit Costa Rica. We have an excellent relationship with the other competitors and crews.”

A fleet of 50 international teams saw strong fishing action from blue marlin, a departure from previous years. Total billfish releases included 202 sailfish, 49 blue marlin, two black marlin and one striped marlin. The teams weighed four qualifying dorado and one yellowfin tuna too.

Teams flew in from all over the globe to compete in the prestigious offshore sport-fishing event. Anglers had to prove their merit by first winning an international qualifying tournament, usually in their home country. This marks the fifth year that the Offshore World Championship originated out of Quepos, Costa Rica, and the thriving Marina Pez Vela.

“I always love this event,” says Brian Walley, 2017’s top angler. “It’s always fun, a first-class operation, and great sponsors are involved. Everything is by the books. The OWC is really about the experience, and we love our experiences here.”

Walley is not alone in his sentiments. Most tournament anglers have a blast in Costa Rica, soaking in the fishing opportunities, wonderful hospitality and natural beauty. Becoming eligible for the OWC is a top priority for fishing teams each year. We tried to capture a portion of the excitement from the 2017 OWC in the following photo gallery.

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