52nd White Marlin Open Kicks Off Amid Weather Challenges

Ocean City, MD - The 52nd White Marlin Open began this week, adapting to challenging weather conditions to continue the tournament as planned. Due to offshore forecasts predicting rough seas, the tournament was extended by two additional days.

Participants now have from Monday, August 4, to Sunday, August 10, to utilize their three designated fishing days.

On Monday, 128 of the 286 registered boats set out despite forecasts of 4 to 6-foot seas. Although the overall fishing conditions were described as moderate, several boats still managed notable catches, with one registering an exceptional haul.

The day began with the "C- Student," hailing from Southside Place, Texas, securing a 52.5-pound yellowfin tuna caught by Keeley Megarity. Shortly after, the catch was matched by the "Bow Down," based in Cape May, New Jersey, with an identical 52.5-pound yellowfin landed by John Grace of Stone Harbor, New Jersey.

However, the highlight of the day belonged to the "Barbara B," originating from Atlantic Beach, North Carolina. Early rumors suggested that the vessel had landed an 800-pound blue marlin.

Upon arrival at the 6 PM weigh-in, the speculation was confirmed and exceeded. The blue marlin, measuring an impressive 130 inches in length, was verified at an astounding weight of 929.5 pounds.

The fish, caught by Drew Osmeyer of Timonium, Maryland, became the fifth largest blue marlin in the history of the White Marlin Open. If the tournament were to conclude at this moment, the catch would earn over $4 million in prize money.

Additionally, the "Barbara B" also secured the top dolphin catch of the day, a 32.5-pound fish landed by Andrew Schreiber from Essex, Maryland.

This year's tournament features an upgraded broadcast team, enhancing viewing experiences for both live attendees and online audiences with special co-hosts of WMO Staff will be Mike Bradley, and Katie C. Sawyer.

• Mike Bradley brings 20 years of radio broadcasting experience and has hosted one of the top-rated morning shows on News, Talk & Sports Station 92.7 & 98.5 GMD for 12 years. His station has partnered with the White Marlin Open for three years.
• Katie C. Sawyer, a professional angler and captain, also joins the team. With a passion for ocean conservation and fostering women's involvement in offshore activities, she offers expert insights and commentary.

The White Marlin Open staff are second to none! Members such as Madelyne and Sasha Motsko, along with the amazing folks at Unscene Productions, all play a part and contribute to making the White Marlin Open one of Ocean City's most anticipated events each year.

You can see for yourself how awesome of an event this is with coverage and live feeds ensuring that fishing enthusiasts worldwide can follow all the action as it unfolds. You can check out all the action at Harbor Island but if you can't make it to OC, make sure you follow along online at www.WhiteMarlinOpen.com