First white marlin catch worth up to $15,000 this year

The angler who catches the first white marlin of the season may be $15,000 richer this year.

A news release issued by the town May 15 said Ocean City will continue its longstanding tradition of offering $5,000 to the angler who catches the first white marlin of the season out of Ocean City Inlet.

Mark Sampson, The Daily Times fishing columnist and charter boat captain out of Ocean City, had reported in April that the town council had decided to quit contributing its annual $5,000 award for the first white marlin catch.

The angler landing the first white marlin will receive an additional $5,000 from a coalition formed to support this celebrated tradition.

"Ocean City is the White Marlin Capital of the World and home of the White Marlin Open,” said Mayor Rick Meehan in the news release. 

“We are proud to continue the tradition of offering a cash prize to the angler who reels in the first white marlin of the season.”

READ MORE:  Column: Disappointing end to OC white marlin incentive

Anglers who belong to the Ocean City Marlin Club or are fishing aboard a member boat will be awarded an additional $5,000 by the Marlin Club, making this year’s first white marlin catch worth up to $15,000.  

The winner will also get a free entry into the HUK Big Fish Classic fishing tournament  held in Ocean City in July and will be recognized at a Mayor and City Council meeting, the town news release said.

In his April column, Sampson had said six local businesses had volunteered to contribute cash or gift certificates to keep the tradition going.